Physician & Providers Bios

Leslie Axelrod, N.D., L.Ac.

Matthew Baral, N.D.

Emphasis: Pediatrics.
Therapies offered: Botanical/Herbs; Diet/Nutrition; Homeopathy; Hydrotherapy; Physical Exams

Dr. Baral received his Naturopathic medical degree from Bastyr University in 2000. He is Chair of the Department of Pediatrics and Associate Professor of Pediatrics at the Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine (SCNM), where he has supervised students on pediatric-specific shifts for the past nine years. He has been a Defeat Autism Now practitioner for six years. Dr. Baral also designed the first Naturopathic Pediatric Residency program in naturopathic medicine and serves as its Director.

His private practice focuses on primary pediatric care and autism. Dr. Baral serves as the Medical Director of the Hamilton Elementary School Clinic, a free pediatric clinic that provides care to the students of one of the poorest school districts in Phoenix. He has published the three latest research studies on the correlation between heavy metal toxicity, chelation, and autism. Dr. Baral co-authored the first two books on integrative pediatric medicine: Integrative Medicine for Children, by May Loo, MD and Integrative Pediatrics, by Timothy Culbert, MD. He serves as the pediatric contributing editor to the Natural Medicine Journal and the International Journal of Naturopathic Medicine, and is the Founding and current President of the Pediatric Association of Naturopathic Physicians.

Nick Buratovich, N.M.D.

Emphasis: Physical Medicine; Acupuncture; Adjustments/Manipulation; Migraine; Infusion Therapy; Prolotherapy; Stop Smoking; Diet/Nutrition; Pain Management; Physical Exam; Arthritis; Chronic Disease; Counseling; Hydrotherapy

Dr. Buratovich received his BS from St. Mary’s College (1973) and his Naturopathic degree from National College of Natural Medicine (1983). Dr. Buratovich has maintained a Naturopathic family practice for over 20 years and focuses primarily on pain management and the treatment of musculoskeletal disorders and injuries. His clinical focus is on you, the patient, with a foundation in Naturopathic philosophy and principles. He uses manipulation, acupuncture and nutrition as his primary modalities along with botanical and homeopathic medicines to help restore health and well being. He has received additional training in cold laser therapy, infusion therapy and prolotherapy and is a certified practitioner in Bio-Cranial Therapy.

Dr. Buratovich is an Associate Professor and the Department Chair of Physical Medicine at SCNM. He is also the secretary of Southwest College’s Board of Trustees.

Matt Cavaiola, N.D.

Emphasis: Acupuncture, Chronic disease,

Dr. Matthew Cavaiola is both a licensed Naturopathic Physician (NMD) and Acupuncturist (L.Ac) in the state of Arizona.  He is a graduate of the Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine (2008) where he received his Doctorate of Naturopathic Medicine and of the Phoenix Institute of Herbal Medicine and Acupuncture (2009) where he obtained his Master’s of Science degree in Acupuncture.  Dr. Cavaiola also received a Master’s of Science degree in Human Nutrition (2004) and a Bachelor’s of Arts degree in Biology (2000) from the University of Delaware.

Dr. Cavaiola is a general practitioner in the state of Arizona and has been in private practice in the Phoenix metro area since graduating in 2008.  Dr. Cavaiola treats a wide variety of acute and chronic diseases associated with the aging process in his practice, and is passionate about treating men’s health conditions.  Dr. Cavaiola uses many naturopathic modalities in his clinical practice including clinical nutrition, acupuncture, intravenous and injectable vitamin therapy, prolotherapy, hormone replacement therapy and is one of a handful of naturopathic physicians in the Phoenix metro area who offers Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) for his patients. 

He currently is an supervising physician overseeing monthly Men’s Wellness Screenings and a general medicine rotation at the Southwest Naturopathic Medical Center.  Dr. Cavaiola is also an adjunct faculty member at Rio Salado College where he teaches Anatomy and Physiology and Introduction to Nutrition.

Dr. Cavaiola is a published author in the Journal of Nutrition and the Naturopathic Doctors News and Review (NDNR), he enjoys lecturing on a variety of topics, especially nutrition and conditions associated with the aging process and is a member of the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians (AANP) and American College for Advancement in Medicine (ACAM).  Dr. Cavaiola’s passion for naturopathic medicine comes from both an upbringing where he was taught to pursue a natural way of life and through personal health struggles that he overcame and continues to enjoy learning about each day.   

Walter Crinnion, N.D.

