Welcome home to yourself.
I am a Naturopathic Physician (ND, MS) and Integrative Mental Health Provider based in Portland, Oregon.
I obtained my ND degree from National University of Natural Medicine, where I also received my Masters of Science in Integrative Mental Health (MSiMH). Before medical school, I extensively studied somatic movement therapy, most notably with Emilie Conrad of Continuum Movement and Bonnie Bainbridge Cohen of Body-Mind Centering. These past ten years I have studied the evolving research into the interoceptive system, psychoneuroimmunology, and somatic experiencing. That decade of research and learning, combined with my personal experience with embodiment, reshaped the way I approach mind-body medicine and created Somatic Medicine.
I help individuals reconnect with their bodies, restore nervous system balance, and navigate life transitions with greater clarity and strength.
Integrative psychiatry is an approach to mental health care that combines conventional psychiatric medication management with evidence-based complementary therapies. This approach recognizes the complex interactions between physical, emotional, and environmental factors in mental health through the optimization of brain chemistry with tailored supplementation, genetic and biochemical testing, and personalized protocols.
The ability to sense and interpret internal bodily signals is the powerful tool of interoception. By tuning into these sensations, we can better understand the body's needs, uncover hidden stress or tension, and promote self-regulation, leading to improved emotional and physical well-being. This practice empowers individuals to reconnect with their bodies, facilitating deep healing from within.
Naturopathic medicine is a holistic approach to healthcare that emphasizes the body's inherent ability to heal itself using natural therapies such as nutrition and herbal medicine. Naturopathic medicine focuses on treating the root cause of illness, rather than just alleviating symptoms. It combines modern scientific knowledge with traditional healing practices to offer personalized, patient-centered care.
Utilizing an understanding of nervous system regulation, interoception, and psychophysiologic principles to support recovery from chronic stress and trauma.
Safe initiation, tapering, and cross-tapering of psychotropic medications.
Addressing the gut-brain axis as a foundational component of mental and physical wellbeing.
Residency: Completed at Amenda Clinic (Portland, OR), providing comprehensive primary and psychiatric naturopathic care for diverse, acute caseloads.
Education: Earned a Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine (ND) and a Master of Science in Integrative Mental Health (MSiMH) from the National University of Natural Medicine (NUNM).
Licensure: Licensed Naturopathic Physician in the State of Oregon (License #5106).
Editorial and Community Engagement: Serves on the Editorial Board for the ND Digest Journal and maintains active invovlement in local multidisciplinary healthcare education.
To review my complete curriculum vitae or discuss professional opportunities, clinical collaborations, or consulting inquiries, please reach out via professional email or LinkedIn:
Email: Somaticmedic at gmail dot com
LinkedIn: [linkedin.com/in/monelc]