Angeline N. Beltsos, MD is CEO, Clinical at Kindbody. Dr. Beltsos is board certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology and in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility. Prior to joining Kindbody, Dr. Beltsos was CEO and Chief Medical Officer for Vios Fertility Institute – a network of fertility clinics throughout Chicago, St. Louis, Milwaukee, Detroit and Portland. Dr. Beltsos completed medical school at Michigan State University, and then went on to do her residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Loyola University in 1995. Following this, she completed a fellowship in REI at Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri, completed in 1997. She has received numerous awards and is a popular speaker, both nationally and internationally, and a frequent media resource on the topic of infertility. Dr. Beltsos is the executive chairperson for the Midwest Reproductive Symposium International, an international conference of fertility experts. She continues to educate and mentor REI doctors and students of all stages of education and currently serves as an Assistant Professor, Obstetrics and Gynecology at Wayne State University, Division Director of the Wayne State Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility Division, and as Fellowship Director of the Wayne State Reproductive Endocrinology program.

Dr. Beltsos serves patients from our Chicago, IL and our Detroit, MI clinics.

Lynn Marie Westphal, M.D., FACOG, graduated summa cum laude from Lawrence University, earned her M.D. degree at Stanford University, and did her residency training in obstetrics and gynecology at UCLA and Stanford University. She did a fellowship in molecular biology at Stanford University and completed her fellowship in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility (REI) at UCSF and is double board-certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology/Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility. Dr. Westphal joined the full-time faculty at Stanford University in 1998 and was a Professor in the Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Director of the Fertility Preservation Program, Director of the Third-Party Reproduction Program, and Director of the REI Fellowship. Her interest in fertility preservation for cancer survivors led her to set up one of the first oocyte cryopreservation programs in the country. She has held numerous national leadership positions and was the President of the Fertility Preservation Special Interest Group of the American Society of Reproductive Medicine from 2008-2009. She was the Director of Women’s Health at Stanford from 2005-2012. In 2012, she co-founded the Stanford Center for Health Research on Women and Sex Differences in Medicine (WSDM) and served as co-director of the program for two years.

Dr. Bendikson did her residency training in OB/GYN at Harvard and completed her reproductive endocrine and infertility fellowship training at Cornell. She is a California native, having graduated from UCLA with honors. After first leaving Los Angeles for NYU Medical School, she finally returned after training to become an assistant professor at the USC Keck School of Medicine.

Dr. Bendikson was a leader at USC Fertility for over a decade. Dr. Bendikson founded the Center for Pregnancy Loss for patients who have suffered from pregnancy loss and miscarriage. Dr. Bendikson also founded the Fertility Diagnostics Program at USC, to provide a way for young adults to better understand their reproductive potential to help them make educated choices for their future.

She is a nationally recognized leader in the fertility field. She has been the Chair of the American Society of Reproductive Medicine’s (ASRM) Patient Education Committee since 2016 and serves as a member of the ASRM Practice Committee. She is on the board of the ASRM Early Pregnancy Loss Special Interest group and served as President in 2020. She has been recognized for many years as one of LA’s Top Doctors by Los Angeles Magazine.

Dr. Bendikson has presented her award-winning research at both national and international conferences. She has authored numerous publications on a wide variety of topics including the effects of Vitamin D on implantation, IVF for women of advanced maternal age, egg freezing, IVF outcomes in women of different ethnicities, and sex selection of embryos.

It is her goal to provide the highest quality care for her patients and to help them fulfill their desire of having a healthy baby, whether that be now or in the future. In addition, she strives to guide her patients through what can be a trying and difficult journey by providing them with the support and personal attention they need and deserve.

Amber R. Cooper, MD, MS is Chief Medical Officer-Genomics and Laboratory Sciences, and Medical and IVF Practice Director, St. Louis. Prior to joining Kindbody, Dr. Cooper was a founding physician and the Chief Medical Officer for the St. Louis region of Vios Fertility Institute. She understands the challenges of infertility both personally and professionally. Board certified in both Obstetrics and Gynecology and Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, she completed both her residency and fellowship at Washington University in St. Louis. During her years of practice, Dr. Cooper has received numerous awards and has authored articles for several medical journals and textbooks. Additionally, she has led clinical studies, had her research covered in the local and national press, and spoken both nationally and internationally on various topics related to fertility. While she is passionate for all facets of fertility health, she has a special interest in improving IVF success and outcomes, fertility preservation, ovarian dysfunction, ovarian reserve and aging, hysteroscopic surgery, genetics, and the environmental impact on ovarian aging and function.

Dr. Cooper serves patients from our St. Louis, MO, Chicago, IL, Detroit, MI, and our Rogers, AR clinics.

Roohi Jeelani, MD, FACOG, is a double board certified Reproductive Endocrinologist and Infertility Specialist (REI). A graduate of Ross University School of Medicine, she completed both her residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology and her fellowship in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility at Wayne State University – Detroit Medical Center. During her medical training, Dr. Jeelani received numerous awards in the areas of fetal medicine and reproductive medicine. In addition, she has authored a variety of publications and book chapters in well known journals highlighting cutting-edge REI advancement and has presented at national/international conferences and symposiums focused on advancements in women’s health. Dr. Jeelani is an active member of many medical associations. A highly-skilled reproductive endocrinologist and infertility specialist focusing on all areas of reproductive health, Dr. Jeelani has a special interest in oncofertility, toxins’ impact on reproductive function, chemotherapy, and oocyte cryopreservation.

Dr. Jeelani serves patients from our Chicago, IL and our Detroit, MI clinics.

Shannel R. Adams, MD, FACOG is a board-certified reproductive endocrinologist and infertility specialist. Highly skilled in all areas of reproductive health, Dr. Adams has a particular expertise and interest in third party reproduction, oncofertility, fertility preservation, male fertility, and holistic care of both mind and body. Dr. Adams graduated from Duke University with an undergraduate degree in Ethics and went on to medical school at Oregon Health and Science University. She completed residency at the University of Hawai’i John A. Burns School of Medicine and her REI fellowship at the University of Cincinnati. Dr. Adams has been recognized with many awards for her contributions to the fields of medicine, reproductive endocrinology, and family planning and has presented numerous times on the topics of oncofertility, fertility preservation, chromosome screening technologies, and infertility.

Dr. Juan Alvarez completed his fellowship training in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility at UCLA Cedars-Sinai in Los Angeles. Prior to his fellowship, he received his medical degree from the University of Illinois College of Medicine in Chicago and completed his Ob/Gyn residency at Emory University School of Medicine in Atlanta, GA.

He is passionate about all aspects of infertility treatment but has a particular interest in third-party reproduction, international fertility services, and obesity and the impact on fertility, a topic which he researched extensively during his fellowship. As a member of the LGBTQ+ community and a board-certified reproductive endocrinology and infertility specialist, he has a special interest in LGBTQ+ fertility care and education.

He is an ardent believer in the power of patient education and the importance of the patient-physician relationship. He is also an avid proponent of the mind-body connection and his goal is to integrate positive thinking and meditation into a holistic approach to reproductive health and patient care. He is thrilled to be welcoming patients at Kindbody San Francisco.

Dr. Alvarez serves patients in Chicago and San Franicsco.

Dr. Armstrong is a distinguished Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility (REI) specialist. An Orange County native, she graduated Magna Cum Laude from the University of Southern California and earned her medical degree with honors from The George Washington University School of Medicine, in Washington, D.C.

