Beth Heller, M.S., R.Y.T.

Beth is the Co-Founder and Co-Director of Pulling Down the Moon, Inc., Integrative Care for Fertility (ICF ™). Beth earned her Master’s Degree in Human Nutrition and Dietetics in 1999 and prior to founding PDtM, she spent four years working as a Nutrition Researcher for the Women’s Walking Program, a large National Institutes of Health-funded study that examined the impact of walking exercise on the physical, mental and spiritual well-being of menopausal women. As she witnessed women become stronger, less anxious and less depressed as a result of adding walking to their lives Beth had her first introduction to the powerful connection between mind and body.

Beth came to yoga in 1998 when she realized that a stressed out graduate student like herself was likely to have difficulty starting a family. After stumbling into a yoga class and loving it, Beth began a regular practice. Soon thereafter, her periods, which had been absent for four years, returned without change to her diet, body composition or exercise levels. Beth decided there was something unique about yoga that had helped to restore her reproductive function. In confirmation of this hunch, several months after her menses returned, Beth became pregnant. Unfortunately the pregnancy ended in miscarriage and it was back to the drawing board.

Still confident that yoga was a key element of reproductive health, Beth began trying to conceive again. As she struggled with this challenge, her interest in yoga and fertility grew and led her into deeper practices of breathing, meditation and the work of bringing yoga practice “off the mat” into daily living. She entered teacher training at Moksha Yoga Center in Chicago where she researched and wrote her thesis in 2001 on yoga practices to restore fertility. She also began work with anayurvedic physician who suggested changes to her diet and life habits. Eighteen months after her first miscarriage Beth conceived again, had a wonderful, healthy pregnancy that ended with a sad surprise, the stillbirth of a daughter at 38 weeks due to unknown causes.

It was in that moment of loss that Beth learned the real value of the yoga she had been studying. In addition to calming and balancing her physical body, the practices of asana, breathing and meditation had provided her with an inner stability, or peace, that she had not recognized until that moment. This peace allowed Beth to grieve the loss of her daughter fully, keep an open heart and have hope for the future even in the darkest hours. Shortly after the loss of her daughter she founded Pulling Down the Moon with fellow yogi Tami Quinn.

Simultaneous to the “birth” of PDtM, Beth returned to the work of getting pregnant. This time she went directly into medical fertility treatment. After five rounds of clomid and another miscarriage she conceived the pregnancy that ended with the healthy birth of her son Jackson. At the age of 37, two years after Jack’s birth, Beth added acupuncture and herbs to her yoga regimen and conceived again after only one month of “trying.” With the birth of her second son, Calvin, her family is now complete.

Throughout every aspect of the journey, the teachings of yoga and the wisdom of traditional healing therapies were her guide and solace. Beth’s goal in founding Pulling Down the Moon was to teach the tools that allowed her to learn and grow through one of the most challenging times in her life.

Beth is a member of the International Association of Yoga Therapists and the American Society for Reproductive Medicine. She teaches yoga in classes and in one-on-one instruction throughout the Chicago-land area and is a creator, co-director and teacher for Pulling Down the Moon, Yoga for Fertility.

Tamara Quinn, B.S., RYT (Registered Yoga Teacher), Yoga Swami

Tami is the Co-Founder of Pulling Down the Moon, a revolutionary holistic fertility center that has changed the standard of care for women experiencing infertility. Tami was called to this work after a 14-year career in the corporate world, most recently with Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia where she spent 8-1/2 years in advertising and marketing. Struggling to find balance between career and family, Tami turned to yoga and discovered ancient healing techniques that not only helped with her stress, but also provided tools to help live a more balanced life. These tools also gave her the courage to leave the corporate world and the financial security it represented. Remembering her own difficulty in conceiving her twins, Tami knew these yoga tools would be meaningful for women experiencing similar challenges.

She became a registered yoga teacher (RYT) through Rod Stryker of the Para Yoga School based in Los Angeles, California. Her training includes in-depth study of the principles and practices of the mystical yogic tradition including Kriology and Ayurveda, which are considered to be yoga sciences as well as spiritual paths. Tami is a reiki master, a disciple of the Kriya yoga lineage through her guru Goswami Kriyananda, and an ordained Swami. Her studies have included the doctrine of karma, meditation/guided imagery, hatha yoga, breathing techniques, sacred texts, astrology, religions of the world, kriya yoga philosophy/psychology, dream interpretation, the language of symbols, and pastoral care. Tami uses her training as a swami to create fertility specific rituals, clearings, meditations and yoga classes which help women struggling with disappointment, loss and the stresses associated with infertility. Many of these yoga techniques can be found in her book, “Fully Fertile, A 12-Week Plan to Optimal Fertility” which she co-authored with business partner, Beth Heller. Tami also completed Level 1 training in iRest, a restorative yoga technique that has been shown to help soldiers returning from Iraq with post traumatic stress disorder.

Tami has a Bachelor of Science degree from Miami University in Oxford, Ohio; is a member of the International Association of Yoga Therapists and the American Society for Reproductive Medicine. Tami still considers herself a student, learning new spiritual lessons daily from her Guru and the life lessons of inspiration, hope and courage from her students.

Bill Sviatko, National Operations Manager

Bill Sviatko manages all Operations and Human Resources at Pulling Down the Moon, working closely with his team to keep our organization and locations humming at peak levels every day. His extensive background in facility management, project management and HR/business management creates and supports new efficiencies across all locations and departments. Bill also works with Tami Quinn and Beth Heller to develop long-term initiatives that support our company’s culture, business and the professional growth of each employee.

Bill brings over 20 years of professional expertise to PDtM, with previous management experience at Pratt Marketing Group, Newell Rubbermaid and Gaston Advertising.

Ann-Marie Vigano, Yoga Instructor

Ann-Marie Vigano first became curious about yoga as a young girl when she found a book about yoga at the library. She took the book home and started practicing yoga postures on her own. Although yoga was in her consciousness from an early age, it was not until she was seeking stress relief from her work as an attorney that she first approached yoga as an adult. What started out as a weekly lunchtime yoga class soon transformed into a daily personal practice. When she realized that yoga had shifted from a passion to a calling, she enrolled in a teacher training course at Spirit Rising Yoga and earned a certification to teach Kundalini Yoga in 2007. She began teaching and offering yoga and meditation workshops in various settings. Teaching yoga changed her life and brought a new sense of love and commitment to her work and personal practice. Most importantly, it brought a sense of deep peace in her personal life.