Emphasis: Environmental Medicine, Chronic Disease, Mercury and Lead Toxicity, Autoimmunity, Asthma and Allergies

Dr. Crinnion received his Naturopathic degree from Bastyr University (1982). He developed an emphasis in environmental medicine and operated a comprehensive cleansing center in the Seattle area for 20 years. His main concentration is in environmental medicine and he utilizes several types of therapies when treating patients, including IV therapy, hydrotherapy, and botanicals.

In addition to directing SCNM's Environmental Medicine Center of Excellence, he is an adjunct faculty member at NCNM, Bastyr University, and the University of Bridgeport, teaching environmental medicine at all four of the Naturopathic medical schools in the United States.

Yong Deng, O.M.D., L.Ac.

Emphasis: Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine including Chinese Botanical Medicines. Pain Syndromes; Arthritis; Cancer; Infertility, Allergy; Men’s Health; Women’s Health including PMS, Menopausal Syndrome, Fibroid; GI problems including IBS; Chronic Fatigue; Migraine; Hypertension; Depression; Children’s conditions.

Dr. Deng is an international well-known expert in Chinese Medicine and acupuncture. He was an MD graduate, former faculty and physician of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine in China. He has been teaching and practicing at medical schools in China and the United States for over 26 years with a concentration in Traditional Chinese Medicine for a wide range of diseases and conditions.

Due to his extensive knowledge, Dr. Deng was invited to SCNM in 1996 and currently serves as the Chairman and Professor within the Department of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine.

Dr. Deng is a licensed acupuncturist in Arizona and works with MDs in hospitals and several Fertility Treatment Centers within the Phoenix area. He is a member of the State of Arizona Acupuncture Board of Examiners and has published over 30 papers and several books including the Encyclopedia of Chinese and U.S. Patent Herbal Medicines. In addition to supervision of student rotations, Dr. Deng also has his private practice at Southwest Naturopathic Medical Center in Scottsdale and his office in Chandler.

John M. Dye, N.D.

Emphasis: Mind/Body; Psychological; Biofeedback; Neurofeedback; Counseling; Anti-Aging; Botanicals/Herbs; Chronic Disease; Diabetes; Endocrinology; Hypnosis; Kinesiology; Men’s Health

Dr. Dye is a graduate of National College of Natural Medicine (1979), where he completed a residency in Family Practice. He offers a broad-scope practice with expertise in the areas of mood and cognitive enhancement, longevity medicine, diabetes care, and hormone replacement therapy. Dr Dye is the medical coordinator for the clinic’s biofeedback department, and has developed neurofeedback services to address brain disorders.

Dr Dye’s focus includes mind-body healing methods for depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, and other psychological disorders. Dr. Dye is chair of the Mind/Body Medicine Department at SCNM and teaches endocrinology, biofeedback, and mind-body medicine courses. He is an attending physician and Department Chair of Mind-Body Medicine.

Danya Epstein, N.D. 

Emphasis: Mind/Body, hypnosis, dermatology, rheumatology, internal medicine, endocrinology, and women’s health.

Dr. Danya Epstein graduated with highest honors from Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine in 2009. She completed her residency in general medicine at Bastyr Center for Natural Health in 2011. Dr. Epstein received her B.A. from Princeton University in French and Creative Writing. She is currently clinical faculty at SCNM where she oversees student teaching shifts and sees patients in private practice.

She has a particular clinical interest in mind-body medicine—including hypnosis, guided imagery, biofeedback, and stress management. Her other areas of focus include dermatology, rheumatology, internal medicine, endocrinology, and women’s health. She has been published in Naturopathic Doctors News and Review and the Seattle P-I. Dr. Epstein is fluent in French, proficient in Spanish and Italian. She is a member of the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians (AANP).

Patricia Gaines, N.D.

Emphasis: Botanical/Herbs; Acute and Chronic Disease; Homeopathy; Women's Health; Diet/Nutrition and Natural Supplementation; Endocrinology; Gastrointestinal; Dermatology; Cardiovascular

Dr. Patricia Gaines received her Naturopathic Medicine degree from Bastyr University. She continued her training at Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine completing a two year family practice residency with an emphasis on botanical medicine, homeopathy and women’s health. Dr. Gaines is currently the Chair of Botanical Medicine at SCNM as well as assistant professor and clinical supervisor at Southwest Naturopathic Medical Center.

Dr. Gaines developed and supervised a Naturopathic rotation at Sojourner Center, a domestic violence shelter for women and children from 2003-2007. Her passion lies in understanding patients from a constitutional perspective and teaching students to formulate based on the individual needs of each patient. Dr. Gaines treats acute and chronic disease using botanical medicine, homeopathy, nutrition and lifestyle counseling.

