Dr. JOY NAUMAN

Born and raised in Iowa, I moved to Portland, OR after studying English and Writing at the University of Iowa. Not sure which direction to go after college, I worked as a teacher’s assistant at a Montessori school. During that time I learned about Montessori’s theories of child development and became enamored by her child-centered, naturalistic and holistic approach. I spent two years immersed in study and received both Primary and Elementary diplomas from the Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) as well as a Masters Degree in Education from Loyola College in Maryland.

I loved teaching and I loved working with families. But after a while, I wanted to learn more about how to support human development physically and mentally as well as intellectually. I started doing independent research on nutrition and the effects of mindfulness on children’s concentration. I considered applying for a PhD program or a traditional Medical Degree. But after living in a world where humans were treated as holistic beings, I knew I wouldn’t do well in a traditional system focused on reductionism. I had learned about Naturopathic Medicine while living with acupuncture students and I learned about how Naturopathic Physicians get to the root of the problem and treat the cause of disease. The National College of Natural Medicine (now a University) in Portland had just started a new research program, so I decided to apply. I had originally intended to only pursue research, but as I learned more about medicine I decided to become a clinician as well.

During my second year of medical school, I met the love of my life and became pregnant. My first birth had been a traumatic hospital birth and I wanted a different experience. My daughter was born at home on a rainy Thursday afternoon. My midwife was also a Naturopathic Doctor and had been one of my instructors in my research program. She inspired me to consider adding the midwifery training to my school work. I struggled with the decision as I was already taking on two degrees with two young children a partner living in another city. But the opportunity nagged at me and I couldn’t let it go. I took the classes and started an apprenticeship. After attending my first birth as a student, I was hooked.

After 6 years of study and apprenticeship, I moved to Yakima, WA and started working with two amazing doctors in a thriving clinic. I am seeing patients full time, attending births, consulting on research projects, and finding time for my own writing.

Medicine is my mission. Midwifery is my calling. Research is my passion