Nava Care Team

The Nava Care Team

Physicians | Registered Nurses and Medical Assistants | Nutrition/Life Coaches | Acupuncturists | Massage Therapists | Pure Radiance and Sexual Vitality Consultants

Integrative Medicine Doctors

At Nava, we not only expect our Nava care team physicians to be experts in their field but also to share our passion for preventive and integrative medicine. Our integrative medicine doctors must also be compassionate and patient-centered with excellent bedside manners.

What Sets NAVA Apart?
Cutting-Edge Expertise: Our medical team comprises experts who have undergone rigorous training in Nava’s innovative approach to healthcare. This means you can trust that you’re receiving care that is at the forefront of medical advancements.
Precision Personalized Medicine: We believe in treating the whole person, not just isolated symptoms. Our integrative approach considers your unique medical history, lifestyle, and individual needs, ensuring a comprehensive plan tailored just for you.
Focus on Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement: Hormonal balance is crucial to overall well-being. Our specialization in bio-identical hormone replacement therapy allows us to address hormonal imbalances effectively and with precision.
Evidence-Based Practices: Our techniques are grounded in solid scientific research, patient outcome data, and proven methodologies. You can have confidence that the treatments you receive are backed by evidence and delivered by skilled professionals.

Simply put, when you come to Nava, you come to the best.

We can’t wait to meet you!

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As our Medical Director, and one of the first physicians to join the Nava Health & Vitality Center, Dr. Douglas Lord has made significant contributions to our Center and its founding principles. Dr. Lord has helped develop and implement the Nava Method™—Nava’s proprietary approach to total body wellness. He has also been instrumental in liaising with other expert practitioners to successfully implement Nava’s range of therapies, treatments, and products.

In his role at Nava, Dr. Lord is responsible for maintaining Nava’s innovation and for creating the best experience for clients by ensuring they have access to the newest and best advances in integrative wellness. He achieves this by identifying and developing strategic partnerships in the field, and acting as a facilitator between Nava and various providers.

Doug’s passion for health and wellness is evident in both the way he lives his life and in the way he practices medicine. He is eager to share his extensive medical knowledge and experience with other Nava Directors.

Since he was raised to value a healthy, active lifestyle and has always had a strong interest in medicine, it was only natural that Doug chose to become a doctor. After graduating from Loma Linda University Medical School in California, Doug completed his residency program at George Washington University in Washington D.C. Since then, he has acquired over 40 years practicing Obstetrics and Gynecology in the Washington D.C. Metropolitan area where he also introduced the innovative concept of family-centered obstetrics. Over the course of his career, Doug has developed the reputation as a highly respected practitioner and an expert in cutting-edge surgical techniques.

Along the way, Doug gained exposure to integrative medicine and realized how narrow and limited his view had been as a traditional doctor. Always taught to think outside the box, and with a natural instinct to question everything, Doug became interested in learning more about the field of integrative medicine. He pursued his interest, training at the American Academy of Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine, and went on to study integrative medicine at the Sajune Institute of Regenerative and Restorative Medicine in Orlando, FL. Passionate about learning, teaching, and helping people, Doug is very involved in using scientific methods to help individuals lead healthy lives. He is excited about the opportunities for wellness and the extended resources that Nava offers its clients.

In order to balance out his busy career, Doug maintains an active, healthy lifestyle. He describes himself as an avid golfer and travels regularly with his family, taking adventurous trips around the world to see how the rest of the world lives.

Douglas Lord, M.D.

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As our Associate Medical Director, Dr. Angela De Rosa will be integral to the continued education and innovation here at Nava Health. Dr. Angela DeRosa, DO, MBA, CPE, is a dynamic professional on a mission to change the face of women’s health and wellness. As a respected, internationally recognized authority on women’s hormonal health, Dr. DeRosa understands the range of health issues women face leading up to and during menopause, as she was in full-blown menopause by age 35. Dr. DeRosa has more than 25 years of experience in the medical field, both on the pharmaceutical side and in clinical practice.

Dr. DeRosa’s enthusiasm for educating patients on the realities of menopause and the risk factors of hormonal health imbalances has never waned. It was the driving force behind her first bestselling book, A Woman’s Health Survival Guide: How to Prevent Your Doctor From Slowly Killing You. Her book and its controversial title caught the attention of the public, media, and the medical community.

Dr. DeRosa is on the advisory board for the European Menopause and Andropause Society, a member of the International Menopause Society International Society of the Study of Women’s Sexual Health, and a researcher on women’s health issues. Dr. DeRosa is a Midwestern University Clinical Assistant Professor and a Past Arizona Osteopathic Medical Association President.

An avid cat lover, in 2017, Dr. DeRosa launched Kare For Me, a 501(c)(3) non-profit foundation dedicated to providing grants, support, and funding for local, no-kill animal shelters and scholarships for students pursuing a degree in veterinarian shelter medicine.