She completed her residency training in Obstetrics and Gynecology at UCLA, elected as administrative chief resident in her final year. She further honed her expertise through a dedicated fellowship in Reproductive Endocrine and Infertility at UCLA.

Dr. Armstrong welcomes all patients at Kindbody – she empowers women to make informed decisions regarding their reproductive options. She delivers a spectrum of fertility services including assisted reproductive technologies such as intrauterine insemination (IUI), in vitro fertilization (IVF), and fertility preservation (egg/sperm freezing).

Her patient-centered practice is designed to combine positivity and enthusiasm with a passion for precision and evidence-based medicine. She aspires to build a personalized partnership over shared dreams and challenges in helping patients achieve their ultimate goal: the birth of a healthy child.

Beyond her clinical practice, Dr. Armstrong actively drives fertility research forward with her numerous peer-reviewed publications. Her specific research areas include preimplantation genetic testing, embryo mosaicism, and the impact of marijuana use on fertility. She contributes to the scientific community as an active member of various professional organizations, including the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the American Society for Reproductive Medicine.

Kelsey Anderson, MD, FACOG appreciates the individual journeys of her patients and is excited
to practice in the Midwest. Born and raised in St. Louis, she moved to Nashville for her
undergraduate degree at Vanderbilt University then returned to STL for medical school at St.
Louis University School of Medicine. She then completed Ob/Gyn residency and Reproductive
Endocrinology and Infertility fellowship at Washington University School of Medicine.

Her research interests primarily include evaluating social, anatomical, and pathologic factors which impact women’s fertility. While in fellowship, Dr. Anderson had numerous peer-reviewed
publications and grant funding for her work with uterine peristalsis. She prioritizes personal
and evidence-based care, patient satisfaction, and mental health well-being.

She has a special interest in uterine abnormalities, endometriosis, and improving access to family building services. Dr. Anderson values how deeply personal the women’s health field is and wants to help her patients every step of the way.

Originally from New York, Dr. Balmir is a graduate of Columbia University. She earned her medical degree at Morehouse School of Medicine in Atlanta, Georgia. Her residency was at Stony Brook University Hospital in New York where she trained in Obstetrics and Gynecology and was also inducted into Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society. She completed her training with fellowship at Magee-Womens Hospital in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility. Dr. Balmir was Director of Medical Education and Outreach at an academic practice in Pittsburgh, PA. Her dedication to excellent patient experience is driven by the connections she forms with patients over the course of their care. She is passionate about empowering patients with knowledge of all their reproductive options. In her free time, Dr. Balmir enjoys spending time with her husband, 2 children, and 2 dogs. She is fluent in French.

Dr. Barmat is double board-certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology/Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility. During his 25 years in practice he has served as Assistant Professor of the Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences Department at Temple University School of Medicine, and an Adjunct Associate Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Jefferson College. He is also past Division Director of Reproductive Endocrine and Infertility at Albert Einstein Medical Center, Lead Physician, IVF Medical Director, and Director of Clinical Research at Sincera Reproductive Medicine, formerly Abington Reproductive Medicine.

Dr. Barmat has earned the privilege to serve as past President of the Philadelphia Area Reproductive Endocrine Society, previous Board Member of the Philadelphia Obstetrical Society and current Board Member of Temple Medical School Alumni Association. Dr. Barmat is an accomplished Reproductive Endocrinologist, surgeon, and scientific researcher. He pioneered and conducted extensive research on the use of autologous endometrial coculture (growth of embryos on a layer of patient’s own uterine lining cells) to improve IVF pregnancy rates. He also is involved in research initiatives such as identifying uterine markers of implantation, exploring the effects of hydrosalpinges on IVF outcomes, effectiveness of robotic reproductive surgery, and principal investigator of numerous IVF clinical trials. He has published extensively in the areas of in vitro fertilization, fibroids, endometriosis, and has received numerous honors and awards from both local and national medical societies. In addition to his academic accolades, he completed the Ironman Lake Placid triathlon, enjoys tennis, golf, travel and time with his family.

Dr. Barmat is passionate about empowering his patients during their family building journey. He is thrilled to welcome patients at Kindbody.

Dr. Barmat serves patients from our Bryant Park, NY, Flatiron, NY, and Miami, FL  clinics.

Dr. Brower is board certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology and Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility. After graduating at the top of her class from USC medical school, she went on to complete her Ob/Gyn residency and Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility fellowship at UCLA. She served as an Assistant Clinical Professor at UCLA for several years where she developed a busy practice providing compassionate, personalized, patient centered care. Dr. Brower was recently recognized as one of LA’s Top Doctors by LA Magazine. Dr. Brower has multiple publications in the field of REI. Her areas of expertise include infertility, in vitro fertilization, fertility preservation, oocyte cryopreservation, recurrent pregnancy loss and PCOS.

Hyacinth Nicole Browne, MD is a board certified reproductive endocrinologist. She majored in Chemistry at Dartmouth College and graduated cum laude. She graduated from Yale University School of Medicine in 2002, and she completed her reproductive endocrinology and infertility fellowship at the National Institutes of Health. Dr. Browne specializes in compassionate and personalized infertility care and she is devoted to helping couples achieve their dreams of having a family. She has authored numerous publications and is the recipient of various awards in medicine, research, and academics.

Dr. Kristen Cain is a board-certified Ob/Gyn and Reproductive Endocrinologist who has worked in infertility since completing her fellowship at UCLA in 1995. She was an Assistant Professor at SUNY Stony Brook, before moving on to help start a private practice in Long Island, which grew to the largest infertility practice on Long Island, and the third largest in New York state. She also developed the donor egg and fertility preservation programs while there, opening the first egg bank on Long Island. Dr. Cain moved back to her home state of Minnesota in 2012 to be closer to her family, and was one of three REI doctors serving the entire region of North Dakota, northern Minnesota and eastern Montana. While there, she became a women’s health advocate at the state and national level, working toward improving access to care for infertility patients. Dr. Cain graduated from Jamestown College in North Dakota, and completed medical school at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine. She completed an internship in Internal Medicine at UVA in Charlottesville, VA before returning to Johns Hopkins for her residency in Ob/Gyn.

Rachael Cohen, DO is a double board-certified reproductive endocrinologist and infertility specialist. Highly skilled in all areas of reproductive health, Dr. Cohen prides herself on providing individualized treatment for every patient. She graduated from Sarah Lawrence College with an undergraduate degree in Pre-medicine and Psychology and went on to medical school at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed her Ob/Gyn residency at Mercy Suburban Hospital in Norristown, Pennsylvania where she also served as Chief Resident. Dr. Cohen completed her REI fellowship at Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. She has been in private practice for more than 10 years and was recently recognized as a Top Reproductive Endocrinologist in New Jersey. Her personal experience with IVF to build her family has heavily influenced her approach to patient care. She prioritizes an individual approach and strives to ensure each patient feels heard.

Dr. Cohen serves patients from our Princeton, NJ and our Philadelphia, PA clinics.

Dr. Geraldine Ekpo is a Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility (REI) Specialist with years of experience providing compassionate fertility care in the San Francisco Bay Area and the California Central Valley. After graduating summa cum laude from Georgia Tech with a B.Sc. in Biomedical Engineering, she went on to obtain her medical degree from the University of Michigan Medical School. She then completed her Ob/Gyn residency at Northwestern University in Chicago, and a REI fellowship at UCSF. She is an inducted member of the prestigious Alpha Omega Alpha (AOA) Honor Medical Society and is board certified in both Ob/Gyn and REI.