Anesia Groves

Emphasis: Mind/Body Medicine; EMDR; Psychology/Counseling; Botanical/Herbal Medicine; Women’s Health; Hormone Balancing; Endocrinology

Dr. Groves completed her Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine degree in 2005 at Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine, where she also went on to complete a residency in family practice in 2006.  She has also practiced as a licensed massage therapist and Reiki master/teacher, and has practiced and taught in a variety of healthcare and healing arts settings over the past 14 years.

Dr. Groves has a special focus in mind-body medicine.  She uses EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Emotional Freedom Technique, Guided Imagery, Biolinguistic Kinesiology, and other therapies to help patients discover and address underlying mental/emotional causes of their symptoms.  She seeks to guide people in developing and maintaining a healthy, resilient, and positive approach to adapting to stress.  Dr. Groves views mental health from a holistic perspective and in addition to using mind-body therapies, she works with patients to optimize the biochemical balance that contributes to normal brain and nervous system function.  She welcomes most common mental health concerns, such as depression, anxiety, and problems with attention and focus.     

Dr. Groves also treats a wide variety of medical concerns, including but not limited to women’s health issues, hormone imbalance, thyroid and other endocrine problems, difficulty losing weight, fatigue, digestive problems, and sleep problems. 

Dr. Groves is also an adjunct faculty member with SCNM.  She teaches a variety of didactic courses, is involved in the ongoing development and coordination of the clinical milestone exams, and supervises student rotations at the clinic and at Riversource, an extended site inpatient substance abuse treatment facility.  She is currently pursuing a master’s degree in counseling at Arizona State University, and her long-term goals include continuing to build and develop the mind-body resources available at SNMC for patients, students, and the local community.

Natalie Ham, N.D.

Emphasis: Homeopathy

Dr. Ham received her Bachelor in Science with Honor’s at Arizona State University with a degree in Psychology. She graduated from Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine in Tempe, AZ, with a doctorate in naturopathic medicine. While attending SCNM, Dr. Ham completed extensive training in homeopathy. After graduation, she was chosen into the competitive SCNM residency program. Upon completion of her residency, Dr. Ham has become one of a minority of ND’s that received advanced clinical training in naturopathic medicine. During this residency, she completed upwards of 1000 clinical training hours in homeopathy, alone.  

In 2008, Dr. Ham was selected for a 2nd year homeopathy specialty residency. This clinical residency is the first of its kind in the United States. Her residency is supervised by Dr. Stephen Messer, ND, DHANP a world renowned homeopathic physician and Dr. Eric Udell, ND, clinical associate professor of homeopathy at SCNM. Dr. Ham now teaches homeopathy at SCNM and is an attending physician at the Southwest Naturopathic Medical Center, in Scottsdale AZ. She also has her own naturopathic family medicine private practice in Tempe, AZ.  Additionally, she plays an active role in homeopathic research at SCNM. 

Dr. Ham grew up outside of Chicago, IL, but she has been a resident of Arizona since 1998.  She currently resides in Chandler, AZ with her husband and two dogs where she enjoys cooking, camping and other outdoor activities.  She is an avid Chicago sports fan and enjoys watching spring training baseball here in Arizona.  She is devoted to her family and Naturopathic medicine, and is truly dedicated to helping others.
 

Sara Hazel, N.D.

Emphasis: Treating chronic conditions through a combination of diet, hydrotherapy, botanicals, acupuncture, and cell salts.

Dr. Sara Hazel has been in family practice for over 10 years. She graduated from the National College of Natural Medicine in Portland, Oreg. in 1998. She received her B.S. in Biology from Eastern Connecticut State University. Dr. Hazel received additional training in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine from the Oregon College of Oriental Medicine.

Turshá Hamilton, N.D.

Emphasis: Hydrotherapy, Acupuncture, Acute and Chronic Disease, Anti-Aging, Botanical/Herbs, Dermatology, Diabetes and Pre-Diabetes, Diet/Nutrition and Natural Supplementation, Endocrinology, Gastrointestinal Disorders, IV Therapy, Men’s Health, Mind/Body, Weight loss, Women’s health

Dr. Turshá Hamilton is a licensed Naturopathic Physician in the State of Arizona.  She received her Bachelors of Science degree from Xavier University of Louisiana in Premedical Biology.  She then entered into graduate studies at the University of Memphis where she studied Cellular Biology and Exercise Physiology.  She received her Doctorate of Naturopathic Medicine (NMD) from Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine.  Currently, Dr. Hamilton is adjunct faculty at Grand Canyon University and SCNM.

Dr. Hamilton has a growing family medicine practice in Sun City, Arizona and in Phoenix.  She also works at a Drug and Alcohol Rehab facility where she gives holistic therapies to the facility's in-patients.  She has been a member of the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians and the Arizona Naturopathic Medical Association. 