Dr. Angela DeRosa

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Dr. Joseph Gurrala received his undergraduate degree from Houston Baptist University, where he double-majored in English and Biology and published a research article on the use of Hypnotherapy for Irritable Bowel Syndrome. He completed medical training at the Royal College of Surgeons in Dublin, Ireland. He was the first student from the College to be selected for a research elective in Aerospace Medicine at NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas.

He received Postgraduate Medical training in Psychiatry from Georgetown University Hospital in Washington, D.C., where he was nominated by medical students at Georgetown University School of Medicine for the String of Pearls Award for Best Psychiatry Resident.

Dr. Gurrala has been practicing Obesity Medicine and Anti-Aging Medicine using Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy in Northern Virginia since 2010. He is a member of the Obesity Society and the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine. Dr. Gurrala's unique background enables him to use an integrative, holistic treatment approach to help patients optimize their health and quality of life.

Dr. Joseph Gurrala

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After completing residency and fellowship training, Dr. Sadia Ali began her medical career by returning to her South Florida roots and working in inner-city Miami. She discovered patients were not receiving quality medical care due to limited resources, a lack of insurance coverage, and a healthcare network that was not focused on meeting individual patient needs.

Disheartened by what she found in those early years, Dr. Ali started her journey by providing her community with the level of individualized care she was trained to provide.

Dr. Sadia Ali attended FIU in her hometown of Miami, Florida, and received her Bachelor of Arts in Biochemistry. She attended medical school at USF Morsani College of Medicine in Tampa, Florida, and completed her Family Medicine Residency Training at Atrium Health in Concord, North Carolina.

Dr. Ali completed her medical training in Winter Park, Florida, where she was a Junior Faculty and became fellowship-trained in Women’s Health & Obstetrics. Dr. Ali is also trained in functional, aesthetic & obesity medicine.

In her free time, Dr. Ali enjoys exercising with her husband and two sons and exercising. She moved back to her hometown of sunny South Florida to serve the community where her love for medicine was first born.

Dr. Sadia Ali

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As a Naturopathic Medicine doctor, I use an evidence-based integrative medical approach to improving health outcomes. I enjoy using natural and conventional medicine best to help patients become the best versions of themselves.  

I stay happy and healthy by going to the gym and working as much as possible. I enjoy lifting weights and swimming. I am also a foodie and enjoy discovering new restaurants and recipes with friends and family. 

Education: 

Undergrad: 

  • St. Mary’s College of Maryland 

Grad school: 

  • Hood College M.S. in biomedical School 
  • Frostburg State University M.S. in PA Studies 

Medical School: 

  • Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine and Health Sciences (SCNM) 

Residency: 

  • SCNM / Center of Family Health 

Calvin Richards ND, PA-C.

Integrated Nurse Practitioners & Physician Assistants

At Nava Health, we pride ourselves on offering a revolutionary approach to healthcare that goes beyond traditional methods. Our dedicated medical staff is highly skilled in Nava’s proprietary integrative medical approach, specializing in bio-identical hormone replacement therapy.

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Being a Family Nurse Practitioner has helped me to give back and share my advanced knowledge with people to help them achieve their health goals and feel their absolute best. Having a nursing background working in intensive care with neonates has molded me into a gentle provider, avid listener and trusted provider. I provided care for families and their children at the most vulnerable times in their life and always made sure I gave my very best each and every day. My current career path has lead me to an exciting and rewarding approach to medicine.

Knowing how precious life is from my background in critical care, I believe we should all aim to thrive not just survive. People deserve to feel vibrant and live full lives- capable of having energy for relationships, healthy food preparation, enjoyment of life’s variety and indulging in a restorative night of sleep at the end of a balanced beautiFULL day. I feel grateful and enthusiastic to work for a company where I can use my talents combined with Science to empower clients at NAVA to live with vigor. I have a carefully curated and evidence-based set of tools at my disposal to help our clients lead a lifestyle I advocate for and believe in and I can’t imagine a more rewarding career path.

Family is very important to me and makes me feel supported. Like most of us, being around positive people, pets, or spending time outdoors in nature really gives me a boost. I stay mentally healthy by being organized and setting goals for myself. I love the saying “be firm in your goals, but flexible about how you achieve them.” Being flexible allows one to be adaptable to change and make refinements along the way. It allows being opened to Science and new, innovative ways of doing things. Finally, I stay happy and healthy by not comparing my journey to other’s. I hope to inspire my clients to do the same and give them tools to follow their own special path and individualized plan of care. At the end of the day, I believe we are only in competition with ourselves. “Better than yesterday” is my healthy mantra.

