Carolina Functional Neurology Center

I have long had a passion to both understand and bring out the best in others. While at  the University of Chicago, I tutored and mentored students for whom staying alive in their neighborhoods each day was a challenge – offering them hope and direction for a brighter future.  After graduating with honors and a degree in Anthropology, I traveled to Vietnam to teach English at a university and then returned to the U.S. to work with at-risk youth, this time in San Francisco’s Chinatown.

 

After a few years, I followed a love for meditation and mindfulness to become a monk under the Zen Buddhist Master Thich Nhat Hanh. During my 12 years as a monk, I learned from amazing mentors and taught at retreats in the USA, Europe, and Asia. During this time, I became proficient in numerous healing modalities and developed in-depth knowledge regarding diet and herbalism which I used to help both myself and fellow monks.

 

Following a call to serve in healthcare, I left the monastery and enrolled at Palmer College of Chiropractic.  While there, I immediately recognized the power of functional neurology and immersed myself in it via studying at the nearby Carrick Institute. I served as their student ambassador as well as the president of Palmer’s Functional Neurology Club, developing and delivering curriculum and exposing fellow students to the possibilities for patient care that lie in functional neurology.

 

I graduated summa cum laude with academic excellence and strive to always continue learning. I bring compassion and attention to my patients, delivering individualized and integrated holistic care based on their conditions and background in order to allow them to thrive and realize their highest potential.

For as long as I can remember, I have been deeply passionate about problem-solving, helping others, and understanding the intricate workings of the human body. This enthusiasm guided me to pursue science academy courses throughout middle and high school, eventually earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Health Sciences from the University of Central Florida in Orlando, Florida.

 

Upon completing my Bachelor’s, I attended Palmer College of Chiropractic at the Florida Campus, where I earned my Doctor of Chiropractic Degree, graduating Summa Cum Laude with Academic Excellence. It was during my time at Palmer that I discovered my profound interest in the brain and nervous system, and I knew I wanted to apply my growing knowledge to help others. Early in my academic journey, I was introduced to the pioneering work of Dr. Ted Carrick, the founder of Functional Neurology, which inspired me to pursue post-doctoral education in Clinical Neuroscience and Rehabilitation (Functional Neurology) through the Carrick Institute.

 

In addition to my studies, I had the privilege of serving as Vice President of Palmer’s Neurology Club and as a Student Ambassador for the Carrick Institute, where I helped raise awareness and spread knowledge about the transformative potential of Functional Neurology. Later this year, I will proudly be receiving my Diplomate from the American Chiropractic Neurology Board.

 

My commitment to my patients is: I promise to always listen with empathy, put your best interests at the forefront, and empower you with knowledge about your body. I will never stop learning and continuously pursuing further education to refine my skills and provide the highest level of care. I am and always will be dedicated to supporting you every step of the way on your health journey.

My undergraduate degree in Exercise Science from the University of Massachusetts, was a wonderful foundation to integrate my sports background with a passion for neurology and commitment to helping others. While in college, I competed in Division 1 athletics, which provided an opportunity to discover chiropractic care for health and overall wellness. I credit chiropractic with helping me perform optimally and injury-free as I continued competition at the international level as a member of the Women’s National Field Hockey team. Once I retired from competitive sports, the natural choice for a career was to pursue additional education as a Doctor of Chiropractic.

 

During my first few months of doctoral education at Life West Chiropractic College, I became fascinated with the neurological history of chiropractic and was fortunate to meet Professor Carrick. This introduction to a functional neurological approach was exciting and served to put the pieces together for an approach to health care that is patient-centered, individualized and encompasses aspects of multi-modal brain-based therapies, neuro-musculoskeletal rehabilitation, and clinical nutrition. I graduated chiropractic college in 1996 and immediately continued with post-doctoral training in clinical neuroscience and chiropractic neurology. I completed Board examinations and was awarded a Diplomate in Chiropractic Neurology in 1997.

