Growing up in Wilmington, North Carolina, l was surrounded by the healing powers of the ocean. From an early age, I was fascinated by nature, science, and health. I have been inspired by a lineage of medical professionals to pursue a career dedicated to healing. My great-grandmother was a chiropractor, my grandfather was a primary care physician, and my father is an emergency room doctor. This background nurtured my intrinsic desire to understand and alleviate human suffering, a path that has led me to specialize in treating adult mental health conditions.

I earned my Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences from North Carolina State University. My fascination with integrative medicine intensified during my time living on the coast of Western Mexico where I studied and researched ethnobotany and integrative medicine while working for the Center for Traditional Medicine. This experience deeply influenced my treatment philosophy to combine conventional medicine with holistic healing modalities.

I went on to complete my medical education at Campbell University, earning a Master of Physician Assistant Practice (MPAP). Upon graduation, I gained acceptance to the prestigious Advanced Practice Provider Fellowship at Atrium Health. I completed my fellowship in Hospitalist Medicine (the medical specialty of Internal Medicine in the hospital setting). Upon completion of this advanced training, I moved to the Pacific Northwest to work at the University of Washington Medical Center.

My healthcare experience spans over nine years across various settings including emergency departments, intensive care units, and outpatient clinics. Additionally, I am a Certified Personal Trainer and I have completed continuing education in integrative psychiatry, ADHD management, and mindfulness/meditation.

My dedication to focus on mental health stems from my personal experience with ADHD. Throughout my life I frequently found it difficult to feel heard and understood when I discussed these symptoms. I often felt there was a negative stigma towards a diagnosis of ADHD, and towards those.seeking treatment for the condition. Eventually, I learned to implement integrative medicine steps that were tremendously helpful in my life. From these hurdles I became a devoted student of mental health treatment modalities. I have been inspired to learn all I can about how supplements, herbal treatments, exercise modalities, nutritional plans, and mindfulness techniques can help those struggling with mental health challenges. I have learned that exercise is tremendously helpful in improving mental health and focus, and I became a Certified Personal Trainer in order to be able to provide individualized exercise plans for interested patients.

Outside of the clinic, I embrace activities that promote joy and movement. I love exercise and time spent outdoors. Running, biking, and swimming are some of my favorite activities. Some of my other hobbies include gardening, playing the cello, and surfing. I strongly believe that laughter and play are healing and just as essential for adults as they are for children. I help my patients find ways to infuse laughter and creative play into their daily lives!