Education:
Undergrad: Misericorida University School of Nursing

Graduate: Duquesne University

Board certification: 

FNP-BC (Board Certified Family Nurse Practitioner) 

American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC)

Ashley Beccaloni, FNP-BC

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Sybille received her undergraduate training at the University of Virginia and then earned her Physician Assistant degree at Bethel University in 2015. After working in the emergency room for several years and seeing how patients with chronic diseases were only getting sicker with conventional treatments, she discovered functional medicine.

Sybille has completed training at the Institute for Functional Medicine, emphasizing whole-body health by combining proper nutrition, movement, and healing mind-body practices. She loves giving patients the tools and support they need to take charge of their health journeys.

Originally from Virginia, Sybille lives with her husband and dog in northwestern Florida. She loves hiking, going to the beach, and traveling. Sybille also loves to cook and try new healthy, yet delicious recipes.

Sybille Moore, PA

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As a Certified Nurse Practitioner allows me the special opportunity to serve clients in a dynamic environment. I am very fortunate to see firsthand the benefits that clients experience, which truly enhance their lives. My work assists each client in being the best version of themselves. It is so enriching to provide people with the tools to succeed.

How I stay happy and healthy: I believe overall health is rooted in a balanced lifestyle. This includes healthy eating, a strong family support system, a proper work-life balance, and daily exercise. I am fortunate to have a supportive husband who is my best friend. I greatly enjoy going back home to south Brazil to spend time with family and help those who are less fortunate. My hobbies include assisting animals, going to the beach, and staying active. My greatest passion is helping others, whether an animal or a person.

Education:
Undergrad: Eastern Kentucky University (BSN)

Graduate: Chamberlain University (MSN/ FNP)

Board certification: 

  • American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP)

Narayana Pennington, MSN, FNP-BSN

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As a Certified Family Nurse Practitioner with the majority of my experience working in Pediatrics, I have been able to see the importance of healthy nutrition and a healthy lifestyle for proper growth and development. Also the importance of illness prevention in order to maintain your health and well-being.

I really enjoy providing my patients with education which allows them to become independent in creating the best version of themselves. I believe that a healthy mind and emotional state is as important as physical health, they are all connected. It’s very rewarding helping those in need and I look forward to continuing to do so as a medical practitioner at Nava Health and Vitality Center.

I’ve been a vegetarian for the majority of my life and I recently created an Instagram page sharing my healthy creative vegetarian recipes. I love being outside in nature and the sunshine. I love the beach and hope to live there someday. I enjoy spending time with my husband and son, gardening, exercise, photography and am a big animal lover. I really enjoy helping those in greatest need and am the co-founder and Medical Director of the Espwa Foundation that provides medical care in Cap Haitian, Haiti. This experience has been rewarding on so many levels and has really taught me to cherish the importance things in life.

Education:
Undergrad: Gannon University in Erie, Pennsylvania (BSN)

Graduate: George Mason University/George Washington University (MSN/ FNP)

Board certification: 

  • ANCC (American Nurses Credentialing Center)

Jennifer Schmidt, MSN, FNP-BC

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Samantha attended Simmons College, obtaining her Master of Science as a Family Nurse Practitioner. Samantha has an extensive background in the intensive care Unit, emergency department, urgent care, and Integrative Pain Management. Throughout these experiences, Samantha noticed the limitations of traditional medical care and began to explore additional avenues to medicine and healing, which led her to functional medicine.

Samantha is a passionate advocate for patient education and empowerment. She is dedicated to helping patients feel and look their best. She genuinely listens and addresses specific patient concerns to provide tailored recommendations and guidance to help achieve health and wellness goals.

In her free time, Samantha enjoys spending time with her husband and daughter, their two Labradors, exercising, and getting outside whenever possible.

Education:
Master of Science degree as a Family Nurse Practitioner, Simmons College

Samantha Suller, FNP

Registered Nurses

Leslie Rider

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I received my Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing in 2019 and a Bachelor’s Degree in Public Health in 2014. I was a labor and delivery nurse for three years before transitioning from the acute care setting to NAVA. I love helping people feel their best and witnessing our clients reach their wellness goals!

My hobbies include traveling, going to concerts, experiencing live theatre, and singing karaoke!

Education:
Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Marymount University

Desiree Ward, RN

Medical Assistants

Clinical Nutritionist

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As an autoimmune ally and Functional Nutritionist, I prefer a blend of evidence based science, humor, and herbalism to find a unique and bio-individualized approach to nutritional counseling and holistic health. I prefer not to shout recommendations; YOU are the in the driver’s seat as an active participant in your care plan. With nearly five years of clinical experience, I have had the pleasure of working with thousands of men and women on a range of health challenges from weight loss to autoimmunity to hormone imbalance. Nothing makes me smile brighter than seeing someone take their power back and regain their health.

I love to spend time with my partner, three kids, and our dog, Buddy. We love to spend as much time as we can outside hiking or cycling together. When it’s too cold to venture outside, I love to cook with my daughter, Penelope. She teaches me so many fun flavor combinations!