 

Additionally, I have enjoyed serving on faculty at Life Chiropractic College West (2006-2010) where I taught in the diagnosis department along with spinal anatomy courses. In 2009, I was honored to be appointed to faculty of the Carrick Institute as an Assistant Professor of Clinical Neuroscience and Rehabilitation.

 

When I’m not in the office, I am spending time walking the trails with my 2 dogs, enjoying time with my parents who live nearby, and continuing my personal health and wellness journey by taking courses and learning from other doctors as we all strive for greater ways to be active and engaged throughout our health span.

My journey into the world of chiropractic began in my childhood when I started receiving consistent care from my hometown chiropractor. During my active middle and high school years, I truly benefited from the positive outcomes of chiropractic care, and through the continued relationship and guidance during my undergraduate experience I was drawn to a career where I could share this holistic approach with others.

I attended the University of Virginia in Charlottesville, where I earned a Bachelor of Science degree in kinesiology. I then continued my education at Palmer College of Chiropractic in Port
Orange, Florida, graduating Magna Cum Laude with my Doctor of Chiropractic degree in March 2013.

 

I was introduced to the field of functional neurology early in my chiropractic school
experience. I was immediately fascinated by the complex case types and the seemingly miraculous outcomes achieved by utilizing this type of treatment. I had the amazing benefit of attending monthly seminars and at times learning directly from Dr. Carrick during my functional neurology training.

In 2015, I became a Board-Certified Chiropractic Neurologist after completing extensive post-graduate training in functional neurology. My career has taken me to Rhode Island, Florida and Maine, where I have gained valuable experience treating a diverse range of patients. I am thrilled to be a part of the CFNC team and bring this comprehensive approach to more patients in the New England area.

Outside of my professional life, I cherish the time spent with my husband, Eric, and our three wonderful children. We love traveling, visiting family, spending time outside and doing life with our amazing friends.

Following a sports injury in high school, I was introduced to chiropractic and instantly became enamored with the profession. 

 

I studied Exercise Science at UNC Wilmington and completed my undergraduate internship as a chiropractic assistant, where I quickly decided that I wanted to pursue a career in chiropractic. I attended Palmer College of Chiropractic in Florida to obtain my Doctorate in Chiropractic.

 

I shadowed at CFNC while completing my doctorate and was exposed to functional neurology and the uniqueness of the profession. The experience was a pivotal moment that lead me to completing my preceptorship at CFNC and beginning my Diplomate through the Carrick Institute. 

 

I am excited to return to North Carolina and join the Raleigh CFNC team. I look forward to continuing to learn from the team of doctors, so that I can provide the highest quality care to my patients.

From an early age, I was captivated by the intricate relationship between the human brain and body; a curiosity that ultimately shaped my professional trajectory in healthcare. My clinical perspective is grounded in more than a decade of experience working in special education settings with children and adolescents presenting with significant neurodevelopmental, behavioral, cognitive, and physical challenges. This extensive foundation profoundly informed my approach to patient care and strengthened my commitment to serving individuals with complex neurological needs.

 

I earned my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the State University of New York at Geneseo, followed by my Doctorate in Chiropractic from the Northeast College of Health Sciences. During my doctoral training, I tutored nine courses, shadowed clinicians across multiple specialties, and engaged in interdisciplinary studies that broadened my understanding of complex patient presentations. It was during this period that I discovered Functional Neurology and became particularly inspired by the innovative clinical methods utilized at CFNC. After shadowing the physicians in North Carolina, I pursued advanced postgraduate training in clinical neuroscience through the Carrick Institute and subsequently obtained my Diplomate in Clinical Neuroscience from the American Chiropractic Neurology Board.

 

As a board-certified Chiropractic Neurologist at CFNC, I am privileged to evaluate and treat complex neurological cases daily. I am dedicated to delivering comprehensive, patient-centered care and to empowering individuals with the knowledge and confidence to take an active role in their health.

