I chose to become a nurse practitioner after working as a registered nurse in critical care for many years. I wanted to be more influential in prevention after caring for patients who had poorly managed chronic diseases, which had become debilitating and life-threatening. I also wanted to be able to provide healthcare to well patients. In my approach to patient care, I believe establishing a trusting relationship comes first. It is so important to be a healthcare provider that a patient genuinely feels they can count on and trust. I believe once this is established, the patient is empowered to take charge of their personal health knowing that they are supported and have a healthcare provider they can rely on. Patients come to us with basic expectations to receive safe and effective healthcare. By taking the time to get to know a patient and genuinely listen to their worries, concerns, accomplishments and successes further enhances the patient-provider relationship. This relationship is to promote or restore health and well-being to its highest potential and should be at the core of patient care. My clinical interests include chronic diseases such as high blood pressure and diabetes, acute illnesses, anxiety and depression, and health promotion interventions that improve patients quality of life. Outside of work, I absolutely love spending time with my husband and four children. I enjoy international travel, good food and long outdoor runs.