Eventually, she left her job as an attorney and traveled to India to experience yoga at its source. When she returned to the United States, she expanded her training to include prenatal yoga, earning a certificate of specialty in Conscious Pregnancy, a comprehensive course that covers all aspects of pregnancy, birth, and post-natal care from the yogic perspective. To her great delight, the day before the Conscious Pregnancy course began, she and her husband learned that she was pregnant. As she immersed herself in two weeks of intensive prenatal yoga training, she absorbed the yogic teachings on a very deep level, applying and experiencing them for herself. Yoga carried her through a blissful pregnancy and the unmedicated birth of her son.

Ann-Marie Vigano credits yoga with transforming her life and outlook in a very positive way. She loves to share the gems of ancient yogic wisdom that can help us navigate our noisy, fast-paced lives and cultivate a space of deep inner peace and awareness. In her prenatal classes, she uses breathing, movement, postures, and meditation to help expectant mothers stretch, breath, relax, and connect to their own strength and who they are, as well as to the bliss and joy of nurturing themselves and their growing babies as they prepare to bring new life into the world.

Dee Davis, Prenatal Yoga Instructor

Dee Davis, RYT, is a registered yoga teacher in Hatha, Prenatal, and Child Yoga. She is certified to teach pelvic health through the Women’s Health Foundation as well as Resist-a-ball Yoga. She has attended workshops in various yoga disciplines, including ashtanga, anusara and vini yoga. Dee currently teaches Hatha, prenatal yoga, mommy and baby, and teen yoga classes in studios across Chicago. Her specialty at Pulling Down the Moon is prenatal classes where she teaches students to become in tune with their bodies and babies, while they strengthen, align, and learn breathing techniques that can be used throughout pregnancy and into the delivery room. Dee also encourages her students to have fun by bringing imagination, gentle understanding, humor and love to all of her students—both in and out of the womb!

Michaela Pope, Yoga Instructor

Michaela first discovered yoga in 2000, while she was a graduate student in psychology at Loyola College in Maryland. She practiced intermittently in gyms and studios over the years, always loving how yoga made her feel both strong and at peace. In 2008, Michaela’s appreciation for yoga deepened after she underwent several stressful life events in quick succession, including the death of her father. During this time Michaela was able to find solace through yoga, and wanted to be able to pass that feeling on to others who may be struggling or simply looking for respite from life's daily stressors. With that in mind, she enrolled in the 200-Hour Teacher Training Program at the Shambhava School of Yoga at Chi-Town Shakti in Chicago, a Yoga Alliance accredited program with a heavy emphasis on meditation and yogic philosophy. Michaela continued her yoga teacher training at Chi-Town Shakti by completing a 30-Hour Prenatal Yoga Teacher Certificaton Program in 2011.

As a yoga instructor, Michaela strives to create a setting where students feel comfortable yet challenged, and that they leave her classes feeling better than when they arrived. Michaela truly believes in the philosophy behind Pulling Down the Moon's Yoga for Fertility Classes, and is thrilled to be a part of the Pulling down the Moon team.

Anna Pyne, Licensed Acupuncturist

Anna Pyne LAc, MSOM, FABORM, has been an Illinois state licensed acupuncturist since 2001. Anna graduated from the Midwest College of Oriental Medicine and holds a master's degree in Science and Oriental Medicine. She is nationally board certified in acupuncture and Chinese herbology by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM). She became a fellow of the American Board of Oriental Reproductive Medicine (FABORM) in April 2010. Anna currently practices acupuncture and Oriental medicine at Pulling Down The Moon. Her specialty is in obstetrics and gynecological conditions, with particular attention to enhancing fertility and the treatment of infertility. In addition to her current practice, Anna is a clinic supervisor at the Pacific College of Oriental Medicine.

Anna has been a member of the Illinois State Association of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine since 2001. Her past work experience includes three years on staff at Northwestern Memorial Physicians Group's Center for Integrative Medicine, in Chicago. Her practice there focused primarily on the treatment of infertility and fertility enhancement.

"Growing up in a family of physicians I knew I always wanted to do something in the health field. My father specialized in obstetrics and gynecology, and my mother was a radiologist. I have always gravitated more towards natural medicine. Herbology is what initially drew me to Oriental medicine. After beginning school, I saw the importance of the combination of acupuncture with herbs, and how it helps enhance treatment results," says Anna.

Kimberly Sullivan, Licensed Acupuncturist

Kim Sullivan earned her master’s degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine (MSTCM) from the American College of Traditional Chinese Medicine in San Francisco. There she studied acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine, with a concentration in women’s health. She also received advanced training in Hangzhou, China, studying in both traditional and Western clinics. She is a licensed acupuncturist in the state of Illinois, and is certified by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine.

During her four years with Pulling Down the Moon, Kim has worked with hundreds of women to help them enhance their fertility and achieve pregnancy. “There is nothing more rewarding than seeing the physical and emotional transformation that happens to a woman during this process,” Kim says. “She regains a sense of control over her body, health, and well-being that had been lost.” Kim has the pleasure of seeing couples for second and even third times, as their families continue to grow.

Kim travels throughout the country to study with leaders in the fields of fertility and women’s health. She is currently studying with Sharon Weizenbaum, a leading expert and teacher in the fields of acupuncture and Chinese herbology.

Pamela Policastro, Licensed Acupuncturist

Pamela received her Masters Degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine from Southwest Acupuncture College in Santa Fe, N.M. She is nationally certified by the NCCAOM (National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine), and is a licensed acupuncturist in the state of Illinois. She received her Bachelors Degree in psychology from SUNY (State University of New York) at Stonybrook, N.Y. Additionally, Pamela has studied Chinese Herbal Medicine, Oncology Acupuncture at Memorial Sloan Kettering, N.Y.C., and fertility with Dr. Berkley from The Berkley Center for Reproductive Wellness, N.Y.C.