 

Outside the office, I remain engaged in my community through volunteer work with individuals on the autism spectrum. I am also an avid CrossFit athlete, a devoted supporter of the Buffalo Bills, and enjoy exploring new coffee shops.

Helping others has been a passion of mine for as long as I can remember. While attending the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire for my Bachelors in Kinesiology and Human Performance, I volunteered for a program specializing in adaptive physical education and recreation for children with physical and cognitive disabilities. During that time, I also had the privilege of working in a group home for survivors of traumatic brain injuries. Through both experiences, I began to develop a fascination and love for the brain and how incredibly resilient it can truly be.

 

I went on to pursue my Doctor of Chiropractic at Life University, where I first learned about functional neurology. It wasn’t long before I realized that this paradigm of care was exactly what so many of my previous clients could have used to help get their lives back.

 

As a member of the CFNC team, my goal is to create an environment where patients feel truly heard and empowered. I am dedicated to providing you with the knowledge and tools necessary to take control of your health journey.

The human body has fascinated me since my early years as a competitive athlete in high school and undergraduate studies.

 

This interest continued to grow as I completed my Bachelor of Science and Specialized Honors in Kinesiology and Health Science at York University, where I developed a strong foundation in human movement and biomechanics.

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During the early months of chiropractic school, I discovered a passion for the brain and nervous system. As this interest deepened, I pursued advanced training in clinical neuroscience through the Carrick Institute, accumulating extensive hours toward my Diplomate in Chiropractic Neurology.

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In March 2021, I graduated with my Doctorate of Chiropractic, earning Academic Excellence from Palmer College of Chiropractic. Later that year, I obtained my Diplomate in Chiropractic Neurology through the American Chiropractic Neurology Board.

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I am currently working toward my Advanced Functional Medicine Practitioner Certification through the Kharrazian Institute, as my commitment to learning and clinical growth never stops.

With a strong background in kinesiology and movement, I place a high value on helping patients not only heal but also move better, build resilience, and return to the activities they love.

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I am proud to be a part of the CFNC team, working alongside exceptional doctors in a collaborative, cutting-edge environment. CFNC’s approach to care aligns deeply with my philosophy—prioritizing individualized treatment, identifying the root cause of a patient’s condition, and always placing the patient first.

My passion for helping others began at a young age. My love for the brain started when I attended the University at Albany where I studied neuroscience and volunteered as an emergency medical technician. I served as the new member trainer for incoming EMTs. I love teaching and integrate this into my patient care. 

 

I continued on to chiropractic school with the intent of pursuing a career in functional neurology and functional medicine. I began taking clinical neuroscience classes through the Carrick Institute for graduate studies during my first quarter at Life University. During my time at Life University, I served as the president of the neurology club and had the pleasure of presenting research at the International Symposium on Clinical Neuroscience. I also had the privilege of assisting and learning directly from Professor Carrick during neurology rounds in Atlanta, GA. I became a diplomate of the American Board of Chiropractic Neurology immediately following my graduation from Life University.

 

As a board certified chiropractic neurologist, I have had the pleasure of treating many complex neurological cases. I believe it is of utmost importance to spend quality one-on-one time with patients and really listen. I enjoy educating my patients and empowering them to take their health into their own hands.

My passion is treating patients and helping them live the most optimal life possible. I enjoy navigating the most complex of cases and finding the root cause of their symptoms. 

 

I obtained my diplomate through the American Chiropractic Neurology Board after training with the Carrick Institute for several years. I have had the distinct honor of learning directly from Professor Carrick (the father of Functional Neurology) throughout my years of study and as a certified provider. This has given me insight into treatment, diagnosis and care that few have experienced.

 

I later obtained my certificate in Functional Medicine through FMU and Apex Energetics, allowing me to better serve my patients as a whole, to better understand how systems in our bodies can affect the way that our brains function, and how diet, lifestyle and environmental factors are key to overall neurological health.​