Education:

Undergraduate – College of Notre Dame of Maryland, BA

Graduate – New York Chiropractic College, MSACN

Stephanie Misanik, MS, CNS, LDN

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Nour Amri is a Licensed Integrative Nutritionist, Certified Nutrition Specialist, and a Certified Ketogenic Nutrition Specialist. She earned her Master’s degree from the Maryland University of Integrative Health. She also received her certification for mind-body medicine facilitation from Georgetown University School of Medicine. In her approach, Nour applies the principles of Integrative and Functional Nutrition, which emphasize healthy eating personalized to the client’s genetics, environment, lifestyle, and health concerns. She believes that food is not just about calories and energy; it provides information that would contribute to modulating health and disease and is a significant component of the emerging science of Epigenetics. Emerging research confirms that poor dietary habits and lifestyle can initiate various illnesses and autoimmune diseases.

She also works with clients on optimizing gut health, using food as medicine, and recommends therapeutic food plans and appropriate supplements that boost the immune system and nourish the body.

As a member of a multidisciplinary team of medical providers, she helps patients implement dietary and lifestyle changes by designing individualized nutritional plans and assessing their progress.

Nour Amri, CNS, LDN

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Dana is a Doctor of Clinical Nutrition (DCN) and a Board Certified Nutrition Specialist (CNS). Her passion for health and wellness started at a very young age and only grew stronger once she started working with patients in a professional setting.

Her passion for personalized nutrition and precision medicine eventually expanded to education and academia. She served as a Lead Student Nutrition Clinic Supervisor and Adjunct Faculty at her alma mater, Maryland University of Integrative Health, where she taught both Master of Science in Nutrition and Integrative Health and Doctor of Clinical Nutrition Programs.

She joined the Nava Nutrition Team in 2014. She took a five-year advanced learning journey away from Nava in 2017 to expand her knowledge in laboratory science and serve as a medical education specialist for a clinical laboratory, Genova Diagnostics. During this time, she also served and continues to serve as a CNS Board supervisor and mentor. Dana’s clinical and research focus is on digestive health, neuroendocrine-immune health, natural hormone balancing, reproductive health, and fertility.

Dana re-joined the Nava Nutrition Team in 2022 and is grateful to be able to share her knowledge and provide support to patients who seek to improve and optimize their well-being through learning and understanding how nourishment may support their goals.

Outside of Nava, Dana loves spending time with her two Labradoodles. You can frequently find her outdoors with her two pups, enjoying nature, working on enrichment dog training, and preparing nutritious meals for them (pet nutrition is one of her latest passions).

Dana Filatova, DCN, CNS, LDN

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Megan Copeland MS, CNS, LDN, is a practicing Clinical Nutritionist in the state of Maryland.

After receiving her Bachelor of Science degree in Biology, she began her military career as an Animal Care Specialist.  Upon completing her commitment to the U.S. Army, she was licensed as a massage therapist from the Holistic Massage Training Institute and then earned her Master of Science degree in Nutrition and Integrative Health from Maryland University of Integrative Health.

Megan is credentialed as a Certified Nutrition Specialist and a Licensed Dietitian Nutritionist. She is a member of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and has achieved her Autoimmune Paleo practitioner certification. Megan is currently completing her Certified Functional Medicine Practitioner training from Functional Medicine University. In addition to working at NAVA Vitality, she runs a Metabolic Reset group program online in her private practice.  In her time outside of the clinic she teaches Integrative Nutrition and Holistic Health to middle and high school students in their family’s homeschool cooperative.

Her research interests include nutritional support for growing healthy families and the use of supplements in clinical practice for the prevention and treatment of chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease as well as autoimmune and gastrointestinal disorders.

Megan enjoys spending time with her husband and three kids; their favorite places are the beach or a motocross track.  She enjoys caring for their garden, tending to their dog, cat and chickens and getting her daily dose of sunshine.

Education:

  • Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from Greensboro College
  • MS, CNS, LDN

Megan Copeland MS, CNS, LDN

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Throughout her decade-long pursuit of ensuring her patients have the care they deserve, Kathy Xydis has completed a Master of Science in Nutrition and Integrative Health, been approved as a Licensed Nutritionist (LDN), and fulfilled the rigorous requirements of becoming a Board-Certified Nutrition Specialist (CNS®). This is the most advanced certification for personalized nutrition practitioners. She is also a Doctor of Clinical Nutrition Candidate working on her residency (estimated year of completion: 2023).

Her aim is for every one of her clients to feel empowered and supported while being successful in the outcomes they seek. She follows the tenets of Functional Medicine, where she focuses on root cause analysis, and the patient is at the center of care. Her approach is Science-Based, Heart-Centered, and Individualized.

Kathy helps women and couples at the beginning stages of trying to conceive or struggling to get pregnant to fulfill their dreams of becoming parents.