Pamela is also nationally certified in Chinese Herbal Medicine. Combining herbs with acupuncture, Pamela strives to attain the best possible results with all her patients. She specializes in all aspects of fertility and pregnancy; female and male infertility, menstrual irregularities, pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS), polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), and endometriosis. Pamela works with each person's individual needs to provide a personalized treatment plan to optimize natural conception and/or assisted reproductive therapy. She is also affiliated with Mercy Hospital.

"There is a soul force in the universe which, if we permit it, will flow through us and produce miraculous results." Ghandi

Lisa Seaman, Licensed Acupuncturist

Lisa Seaman specializes in reproductive health and pain management.

As a practitioner of Chinese medicine and the mother of three grown children (midwife attended, drug-free births), she is committed to helping couples realize healthy, safe, and empowering birth experiences.

Lisa is licensed in Illinois and board certified by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM). In addition, she is a fellow of the American Board of Oriental Reproductive Medicine (FABORM). As a graduate of Midwest College of Oriental Medicine (MCOM), her foreign internship was with sister school Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, in Guangzhou, China.

Lisa is actively engaged in post graduate studies in the areas of: infertility-male/female, menstrual irregularities, endometriosis, PCOS, PMS, pregnancy, postpartum care, menopause, and pain management. She holds professional memberships with the American Society of Reproductive Medicine (ASRM), American Association of Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine (AAAOM), the Illinois Association of Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine (ILAAOM), and RESOLVE.

Lisa’s personal philosophy to healthcare is reflected in her integrative approach. With Chinese medicine as a foundation she also addresses diet, exercise, lifestyle, meditation, and emotional well-being. Working together to map out the best plan, your journey to health and happiness unfolds.

Craig Jadown, Licensed Acupuncturist, P.C.

Craig Jadown, L.Ac., P.C., is board certified in Acupuncture and Chinese Herbology by the NCCAOM (National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine) and is an Illinois State licensed Acupuncturist. He received his Masters of Science in Traditional Oriental Medicine (M.S.T.O.M.) from Pacific College of Oriental Medicine in Chicago, where he received extensive training in Acupuncture, Chinese Herbology, and other accessory techniques to promote fertility, health, and well being.

Craig and his wife experienced their own fertility challenges when they decided to start a family and she was diagnosed with PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome). Acupuncture treatments were started as soon as the diagnosis was given, resulting in two successful pregnancies. Acupuncture treatments during both pregnancies greatly reduced her stress, anxiety, nausea, alleviated aches and pains, and prevented many sleepless nights. Continued treatments after both pregnancies helped her with weight loss and hormonal balance, increased her energy level, and promoted an overall sense of well being.

Craig feels privileged to participate in one’s fertility journey and brings his knowledge, experience, and caring to every treatment. He hopes that everyone who desires children will one day experience the joy they bring.

Yong Han, Licensed Acupuncturist

Yong Han, L.Ac. is a second generation Licensed Acupuncturist and is Board Certified by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM). He went to Beijing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China and graduated from Dongguk-Royal University of Oriental Medicine, California.

His advanced trainings and practices include treating a variety of disorders with an emphasis on reproductive health, fertility, emotional disharmony, digestive and gastro-intestinal problems, migraines, headaches, allergies, and pain management. He has also studied at Pasadena Rehabilitation Institute, UCLA medical school affiliated and Gamcho Integrative Care Clinic, South Korea.

Yong Han is dedicated to helping his patients' unique needs and concerns of fertility with customized holistic acupuncture care.

He-Joo Yu, Licensed Acupuncturist

He-Joo Yu is a licensed acupuncturist in Illinois. She graduated Cum Laude with a Master’s of Science in Oriental Medicine and a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition from Midwest College of Oriental Medicine in Racine, Wisconsin. She has been a licensed health care practitioner for over 15 years. She was a physical therapist in Korea where she received here internship training at Seoul National Rehabilitation Hospital and Kyunghee Oriental Medicine Hospital. After she finished her internship, she worked at Seoul Christian Western and Oriental Medicine co-operate hospital. As a physical therapist, she treated many internal and neurology cases. It was at this hospital that she experienced the use of integrative medicine, combining both physical therapy as well as traditional Oriental therapy. When she arrived in America she focused on Oriental medicine and has practiced with one of the top 50 Oriental Medicine Doctors in Korea for the past 5 years in the Buffalo Grove area. She had successful experiences with woman’s health and natural pregnancy in this clinic. Through these experiences, she realized that the health of our spirits depends on the health of our bodies. Oriental medicine is the best healing process for both physical and emotional conditions that we suffer from in modern society.

She has a special interest in women’s issues including fertility enhancement and emotional problems. According to the text of Traditional Oriental Medicine - women’s diseases are so complicated to approach, you have to know about her surroundings when you have a female patient. That means a woman can be sick without exhibiting physical problems. So as a specialist, you have to find out where the sickness comes from. The uterus is the second Heart in a woman’s body according to Oriental medicine. Therefore, it is necessary to harmonize the balance between the heart and the uterus.

She believes that each patient is unique and special. With each visit she will listen very carefully to each concern, and based upon that individual’s constitution and current symptoms, work to progress their desire. She enjoys helping people get well. Her mission is to ensure people live in harmony together while promoting balanced health and spiritual happiness.

Kara Canga-Arguelles, Licensed Acupuncturist

Kara obtained a Master's degree in acupuncture and herbal medicine at Midwest College of Oriental Medicine in Chicago, and also holds a Bachelor's degree of psychology from the University of Illinois. Kara has also traveled extensively and taught English, particularly in Latin America. Her travels and global friendships led her to study eastern medicine, chiefly because acupuncture had a profound impact on her, physically and emotionally, in her early twenties. She is a proponent of natural childbirth and breastfeeding, and mother to both a young boy and girl. Kara is most pleased to help others unify their psyche and body through acupuncture, using the body as a gateway to heal the mind, as they are connected. She also has a special interest in treating issues pertaining to fertility, gynecology, pregnancy, and pediatrics. She uses herbal therapy and acupuncture to help parents reap all the possible success with ART, leaving both woman and man healthier and more balanced.