She has appeared as a guest on several TV and radio programs and is also a weekly co-host of the "Men's Health Talk" radio program which is sponsored by the Southwest Prostate Cancer Foundation, of which she is an Executive Board member.  MHT radio show airs every Thursday 10am - 11am (Phoenix), KXXT 1010AM or it can be heard/seen at www.FamilyValuesRadio.net

Jan Highfield, N.D.

Emphasis: Environmental Medicine, Family Practice, Community Medicine.

Dr. Jan Highfield is a 2001 graduate of Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine. She completed a one year residency with a focus in family practice at Southwest Naturopathic Medical Center. She is currently a full-time faculty at SCNM and the Chair of the Department of Community Medicine - Extended Sites. Dr. Highfield is also a supervisory physician to student interns at the Hamilton School Adult Clinic, an extended site rotation, and at Southwest Naturopathic Medical Center.

Dr Highfield has been a Primary Investigator for several research studies within SCNM. She completed her Post Graduate training through the Environmental Medicine for the Health Care Professionals Course in 2003 and the Fundamentals of IV Micronutrient Therapy and Clinical Applications of Parenteral Therapy Seminar in 2005. She is certified in Chelation Therapy through the American College for the Advancement of Medicine.

Dr. Highfield maintains a private practice at Southwest Naturopathic Medical Center. Her therapeutic practice includes: nutrition, botanical medicine, homeopathy and tissue cleansing in the treatment of chronic fatigue and environmental illness.

Michael Jacobson, D.C.

Emphasis: Adjustments/Manipulation

Dr. Jacobson has been teaching at Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine since 2006. He graduated from New York Chiropractic College in 2001 and soon after relocated to Arizona. He presently runs two chiropractic offices in the Phoenix Metro.

Dr. Jacobson is a member and District Delegate for the Arizona Association of Chiropractic. He has taught part time at the Arizona School of Massage Therapy.

Q. Makeeta, D.C.

Emphasis: Adjustments/Manipulation

Tracy Magerus, ND

Emphasis: Womens Health

Dr. Magerus graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Exercise and Wellness from Arizona State University. During her undergraduate days she discovered naturopathic medicine and was so inspired by the philosophy that she knew that this would be her life’s work. This is the medicine of the future! Dr. Magerus received her doctorate in Naturopathic Medicine from Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine and completed a one-year general practice residency at the Southwest Naturopathic Medical Center with a focus in women’s health. She currently maintains a private practice in Scottsdale and is an adjunct faculty member at Southwest Naturopathic Medical Center supervising students on their clinical rotations.

Dr. Magerus offers general naturopathic primary care with a special focus in women’s health especially menopause and menstrual disorders, mood disorders including depression, anxiety and insomnia, chronic illness such as diabetes mellitus and endocrine imbalances. She uses classical homeopathy, clinical nutrition, botanical formulations and hydrotherapy as the core of her practice. She combines these modalities to form a cohesive plan to enable her patients to reach their health goals.

In her spare time, Dr. Magerus enjoys many outdoor activities such as gardening, camping and hiking as well as a passion for cooking.

Heath McAllister, N.D., RH (AHG)

Emphasis: General Family Practice

Dr. McAllister is a graduate of the Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine. After completing his clinical and didactic training, he went on to do a 1-year residency in general family practice. Dr. McAllister currently practices and teaches at the Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine and at the Southwest Institute of Healing Arts (SWIHA). He also periodically teaches workshops for healthcare practitioners and students.

He currently practices general family medicine with a focus on gastro-intestinal disorders, fatigue, autoimmune conditions, men’s health, pain management, and environmental medicine. Dr. McAllister is trained in acupuncture, spinal manipulation, nutrition, homeopathy, mind-body medicine, IV therapies, minor surgery, prolotherapy, and applied kinesiology. He is also a registered herbalist and uses herbal medicine a great deal in practice.

Originally from Maine, Dr. McAllister graduated Summa cum laude from the University of New Hampshire.  From there he headed westward where in the Mojave Desert of California, Dr. McAllister worked as a plant biologist for both the US Department of Agriculture and Bureau of Land Management. McAllister loves the outdoors and likes to spend his free time hiking, kayaking, and photographing wildflowers.

Stephen Messer, N.D., D.H.A.N.P

Emphasis: Homeopathy for acute disease, serious chronic disease, cancer, multiple sclerosis; Nutritional and Hormonal therapy.

Dr. Messer has been in continuous practice since graduating from National College of Natural Medicine in 1979, and is considered one of the premier homeopathic physicians, educators, and authors in the country. Because of his reputation, in addition to his local patients, he often treats patients who travel to Arizona to enlist his care from all over the United States. Dr. Messer compliments homeopathic treatment of adults and children with nutrition and hormone regulation, when necessary.