Areas of Focus:

  • Systemic Health
  • Fertility
  • Hormone Regulation & Endocrine Imbalances
  • Digestive Health
  • Sleep, Energy, & Performance
  • Biochemistry &Functional Labs
  • Nutrigenomics
  • Lifestyle, Stress, & Mood

Education, Certifications, and Memberships

  • Doctor of Clinical Nutrition Candidate (2023)
  • Master of Science in Nutrition and Integrative Health
  • Board Certified Nutrition Specialist (CNS®)
  • Licensed Dietician Nutritionist (LDN)
  • American Nutrition Association (member)
  • Institute for Functional Medicine (member)

Kathy Xydis, MS, CNS, LDN, DCNc

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As a (Doctor of) Clinical Nutrition and Certified Ketogenic Nutrition Specialist, my passion is to empower people to take charge of their health and wellness using food, exercise, and lifestyle changes. I follow a functional approach to nutrition assessment. 

I specialize in science and data-based personalized low-carb and targeted nutrition solutions for people, especially men, dealing with metabolic imbalances like diabetes, insulin resistance, and performance and cognition issues. 

All of this is supported by the foundation of a healthy gut. My end goal is to uncover a fully energized individual who can do whatever they want for as long as they want to.

When not working, I love to travel, a tropical beach, artistic expression, my partner and cat, and lift heavy things and put them back down.

Undergraduate:

Engineering and Media

Graduate:

Masters and Doctorate at Maryland University of Integrative Health

Leandro Pucci DCN, MS, CNS, CKNS, LDN

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I’m an integrative nutritionist aiming to provide people with the education, tools, motivation, and support they need to improve their well-being and live healthier lives. By identifying and targeting the root cause of one’s concerns and looking at the body holistically, I work with my clients to determine a personalized treatment plan that will yield sustainable results. The main pillars of my approach include gut health, hormone balance, and detoxification support.

I love to spend time in the mountains, whether I’m hiking, skiing, or just relaxing. I try to make time for things I enjoy, like cooking at home with family or trying new restaurants with friends.

Education:
Undergrad: College of Charleston, BS in Psychology

Graduate: Maryland University of Integrative Health, MS in Clinical Nutrition

Credentials:

Certified Nutrition Specialist (CNS)

Licensed Dietician Nutritionist (LDN)

Margaret Woodwell, MS, CNS, LDN

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Kathleen is a Licensed Dietician Nutritionist and Certified Nutrition Specialist with a Bachelor’s in Counseling Psychology and Masters in Clinical Nutrition. Her passion is working with individuals to improve their nutrition for mental health.

She works with people with various conditions, including weight management, hyperlipidemia, diabetes, hypertension, and inflammatory and digestive disorders.

In her free time, Kathleen enjoys hiking, traveling, and practicing landscape photography, and she tries to combine all three a couple of times a year with scenic hiking trips.

Kathleen Jones, CNS, LDN

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Dr. Hall brings a food-first approach to his work with patients. His expertise ranges from the myriad manifestations of metabolic dysfunction, gut health, cancer, autoimmunity, mental health, and human development and optimization. In addition to a food-first approach, Dr. Hall utilizes focused nutraceutical supplementation as needed and an array of supportive lifestyle interventions to facilitate positive environment/gene interactions.

Dr. Hall has spent over a decade practicing and teaching meditation and yoga.

Dr. Hall believes the relational dynamic established in the healing container is as much of a part of the therapeutic unfolding as other more tangible aspects. As such, he takes the time to listen, guide and ask questions that support deep embodied insight, a reduction of resistance, and accelerated behavior change.

These skills come together as you work collaboratively to build a care plan that meets the needs of your unique circumstance.

When he isn’t lovingly in service to his patients, Dr. Hall is running trails and mountain biking, sitting in cold pools of water, swinging kettlebells, dancing with Spirit in his yoga practice, and trekking through the Blue Ridge Mountains in Central Virginia, his two savage children and most beloved partner.

Ryan Hall, DCN, CNS, LDN

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As an Integrative Clinical Nutritionist, Mary Kate works with you in a holistically focused manner to find the deep-rooted reasoning behind symptoms and illness. She utilizes natural healing methods, including food as medicine, quality supplements, movement, and stress reduction techniques to help support healing from the source.
With the varied nutritional information out there today, what to do with the foods you consume can get confusing. It isn’t very clear because true healing is never one size fits all, and every individual is unique. Nutrition is a science; it is medicine, and it is deeply personal – therefore, Mary Kate spends time with you to create a completely personalized plan to bring balance back to the body and mind. When we utilize essential nutrition, the body has the building blocks needed to function optimally, balance and heal.

True nutrition should not be seen as a ‘diet’ in the way of restriction, guilt, or deprivation. Instead, it should be seen as the ultimate act of self-love. It’s a way of listening to your body, being mindful of one’s needs, and intentionally nourishing your body and mind daily.

