Elissa started working at VCA Pine Lake Animal Hospital (formerly VCA All Critters) in 2000 as a receptionist and became a Licensed Veterinary Technician in 2006. In 2020 Elissa accepted the role as Area Technician Coordinator for the eastside region of Western Washington. In September 2023 she shifted gears again and accepted the role of Hospital Manager at VCA Pine Lake Animal Hospital. 

Elissa, her husband, Kyle, and their son, Alex, share their home with two cats: Harry and Gus; two dogs, Carly, a Chihuahua/Corgi mix, and Mac, a Golden Retriever; and Henry, an African Side-Necked turtle.

Elissa and her family enjoy camping in their travel trailer and attending their son's baseball games. Elissa has a special interest in Fear Free Handling and is known as the "Cat Whisperer".