What is your hometown?
Northbrook, Illinois
Where did you attend medical school?
Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine (ARCOM), Fort Smith, Arkansas
What other educational credentials do you have?
Bachelor of Science in Biology with a minor in Spanish from The University of Oklahoma in Norman, OK
What are your particular clinical interests?
My only clinical interest is the patient sitting in front of me. I chose this career path after learning about the Adverse Childhood Experiences study which revealed the impacts of childhood stress and trauma on health and wellbeing outcomes across a lifetime. My passion for the ACEs study has grown into a deep desire to practice trauma-informed care and help patients of all ages navigate their health and wellness by addressing the mind-body connection. I strive to identify the root cause of illness by evaluating each patient’s health determinants, lifestyles, and environments because I believe their whole story is of clinical relevance. With this valuable information, I am able to yield more sustainable treatment outcomes, while also serving as a resource for patients to improve wellness in all areas of their life. Anything a patient needs to be their best self is my top priority. As for medicine itself, I am interested in medical education and public health advocacy.
Why did you choose Family Medicine?
Family Medicine is arguably the most all-encompassing specialty and truly emphasizes the art of individualized, patient centered care. As someone with a variety of interests, I knew that as a family practitioner I would not have to limit myself or sacrifice the continuity of care on which doctor/patient relationships thrive. I also enjoy the integrative role a family doctor plays in the medical treatment plans for patients. My favorite part of Family Medicine is the ability to be a physician, cheerleader, and mentor all in one for patients, families, and the community at large.
Why did you choose the Little Rock Family Medicine residency program?
I knew that I wanted to pursue a residency where I could continue working with an underserved patient population. Furthermore, UAMS Little Rock serves communities that are largely impacted by my biggest passions in medicine, notably ACEs and health determinants. After interviewing with this program, I knew that it would be the opportunity of a lifetime to be able to work alongside such well-rounded and compassionate physicians at an institution with outstanding educational opportunities. I love the focus on lifestyle medicine and the ACEs work already being done in the state that needs it the most, and I am excited to jump in as a resident.
What are your hobbies and interests outside of medicine?
Outside of medicine I enjoy too many hobbies for my own good. I stay busy in creative mode- crafting, painting, decorating, organizing, and “DIYing” anything I can get my hands on. I practice and study mindfulness as often as I can and especially enjoy rollerblading to clear my mind.
Final comments
I am big on words to live by, my two favorite quotes capture who I hope to be for my patients and colleagues.
“Be somebody who makes everybody feel like a somebody.”
“Watch the magic that unfolds when you give a person just enough space to be themselves.”