Dr. Monica Strickler
L.Ac., MSTOM, DACM
Dr. Monica Strickler earned her Master of Science in Traditional Oriental Medicine (MSTOM) and her Doctorate in Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine (DACM) from Pacific College of Health and Sciences in San Diego. With a Bachelor’s degree in Communication from Ohio State University, she developed a passion for connecting with people and understanding their stories.
Dr. Monica thrives on treating a diverse range of conditions, from alleviating stress and managing pain to addressing digestive issues and supporting women’s health and fertility. With a deep specialization in orthopedics and pain management, and a rich understanding of Chinese Herbal Medicine, she takes pride in crafting personalized treatment plans that resonate with each individual’s unique path to healing.
Outside of her practice, Dr. Monica lives life to the fullest. Whether she’s exploring new destinations, flowing through a yoga session, soaking up nature, or cheering for her favorite football team, she believes that a balanced lifestyle fuels her ability to care for others. Her commitment to continuous learning keeps her attuned to the latest techniques and practices, ensuring that she provides the best care possible.
Kristen Verea
L.Ac.
With a deep-rooted passion for enhancing the well-being of women, Kristen Verea is a dedicated acupuncturist specializing in fertility, hormonal balancing, menopause, women’s health, menstrual irregularities, stress management and anxiety. Armed with a comprehensive understanding of traditional Chinese medicine and a wealth of experience in acupuncture, Kristen takes a holistic approach to healthcare, focusing on restoring balance and promoting natural healing mechanisms in the body.
Through personalized treatment plans tailored to each individual’s needs, Kristen strives to empower women on their journey to optimal health and vitality. One of Shen Medicine’s most gentle and compassionate Acupuncturists, Kristen is committed to helping women achieve greater harmony in their bodies and minds.
Kristen graduated from the Jung Tao School of Classical Chinese Medicine in Sugar Grove, NC. Specializing in the Vietnamese lineage of Dr. Nguyen Van Nghi. Kristen draws inspiration from his profound contributions to Chinese Medicine. This lineage deeply influences Kristen’s acupuncture approaches, preserving ancient wisdom for modern understanding.
Dr. Paige Bourassa
DACM, L.Ac., R.H.N., C.A.S.
Founder
Dr. Paige Bourassa’s academic journey began with a focus on Psychology at the University of Colorado Denver, culminating in a Doctorate in Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine (DACM) in New York City, alongside a Master of Science degree and a Bachelor’s degree in Traditional Oriental Medicine (MSTOM) from Pacific College of Health Sciences in San Diego. Dr. Paige is proud to be licensed to practice acupuncture in both New York and Tennessee.
Additionally, Dr. Paige is a certified Holistic Nutritionist from the Canadian School of Natural Nutrition in Vancouver, Canada, and a Clinical Ayurvedic Specialist from the Ayurvedic Institute in Albuquerque, New Mexico. She also possesses certifications in Clean Needle Technique by the Council of Colleges of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (CCAOM), along with training in Craniosacral Therapy from the Upledger Institute.
Specializing in treating pain syndromes, women’s health and fertility, Dr. Paige combines her extensive training with a compassionate approach to provide personalized care. From acupuncture and Chinese medicine to functional medicine nutritional support, she offers comprehensive solutions to each patients individual’s needs on their health journey.
Outside of her professional pursuits, Dr. Paige finds joy in traveling, eating and cooking everything Italian, learning the newest data on health longevity and having adventures with her son Luca and her husband Chris reluctantly in tow.
Lauren Vick
Practice Manager
An advocate for holistic wellness and a native of Nashville, Lauren has seamlessly transitioned from a career in the marketing world to a purpose-driven role at Shen Medicine. With a deep interest in the healing arts dating back to her childhood, Lauren brings a wealth of experience and a profound commitment to supporting the women of Nashville.
Lauren’s career shift was fueled by a deep-seated passion for fostering healing and support within her community. Now, as a key member of the Shen Medicine team, Lauren finds fulfillment in contributing to a space that prioritizes the well-being of Nashville’s women.
In addition to her professional endeavors, Lauren’s personal journey as a mother further informs her commitment to holistic wellness. Acknowledging the significance of feeling supported in the fertility journey, pregnancy, and postpartum periods, she recognizes the unique challenges women face during these transformative phases of life.