Dr. Messer completed homeopathic emphasis training with the International Foundation for Homeopathy, as well as the Eizayaga Homeopathic Seminar series. He was among the first Naturopathic physician in the United States to become board certified as a homeopathic specialist. He is a founder and past president of the Homeopathic Academy of Naturopathic Physicians and has been a board member of the National Center for Homeopathy from 1987-2008, and the Dean of the prestigious NCH summer school homeopathic training program. He has lectured extensively throughout the US and Canada. Dr. Messer is a Professor and the Chair of Homeopathic Medicine at SCNM.

Jessica Mitchell, N.D.

Emphasis: Pediatrics

Dr. Mitchell graduated from Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine in 2005.  During her general practice residency she discovered a passion for pediatric medicine.  In 2007, she became the first Naturopathic Pediatric Resident.  During her residencies, she participated in two double blind placebo controlled studies on biomedical treatments of autism.  Articles from this research have been published in The Journal of Toxicology and BioMed Central Clinical Pharmacology.   She is currently  working in conjunction with the Arizona branch of the American Academy of Pediatrics on their Obesity Committee as well as she is a Founding Member and the Treasurer of the Pediatric Association of Naturopathic Physicians.  

Dr. Mitchell is currently an adjunct faculty member of Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine, where she oversees student medical rotations at the medical center and at a free clinic in Phoenix.  She maintains a private practice at Southwest Naturopathic Medical Center.

Dr. Mitchell believes that the body has the innate ability to heal itself when given the appropriate environment and nutrients to do so.  She believes in using the safest and gentlest medicine first.  She utilizes homeopathy, nutrition, botanical medicine, hydrotherapy and environmental medicine in the care of her patients.  

Mona Morstein, N.D.

Emphasis:Diabetes and Pre-diabetes, Endocrinology, Weight loss, Women's health care, Gastrointestinal problems, Pediatrics, Men's health, Geriatrics, Dermatology, Cardiology, Acute and Chronic diseases of all ages and both genders.  

Therapies: Diet/Nutrition, Natural Supplementation, Botanical Medicine, Bio-identical hormone therapy, Homeopathy, Hydrotherapy, Physical Medicine/Vertebral Manipulation, Prescription medications (when necessary).  

Dr. Morstein received a BS in Foods and Nutrition Summa Cum Laude from ASU (1984). Dr. Morstein graduated from National College of Naturopathic Medicine (1988) and completed a year residency in Family Practice. She had a successful private practice in Great Falls, MT for 13 years where she did regular speaking engagements and had a cable access TV show called "Natural Health". Dr. Morstein is still a frequent speaker on Diabetes and Gastroenterology in the US and Canada. She is considered to be an expert on treating all different types of diabetes in all ages of people.

Dr. Morstein is the Chair of the Nutrition Department and an associate professor at Southwest College of Naturoapthic Medicine. She is a supervising physician at the Southwest Naturopathic Medical Center and is also professor of Gastroenterology and sees many patients will all types of digestion, food allergy, intestinal disorders. Dr. Morstein works hard to teach students to clearly discern the "Obstacles to Cure" in patients and learn how to create individual treatment plans which will stimulate the capacity to heal in each patient. 

Jamie Oskin, N.D.

Emphasis: Child developmental disorders, Autism, Asperger’s, and ADD/ADHD

Dr. Jamie Oskin is a highly trained naturopathic physician with a passion for homeopathy. While he treats a wide variety of chronic and acute conditions, Dr. Oskin is especially focused on helping families overcome child developmental disorders including Autism, Asperger’s, and ADD/ADHD. Witnessing a child’s transformation is especially rewarding for Dr. Oskin because of the huge impact it has on his patients’ families.

Dr. Oskin has a history of achievement in his field. After graduating with High Honors from the Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine (SCNM) in Tempe, Arizona, Dr. Oskin completed a one-year residency in a general family practice and then a second-year specialty residency with a focus in homeopathy at the Southwest Naturopathic Medical Center in Scottsdale, Arizona.

Dr. Oskin is a national speaker on ADHD, and his work has been published in Homeopathy Today, the American Journal of Homeopathic Medicine, Naturopathic Doctor News and Review, and Chiropractic Economics. Additionally, Dr. Oskin plays an active role in ongoing Homeopathic research at SCNM, is an adjunct faculty member at SCNM, and volunteers as a supervising physician to the SCNM student organization Naturopaths Without Borders. Dr. Oskin is a member of the National Center for Homeopathy, the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians, and the Arizona Naturopathic Medical Association. He enjoys cooking, hiking, art, music, reading, and spending time with his family and friends in his spare time.   