Dr. Ekpo is passionate about increasing access to reproductive care and education/outreach and previously interned at the World Health Organization (WHO) in Geneva, Switzerland. She has been invited to speak at various global fertility conferences and is also a Volunteer Clinical Professor at UCSF/Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital, where she teaches Ob/Gyn residents. She feels very privileged to be able to assist patients in their family building endeavors, and her clinical areas of expertise include infertility, in vitro fertilization, intrauterine insemination, egg freezing, PCOS, fibroids, recurrent pregnancy loss and 3rd party parenting.

Dr. Natalia Grob is a highly accomplished and compassionate fertility doctor with expertise in both OB GYN and Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility. She is double board certified by ABOG and holds a distinguished fellowship training from the University of Colorado, Denver.

With a medical degree from Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine and completion of her Ob/Gyn residency at Washington University School of Medicine, Dr. Grob brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her practice. Dr. Grob is dedicated to providing exceptional care to her patients and understands the emotional and physical challenges they face on their journey to parenthood. She takes a comprehensive and evidence-based approach, incorporating the latest advancements in reproductive medicine while also considering the holistic well-being of her patients.

In addition to her clinical work, Dr. Grob actively contributes to the field of fertility advocacy as a board member of Colorado Fertility Advocates. Her commitment to advancing reproductive healthcare extends beyond her practice, demonstrating her passion for supporting and empowering individuals and couples.Outside of her professional achievements, Dr. Grob finds joy in her role as a mother to three boys. She cherishes spending quality time with her family and embraces outdoor adventuring as a way to create lasting memories together.

Dr. Ellen Hayes is devoted to assisting patients facing fertility challenges and has helped individuals and couples in Wisconsin build their families for over 15 years. Board-certified in both Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility and OBGYN, Dr. Hayes graduated from Loyola University Chicago – Stritch School of Medicine with honors. She completed her residency in OBGYN at the Medical College of Wisconsin, where she was recognized by her department for her outstanding surgical skills. She then completed fellowship training at Emory University, where her thesis project received the prestigious John D. Thompson research award. A member of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, and a fellow of the American College of OBGYN, she has authored numerous articles in scientific journals and has participated in research studies in her field which have been presented nationally. Dr. Hayes believes in providing honest and accurate information, incorporating healthy lifestyle recommendations, and taking a collaborative approach to care with each patient. She loves finding answers for her patients as well as providing the best possible experience for patients during the treatment process. 

Dr. Ikhena-Abel obtained her medical degree from the Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth and completed her residency in Ob/Gyn at the University of Massachusetts School of Medicine in Worcester, MA. She completed her fellowship in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility at Northwestern University. She considers it a privilege to help patients grow their families. Dr. Ikhena-Abel specializes in caring for several women’s health conditions including infertility, fertility preservation, polycystic ovarian syndrome, uterine fibroids, polycystic ovarian syndrome, recurrent pregnancy loss and irregular or absent periods. She is a reviewer for Fertility and Sterility and the Journal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics. She also serves as an abstract reviewer for the American Society of Reproductive Medicine.

Dr. Kathiresan is board certified in both Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility and Obstetrics & Gynecology. She is a native of Marietta, Georgia. She obtained her Bachelor of Arts degree from Cornell University and medical degree from the Medical College of Georgia (MCG). While at MCG, she was active in health disparities advocacy, which earned her a national leadership award from the American Medical Association. She went on to complete her residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at the University of Miami/ Jackson Memorial Hospital and fellowship training in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility at the University of California, Los Angeles. Dr. Kathiresan has extensively published in many peer-reviewed scientific journals. After completing her training, she moved to Texas and developed a busy clinical practice committed to compassionate, individualized patient-centered care. She is devoted to helping couples achieve their dreams of building a family. She is also passionate about promoting fertility education awareness through various social media platforms (@anukathiresanmd on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and Youtube). She was awarded “Rising Star Super Doc,” “Texas Top Doc,” and “Top Doctor” by Houstonia Magazine for several consecutive years. She has many years of experience in all areas of infertility including IVF, IUI, recurrent pregnancy loss, fertility preservation and oocyte cryopreservation.

Find Dr. Kathiresan on Facebook, Instagram, Youtube, and TikTok.

Violet Klenov, MD, FACOG cherishes the privilege of serving the community in which she was raised as a double board-certified reproductive endocrinologist and infertility specialist. Dr. Klenov completed her Obstetrics and Gynecology residency at Washington University in St. Louis, and then, staying true to her Midwest roots, she completed her fellowship in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility at the University of Iowa. Dr. Klenov has received numerous awards for her research and minimally invasive surgical skills, and is an active member of numerous medical associations. She also serves on the Practice Committee for the Society for Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, tasked with writing and updating Practice Committee documents for the American Society for Reproductive Medicine. She is the REI subspecialty faculty educator for the Mercy Hospital St. Louis Obstetrics and Gynecology residency program. While she is dedicated to all facets of reproductive health, Dr. Klenov has particular interest in shared decision making, cost-effective treatment, keeping treatment as natural as possible, LGBTQIA+, single parent by choice and optimizing IVF success rates. She is the Medical Director of the Kindbody Crest Hill clinic.

Dr. Klenov serves patients from our St. Louis, MO, Chicago, IL and our Rogers, AR clinics. She is the

Dr. Xiaohong Liu, MD, is a Board Certified Obstetrician and Gynecologist and Board-eligible Reproductive Endocrinologist and Infertility Specialist. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree from Cornell University. A native of Maryland, she earned her Doctor of Medicine degree from the University of Maryland School of Medicine in 2016 and completed her Obstetrics and Gynecology residency at the University of Louisville. She completed her Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility fellowship at the EVMS Jones Institute.

Dr. Liu is dedicated to excellence, practicing evidence-based medicine, and staying at the forefront of research. She actively engages in research projects and has made notable contributions to the field of reproductive medicine. Her research findings have been presented at conferences, showcasing her commitment to staying at the forefront of her field. She has received recognition for her work, including the Pacific Coast Reproductive Society Scholarship Award.

In addition to her clinical work, Dr. Liu is an active member of professional organizations, such as the American Society for Reproductive Medicine and the American Medical Association. Her multifaceted expertise, research contributions, and compassionate patient care make her a valuable member of the Kindbody DC and Bethesda clinics.

Dr. Liu is known for her commitment to advancing reproductive medicine and delivering individualized and empathetic patient care, ensuring that they receive the highest standard of reproductive health services. She focuses on a team-based approach to help patients regain control of their reproductive health and to achieve their reproductive goals.

Dr. Xiaohong Liu serves patients from our Washington, DC and our Bethesda, MD clinics.

Erica Louden, MD, PhD is a highly-skilled scientist and reproductive endocrinologist and infertility specialist focusing on all areas of reproductive health. Dr. Louden’s research efforts focus on access to care for cancer and infertile patients as well as the novel mechanism to preserve primordial oocytes during chemo and radiation therapy. Dr. Louden, a graduate of Wayne State University School of Medicine, completed her residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Wayne State and her fellowship in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility at Augusta University. During her medical training, Dr. Louden received numerous awards and presented Grand Rounds on Mullerian Anomalies, a topic on which she has been published. In addition, she authored articles for several medical journals and textbooks, clinical studies, and has had her research covered in peer-reviewed publications. Dr. Louden is an active member of many medical associations.

Dr. Paul Magarelli is a highly experienced, double board-certified Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility Specialist (REI). He has been in private practice building families through Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) for more than 25 years.

