What is health? Those three words can have a very broad interpretation. But really, what is health to you? Is it freedom from dis-ease? Is it finding someone that will listen? Is it feeling the best you can? I can help you on your path to health and away from dis-ease. I strongly believe in the ability of every body to heal and return to a state of health, joy and vibrant wellness.
Growing up in Arkansas, my path to health and becoming a doctor went in many different directions, and through my life experiences, a theme began emerging: I love helping people. I strive for my patients to feel heard and supported in my treatment visits. As an avid listener, I enjoy engaging with patients to empower them on their unique, individual healing journeys. I view myself as a guide to help my patients achieve greater wellness. I don’t believe in masking symptoms, but rather supporting my patients’ inner vitality to arise.
I will address symptoms, especially when acute, to help my patients in their daily functioning. I strive, though, to address the whole body and see how all aspects of each patient’s story are intertwined. I believe that mind, body and spirit are all equally important to address in treatment.
I believe that clear communication is essential to an optimal doctor-patient relationship: I encourage my patients to tell with me what is working well in their treatments, and what needs to be modified. I am a strong believer in preventative medicine and aim to provide ongoing care for my patients to maintain optimal wellness, joy, love of life and vitality.
I bring a unique style of medicine into my treatments with tools of both Eastern and Western medicine. Trained in two disciplines, naturopathic medicine and classical Chinese medicine, I combine these ancient techniques with modern research. Typically, I will incorporate five-element acupuncture into most visits, as well as naturopathic supplements and lifestyle suggestions.
I love being a part of the Kwan-Yin healing community, and I am committed to integrative medicine. I know that deep healing can require the skills and perspectives of many different individuals. I am committed to communicating with all members of your treatment team, whether at Kwan-Yin or anywhere else. I would be honored to serve as your primary care physician or as part of your Kwan-Yin treatment team. I look forward to working with you on your road to wellness!
I have a belief that health care should be affordable to all, therefore I accept many insurance plans, offer several service discounts, and have a generous sliding fee scale.
When not practicing medicine, I enjoy spending time with my partner and our daughter. We enjoy hiking with our two dogs, backpacking throughout the Northwest, cross-country skiing, and cooking wonderful meals with friends.
Educational Background:
Dr. Hayes graduated from the National College of Natural Medicine in Portland, Oregon with the distinction of acquiring two degrees: a doctorate in Naturopathic Medicine and a masters degree in Classical Chinese Medicine. NCNM is the oldest accredited college of natural health in the country.
Professional Licenses:
Naturopathic Doctor (ND)
Licensed Acupuncturist (LAc)
Diplomate in Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM)
Academic Degrees:
Doctorate in Naturopathic Medicine (ND)
Masters of Science in Oriental Medicine (MSOM)
Bachelors of Science in Botany (BS)