Jonathan Walton, Licensed Acupuncturist

Jonathan Walton has graduated from Midwest College of Oriental Medicine with a Master of Science degree in Oriental Medicine and a Bachelors of Science in Nutrition. He spent his internship at their free Chicago Clinic seeing up to 14 patients a day for issues that ranged from infertility, joint pain and arthritis and diabetes. He is now a Board Certified Acupuncturist and is licensed by the state of Illinois. During his training he learned Tui Na (Chinese) and Shiatsu (Japanese) Massage, as well as Traditional Chinese Acupuncture and herbology.

While at Midwest, Jon researched the effects of acupuncture and herbology on the endocrine system, including the conditions of hypo/hyperthyroidism, infertility and diabetes mellitis. In addition, he studied acupuncture, herbology and acupressure as they relate to sports medicine and traumatology. He spends his free time hiking in the woods, and practicing Jujutsu, Qi Gong and Taoist Yoga.

Meredith Nathan, Licensed Massage Therapist

Meredith Nathan, L.M.T., is a graduate of Northwestern University as well as the Chicago School of Massage Therapy (now Cortiva Institute). Meredith is Nationally Certified, and has continued her education in fertility through certification in Prenatal Massage as well as Lymph Drainage I and II through the Upledger Institute. She lead the development of the FEM (Fertility Enhancing Massage) Protocol after working with hundreds of women seeking to improve their fertility since 2004. Meredith has been highlighted in Conceive Magazine, as well as Conceive on Air. The daughter of a biophysicist and biologist-turned-healer, she is passionate about blending the best of holistic modalities, grounded in modern medicine. As a 'fertility baby' herself, Meredith is dedicated to help other future moms bring new life into the world, and is committed to creating a standard of excellence within the world of fertility massage.

Dawn Butler, Licensed Massage Therapist

Dawn graduated from the Wellness and Massage Training Institute (WMTI) and has been a practicing Massage Therapist since 1995. She has also trained in Hakomi Body-Centered Psychotherapy, Thai Body Work, Upledger Institutes -CranioSacral Therapy and has started Barrall’s -Visceral Manipulation. She also incorporates various forms of energy healing and Meditation into her bodywork to support the clients’ body, mind and spirit.

Having two young children herself, Dawn is passionate about motherhood and children. Dawn’s grounded and gentle nature, along with her capable hands, makes her a gifted healer. She loves spending time with her family, attending meditation classes at InVision and hanging out with friends at Ravinia.

Dawn has a passion for the feminine divine, whether healing women, mothers-to-be or children. She also loves working with families with special-needs children. Dawn is excited to bring her experience and knowledge to Pulling Down the Moon and to support her clients through their healing journey.

Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT)
Member of the Associated Bodywork & Massage Professionals (ABMP)
Member of the International Alliance of Healthcare Practitioners (IAHP)
Member of the American CranioSacral Therapy Association (ACSTA)

Moira Scullion, Licensed Massage Therapist

Moira, a licensed massage therapist for over ten years, focuses her work on women's reproductive, digestive, and emotional health. Specializing and certified in Maya Abdominal Massage, she works with the core of the body, releasing old patterns of emotional and physical holding. Moira has recently returned from a trip to Belize to further study the traditional spiritual healing techniques of the Maya with Dr. Arvigo, founder of the Arvigo Techniques of Maya Abdominal Massage (ATMAM).

Moira is a 1999 graduate of Chicago School of Massage Therapy, and she attained her B.A. (major: studio art ceramics; minors: cultural anthropolgy & psychology) from Loyola Univeristy of Chicago in 1995. As faculty member of Chicago School of Massage Therapy for six years, she tought practical classes and well as lectured. Moira is trained in Neuromuscular Therapy, Orthopedic Massage, and Reiki, and holds certifications in Bodywork for the Child Bearing Years, Myofascial Release, Shoshin Shiatsu, and the Arvigo Techniques of Maya Abdominal Massage (ATMAM). In addition to massage work, Moira has been studying the healing arts through various forms of energy work beginning with a two year training in Shamanic studies through Rainbow Journey, LLC with the mentorship of Tom Voitas and Susan Lipshutz. In both 2006 and early 2009, Moira traveled to Belize to study Maya Spiritual Healing. Through her lessons in traditional healing and years of slowly developing her green thumb, Moira has developed a love and respect for herbal medicine. She has been training at Chicago College of Healing Arts in their Clinical Herbalism program and has just begun a Asian Bodywork Therapies program there as well.

Integrating Maya Abdominal Massage and shamanic techniques facilitate physical, emotional, and spiritual healing for clients. Via this combination Moira believes her work addresses that which society tends to neglect, yet needs to be touched the most, the soul.

Miora is a member of AMTA - American Massage Therapy Association, MAMA - Maya Abdominal Massage Association, and AHG - American Herbalist Guild (student member).

Cathleen McCauley, Licensed Massage Therapist

Cathleen approaches her work with positive intention for each client’s wellness, harmony and balance. During a session, she frequently draws upon intuition and supports her insights with clinical knowledge and practical protocols.

In 2010, Cathleen began focusing her work on women, specifically those aspiring to conceive. In addition to learning Pulling Down the Moon's FEM Protocol, she has taken continuing education in fertility massage and is certified in prenatal and postpartum massage. Cathleen also continues to study Integrated Lomilomi, a lifestyle and massage practice that includes physical, emotional and spiritual healing work that has been passed down from traditional Hawaiians.

In 2009, Cathleen graduated with honors as a Clinical Massage Therapist from The Soma Institute. She holds an Illinois license to practice massage therapy (LMT), national certification (NCTMB), and is a member of the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA).

Cathleen also works as a part-time teacher's assistant and student coach at The Soma Institute; she volunteers her time by offering massage to women with cancer.

Prior to becoming a massage therapist, Cathleen graduated from Columbia College of Chicago with a B.A. in magazine journalism and worked as a marketing and communications manager for an international nonprofit organization.

Nora Kelly, Licensed Massage Therapist

Nora Kelly is a graduate of the New School for Massage Bodywork and Healing in Chicago.Since her certification, Nora's main focus has been Prenatal Massage and educating others to the benefits of massage on expectant mothers.

