I have quite a few health conditions, and it took a lot of years, tears, and research to get answers. I knew I wanted to become a physician to help other people who felt ignored, hurt, or frustrated with the healthcare system too. Patients can develop so much medical trauma and mistrust, especially when they have a chronic, invisible illness or dynamic disability.
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Having doctors, friends, or family lack understanding, doubt you, say it's in your head, or give you unsolicited medical advice is infuriating, especially when you're at war with your mind and body. As your doctor, I will do everything in my power to support you on your healthcare journey, get answers, and make sure you feel truly heard and cared for.
Hey! I'm so glad you're here. Here's a quick about me.
Hobbies & tidbits
My other passions include teaching, technology, and reading fiction. I joined a now-acquired start-up while studying Physiology at the University of Arizona, where I quickly gained a passion for writing and analyzing technology and health trends. I also worked for 4 years as a Community Manager and Director of Operations for a Coworking Space, which was so much fun as I was able to become close with a lot of different people in super different industries. Entrepreneurship is so cool, I'm really excited to live during a time when its so supported. I also love teaching and can't wait to teach when I retire. To keep up my skills, I tutor students of all ages for a few hours a week. From times tables to pharmacology, I think getting to work with everyone from kiddos to grad students is awesome. In a way, it mirrors my patient base, and keeps things really exciting. Much in the same way I enjoy seeing someone feel better, I love seeing the joy in someone's face when they understand a concept and everything clicks.
When I'm not diving headfirst into my latest AuDHD hobby of the month (Dec '24 was getting back into writing fiction and Jan '25 is pottery again!), you can find me reading fiction or hanging out with my fiancé and 16 year old pekingese mix.
I truly believe our life is like a story, and am now at the part of the book where I'd like to merge all my skills and passions. Who says we have to stick to one thing, right? Being all over the place, for me, keeps things interesting, exciting, and gives me great perspective. I can't wait to work with you and see what we can do together!
My personal "why"
Why Naturopathic Medicine?
I absolutely recognize the importance of medications, but I also wanted the ability and training to know how and when to to recommend dietary changes and use supplements and herbs appropriately. For example, medications can't correct nutrient deficiencies, and herbs can be really powerful with less side effects when used correctly. Becoming a licensed Naturopathic Medical Doctor allowed me the ability to combine the best of both worlds.
As an ND, I am able to prescribe medications, such as antibiotics, diabetic, thyroid, hormones, and blood pressure medicine, when indicated and necessary. However, I am also trained and able to recommend dietary and lifestyle modifications, or use gentler and effective herbs and supplements when they would be helpful.
Patients opinions and preferences are extremely important to me. If a patient wants only pharmaceutical treatment, that is fine by me and I can treat them accordingly. If they'd like to lean 50/50 with regards to integrative healthcare, I can work with that. Or if they are skeptical of all medication, I can meet them where they are and make sure they get quality care without putting themselves in danger. I really value spending quality time with a patient to address their concerns, and this type of medicine allows me to do so.