Dr. Magarelli completed his REI fellowship at the University of California, Los Angeles/ Cedars-Sinai, his OB/GYN residency at Duke University Medical Center, and his MD at the University of Arizona. While at the University of Arizona, he also completed a PhD as well as a Masters of Science in Nutritional Biochemistry.

Considered a pioneer in integrative reproductive medicine, Dr. Magarelli was one of the originators of research to incorporate acupuncture into IVF treatment cycles. The C-MAP (Cridennda Magarelli Acupuncture Protocol) he and his partner developed is used worldwide to help infertility patients. He currently serves as faculty, mentorship program coordinator, and Chairman of the Integrative Reproductive Medicine program at Yo San University in Los Angeles. 

He is an ardent supporter of affordable treatment practices and equitable access to fertility care.

Dr. Holly Mehr MD, MSEd, FACOG is a Reproductive Endocrinologist and Reproductive Surgeon. She graduated Phi Beta Kappa and magna cum laude from Wesleyan University with a degree in Psychology and American Ethnic Studies. She then worked as a public school teacher in the Bronx, NY and simultaneously earned her Masters Degree in Education at Bank Street School of Education. After making the difficult decision to transition to medicine, she went on to receive a medical degree from Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai and completed her Residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at New York University Medical Center. She then completed double subspecialty fellowship training in both Reproductive Endocrinology and Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery

Her research interests include factors influencing embryo quality and embryo implantation, the effect of metabolism on ovarian function, as well as strategies to improve access to fertility care and patient education. She is also active on the national level serving on the American Society of Reproductive Medicine’s Education Committee, the Access to Care special interest group as well as an ASRM abstract reviewer. Additionally, Dr. Mehr is a reviewer for the Journal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics. 

She sees her role as an educator, partner and advocate for her patients along their fertility journey. Outside of work she enjoys spending time outdoors with her family in the California sunshine.

Dr. Mehta is the Medical Director for Kindbody Dallas. She is double board certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility. After graduating with honors from the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, she went on to complete her Ob/Gyn residency there as well. She then went on to complete her Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility fellowship at the prestigious UC San Diego where she focused her fellowship research on the study of PCOS. She has been in private practice helping build families since 2006. Providing compassionate, personalized, evidence based and patient centered care is very important to her. She has been voted by her peers as one of the best doctors in Collin County and Dallas for several years in a row. Her areas of expertise include general infertility, in vitro fertilization, fertility preservation, oocyte cryopreservation, diminished ovarian reserve, hysteroscopic surgery and PCOS. She is also passionate about nutrition, lifestyle, and a holistic approach to fertility.

Awoniyi Olumide Awonuga, MD, FRCOG, FACOG is board certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology (Ob/Gyn) and in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility (REI) in the United Kingdom and United States. Dr. Awonuga holds the title of Professor of Ob/Gyn and Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility (REI) at Wayne State University School of Medicine (WSU). He was previously the WSU REI Fellowship Program Director and Division Director. He received his medical degree from the University of Ibadan Medical School in Nigeria. He completed Ob/Gyn residency training in Nigeria, United Kingdom, and in the United States at Maimonides Medical Center in Brooklyn, New York. He did fellowship training in REI at Kings College Hospital, London and at Wayne State University. He is a Fellow of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (FRCOG). He is an active researcher with several grants and he is a frequent presenter at the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) annual meetings. He has received several awards including the ASRM Star Award from 2017-2021. He has published extensively in reputable journals and has written multiple book chapters. He sits on the editorial boards of various medical journal publications. He is also a reviewer for several national and international journals in our field. He has special interest in difficult and challenging infertility cases, critical appraisal and evidence based medicine, PCOS, oocyte and embryo physiology and embryo implantation, intraperitoneal adhesions, and IVF success.

To book an appointment with Dr. Awonuga, please call 855-563-2639.

Dr. Tarita Pakrashi is a double board-certified Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility Specialist (REI) with more than seven years of experience in academic medicine and private practice. Prior to joining Kindbody, she was a physician with EVMS Jones Institute (later Shady Grove Fertility) which was responsible for the birth of the first “IVF Baby” in the United States.

Dr. Pakrashi completed a REI fellowship at Eastern Virginia Medical School in Norfolk, VA and OB/GYN residency at University of Cincinnati in Cincinnati, OH. She completed a Masters of Public Health in Maternal and Child Health from the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill, NC and her medical degree as well as undergraduate education at T.N. Medical College, Mumbai, Maharashtra.

As part of her academic and education responsibilities, Dr. Pakrashi served as the REI Fellowship OR Rotation Director and Jones Institute REI Fellowship site director at Sentara Norfolk General. She has also taught as a Professor in the Department of OB/GYN at Eastern Virginia Medical School. Dr. Pakrashi can be credited for writing and publishing articles on various topics related to human reproduction in several peer reviewed journals.

Dr. Pakrashi serves patients from our Washington, DC and our Bethesda, MD clinics.

Dr. Toral Parikh is a board certified Ob/Gyn and board eligible Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility (REI) specialist. She completed her REI training at the world-renowned National Institutes of Health (NIH) and Walter Reed National Military Medical Center alongside training from specialists at Shady Grove Fertility Center.

She accomplished her baccalaureate education at Emory University graduating Magna Cum Laude, obtained her M.D. at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, and mastered her residency training in Ob/Gyn at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital in Washington, DC. Dr. Parikh is a Howard Hughes Medical Institute scholar whose research interests have been notable throughout her medical career. She has published relevant cutting-edge studies within peer-reviewed journals important to advancing the field of women’s reproductive health. She has presented her work at several national and international conferences and received the Society for Reproductive Investigation award for her most recent work on the medical management of uterine fibroids.

She is a Fellow of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), and an active member of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) and Society for Reproductive Investigators (SRI). Her clinical expertise also includes assisted reproductive technologies such as intrauterine insemination (IUI), in vitro fertilization (IVF), and fertility preservation (egg/sperm freezing). Her expertise with infertility has provided her with the ability to counsel with compassion and offer informed diagnoses and equitable guidance to individuals and couples alike. Dr. Parikh is excited to welcome patients at Kindbody.

Dr. Parikh serves patients from both our Washington, DC and our Houston, TX clinics.

Mackenzie Purdy, MD, FACOG is thrilled to be caring for patients in a city she loves. After receiving her medical degree at the University of Missouri, Dr. Purdy completed her Ob/Gyn residency at the University of Kentucky. She then obtained a Masters in Biomedical Sciences and completed her Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility Fellowship at the Mayo Clinic. Double board-certified in both Ob/Gyn and Reproductive Endocrinology, Dr. Purdy is also well-recognized for her numerous peer-reviewed publications and abstracts. With specialty expertise in pre-implantation genetic testing, carrier screening, and recurrent pregnancy loss, Dr. Purdy has tremendous compassion for patients in the women’s health field, which she gained largely through experiencing IVF treatment first-hand. Dr. Purdy is also a member of the Society for Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, American Association of Gynecologic Laparoscopists, American Society for Reproductive Medicine, and the American College of Ob/Gyn.

Dr. Purdy serves patients from our St. Louis, MO, Chicago, IL and our Rogers, AR clinics.

Dr. Kasey Reynolds Marelić is Reproductive Endocrinologist for Kindbody Columbus. Having begun her distinguished journey with a B.S. in Microbiology and a B.A. in Spanish from Ohio University, Dr. Marelić earned her M.D. from the University of Cincinnati. She completed her Residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Good Samaritan Hospital, Cincinnati, and subsequently, a three-year subspecialty fellowship in Reproductive Endocrinology at Washington University/Barnes Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri.