Heather Paulson, N.D.

Emphasis: Medical, Radiation, Surgical Oncology Pediatric Oncology, Emergency Medicine, Surgery, Breast Disease, Pathology, Cardiology, Family Medicine

Dr. Paulson graduated from the University of California, Santa Barbara with a B.S. in Aquatic Biology. After many years of restoring and maintaining habitat for aquatic wildlife, she realized that Human health is the foundation that all other species rely upon. After this realization, Dr. Paulson pursued her doctoral degree in Naturopathic Medicine at Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine (SCNM) in Scottsdale, Arizona. During clinical training, Dr. Paulson focused on Oncology, Environmental Medicine, and Primary Care.

After graduating from Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine, Dr. Paulson completed a two year residency in Naturopathic Oncology at Goshen General Hospital. During her residency, Dr. Paulson was responsible for inpatient and out patient care, management and reduction of treatment side effects, and general medical care. This residency also provided additional training in:

Dr. Paulson is board certified in naturopathic oncology, and can truly provide expert care, integrating a wellness plan that treats the whole person. Dr. Paulson serves on the boards for the Desert Cancer Foundation of Arizona and The Melonhead Foundation furthering the recognition of naturopathic therapies within the local cancer community. If you are interested in using herbs, nutrients, diet, and lifestyle changes safely and effectively, Dr. Paulson will be an excellent guide on this path.

Michelle Retz, N.D.

Dr. Michelle Retz graduated Summa cum Laude from Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine. She then completed a residency emphasizing general family practice at Southwest Naturopathic Medical Center. She is a Magna cum Laude graduate from Ohio State University, where she received a B.S. in Biology with a minor in Spanish. Concerned about the present state of our healthcare system, she dedicates herself to patient-centered care using holistic medicine that treats the cause of illness, restores vitality, and preserves health. Utilizing Traditional Chinese Medicine, homeopathy, botanical medicine, hydrotherapy and nutritional counseling.

Dr. Retz focuses on treating chronic illnesses such as diabetes, autoimmune disease, digestive disturbances, chronic pain syndromes, and anxiety and depression. Dr. Retz is a member of the AANP, AzNMA, Doctors for America, Natural Doctors International, and is an attending physician for Naturopaths Without Borders. With the belief that community is family, she has volunteered at various clinics in Mexico to treat the underserved, and is currently helping develop a program to teach first aid homeopathy to local lay healers and family members.

 Elizabeth Rice, N.D.

Homeopathic Resident

Dr. Betsy Rice received her Doctorate of Naturopathic Medicine in 2009 from Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine. In 2002, she received her BA in both Spanish and Global Studies from the University of California at Santa Barbara. 

Dr. Rice's first year residency focuses in primary care family medicine with an emphasis in homeopathy, nutrition, botanical medicine, acupuncture, physical and environmental medicines. Her passion for naturopathic medicine lies within classical homeopathy, nutrition, exercise and lifestyle awareness. Her professional affiliations include the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians (AANP) and the Arizona Naturopathic Medical Association (AzNMA).

Dr. Rice loves to practice yoga, prepare fresh foods, hike and spend time outdoors, be with her loved ones, speak Spanish, and hopes to continue traveling the world.

Krystal Santana

Emphasis: Massage Therapy

Graduated from Desert Institute of Healing Arts in 2007. She is a licensed massage therapist practicing for 4 ½ years. Specializing in Swedish, Deep tissue, and prenatal.

She incorporates chair massage for businesses, in-home massage, and now practicing privately as part of the wonderful team at Southwest Naturopathic Medical Center.

She dedicates her time and energy to the art of healing and invites you to come see her.

Stephanie M. Seitz ND, MT(ASCP)

Emphasis: Women’s Medicine, Annual Exams, Weight Loss, Thyroid issues, Gastrointestinal issues, Allergies, Food Sensitivity, Acute/Chronic Diseases, Homeopathy, Botanical/Herbs, Nutrition.

Dr. Stephanie Seitz graduated from Augustana College in Rock Island Illinois, with a B.A. in Clinical Laboratory Sciences in 2000. She went on to get her certificate in Medical Technology from Barnes Jewish Hospital is St. Louis, Missouri in 2001. After working as a Medical Technologist for 5 years, she achieved her Doctorate of Naturopathic Medicine from Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine in July, 2010.

Dr. Seitz has extensive training in a variety of treatment modalities including homeopathy, botanical medicine, clinical nutrition and acupuncture. Her primary focus is treating conditions related to woman’s health which includes PCOS, infertility, HPV, abnormal paps, PMS and menstrual pain. She also treats patients with GI issues, acne, thyroid conditions and fatigue. She has continued to work as a Medical Technologist for the past 11 years and currently teaches students phlebotomy. She is a member of the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians (AANP) and the Arizona Naturopathic Medical Association (AZNMA).

