In more than a decade of practice, I have learned that my one-on-one relationship with each patient is what I value most. But getting here wasn’t a straightforward path.
It took a lot of trial and error to get clear on my true calling. I took undergraduate degrees in Spanish, Business Management, and Business Marketing, dipped my toe into an MBA program, and even took the LSAT to attend law school. After university graduation, I headed out to the corporate world with the intention of achieving “success.” But after five years of a fast-paced upward trajectory, I realized that professional accolades and accomplishments in that realm did not truly feed my soul or honor my true passions.
My upbringing was highly influenced by health and wellness (my father was a professional athlete and my mother was the classic weekend warrior athlete), but traditional Western medical school was not of interest to me. I had always taken science and biology classes just to satisfy my own curiosity but never thought of science as a profession.
I was also strongly encouraged to pursue a career that involved giving back to others. I had received acupuncture in the past and was blown away by its power, but the thought of turning that into my career had never occurred to me.
That was until I discovered the Pacific College of Health and Science in San Diego. After my first semester on the path to a four-year master’s degree, I knew I had found my calling. I’d finally discovered a career that combined all of my interests and values. I returned seven years later to finish my doctorate, and I am living proof that it’s never too late to follow your passion and make a change in your life – especially when you desire to be of service to others.
In addition to my doctorate and being a licensed Chinese herbalist, I am also a certified health coach and functional medicine practitioner. I am committed to both the science and art of healing. I consider it an honor and a privilege to be trusted by so many patients over the years and be an integral part of their healthcare team.
Lifelong learning for the benefit of my patients is my passion. Whether it’s honing my skills in orthopedics, mental health, or internal medicine, I am always enrolled in either a class or program. Feel free to ask what I’m up to when you see me.
I’ve lived and worked in San Diego’s historic urban core for more than 15 years. I love the diversity, eclectic nature, and history of these neighborhoods. Being able to live, work and play in the same area is a privilege I recognize and greatly value.
When I’m not working with patients or conducting research on their behalf, you can find me tinkering in my garden, going out for a run, binge-watching anything British, traveling, reading all things history-related, or simply spending quality time with close friends, family and my four-legged son Xander.