Before joining Kindbody, Dr. Marelić served as the Medical Director at Bethesda Fertility Center, where she also practiced as a Staff Physician. Board certified in both Obstetrics and Gynecology and Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Dr. Marelić has been recognized for her dedication to the field, notably receiving the Rothman Research Lectureship from Washington University.

Beyond her clinical expertise, Dr. Marelić has contributed significantly to research in reproductive health, publishing studies on critical topics like the effects of obesity on oocyte quality. Committed to fostering the next generation, she has served as teaching faculty for the obstetrics/gynecology residency program at Washington University in St. Louis/Barnes Jewish Hospital.

In her personal life, Dr. Marelić has a penchant for art history, enjoys painting, and maintains an active lifestyle with hobbies like running and hiking.

Julie S. Rhee, MD is double board certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology as well as Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility (REI). She completed her fellowship in REI at Washington University in St. Louis. At Wash U, she was selected as a recipient of the prestigious National Institute of Health T32 research award, under which she studied the effects of diet-induced obesity on the endometrium and implantation. She completed her residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School. She has won multiple awards, authored numerous publications, and has presented at national meetings on topics related to women’s health and infertility. Her particular areas of interest include general infertility, IVF, fertility preservation, recurrent pregnancy loss, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, and minimally invasive surgery.

Dr. Rehee serves patients from our St. Louis, MO, Chicago, IL and our Rogers, AR clinics.

Dr. Ramya Sethuram, MD, is a dedicated Reproductive Endocrinologist and Infertility Specialist who brings her expertise to the Kindbody team. Dr. Sethuram earned her Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree from The Tamil Nadu Dr. MGR Medical University in India. She completed her residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Drexel University College of Medicine in Philadelphia.

With a strong commitment to women’s reproductive health, Dr. Sethuram pursued a Fellowship in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility (REI) at Wayne State University in Detroit. Dr. Sethuram’s extensive overseas training includes clinical fellowships in Gynecological Oncology at Birmingham University, UK, and research fellowships at Birmingham University and Cardiff University, UK. She is board-certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology in both the United States and the United Kingdom.

Dr. Sethuram’s dedication to advancing the field of reproductive medicine is reflected in her impressive list of honors and awards, including the ASRM In-Training Award for the best abstract presentation. She is an active member of professional organizations, including the American Society of Reproductive Medicine, American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, and the American Medical Association.

Her research interests encompass various aspects of reproductive health, and she has contributed to peer-reviewed publications in the field. Dr. Sethuram’s commitment to evidence-based care, patient satisfaction, and mental health well-being aligns perfectly with Kindbody’s mission to provide personalized and accessible fertility care to individuals and couples.

Dr. Aimee Seungdamrong graduated cum laude with a degree in Chemistry from Cornell University. She earned her medical degree at The University of Texas Southwestern and did her residency at Parkland Memorial Hospital. She completed her training in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility at New Jersey Medical School in Newark, New Jersey, where she continues to teach as an Assistant Professor at Rutgers Medical School. Dr. Seungdamrong has been practicing medicine for over 12 years. She loves providing excellent care to each and every one of her patients, as well as spending time with her family, her dog Luna, and doing dance aerobics.

Lauren W. Sundheimer, MD, MS, FACOG is a double board-certified physician in Obstetrics and Gynecology and in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility. She is passionate about applying science to help patients achieve their dream of building a family. Dr. Sundheimer is an Orange County native and developed a dedication to women’s health while in medical school at University of California, Irvine. She completed her residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at UCLA Medical Center and her fellowship in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility at UCLA as well. She holds a BS in Biochemistry and a BA in Political Science from University of California, San Diego, where she also completed a highly competitive joint Bachelor’s and Master’s degree program in Biology. During her medical career, Dr. Sundheimer has performed considerable research in the area of reproductive health, but her heart and focus is on providing outstanding clinical care.

Manuel Viotti is the Vice President of PGT and Clinical Laboratory Director at Kindlabs, Kindbody. He also holds an appointment as a Senior Scientist at the Zouves Foundation for Reproductive Medicine. Dr. Viotti earned a PhD in molecular and cell biology from the Weill Graduate School of Cornell University, specializing in mammalian embryology. He serves as the director of the Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis International Society (PGDIS), a board member of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) PGT-SIG, and is the founder and officer of the International Registry of Mosaic Embryo Transfers (IRMET). Dr. Viotti’s current research focuses on improving outcomes in the IVF clinic, with a special focus on the molecular and cell biology of the embryo and the uterine environment. He is the lead author of numerous peer-reviewed scientific publications in the field of embryology and genetics and serves on the editorial board of the Journal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics (JARG).

The following five publications represent selected highlights from  extensive portfolio of groundbreaking research and advancements:

• Using outcome data from one thousand mosaic embryo transfers to formulate an embryo ranking system for clinical use.
  Viotti M, Victor AR, Barnes FL, Zouves CG, Besser AG, Grifo JA, Cheng EH, Lee MS, Horcajadas JA, Corti L, Fiorentino F, Spinella F, Minasi MG, Greco E, Munné S.
  Fertil Steril. 2021 May;115(5):1212-1224. doi: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2020.11.041. Epub 2021 Mar 6.
  PMID: 33685629
• Let the data do the talking: the need to consider mosaicism during embryo selection.
  Viotti M, McCoy RC, Griffin DK, Spinella F, Greco E, Madjunkov M, Madjunkova S, Librach CL, Victor AR, Barnes FL, Zouves CG.
  Fertil Steril. 2021 Nov;116(5):1212-1219. doi: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2021.09.008. Epub 2021 Oct 7.
  PMID: 34627598
• Assessment of aneuploidy concordance between clinical trophectoderm biopsy and blastocyst.
  Victor AR, Griffin DK, Brake AJ, Tyndall JC, Murphy AE, Lepkowsky LT, Lal A, Zouves CG, Barnes FL, McCoy RC, Viotti M.
  Hum Reprod. 2019 Jan 1;34(1):181-192. doi: 10.1093/humrep/dey327.
  PMID: 30418565
• One hundred mosaic embryos transferred prospectively in a single clinic: exploring when and why they result in healthy pregnancies.
  Victor AR, Tyndall JC, Brake AJ, Lepkowsky LT, Murphy AE, Griffin DK, McCoy RC, Barnes FL, Zouves CG, Viotti M.
  Fertil Steril. 2019 Feb;111(2):280-293. doi: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2018.10.019.
  PMID: 30691630
• Accurate quantitation of mitochondrial DNA reveals uniform levels in human blastocysts irrespective of ploidy, age, or implantation potential.
  Victor AR, Brake AJ, Tyndall JC, Griffin DK, Zouves CG, Barnes FL, Viotti M.
  Fertil Steril. 2017 Jan;107(1):34-42.e3. doi: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2016.09.028. Epub 2016 Oct 25.
  PMID: 27793366

Laura Baranyi, MCLD, BS, is a dedicated and accomplished Regional Laboratory Director with a passion for helping people build their families through her work at a leading fertility clinic. With over a decade of experience in the field, Laura brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise, ensuring the highest standards of patient care and outcomes.

As the Regional Laboratory Director, Laura is responsible for setting up the laboratory Quality Management program, adhering to CAP guidelines, and actively participating in the laboratory build and design. She coordinates with each department to ensure prompt and decisive decision-making, while also ensuring the laboratory meets and exceeds OSHA and CLIA ’88 regulations. Laura works closely with the Chief Scientific Officer to provide oversight and direction on the network of Andrology and Endocrinology laboratories, always striving for efficiency and excellence.