Dr. Seitz enjoys hiking, running and yoga. She is a world traveler and loves to prepare foods with an international flare. She volunteers her time to the Special Olympics and various animal rescue organizations. She loves spending time with her dog Tallulah and her cat Maddie. Dr. Seitz was born and raised in Springfield Illinois where she regularly connects with family and friends.

Jenny Sherlin

Emphasis: Massage Therapy

Jenny Sherlin discovered her desire for massage therapy while working at Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine as a patient service representative. She then attended and graduated from Cortiva Institute of Massage Therapy in March 2009.

After graduation she began work at a high end spa where she was highly trained in swedish, deep tissue, reflexology, and other spa modalities. Since graduation Jenny has also taken continuing education with Carol Osborne, an expert in prenatal massage. She looks forward to expanding her education in all areas massage therapy has to offer.

DeJarra Simms, ND

Emphasis: digestive disorders, hair loss and skin disorders

Dr. DeJarra K. Sims NMD is a licensed Naturopathic Physician in the State of Arizona. She received a Bachelor’s degree in Biology from Prairie View A&M University, in Texas and completed her doctorate at Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine. She is also trained in Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture (TCM), Minor Surgery and Osteopathic Manipulation. Her private practice, Synergy of Health, PLLC is located in Phoenix, AZ. Dr. Sims is adjunct faculty at SCNM and specializes in treatment of digestive disorders, hair loss and skin disorders. She also has special interest in the prevention of diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol and obesity.

Dr. Sims has extensive training in treating drug addictions and is currently staff physician at River Source Holistic Drug and Alcohol Rehabilitation Center in Mesa, AZ. Recently with the launching of her new skin and hair care line Clean and Natural, LLC, she brings the concept of true and total wellness to the cosmeceutical industry by providing natural alternatives to hair, skin and beauty products. Dr. Sims has served as natural health advisor and guest speaker for various community and faith based organizations. She is a member of the America Association of Naturopathic Physicians (AANP) and the Arizona Naturopathic Medical Association (AzNMA).

Kiera Smialek, N.D.

Dr. Kiera Smialek is a licensed naturopathic doctor with a passion for children. Although trained as a family physician and skilled at treating patients of all ages, Dr. Smialek focuses on patients between birth and 18 years of age. As a naturopathic pediatric physician, Dr. Smialek specializes in treating many common childhood conditions including, asthma, allergies, colds/flu, ear infections, constipation, diarrhea, colic, rashes, headaches, and food allergies. Dr. Smialek also performs well baby and child exams. As an Alternative Vaccine Provider, Dr. Smialek advises parents on alternative vaccine schedules.

Dr. Smialek is highly trained in the field of pediatrics. After graduating from the Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine (SCNM) in Tempe, Arizona, she completed a one-year residency in general medicine, followed by another year-long pediatric residency at SCNM. She is a member of the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians and the Pediatric Association of Naturopathic Physicians.

Dr. Smialek is one of nine naturopathic doctors practicing at Arizona Natural Health Center in Tempe, AZ. In addition, she has worked with Hamilton Elementary School Clinic, a free clinic for uninsured/underinsured, underserved children. She is also adjunct faculty at Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine, where she has a student rotation and assists students in refining their clinical skills.

Originally from Pittsburgh, PA, Dr. Smialek now resides in Scottsdale, AZ. Outside of her passions for naturopathic medicine and treating children, Dr. Smialek enjoys fitness activities and cooking, especially baking. As a classically trained singer, she also takes pleasure in music and singing. 

Christine Sorensen, N.D.

Emphasis: Women’s Health; Minor Surgery; Pediatrics; Endocrinology; Craniosacral Therapies; Sclerotherapy; Acupuncture; Botanical/Herbs

Dr. Sorensen is a graduate of Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine and completed the residency program at Southwest Naturopathic Medical Center. The focus of her practice is minor surgery, women's health, pediatrics,
endocrinology, craniosacral therapies, sclerotherapy, and general practice.

Dr. Sorensen has 20 years experience as a nurse in high-risk obstetrics.

Laura Sullivan

Emphasis: Cranial Sacral Therapy.

Laura completed her diploma in Mind/Body Wellness at the Southwest Institute of Healing Arts. She specialized in Cranial Sacral Therapy because it is so powerful and so gentle. In addition to her training in the healing arts, she also has a Bachelor of Science in Business from DeVry University and an MBA from the University of Phoenix.

