Jessa’s Bio

Jessa Crisp uses her childhood experience of severe abuse and trafficking to illustrate both the stark realities of exploitation, and the truth that healing transformation is possible. After her escape and recovery process, Jessa went to school and holds a MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and is doing her PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision.

In addition to being a Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado and Nationally Certified Counselor, Jessa is a former foster mom, as well as the co-founder and former CEO of BridgeHope, a gender inclusive anti-trafficking non-profit that served over 457 survivors of exploitation over a span of five years. Jessa inspires others through speaking engagements around the world, gives hope through mentoring other survivors of human trafficking, and provides high quality training and consultation services to both NGO’s and government agencies. 

Some highlights of Jessa's career include speaking with legislators at the Colorado State Capitol, training the Department of Homeland Security on issues related to trafficking, speaking at the National Character Leadership Symposium for the Air Force on topics related to the develop of resilience after exploitation. Jessa has been a consultant for OVC TTAC, Department of Homeland Security, Department of State, and Polaris Project. Additionally, Jessa has filmed with Real Women Real Stories and Fight the New Drug, and has been highlighted by People Magazine.

When she is not working, Jessa enjoys exploring Colorado's mountains with her husband John, finds delight in artistically expressing herself through photography, does self-care by doing jigsaw puzzles, and is passionate about deeply connecting with people over freshly brewed coffee.