Before joining Pulling Down the Moon's team of Therapists, Nora used her eclectic blend of training in Eastern and Western Modalities of massage to tailor a unique massage experience in her private practice.

Nora also volunteers her skills at the Chicago Women's Health Clinic and is founder of the Chicago Massage Coop. She is extremely excited to be performing Fertility Massage with Pulling Down the Moon and it's team.

Ellen Winick, Massage Therapist, Director of Prenatal Services

Ellen Winick is passionate about helping others create what they want in their lives particularly in the area of childbirth and women's health. When Ellen became pregnant over 12 years ago with her first child, the experience was so powerful that she gave up her career in computer consulting for a new career coaching couples in conception, pregnancy, birth and early parenting.

"I wanted to help others realize the influence they have in creating what they want for themselves and their babies as they enter into parenthood."

Ellen is a Licensed Massage Therapist and graduate of the Chicago School of Massage Therapy. She has been practicing massage since 1995. She also has a Masters in Education from Northwestern University in Evanston, IL and is certified in relationship and body-centered coaching. Ellen is a doula (labor assistant) and has taught childbirth preparation and infant massage classes for more than 10 years.

Lisa Espinosa, M.Ed., Reiki & Healing Touch

Lisa Espinosa is passionate about helping people achieve harmony and balance. After experiencing the transformative powers of alternative healing modalities -- in particular, yoga and Reiki -- Lisa left her career as a public school teacher to become a holistic healer. "A lot of my life was dominated by fear and anxiety. I was a mother and worked full time, and although by many accounts I was successful, I often felt fragmented, scattered, and full of worry. The death of a dear friend led me to the healing and nurturing practices of yoga and Reiki. Through these and other modalities I connected with that sacred space within me that I now understand to be my authentic self. I am very grateful for these practices that have helped me connect with my wholeness, inner peace and creativity. As a mother of five I understand the unique blessings that children bring and as I continue on this path I am honored to offer the healing effects of Reiki to those who are seeking to enhance and empower their fertility."

Lisa brings her interest in crystal resonance therapy and shamanic healing to her sessions. Her sessions include a cleansing of the auric field, clearing and balancing of the seven main chakras, and infusion of Reiki energy. With compassion and wisdom, Lisa will guide you to release fears and stress and help restore your body’s natural healing abilities.

Lisa is a Reiki Master trained under apprenticeship in the tradition of Mascalero Apache Native American healer Billie Topa Tate. She also received training in Ayurvedic Massage with Billie Topa Tate. Lisa is currently undergoing training through the Center for Self Leadership to become a holistic wellness consultant.

Lisa was an advocate for children and their families as a Chicago Public School teacher for nearly ten years. She has a Masters in Education and is a National Board Certified teacher. She has presented at numerous local and national conferences and has published several articles and book chapters. Lisa has received numerous teaching awards, most recently the Golden Apple Teachers of Distinction Award.

Marie Davidson, Ph.D.,FCI Psychologist

Dr. Marie Davidson is a licensed clinical psychologist, having earned her doctoral degree at the University of Illinois. For the last ten years, Dr. Davidson has concentrated on counseling individuals and couples who are coping with infertility. She is Pulling Down the Moon's advisor and works very closely in helping develop and execute patient education programming.

Jenilyn Francis, Yoga Instructor, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Holistic Fertility Guide

Jenilyn (pronounced Jenny Lynn) Francis, LCSW, CYI earned her Master’s in Social Work at Loyola University, Chicago, in 1996 and began working as an Educational Therapist with children and their mentally ill mothers at Threshold’s Mother’s Project for a year. She began to work at The Cradle in 1997.

The Cradle is an adoption agency in Evanston. Her first assignment for two years was as a Birth Parent Counselor, aiding women in making parenting or adoption decisions. Next, she worked with prospective adoptive parents for eight years. She worked with over one hundred couples who decided, after some point on their fertility journey, to explore adoption. She helped to prepare couples and single individuals, for International and Domestic adoptions. Currently, she meets with individuals at Pulling Down the Moon to help them learn what is involved in the adoption process, such as: how to initially get ready and what questions to ask the adoption agencies. She offers adoption agency recommendations based on the proximity of their neighborhood.

While working at The Cradle she discovered Pulling Down the Moon and began teaching Yoga for Fertility. She has been teaching fertility yoga for five years now and loves it. She enjoys blending her social work background of empathic listening and her passion for yoga with her students. Jenilyn is certified in both Hatha and Kundalini Yoga and now teaches three different fertility yoga classes, prenatal yoga and facilitates a meditation support group at Pulling Down the Moon. She believes that when students meet each other on the fertility journey the support they give one another is healing.

As a Holistic Fertility Guide, Jenilyn works privately with students one on one, or with couples. She has found that some students prefer to learn privately. She offers positive affirmations, fertility yoga poses and meditations, all which help to calm the mind. Three options are available; private yoga, yoga therapy and partner yoga. In private yoga the focus is on some specific concern such as high FSH, thyroid issues, or low libido. Yoga therapy includes time to discuss habits of negative thinking and anxiety with the remaining time in a yoga practice. Partner yoga begins with a check in with how each is doing on their journey and then progresses into partner yoga poses.

Jenilyn believes that yoga offers practical tools in helping each individual find what their heart truly desires. She specializes in restorative, prenatal, fertility yoga and pranayama (the technology of breathing). Jenilyn has been practicing yoga for over fifteen years and teaching for nine years. In 2006, she spent four months at Kripalu, a yoga and health center in Lenox, MA. She just completed her Kundalini Yoga Teacher's Training at Spirit Rising in 2008. Off the mat, she loves to dance, kayak, and be in nature. Many of her students comment on her sunny outlook on life and her outrageous laugh.