Laura's sessions are highly intuitive, following the cues from the body. Each session is uniquely tailored based on the needs of the client. A few of the conditions she has treated are: Temporal Mandibular Joint (TMJ) problems, Head Trauma, Parkinson's Disease, Depression/Anxiety, Grief, Chronic Stress, Auto Injuries, and Gastro-Intestinal problems.

Katrina Stage, N.D.

Emphasis: Women's health, Acute/Chronic Disease; Pediatrics; Gastrointestinal Disorders; Hydrotherapy; Botanicals; Constitutional Homeopathy; Diet/Nutrition; Acupuncture.

Dr. Katie Stage is a licensed Naturopathic Physician who practices general family medicine, with a particular interest in women's health, chronic illness, and pediatrics. While treatments are tailored to her patient's needs, she primarily uses homeopathy, botanical medicine, clinical nutrition, acupuncture, hydrotherapy, and CranioSacral as treatment modalities.

Dr Stage graduated with high honors from the Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine (SCNM) in Tempe, Arizona. She then completed a one year residency in general family practice medicine at the Southwest Naturopathic Medical Center. She has additionally been trained in CranioSacral Therapy.

Prior to medical school, Dr Stage graduated from Northwestern University with a B.A. in both anthropology and philosophy. She also spent two years teaching English in Japan.

She is adjunct faculty at SCNM where she teaches clinical rotations and hydrotherapy. She also has a private practice at Rockwood Natural Medicine Clinic, in north Scottsdale. Dr. Stage is a member of the Arizona Naturopathic Medical Association (AzNMA) and the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians (AANP).

Dr. Stage is an Arizona native. In her free time, she enjoys traveling, hiking, yoga, cooking, making herbal salves and tinctures, and spending time with her family and friends.

Leila Turner, N.D.

Emphasis: Primary Care; Acute/Chronic Disease; Constitutional Homeopathy; Diet/Nutrition; Endocrinology; Women's medicine: Menopause, Bio-identical hormones, Endometriosis, Fibroids, Abnormal pap smear, Infertility, PMS, PCOS, Breast cancer prevention; Thyroid, Allergies, Obesity and Weight Challenges; Gastrointestinal Disorders

Dr. Leila Turner is a licensed Naturopathic Medical Doctor in the state of Arizona. She uses integrative medicine to prevent and treat disease, meaning she blends conventional medical diagnosis and treatment with the wide spectrum of modalities available in naturopathic medicine. These include dietary and lifestyle counseling, nutritional supplements, herbal medicine, homeopathy and bio-identical hormones.

She received an undergraduate degree from the University of California, Santa Cruz in molecular, cellular & developmental biology and a second degree in Psychology. She completed her ND degree at Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine (SCNM) where she then completed a 2-year post-graduate residency in women’s medicine and general medicine.

She is adjunct faculty at SCNM where she teaches students to become physicians and healers. She runs an active private practice at Naturopathic Specialists where she works with each patient to create an individualized, effective and realistic treatment plan. Read more at www.drleilaturner.com

Chris Vedeler L.Ac.

Emphasis: Acupuncture

Chris Vedeler is a Licensed Acupuncturist (L.Ac.) in the state of Arizona with a Master of Science degree in Oriental Medicine from Southwest Acupuncture College. He also is a nationally board certified Diplomate in Acupuncture with the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM), a professional member of the Arizona Society of Oriental Medicine and Acupuncture (AZSOMA) and a faculty member of the Phoenix Institute of Herbal Medicine and Acupuncture where he was awarded the Excellence in Teaching award for 2008 and 2009.

Chris is also an adjunct faculty member of the Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine and an A.C.H.E. board certified Clinical Hypnotherapist. He has published a number of articles about Chinese medicine in the Arizona Goodlife News and the AZ Net News - The Arizona Healing Journal and was also a featured acupuncturist in the movie "The Future of Medicine".

Kimberly Volk, N.D., R.N.

Emphasis: Internal Medicine, Acupuncture, Allergies, Diabetes, Endocrinology, Gastrointestinal, Geriatrics, Arthritis, Asthma, Cardiac disorders, Pulmonary disorders, Acute and Chronic Disease, IV therapy

Dr. Volk is a graduate of Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine (2006). Her focus is as a general family practitioner. Aside from practicing medicine since graduation, Dr. Volk has been working at the Southwest Naturopathic Medical Center in many different capacities which most recently, in July 2008, was promoted to Director of Clinical Operations.

Dr. Volk has over 15 years experience in Intensive Care Nursing. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University at Buffalo (2001) and received her Associates of Applied Science in Nursing from Alfred State College (1992). Her current certifications include ACLS and BCLS.