For as long as I can remember, I have wanted to pursue a career in healthcare. But I wasn’t sure what that would look like.
While completing my undergraduate degree in Biology and Chemistry at in Edmonton, I came to appreciate the complexities of both the human body and the natural world.
It was during this time that I was introduced to naturopathic medicine. Slowly, I saw a form of primary care that resonated. It was thoughtful and thorough, preventative and proactive, and heart-centred – seeing the person as a whole being.
It was a natural fit for me!
Proudest moments
My proudest moments come from the work I do with my patients. When I see patients taking agency in their health, feeling empowered by a deeper understanding of themselves/their health, and building healthy habits that ultimately create wellness – that lights me up! I feel grateful to be walking on that journey with them.
In 2023, I was recognized by CommunityVotes Cowichan Valley as a “Gold Winner” in the Naturopath category. I’m humbled and proud of the support, and honoured to make a positive impact on people’s health and well-being in such a close-knit community.
Professional skills
I think my professional skills can be broken down into “hard skills” and “soft skills”.
My hard skills are my work ethic, time spent in research, offerings in women’s healthcare (PAP testing, Menopausal Hormone Therapy), and IV therapy. My soft skills/qualities are my heart for people and social justice, my curiosity, and my love of nature.
While living abroad, I was immersed in a society that honoured and revered traditional wisdom while blending it with modern knowledge. My experiences travelling and living abroad have given me a unique outlook and appreciation for various people, cultures, and ways of living, all of which informs my practice.
Core values
I believe that education is empowerment, and empowerment is the cornerstone of sustainable health and preventive medicine. In my work as a Naturopathic Doctor, I am dedicated to empowering patients to take agency in their health and to make informed health decisions.
I work with patients to develop realistic goals that consider their values and lifestyle. I take a patient-centred, holistic approach to create individualized treatment plans that are based on the best available evidence and rooted in both traditional and modern knowledge.
Biggest challenges
Time management!
As a naturopathic doctor and mom of two little kids, time feels precious and in short supply. It has been a lesson in prioritizing and creating healthy boundaries. I have learned that on any given day I am going to drop some of the balls I’m juggling, so it’s about figuring out which ones can be dropped.
Hobbies and interests
I love spending time outdoors and staying active with my family. We’re so fortunate to live where we do!
Most often I am out hiking, kayaking, or on my stand up paddle board, and cycling, running, swimming, and camping in the summer.
I also love playing music and seeing live music, and tending to my garden. I enjoy travelling, experiencing new cultures and cuisines, and exploring new places.
Why naturopathic medicine?
It is an incredible privilege to be invited on someone’s healing journey, and it is so rewarding to witness the change in the people who I work with.
I get fired up when I see the “light bulb” moment of understanding oneself and one’s health more deeply, when I see patients make small, sustainable changes for their betterment, and when I witness those changes creating waves of healing.
Educational background
My educational background is in Biology and Chemistry (BSc.). It was during my undergraduate degree that I began to understand and develop my love of scientific inquiry as a way to understand the world, as well as deepen my heart for social justice.
I started to understand how complex we are as human beings. Now, as a healthcare professional, I am constantly humbled both by what we know and what we don’t know. My background in the sciences sparked in me a love and pursuit of being a life-long learner.