Laura holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Elmhurst College and is a certified MCLD. As an expert in her field, she has given national invited lectures on the WHO 6th Edition Laboratory Manual for the Examination and Processing of Human Semen and the use of CASA devices. With a natural affinity for teamwork and patient interaction, Laura is committed to guiding and inspiring her team members on their own paths to success. Her journey from answering patient phone calls in a fertility clinic’s call center to becoming a Laboratory Director is a testament to her dedication, hard work, and determination.

At the heart of Laura’s work is her unwavering commitment to helping patients achieve their dreams of building a family. As a trusted authority in the fertility field, her expertise and dedication to patient outcomes make her an invaluable asset to the clinical network and the families she serves.

Carli Chapman is a highly accomplished Regional Laboratory Director at Kindbody with over 35 years of experience in the field of Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART). With an exceptional background in laboratory management, protocol and procedure implementation, and ongoing quality control and improvement, Carli is dedicated to mentoring and leading embryology, andrology, and endocrinology laboratory teams. She is also skilled in building and maintaining functional relationships within the industry. Carli holds a BSc from Louisiana State University.

She has held several prestigious positions, such as Past President of the Society for Reproductive Biologists & Technologists and the College of Reproductive Biology. Her involvement in the field extends to being a past member of the Board of American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM), the Coding Committee ASRM, and Post-Graduate Program Chair ASRM. Carli is currently a member of ASRM, the Society of Assisted Reproduction (SART) Audit Committee, the ASRM Technology Committee, and the American Board of Bioanalysis.

Carli has an extensive list of publications and presentations to her credit, including the seminal article “Impact of the ‘physician factor’ on pregnancy rates in a large assisted reproductive technology program: do too many cooks spoil the broth?” Her research interests revolve around AI use in assisted reproductive technology and the application of technology to improve laboratory workflow.

She is a sought-after speaker, Carli has delivered numerous regional, national, and international invited lectures on various topics related to IVF lab management, quality control, and quality assurance and has been an ASRM Postgraduate Course lecturer in the laboratory and management space in four different years. She is an advocate for access to care and women’s health initiatives. In addition to her expertise in all aspects of In Vitro Fertilization, management, quality control and quality assurance implementation, and technology integration to improve workflow and outcomes, Carli also brings her passion for helping people achieve their family goals.

Dr. Pagani has over 20 years of experience in the field of urology and men’s reproductive health. At Kindbody, he focuses on male infertility, including evaluation and treatment, genetic causes of infertility, and testosterone replacement. In addition to performing hormonal testing, sperm analysis and sperm quality testing, and testicular ultrasounds, Dr. Pagani specializes in microsurgical procedures, including vasectomy reversal, varicocelectomy, and testicular sperm retrieval. Dr. Pagani is a member of the American Urological Association, the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, the American Society of Andrology, and the Chicago Urology Society, and has received many awards for his work. He is also an Assistant Professor in the Department of Urology at the University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine.

Dr. Pagani serves patients from our Milwaukee , WI and our St. Louis, MO clinics.

Dr. Sasan is a board certified and practing Ob/Gyn who completed her residency in obstetrics and gynecology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City and is an Assistant Professor of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Medicine at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York. Dr. Sasan is also a member of the Business Group on Health’s Evidence Based Benefit Design Committee. As a practicing clinician for more than 17 years she is dedicated to helping employers deliver comprehensive care with a focus on risk reduction and providing an exceptional, personalized experience. Kindbody’s employer clients have direct access to Dr. Sasan from thought leadership and strategy to the smallest detail to ensure Kindbody exceeds their expectations.

Dr. Sasan and her team provide fertility services, gynecology, low-risk and high-risk prenatal care, and wellness support, offering patients a single door for all of their fertility healthcare needs. Dr. Sasan is a recognized and widely-quoted expert on fertility healthcare and education in the media including NBC News, CBS News, and TODAY.

Dr. Christina Gonzalez is a board certified Ob/Gyn in Denver, CO. She graduated with a degree in Biology from Saint Louis University, where she then continued on to obtain her medical degree. After graduating from Saint Louis University School of Medicine, she completed her Ob/Gyn residency at the University of Colorado. Prior to joining Kindbody, Dr. Gonzalez was at a private Ob/Gyn practice in Denver for 5+ years. She is excited to remain in the Denver area as a part of the Kindbody team, where she can continue to be a resource for women’s health needs and a source of support during the fertility and pregnancy journey.

Dr. Jackman is an accomplished board certified Ob/Gyn, with a passion for reproductive endocrinology and infertility. She has an intrinsic desire to help families meet their reproductive goals, while stretching the boundaries of modern medicine. Dr. Jackman obtained her Bachelor of Medical Sciences degree as well as her Medical Degree from the University of The West Indies St Augustine. She then specialized as an Ob/Gyn at The Brooklyn Hospital Center, graduating at the top of her class with research on reproductive health. She is an excellent skilled surgeon with extensive experience in performing both laparoscopic and robotic surgery and completed a fellowship in minimally invasive reproductive surgery with a focus on fibroids and endometriosis.

Dr. Jackman is an active researcher and honoree of many awards. She has published manuscripts in high-quality medical journals. She is passionate about patient education and is an avid patient advocate. She loves sharing knowledge. As such she teaches resident physicians and medical students alike as well as writes Board Preparation questions in OBGYN. She also hosts and participates in many patients’ education and awareness seminars both locally and internationally. Dr. Jackman strives daily to provide a comfortable and caring environment in order to ensure that her patients are fully able to get their reproductive needs and goals addressed ensuring that they fully understand the process and that they participate actively in their care.

Dr. Lana Lipkin is a board certified by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ABOG) with over 13 years of experience providing compassionate reproductive care to patients in the New York City metro area. She grew up in Brooklyn and after completing her residency in NorthShore University Hospital (now Northwell) she returned to New York City to practice Ob/Gyn: first, at Maimonides Medical Center and thereafter, at Columbia University. After seven years at Columbia University, her interest in female infertility and reproductive health lead her to make the transition to New Hope Fertility Center. After four years at New Hope Fertility, Dr. Lipkin is grateful for the opportunity to join the Kindbody team at such an exciting time.

Dr Christie Messenger received her undergraduate degrees in Biochemistry and Psychology from the University of Missouri – Columbia where she then continued on to pursue her medical degree. She completed her residency at Mt Sinai Hospital fulfilling a lifelong dream of living and working in Manhattan. Dr Messenger is board certified by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Prior to joining Kindbody, Dr Messenger worked with several underserved populations in New York City and most recently comes from a private practice. With over 10 years in the field, Dr Messenger looks forward to both bringing her expertise to the table and learning everything that Kindbody has to offer.  Outside of the office, Dr Messenger is an avid sports fan and theater supporter. In current times, you will find her catching a game on tv, but she is anxiously awaiting the time when she can safely return to stadiums and theaters.