Mary Kate received her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Temple University and her Master of Science in Clinical Nutrition and Integrative Health from Maryland University of Integrative Health. She is a Licensed Dietitian Nutritionist, Board-Certified Nutrition Specialist, and Board-Certified Holistic Health Practitioner.

Over the last 11 years, Mary Kate has been dedicated to working in the Integrative Health and Functional Nutrition field. She enjoys connecting with her clients, truly getting to know them and their stories while working with them throughout their health journey.

Mary Kate Gowdy, MS, CNS, LDN

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Jess graduated with her master’s from Maryland University of Integrative Health (MUIH). She completed the requirements to become a Certified Nutrition Specialist (CNS) and is a Licensed Dietitian Nutritionist (LDN) in Maryland. She has also completed a post-graduate certification as a RECODE Certified Practitioner via the IFM Cognitive Health Training.

Before MUIH, she received a certification from the Institute for Integrative Nutrition in Holistic Health Coaching (CHHC) and is a member of the American Association of Drugless Practitioners. Jess also holds bachelor’s degrees in Psychology and Sport Studies from Towson University.

 Jess uses science-based diet and nutrition therapies to support your health and well-being. She believes in an integrative personalized approach to health and healing that considers the whole person — body, mind, and spirit. Jess has worked with hundreds of clients in various settings to support many issues, including blood sugar, weight management, metabolic imbalances, mood, inflammation, digestion, food sensitivities, cognitive problems, and environmental toxicity. She will work with you in a collaborative effort to tailor an individualized nutrition care plan to support the root cause of your unique needs and concerns.

She enjoys cooking, traveling, and doing anything on or near the water in her spare time.

Jessica Quinones, MS, CNS, LDN

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Eryka Clayton is a highly skilled and compassionate practitioner who believes everyone deserves to thrive. Eryka holds a Master’s in Clinical Nutrition from the University of Bridgeport. Her approach is evidence-based Integrative Functional Nutrition. 

She provides personalized nutrition considering the complexities of each individual’s unique genetics, goals, and lifestyle to get the best outcomes possible. Known for her strong communication skills and empathetic approach, Eryka fosters trust and actively involves clients in tailoring nutrition and lifestyle plans to individual needs. She is deeply committed to healing and optimization and takes pride in building step-by-step plans that have easy integration through nutrition education and lifestyle wellness support. She works with all ages, groups, and families to empower, achieve optimal health, and celebrate successes. 

Eryka has a passion for prevention and performance nutrition as well as specialties in eating disorders, non-toxic living, food creativity, genetic predisposition disease prevention, weight stabilization, management of autoimmune conditions, eczema, and related skin conditions, gastrointestinal disorders, mental health and neuro-regeneration, hormone regulation, and cancer treatment and post-treatment remission support.

In addition to clinical work, Eryka is dedicated to mentorship. With a background in education and as a retired professional ballet dancer, she actively mentors young professional dancers and athletes when not working with NAVA clients. In addition, she speaks nationwide on Integrative Wellness and Performance Nutrition.  

Education: 

Graduate

  • MS, Clinical Nutrition, University of Bridgeport 

Certifications

  • Institute of Integrative Nutrition Certified Practitioner
  • Member of the American Nutrition Association (ANA)

Eryka Clayton, MS, CNS candidate

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Gina Cushenberry, MS, CNS, LDN, is a Licensed, Board-Certified Nutritionist. She earned her Master’s in Nutrition and Integrative Health at Maryland University of Integrative Health. Before attending MUIH, she studied at the Institute for Integrative Nutrition and earned her certification as a Holistic Health Coach.

Gina has an unwavering passion for nutrition and helping others develop healthy lifestyle

changes. While she specializes in weight loss and management, she is skilled and trained to help her clients improve any medical diagnosis, such as diabetes, GI issues, food allergies/sensitivities, PMS, menopause, and hormonal imbalances. 

Her life experiences fuel Gina’s desire to improve others’ dietary habits. That determination is passed on to her clients to stay motivated and successfully reach their health goals.

Gina enjoys playing tennis, gardening, traveling to tropical islands, and spending quality time with friends and family in her free time. 

Training and Education 

Maryland University of Integrative Health

MS Nutrition and Integrative Health

 The Institute for Integrative Nutrition, New York City

Holistic Health Coaching Professional Training and Certification Program

 

 

New York University, New York City

BA Journalism

Certification and Accreditation

Certified Nutrition Specialist (CNS)

Licensed Dietician Nutritionist (LDN)

American Association of Drugless Practitioners (AADP)

Board Certified and Accredited Member

Punk Rope Instructor

ACE Certified Instructor

Gina Cushenberry, MS, CNS, LDN

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Colleen DeSimone, MS, CNS, LDN, CDN, is a highly qualified professional with a Master of Science in Functional Nutrition from the University of Bridgeport and a Bachelor of Science in Human Nutrition from Huntington University of Health Sciences. In addition, she holds a Clinical Botanical Medicine Practitioner certification from the East-West School of Planetary Herbology and brings three decades of experience as a practicing herbalist.

