Bio

A little about me…

I am a licensed Naturopathic Doctor (ND), registered with TC-CONO. I completed my undergraduate degree at Acadia University with honours in Psychology. In 2010, I graduated from the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine (CCNM) in Toronto, ON., one of the six schools in North America eligible to grant the designation of Naturopathic Doctor. My studies included a one-year internship at the Robert Schad Naturopathic Clinic (RSNC), as well as a placement at the Sherbourne Health Centre, treating patients with HIV and AIDS.

One thing you will quickly learn about me is just how passionate I am about naturopathic medicine. I have a deep respect for the field, how powerful its tools and treatments are, and how profoundly they can change a life for the better. I believe in empowering my patients to be proactive and involved in their own health goals. I pride myself on providing an environment free of judgment, one in which you feel safe to discuss whatever is on your mind. I am not perfect, nor do I expect perfection from my patients. Health is truly about balance, something we all struggle with and need guidance in from time to time.

Seven years ago I moved to Horseshoe Valley and quickly fell in love with this beautiful area and the people in it! I have two young children, who are growing up altogether way too fast. From time to time they may be seen “helping out” around the clinic. In our free time, my family enjoys walking, hiking, or snowshoeing our beautiful area, and generally spending time in the great outdoors. I love to eat and cook and do both as often as I possibly can. I also enjoy pilates and yoga and join in on one of the amazing classes in our community whenever my schedule allows.

Frequently asked questions: What led you to Naturopathic Medicine?

While doing my undergrad in Wolfville, Nova Scotia, I went to see local Naturopath, Jyl Bishop Veale. I was having some digestive issues and I think probably dealing with some depression and anxiety. I had always been someone who was interested in nutrition, and loved to experiment with new recipes and foods, but Jyl opened my eyes to a whole new way of eating. I could eat healthy food that was still delicious AND I could feel better because of it. What???

After graduating, I put my psychology degree to use and started working with children on the autism spectrum. I had a chance to work in-home with these families, to chat with parents who were experimenting with special diets and noticing significant improvements in their childrens' progress and behaviours. I saw these changes firsthand. I also noticed that many of the conventional healthcare professionals that worked with these families were ignoring or discrediting these experiences. I wanted to learn more about the medicinal power of food, and plants. I won the lottery (for real! No joke!) and that was that. I applied to naturopathic college and never looked back. This was and is my calling.