Dr. Jasmine Pedroso, MD MPH, FACOG, grew up in San Diego, California as the daughter of Filipino immigrants. She received her bachelor’s degree from the University of California, Berkeley with a double major in Integrative Biology and Socio-Cultural Anthropology. After working for multiple nonprofit organizations in the San Francisco Bay Area, she attended the Harvard School of Public Health where she served as Harvard University Presidential Scholar and received her master’s degree in Public Health with a focus on Society, Human Development and Health, and a concentration in Women, Gender and Health. She then returned to California to attend medical school at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA. After completing her residency training in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, which provides care to some of the most underserved populations in South Los Angeles County, she moved to Las Vegas to pursue more specialized surgical training through the American Association of Gynecologic Laparoscopists Fellowship in Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery. Jasmine has a special interest in the most minimally-invasive, technologically advanced, cosmetic, and fertility-preserving and enhancing approaches to chronic pelvic pain, endometriosis, female sexual dysfunction, fibroids, incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse. She is especially passionate about women’s health advocacy and increasing access to minimally invasive surgery for underserved communities both nationally and internationally, having done work in the Philippines, Cambodia, Uganda, Mexico, Guatemala, and most recently Puerto Rico.

Sofia Adler, M.A. is a meditation teacher and personal development coach who believes that we all have a higher version of self that’s waiting to be unleashed. That tapping into this version of self is how you unlock what’s holding you back to get unstuck, take action, and achieve your potential.

The way to do it? Leverage the power of your mind.

Sofia incorporates her Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology and Education (concentration in mind body practice), expertise in mindfulness and background working in the high-growth, fast-paced startup industry into all of her work with clients. 

Book with Sofia:
Guided Meditation – BOOK HERE
Return to Work Coaching – BOOK HERE

Hi! I’m Emily. I am a midwife and lactation consultant with 10 years of experience working with birthing and growing families. I have a background in out-of-hospital birth, clinical lactation services and years of personal breastfeeding experience. I feel honored to have worked with hundreds of families to find real solutions to their baby feeding challenges, I am passionate about meeting parents where they are, connecting them to resources, and helping to create a sustainable support plan beyond one-on-one care.

I love adventuring in the forests of Washington with my 2 little boys, horseback riding, cooking, and drinking really good black coffee.

Alissa Alissa (she/her) is a Women’s Health Expert & Motherhood Advocate, author of Unstuck: From Understudy To The Study Of Your Undercarriage, and host of the podcast Myth of Motherhood who is all about cracking open the taboo topics of pregnancy and motherhood. A former Broadway performer and certified Pilates instructor specializing in pelvic health, she uses movement, mindfulness, and good ol’ education to help you stop suffering in silence so that your journey to and through motherhood can be healing and empowering stages of life. By sharing women’s stories, she believes we can initiate change toward better reproductive care. Alissa is a very excited mom and loves practicing cartwheels and handstands with her son.

Throughout the years I have been baffled and perplexed by the way society views speaking about reproductive issues as a form of taboo. Individuals are expected NOT to talk about their reproductive struggles; while others are allowed to ask about their family dreams. Even though this is sadly a common occurrence, there are not many places out there offering support to these individuals…until now!

During my master’s program, I spent my time reading, researching, and learning as much as I could about how to best counsel those experiencing reproductive losses &/or struggles. I have, also, completed Level 1 and Level 2 Gottman Couple’s Therapy. Because, reproductive issues DO NOT just affect one partner, it affects the couple as a whole.

I graduated with honors with my master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Even though my education has been completed, that does not mean I have stopped learning. I have made it my mission to read, learn, and participate in as much education & training’s, as I can, regarding reproductive issues and couples’ therapy.

I love what I do and specialize everything I do to fit with my clients’ preferences and unique needs to “Rediscover You”.

Dr. Lindsey Buckman is a licensed psychologist in Phoenix, AZ. Dr. Buckman has an inclusive
and collaborative style, which allows patients to feel affirmed and empowered as they work
through their treatment goals. Dr. Buckman has specialties in the areas of anxiety, chronic
medical conditions, depression, fertility, LGBTQIA+ issues and weight management. In addition
to her practice, she is a faculty member in Counseling and Counseling Psychology at Arizona
State University and she is active in the American Psychological Association. She is an avid
traveler and endurance athlete.

Dr. Buckman is licensed to see patients in the following locations:

 AL, AZ, CO, DE, DC, GA, IL, KY, MD, MN, MO, NE, NV, NH, NC, OK, PA, TN, TX, UT, VA, WV

Bonnie is a holistic functional nutritionist who specializes in women’s health. She addresses the root cause of troubling symptoms through diet and lifestyle modifications. Her private clients and program participants describe finding new awareness and tools to optimally fuel full-body wellness. Bonnie lives in Berkeley, CA where she serves an international client base through a 100% virtual consultancy.

Dr. Ciara Byrne completed her graduate studies at Columbia University and the University of Vermont, having studied as an undergraduate at University College Dublin. She has trained extensively in using Mindfulness based therapies, including the Mind/Body program for women experiencing infertility at the Domar Center, Boston IVF. She serves as the Clinical Director of Sage Fertility, and is also currently enrolled in the two-year Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Training program, through the Awareness Training Institute with Tara Brach and Jack Kornfield.

Ciara has conducted research and published papers on the impact of mindfulness practices on reducing anxiety, depression, and increasing overall well-being.

Karen is a mental health professional, licensed as a Marital and Family Therapist with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Education, and a Master’s degree in Marriage & Family Therapy. Combining her education and clinical experience with her passion for medical science Karen focused the last 25 years in Third-Party Reproduction ~ helping build families requiring gamete donation and/or gestational surrogacy.

The role and services of a mental health provider is subject to the unique needs of each client. People using ART/Assisted Reproductive Technology come with different histories, challenges, questions, and concerns. Talking through important emotional considerations helps provide both a solid foundation for medical efforts and a clear path forward in the midst of a complex journey.

Services provided include psychological interviews for all parties, IVF consultations, education, resources, and emotional support. In addition to meeting with clients Karen interacts with physicians, family law attorneys, donor/surrogate agencies, and clinical staff to offer each client the best “team” approach.

Building families is both a professional and personal endeavor. Karen with her husband Dennis share the joys and challenges of parenting their twin teens (a result of IVF and egg donation). The family resides in Orange County, California and together they enjoy traveling, sports, being in nature, and spending time with friends.

ADJUNCTIVE EXPERIENCE & MEMBERSHIPS:
ACADEMIC AFFILIATION:
Azusa Pacific University, Adjunct professor. Teaching several graduate courses for the Department of Professional Psychology, including Introduction to Clinical Practice and Legal, Ethical, and Moral Issues for Marital and Family Therapists.

MEMBERSHIPS:
AAMFT / American Association of Marital and Family Therapists
ASRM / American Society Reproductive Medicine/Mental Health Professionals
SEEDS / Society for Ethics, Egg Donation & Surrogacy

Maya Grobel is a California Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and psychotherapist in private practice in West Los Angeles and for Kindbody fertility clinics in California, where she specializes in supporting individuals and couples struggling to conceive or building their family in alternative ways. Maya and her TV producer husband Noah made a feature length film documenting their tumultuous journey to parenthood, which ended with the birth of their daughter via embryo donation in 2015. The film, called One More Shot, debuted on Netflix in January 2018 and is now available on Vimeo on Demand. Maya recently received a grant through U.S. Health and Human Services Department to support an organization she co-founded called EM•POWER donation, an educational company focused on empowering choice in embryo donation.

VIE HEALING was created by Mona Dan: Acupuncturist, herbalist, holistic lifestyle leader, and passionate health educator. VIE HEALING brings evidence based eastern wellness treatments, products, and practitioners together to comprise a holistic approach for the mind, body and spirit. 

Our curation gives our community a haven of relaxation to live happier, healthier, fuller lives — with pop-up and visiting partners constantly refreshing our perspective and keeping us current.

VIE HEALING represents a holistic lifestyle that goes far beyond health fads, juicing and quick fixes. It’s a healing medicine, merged together with the wisdom of the east and the knowledge of the west, offered for those seeking out wellness, healing and longevity.