Colleen employs science-based therapies to support your health and wellbeing, providing personalized nutrition considering the complexities and interconnectedness of each individual's unique biochemistry, metabolic profile, health objectives, and lifestyle preferences. In addition to these considerations, she incorporates the latest research findings. She continually adapts her approach to align with emerging scientific advancements, ensuring a holistic and cutting-edge approach to enhancing overall health.

With a focus on gastrointestinal disorders, mental health conditions, endocrine system and hormone regulation, autoimmune conditions, chronic EBV, chronic Lyme disease, mold toxicity, SIBO/IMO, detoxification, and Long Covid, Colleen brings her expertise to uncover root causes and develop personalized treatment plans.

Recognized for her strong communication skills, humor, and empathy, Colleen fosters trust and actively involves clients in crafting nutrition and lifestyle plans uniquely tailored to their needs, promoting a collaborative and empowering journey towards wellbeing. Her commitment lies in prioritizing each individual's unique needs and challenges, fostering a holistic approach to comprehensive wellbeing beyond symptom management.

Embark on a transformative health journey with Colleen and experience a vibrant, energetic, and thriving new you. Nourish your body, mind, and soul with her comprehensive wellbeing approach.

 

Education, Credentials, & Memberships 

 

- Institute of Functional Medicine Certified Practitioner (IFMCP - expected completion in 2024)

- Certified Dietician Nutritionist (CDN)

- Licensed Dietician Nutritionist (LDN)

- Certified Nutrition Specialist (CNS)

- Master of Science in Functional Nutrition, University of Bridgeport

- FBCA Mastery Functional Blood Interpretation Certified

- Bachelor of Science in Functional Nutrition, Huntington University of Health Sciences

- Clinical Botanical Medicine Practitioner with 30 years of experience, specializing in Western, Chinese, and Ayurvedic Herbal Treatments and Formularies

- Integral Yoga International Certification, Wellbeing International Inc., Maui HI

- Kriya Yoga Meditation Instructor certified by Self-Realization Fellowship

- Reiki Master & Teacher, lineage tracing back to Dr. Mika Usui

- Institute of Functional Medicine Member

- American Nutrition Association Member

- American Herbalist Guild Member

Colleen DeSimone, MS, CNS, LDN, CDN

Holistic Therapists

Our holistic therapists are a large part of the Nava care team and are held to the same standards as our physicians – they must be exceptional in their field, be committed to our vision of helping you holistically reach your health goals, and provide compassionate, patient-centered care.

One of the things that sets Nava apart is our collaborative approach to health. Our therapists may specialize in one aspect of your health, but you can expect that all of the therapists who help you will be coordinating and communicating to make your treatments as effective as possible.

That’s something you won’t experience anywhere else.

Acupuncturists

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Oriental Medicine is a holistic approach that focuses on treating the person as a whole - physical, emotional, and spiritual - to achieve complete healing. As a dedicated Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine Doctor, I aim to provide individualized treatments and patient-centered care that utilizes high-quality needle techniques and knowledge of Oriental Medicine.

My passion for Oriental Medicine was sparked by my father's stroke and my health journey, which led me to realize that this was my true calling.

I take great pleasure in meeting and communicating with each patient to understand their unique situation and needs so that I can provide the best possible care.

My goal is to promote overall well-being and restore mental and physical harmony by empowering holistic wellness. To achieve this, I use a range of modalities, including acupuncture, herbal medicine, cupping, Moxa, E-stem, and lifestyle modifications.

I love spending time with my family and our two dogs. We enjoy taking walks around our neighborhood and exploring new places. We also love rearranging our home and making it a cozy and inviting space. On rainy or snowy days, we take the opportunity to nurture our plants, listen to music, or watch movies.

My Education in Acupuncture

  • Doctor of Oriental Medicine at the Virginia University of Integrative Medicine, Vienna, VA
  • Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine internship at Virginia University of Integrative Medicine
  • Master of Oriental Medicine at Virginia University of Integrative Medicine
  • Master of Acupuncture at Virginia University of Integrative Medicine
  • OM NCCAOM
  • Certificate of Clean Needle Technique

InYoung

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Being a doctor of acupuncture and oriental medicine, I see a person in a holistic way; a person who is in harmony with nature and people.  I enjoy that each person I see has a unique history and background which apply to the diagnosis of the disease, along with symptomatic presentation he/she brings.  The practice of acupuncture is based on this diagnosis to find specific meridians and treatment points.  I strive to have mindful listening to help patients express their life, which for me is an honor to serve.