Hope Firsel, Patient Advocate & Fertility Life Coach

Hope Firsel is Pulling Down the Moon's Patient Advocate & Fertility Life Coach. Hope earned her Masters Degree in Organizational Behavior & Leadership Development from The London School of Economics. She went on to earn her coaching certification from iPEC Coaching. For an eight year period, she worked with the leaders of a variety of organizations to effectively manage and implement organizational change. Hope first worked with Hewitt Associates, an international consulting firm whose clients include more than half the FORTUNE 500. She then worked for FPL Advisory Group, a global consultancy that provides high-quality services to the real estate and related financial services industries.

She is now leveraging both her personal and professional experiences to help others create the change they want in their life. Hope's own fertility struggles lead to her personal transformation. She now finds the greatest joy by help other women find a sense of empowerment while dealing with their own fertility challenges.

Deepa Deshmukh, MPH, RD, BC-ADM, CDE

Deepa brings in her unique experience with her background in food science and nutrition. Her clinical expertise as a dietitian and a diabetes educator will help you deal with clinical aspect of infertility, PCOS, gluten sensitivity and weight management. She will not only tell you “why” you need to change eating habits but “how” to change them. Her diet recommendations are based on the principles of ancient “Aurvedic System of Medicine” where focus is on healing and nourishing the body and mind by eating natural and wholesome foods. Her passion for wholesome food is evident by her ability to create recipes using in season, natural ethnic ingredients.

Deepa is board certified in advanced diabetes management and has certification in adult weight mgt. She is a registered dietitian and is licensed in the state of IL.

She is a well known speaker and her most recent speaking engagements include, speaking at a gluten free expo in Oakbrook, Chicago Nutrition Association and Kendall College meeting in Chicago. She is frequently quoted in local news paper and magazines and most recently by Naperville Family Magazine and WGNTV. You can also watch her show “Nutrition Matters” on BATV every month!!

Sadie Wells, RD, LDN

Sadie began her career in nutrition by obtaining her degree in Family & Consumer Sciences-Nutrition & Dietetics and minoring in Management from Western Illinois University. She completed her practicum at St. James Hospital, a 300-bed teaching hospital in southern Illinois, and is a licensed (IL) Registered Dietitian. She holds an advanced Certificate of Training in Adult Weight Management accredited by the ADA and an advanced certification as a FirstLine Therapy® Healthcare Provider. Most recently she has accomplished status as a certified Personal Trainer through the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM).

Sadie has a unique professional and educational background in nutrition that allows her to approach your needs from a much more fitness-minded and holistic point of view. She has professional experience in a wide variety of nutritional health care settings and has presented for numerous organizations throughout her career. While working as a dietitian in various clinical settings, she soon recognized the gap between therapeutic nutrition and lifestyle change. Soon after, she embarked on a new career path in the fitness industry with a nationally recognized health club working with people as a nutrition coach. This is where it all began! Since that time, Sadie has evolved her expertise in the areas of weight management, glycemic control, cardiovascular disorders, food allergies, gastrointestinal/immune disorders, detoxification programs, prenatal, and sports nutrition. She has developed a tremendous amount of love and respect for yoga and massage therapy during her years at Satya Studio Yoga and Sunshine Yoga & Spa and realizes the impact integrative therapies and lifestyle change have on your health.

Sadie’s philosophy was founded on the belief that a person’s state of well-being begins with their nutrition and our vitality depends on the quality of care we impose on our bodies. Sadie brings her combined knowledge and skills to address your unique and individual needs, but will also help you develop an effective course of therapy and strategies for long-term success. It is here Sadie has grounded her roots and is passionate about helping you accomplish your goals, transform your life, and take back your health!

Breea Johnson, MS, RD, LDN

Breea’s interest in nutrition started early, as her parents’ passion about the role of nutrition in overall health was an integral part of her life. After brief stints in journalism, public relations and real estate, she decided to switch careers for good and headed to Seattle, WA. She went on to graduate from Bastyr University, one of the top universities in natural medicine, with a Master of Science in Nutrition in both Research and Clinical Nutrition. Studying at Bastyr cemented her knowledge of the benefits of whole foods in both the biochemical and culinary worlds and gave her a foundation in integrative and functional nutrition. She also completed a dietetic internship at Hines VA Hospital outside of Chicago and is a Registered Dietitian.

As a nutritionist, Breea is dedicated to helping people understand why they need to make changes in their diet and helps give them the tools to accomplish a more balanced state of health. After seeing her sister experience infertility, she became passionate about teaching women to approach infertility and hormonal balance from a holistic and integrative perspective. At Pulling Down the Moon, she specializes in working with women with infertility, PCOS, endometriosis, PMS and Prenatal Nutrition. She also specializes in helping people improve their digestive health – such as frequent gas, bloating and IBS-type symptoms. She recently created a male fertility program to cater to men with poor sperm quality. Breea truly enjoys being part of an integrative team at Pulling Down the Moon.

In addition to working at Pulling Down the Moon, Breea also has a private nutrition counseling practice in Lakeview and consults for Quest Food Management Services on their Latin School of Chicago account. Previous work experiences include Integrated Health and Wellness, as a nutritionist for a gym, as a consultant in implementing healthy programs for a food service company, and on a research study in a large cancer research center. Breea has been quoted in multiple national publications such as Natural Health Magazine and USA Today. Breea continues to advance her education through conferences, seminars and keeping up to date with the research in the field of fertility and women’s health. Her passion about nutrition is one of the first things you may notice when working with her. 

Marie Davidson, Ph.D., FCI Psychologist

Dr. Marie Davidson is a licensed clinical psychologist, having earned her doctoral degree at the University of Illinois. For the last ten years, Dr. Davidson has concentrated on counseling individuals and couples who are coping with infertility. She is Pulling Down the Moon's advisor and works very closely in helping develop and execute patient education programming.

Sara Shelley, RYT, Yoga Instructor

Sara has been teaching with “Pulling Down the Moon” in Maryland since the fall of 2007. She began studying and practicing yoga not long after the birth of her second son. Looking for relief from the stress of multiple miscarriages and loss, she discovered much more and has remained a devoted student ever since.

