In my own words

Why Did You Become a Medical Provider? In undergrad at UC Santa Cruz I studied physiology and fell in love with the mechanics of the human body. I became a massage therapist through the university's holistic health program and felt like I needed to learn more about the puzzle that is the human body. At the same time I was volunteering as a translator for the free clinic and at Hospice and knew that my heart lied in medicine. In preventative medicine specifically with the goal to teach people how their body works and how to optimize its function. My background in massage naturally led me to Osteopathic Medicine. In Osteopathy I can use my hands to feel for subtle asymmetries in the muscles, bones, and connective tissue that may be limiting function and causing pain. I can use my hands to move around these tissues and make them more even, to optimize function. I can then give patients the tools they need to keep it even. Personal Interests and Hobbies: I enjoy spending time in nature with my husband and two dogs. I also enjoy traveling, trying new foods, and cooking.

The Osteopathic philosophy that I hold dear states that the body is a unit; of body, mind, and spirit that is capable of self healing. It also states that the structure of the human body and its function are interrelated. I also strongly believe that patient education is the root of healing. Knowing how the body works is the first step to mental and physical well-being. This guides patient decision making in a holistic way.