I enjoy the outdoors with my husband, walking around the neighborhood and finding new routes all the time. We try new recipes from all corners of the world, and drink various inexpensive wines with good reviews together with the meal.

Education:

  • Doctor of Oriental Medicine, South Baylo University, Anaheim, CA
  • Residency: Internship at Anaheim campus, South Baylo University
  • Board certification: NCCAOM, California Acupuncture Board

Julie Park

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As an acupuncturist, it is my privilege to show clients the amazing power of their body to heal, self-regulate, and restore balance. I work with patients to help them listen and understand their symptoms as the way in which the body communicates its wisdom. With acupuncture, I help people heal their body, mind, and spirit. I enable clients to live pain free, recover from physical and emotional trauma, reduce stress, improve digestion and energy, sleep better, learn to express emotions properly and approach life with balance, perspective, and ease.

I stay healthy and happy through my twice-daily Transcendental Meditation practice, frequent dance breaks with my daughters, exploring the outdoors with my dog, eating a mostly plant-based diet, and laughing as much as possible.

Education:

  • BA Economics Grinnell College
  • Ma Acupuncture Tai Sophia Institute (Maryland University of Integrative Health) L.Ac Maryland Board of Acupuncture.

Rachel Nevas Peled

Massage Therapists

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I have been a massage therapist for 10 years. I am trained in structural integration, trigger point, sports massage, cupping, and a few other modalities. I integrate all the modalities to personalize your session to your needs. My approach is targeted to bring muscular balance, improve range of motion and identify areas that may be contributing to your current discomfort or work to prevent an injury.

I have trained in AIS and DNS. Both of which prolong the results of massage and educate clients in continued self-care. I have worked alongside physical therapists and osteopaths. I continue to build and share my knowledge with my clients so they may build a solid understanding of what their body needs to move and feel better.

I like to stay active. I believe the more stationary your life is the more pain you will be in. Breathing and meditation is key to decrease stress and help your body’s ability to heal its self.  I like to keep a good relationship with family and God for my mental clarity and happy life.

Education:

I received my massage training at the Arizona School of Massage Therapy. I continue to train in different areas of massage and bodywork.

  • National Certification for massage therapy.

Andrea Morales

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About Me:

Before I started my Licensed Massage Therapist career, I enjoyed 20 years as a Teacher in Early Childhood, Adaptive Special Education, and a High School Track & Volleyball Coach for Baltimore and Howard County.  My experience in sports and fitness as well as having an open minded approach to holistic health practices and self-care led me to discover the multiple benefits of therapeutic massage and how it help others do the same and improve their own quality of life.

As a Licensed Massage Therapist for the last 4 years, I believe it is important to take an integrated therapeutic whole body approach and understanding of the physical and neurological well-being of an individual’s needs.   By practicing focused hands on techniques and using a combination of modalities, my approach to holistic health provides structural and muscular tissue balance as well as other physical and mental health benefits.  My therapeutic massage can include but is not limited to reducing tension and stress, improving circulation, relieving muscular pain by identifying referral, receptor and active/inactive muscle functions, improving joint discomfort and mobility, reducing myofascial restrictions, promote injury recovery and prevention, increase range of motion, flexibility and overall physical movement.  It is my goal to provide the most effective practices to promote the importance of self-care through tissue and joint manipulation as well as overall relaxation for a healthy and happier lifestyle.

I specialize in Swedish/deep tissue, body and structure, trigger point therapy, myofascial, Neuromuscular, Positional release, sports massage, injury recovery/prevention, Acupressure, Total body Stretch therapy,  Light and Hydrotherapy.

How I stay healthy and happy:

I like to meditate, run competitively, and play volleyball. I coach High School and Club Volleyball, and I enjoy spending time with my friends and family.

Education: 

  • Graduated Licensed Massage Therapist from Steiner Institute of Massage Therapy
  • Undergrad: University of MD Baltimore Co.

Certified in Early Childhood Education

Minor in Health Science and Policy

  • Graduate:
  • Board certification: The Maryland State Board of Massage Therapy

Kenny Mills

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My style of massage therapy is a Swedish massage with a blend of dance and kung fu. This combination allows me to flow very well over sore muscles as well as keep my hands conditioned for deep tissue massage. I also specialize in sports massage, Swedish table gymnastics, and hot stone massage.

How I stay healthy and happy:

I watch comedies & thrillers, practice king fu, exercise, explore museums and go on long walks. I also like to read and cook whatever dish piques my interest.

Education:

  • Majored in Business Marketing
  • Minored in Health and Fitness

Graduate:

  • Regents Bachelor’s Of Arts from Shepherd University 2013
  • Graduated from National Massage Therapy Institute in Falls Church, Va 2012

Board certification:

  • NCBTMB Certification
  • Maryland State Licensed
  • Virginia State Licensed

Clinton (Eddie) Calhoun