Sara has taught prenatal and postnatal yoga since 1999, is certified as a Hypnobirthing Childbirth educator and attends births on occasion. She became an Affiliated Anusara Yoga instructor in 2002 and currently teaches and has completed advanced certification in the meditative practice of iRest/Yoga Nidra. Sara has had the privilege of interning and teaching at Walter Reed Army Hospital’s Specialized Care Program using iRest with soldiers returning from war with PTSD and chronic pain. She also teaches and is responsible for developing an ongoing iRest/Yoga Nidra program at N Street Village, one of the countries award winning homeless women’s shelter’s located in Washington DC. Over the years Rod Stryker, Richard Miller Phd, and countless instructors in the Anusara tradition have influenced and continue to inspire her teaching.

With warmth and enthusiasm Sara invites all students to utilize the challenges and obstacles encountered during the childbearing years as unique opportunities for growth, empowerment, and celebration in life. Sara is also available for private instruction and workshops.

Hena Shomali, Licensed Acupuncturist

Hena Shomali. MS. L.Ac is a licensed acupuncturist and clinical practitioner with her Master of Science in traditional Chinese Medicine. She practices medicine with joy that is rooted in her own experience of acupuncture and Chinese medicine and is informed by her over 7 years of study and experience in the world of integrative medicine.

She specializes in women’s health, fertility for women-men and same sex couples, healthy pregnancy and post partum health. She got her master degree in traditional Chinese medicine from Maryland institute of traditional medicine in 2003. She is a member in good standing with the acupuncture and oriental medicine Alliance, the American Association of oriental Medicine (AAOM); The Acupuncture Society of Maryland. She is also studying naturopathy in Trinity College of Natural medicine.

Karisa Grudi, Licensed Acupuncturist

Karisa Grudi is a state licensed acupuncturist in Maryland and Virginia and a nationally board-certified Chinese herbalist. She holds a 4-year Master of Science degree in Traditional Oriental Medicine from the NYC campus of Pacific College of Oriental Medicine. She is also a Diplomate in Oriental Medicine from the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine.

Karisa experienced the power of this medicine first-hand when a good friend and fellow student on the path to pregnancy tried acupuncture and Chinese herbs as a final step before adoption. Within a few months, she became pregnant and eventually gave birth to a beautiful and healthy baby boy. From this moment, Karisa realized that she wanted to focus on fertility within her practice. Her passion for acupuncture and oriental medicine coupled with her desire for continual research in the fields of natural health and nutrition has inspired her to educate, empower, and motivate people to take control of their own health and strive for a state of well-being. Karisa is currently available for treatments on Wednesdays and Sundays.

Jessica Ellerman, Licensed Acupuncturist

Jessica Ellerman, L.Ac. is a state board licensed acupuncturist and chinese herbalist in Maryland and California. She completed a 4 year program of study at Pacific College of Oriental Medicine in San Diego, CA, graduating with honors, and obtaining a Master's of Science degree in Traditional Oriental Medicine. Jessica is also nationally certified to practice Acupuncture and Chinese Herbology by the NCCAOM as a Diplomate in Oriental Medicine (Dipl. OM).

For the past 9 years, Jessica has worked in the field of holistic healing, and she is truly passionate about helping her patients achieve optimal health and vitality. Clinically, she has had the opportunity to work with a very diverse patient population. In addition to private practice, she has treated patients at San Diego Hospice, UCSD Free Clinic for the homeless, and within the Integrative Medical wing at Rady's Children's Hospital in San Diego. In addition to pain management, Jessica specializes in treating a wide range of women's health issues. She enjoys using Chinese Medicine to support women emotionally and physically through all stages of their lives, from the reproductive years into menopause. Fertility and pregnancy care are a particular passion as she believes Chinese Medicine can provide the mind, body, and spirit the necessary sustenance for true growth and healing to take place. Jessica provides comprehensive care tailored to each patient's unique individual needs, while offering the inspiration and tools to live a healthy, happy life.

Dana Durand, Licensed Massage Therapist

Since graduating from the Baltimore School of Massage in 2002, Dana Durand has worked hard to compliment the education she received there. In an effort to bring as much knowledge and experience with her into each session, she has continued her education in various forms of massage including Reflexology, Neuromuscular, Trigger Point Therapy, Hot Stone, Prenatal, Rain Drop Therapy, and Sports Massage. Passionate about health and personal growth, Dana enrolled and graduated from the National Institute of Personal Training, receiving certification in both Personal Training and Nutritional Consulting. She also worked within the medical massage field for five years, helping patients at a physical therapy clinic, and general practitioner’s office. Over the past seven years Dana has traveled, learned, and honed her craft into something truly original. She continues to draw inspiration from helping the people she works with, and stresses that touch is absolutely vital to human health. Dana is currently nationally certified, and holds licenses in the state of Maryland and the District of Columbia.

Camille Freeman, Licensed Nutritionist

Camille is an herbalist and nutritionist who has been in practice since 2003. She is a core faculty member in the Herbal Medicine department at the Tai Sophia Institute, where she teaches Biomedicine & Nutrition. She received her Master's in Herbal Medicine from the Tai Sophia Institute and is a professional member of the American Herbalists Guild. She is certified as a Nutrition Specialist through the American College of Nutrition and is a licensed nutritionist in the state of Maryland. Camille also holds an MS in Physiology and Biophysics from Georgetown University. Camille is passionate about promoting sustainability in healthcare and helping women and couples deepen their understanding of the body's many cycles.

Tatiana Rosten

Tatiana Rosten has been an Office Manager at Pulling Down at Moon Shady Grove since March 2009.

She holds a Bachelor of Science degree with a major in Economics and has experience working in many kinds of professional settings. She has coordinated and managed the International Development Project (founded by USAID), and has had an opportunity to work for non-profit organizations. Tatiana also managed her own small business for a few years so she brings a strong entrepreneurial spirit to Pulling Down the Moon.

When traditional medicine was not relieving some of the symptoms of Tatiana’s own personal health struggles, she decided to explore other options and seek additional help beyond the walls of her doctor’s office. This personal challenge opened her mind to the idea of exploring holistic options like acupuncture, massage, reiki, yoga and nutritional counseling. Her journeys lead her to finding greater health and balance and also inspired her to reexamine her professional goals. Tatiana wanted to find a work environment where she could share her passion for holistic medicine with others on a similar journey of self-discovery. Finding a place where she could share her passion was of utmost importance to Tatiana which is why she was happy to join Pulling Down the Moon’s newest office near the DC metro area. Along with her professional skills, Tatiana brings her understanding of the physical and emotional process Pulling Down the Moon patients go through: the struggles, pain, failures and ultimate victories.

