Education and training
- BS in dietetics from Kansas State University
- MS in nutrition and functional medicine from University of Western States
- Certified Nutrition Specialist (CNS)
- Mindful eating certification from University of California-San Diego
Like many clinicians in functional medicine, I was driven to the field by my own health conditions that required curiosity, persistence and advocacy for my care. Now, many of my patients describe me as a “Sherlock Holmes” of health due to my investigative nature and unwillingness to accept that anyone should live in a state of discomfort or illness.
I most commonly work with patients who have “mystery” symptoms such as pain, fatigue, swelling, allergies, skin conditions, hormone-related conditions and cognitive dysfunction that have not been validated or investigated thoroughly by previous practitioners. I also work with patients who have been given a diagnosis that they want to reverse. I know what it feels like to be told “there is nothing we can do.” I also know what it feels like to defy those words and identify what my body needs to heal.
My clinical practice has been the foundation for everything else that I do professionally. Each patient is an opportunity for me to learn and broaden my knowledge. One of my skills is connecting seemingly random pieces of data from a person's history, labs and symptoms to understand the root causes of their condition.
It is that curiosity and connection that has led me down "rabbit holes" that have become my trademarks, of sort. Concepts like the translocation of oral microbes increasing risk of cancer and balancing women's hormones with targeted fibers were developed from my experience with patients and subsequent research.
Today, I co-own BioLounge, a revolutionary functional medicine and longevity clinic with one of my mentors, Jeff Grimm, NP. I also developed organic soluble fiber blends and co-founded Florasophy with my dear friend and Florasophy CEO, Lee Carson. In an effort to make the transition for my fellow clinical nutritionists a little easier, I co-developed and teach BioLounge's Clinical Nutrition Immersion Program with my friend and colleague Ashely Koch, CNS. I've had incredible opportunities and privilege to speak on podcasts, at conferences and as an educator for many organizations where I get to share my passion with colleagues and patients.
When I'm not working, I squeeze as much time as I can out of my two teenagers, travel with my husband, or relax with my dogs, goats and horses. They bring my nervous system back into check so I can show up and do my best work!