People come to us to find the root of issues, gain a new perspective on health + wellness, and high-powered natural remedies.

I help people who dream about being that perfect mom while seeming to juggle it all on social media but in reality, you know you feel suffocated by mom guilt. I can teach you ways to ignore that inner critic so you can be gracious with yourself when you mess up.

I know from my own journey that being a mom can be completely overwhelming and you may feel like you are losing your identity. I’d love to help you through this time so that you can boost your confidence in your parenting skills and create memories that make you feel like you can handle life’s unexpected moments.

Motherhood doesn’t have to suck. I am honored to work with my clients to celebrate their wins, accept life’s difficulties, embrace our imperfections, and create a better community for the people in our lives.

I believe that moms who trust their own strength will change the world. If your inner critic is constantly telling you that you are a bad mom and you want to feel like yourself again, then please contact me.

I am a clinical psychologist who loves to work with women in all stages of life, especially those who have struggled with reproductive challenges and infertility and those who are pregnant or postpartum after infertility struggles. I have professional training in maternal mental health and infertility and personal experience with the incredibly complicated and emotional world of assisted reproduction. I believe that you have the wisdom and clarity to make the best decisions in your life, and my role is to help you learn to listen to your mind and body to get in touch with what that is. I practice a combined approach that includes CBT therapy, EMDR, and mindfulness-based therapy techniques. I often find that women need help giving themselves permission to rest, receive, and recover and I aim to be a voice to encourage that. I would love to support you wherever you are in this process. LGBTQ and BIPOC affirming.

After more than a decade as a yoga teacher and studio owner and almost as long as a structural yoga therapist – Nicole’s own journey of trying to become pregnant, pregnancy, loss, rainbow pregnancy, home birth and getting back into her body after baby showed her just how little we support our women through fertility and made her decide to devote herself to pre and postnatal care and empowerment.

She profoundly shares the philosophy that pregnancy, birth and labor are spiritual and strength based actions and if we prepare for the marathon of motherhood we get to be present to it and enjoy it so much more!

Currently Nicole works with a small group of private clients working through all different aspects of the fertility and motherhood journey. When working with clients Nicole works to create customized whole life strength based practices tailored to the yogi/yogini she is working with. Nicole is also leading mom’s groups for Union Square Play, is their in-house expert on all things mama wellness and is in the process of planning the first Informed and Empowered Birth conference coming in the spring of 2022.

Natasha is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who works with families and individuals (adults and children). Her areas of clinical interest include working with adoption (fostering, kinship, and international), attachment, anxiety, and women’s health. Natasha is trained in Prepare/Enrich for premarital counseling and psychological first aid. When working with Natasha you can expect a provider who is compassionate, genuine, and nurturing. Natasha’s therapeutic style is focused on holistic, solutions-oriented care that allows you to address what feels more important to you.

Natasha has worked in a variety of settings, such as domestic violence shelters, schools, community-based, in-home, group home, and outpatient care since 2012. Her approach is influenced by attachment theory, experiential therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and systems theory.

Kristen Kennard, DBH, MA, NCC, MPH-C is a licensed behavioral health counselor and psychotherapist specializing in Women’s Mental and Reproductive Health and Marriage/Relationship counseling. She offers compassionate, behavioral health services to address challenges related to: Adjustment/Life Transitions, Anxiety, Depression, Stress, Fertility & Gynecological conditions, Pre/Post-Pregnancy, Perinatal Mood & Anxiety Disorders, Birth Trauma & Loss, Pre-Marital/Marital, Behavioral health provider-to-provider consultation.

Kristen Levitt is a graduate from Columbia University’s School of Social Work. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in NJ, specializing in women’s reproductive and maternal mental health issues including infertility, pregnancy loss, pregnancy termination, pregnancy after infertility and loss, third party reproduction, birth trauma and postpartum mood and anxiety disorders.

Kristen has worked in psychiatric inpatient unit, psychiatric outpatient program, partial hospital, intensive outpatient, middle school, high school and university settings inanition to the past nine years in private practice.

She has her Certification in Perinatal Mental Health, PMH-C, is a member of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine and the Mental Health Professional Group, Resolve: The National Infertility Association, National Association of Social Workers and Postpartum Support International. 

Marissa Nelson is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT) and AASECT Certified Sex Therapist (CST) and Sexuality Educator (CSE) who helps couples experiencing infertility to learn the specific psycho-emotional skills to break free from isolation, shame and fear, and start enjoying deep connection on their path to parenthood. Her extensive clinical knowledge of couples issues yet accessible and contemporary style makes couples and sex therapy conversational, warm and fun.

An internationally recognized expert, she is the creator of IntimacyIVF and IntimacyMoons Therapy Couples Retreats, rated by Women’s Health and Bustle Magazines as one of the top couples retreats worldwide. She has also been frequently featured in over 75 national and international media publications including the New York Times, Washington Post, Wall Street Journal, CBC, CNN Health, Glamour, Latina and Black Enterprise.

Marissa graduated with a Master’s in Marriage & Family Therapy from Drexel University where she received the Department of Family Therapy Service Award. Marissa also pursued post-graduate studies, receiving a Certificate in Sexual Health & Sex Therapy from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor. She is pursuing a second Masters Degree in Education Entrepreneurship from the University of Pennsylvania.

Toby Richman comes to Kindbody with a stunning whole-body approach to better movement. She has embraced guiding clients to learn ease of movement, mobility and strength through her skills as a Pilates rehabilitator and 20+ years in women’s health, specializing in pelvic floor health.

Book with Toby:
Pelvic Floor Bodywork – BOOK HERE
Healing Movement – BOOK HERE

Toby loves the daily challenge of matching client needs with unique personal solutions. Her focus is treating the whole person, going beyond the complaint of pain; paying close attention to learn how each person moves through the day and flows through their life.

Toby is a passionate lover of daily cycling and yoga, hiking, nordic skiing and snowboarding, her family, her friends, her gardens, laughing and all dogs! She adores helping women learn to move with unrestricted grace.

Tonya Wood is a licensed psychologist who has over 20 years of clinical and teaching experience. She earned her PhD in Clinical Psychology at the University of Virginia and currently serves as the Director of Clinical Training in the Psy.D. program at Pepperdine University. She has a private practice in the greater Los Angeles area, with an emphasis on relationships, women’s health and infertility.

Throughout her career Dr. Wood has worked in a variety of academic and community settings with a particular focus on providing quality services to marginalized populations. She has extensive supervision and teaching experience and has provided numerous public presentations on various subjects such as cultural diversity, clinical supervision, community violence; adaptations of evidence based practices for community mental health, self-care and professional development. She is a member of the American Psychological Association, the American Society for Reproductive Medicine and was 2020 President of the California Psychological Association.

Kriszta Tiwari is a certified Holistic Nutrition Consultant, through Bauman College, Berkeley. She specializes in fertility nutrition and women’s health with a focus on preconception, pregnancy, and postpartum. Her entire career is centered around her passion and love towards food, well-being, and the eagerness to share everything she learned about ways of nourishing oneself.  Prior to her career in nutrition, Kriszta was a chef and entrepreneur. She owned a catering business as well as a food truck. Her philosophy has always been that nutritious food should be delicious. Her love for food, nature, herbs, and cooking comes from her roots in rural Transylvania (bring on the Dracula jokes!). She was raised by many generations of strong and wonderful women. She cherishes all the knowledge and passion she inherited from them, especially her grandmother who taught her to work from her heart, and with compassion.