"The greatest satisfaction I receive in my job is when our patients share with us their success stories after such a challenging personal journey."

Robin Dennis, LMT, NCTBM

Robin C. Dennis is a nationally certified Yoga Instructor (200 hour RYT) who joined the staff at Pulling Down the Moon in June 2009. She currently teaches the Staff Yoga class on Wednesdays at 4:30pm & The Goddess Gathering (Yoga for Fertility) at 5:45pm. Robin is also a Certified Pilates Instructor, Group Fitness Instructor and Personal Trainer with 15 years experience teaching clients from 18 months – 90 years old. She began studying Theater and Dance in her hometown of Ithaca, NY and moved to Boston, MA in 1994 where she completed her B.A. in Theater & Business Administration in 1999. Robin also owns her own company working as a Licensed Massage Therapist in Virginia. Robin is certified in Prenatal Yoga, Prenatal Fitness & Prenatal Massage and is available for one-on-one Yoga at PDtM. Her teaching style can best be described as positive, fun & nurturing; a creative blend of flowing poses with detailed attention to form & safety.

Nicole Maisel, Licensed Massage Therapist

Nicole is dedicated to working with clients in order to improve overall health and wellness. Nicole strives to create a working relationship with each and every client. Nicole is passionate about her work, and takes the time to listen with my ears, hands, and heart to each and every client need. Nicole graduated from the Muscular Therapy Institute in Cambridge Massachusetts in 2005. Her training is in sports massage, myofascial release, cranial sacral, lymphatic drainage, injury recovery, and muscular therapy.

Kimberly Wong – Registered Dietitian, Licensed Nutritionist

Kimberly is a dietitian who obtained her degree in Nutritional Sciences from the Schreyer Honors College at the Pennsylvania State University and completed her dietetic internship at the National Institutes of Health. She is currently licensed in the state of Maryland and practices acute clinical care at a 242-bed hospital, specializing in the fields of nutrition support in intensive care and geriatrics.

However, Kimberly’s interests are many, chief among them is promoting wellness in couples seeking to integrate nutrition as a therapeutic lifestyle change. Her background in clinical practice, laboratory research, and the culinary arts combined with her passion for bringing bench-to-bedside practice to her clients allows for the unique tailoring of sound, evidenced –based practices into a client’s life, facilitating a long-term change.

Kimberly’s practice operates on the belief that nutrition is the very foundation of health: food is the interface between the outside world and our inner well-being. That is, what we consume directly affects our state of health in mind, body, and soul. With proper understanding of our body’s intricate functions and cycles, we can, together, create a maintainable, positive outcome promoting restoration and wholeness.

Victoria Aguilar, Office Manager, Chicago

Victoria is the Office and Web Manager for Pulling Down the Moon, Chicago and Suburban Illinois locations. She graduated from the University of Illinois Champaign-Urbana with a bachelor’s degree in Communications. Victoria has extensive background in retail and office management as well as in depth knowledge of web management. She has a diverse business background, holding positions for Abercrombie & Fitch, Northwest Newsgroup and First National Assets.

Victoria manages the day-to-day responsibilities at Pulling Down the Moon’s River North location, coordinates all marketing materials between locations, maintains and oversees new retail product development and helps to expand the brand to new media outlets.

"I am excited to found a place that encompasses every aspect I loved about my other positions. I am happy to have found a company that has such drive and passion for what they do."

Margaret Wertheim, MS, RD, LDN

Margaret holds a BS in Biochemistry from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and an MS in Nutrition from Bastyr University in Seattle, the nation's leading natural medicine university. After completion of her Master's degree, Margaret went on to complete her dietetic internship at Hines VA Hospital outside of Chicago in order to become a Registered Dietitian. She has experience working at several Chicago-area hospitals. In addition to her work at Pulling Down the Moon, she currently works as a nutritionist at the University of Chicago.

Margaret also enjoys writing about healthy food and nutrition on livestrong.com and on her personal blog. She also serves as a co-editor of the Chicago Dietetic Association newsletter. She is also passionate about local, sustainable food and enjoys growing her own vegetables, frequenting farmer's markets, and cooking for friends and family.

In her practice as a nutritionist, Margaret strives to help her clients achieve optimum health by not only providing nutrition recommendations, but also providing the rationale for those recommendations. She believes changing the diet is one of the most powerful ways we can affect our health and wellbeing, as eating is something we do multiple times every day. She brings a strong understanding of the health benefits of individual foods, vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals. She is passionate about the vital role that whole, unprocessed foods play in supporting the body’s ability to attain optimum health and hormone balance to support fertility.

Ann Michels, RMT/ HTP

Ann Michels, RMT/ HTP, is a graduate of Central College in Pella, Iowa and was certified through Healing Touch International in 2005. She became a Reiki Master/Teacher Level IV in 2010 and is one a select few in the United States who is Certified in Sacred Childbirth with Reiki™. She has completed internships with North and South American Healers, learning cross-cultural healing modalities and is completing a Masters in Holistic Nutrition from Clayton College with an emphasis in Nutrition for women and children.

Ann has been an Energy Practitioner since 1996 and has seen the physical and emotional transformations that can occur with Reiki and Healing Touch. Ann is passionate about helping women at Pulling Down the Moon with their individual fertility goals using Reiki and Healing Touch.

Ann is a member of the International Association of Reiki Professionals, the Healing Touch Professional Association and is a staff member at MSI-Healing in Evanston, IL.

Rebecca Bossen, Yoga Teacher

Rebecca Bossen is a registered yoga teacher with Yoga Alliance. She received her undergraduate degree from Duke University and her MA from Northwestern University, as well as an Advanced Certificate in Voice Studies from The Central School of Speech and Drama in London. Her theatre training taught her the importance of integrating breath, body, mind, and emotions. Regular yoga practice reinforced this sense of holistic integration, and yoga centered her as she pursued the wonderful but notoriously unstable career of a theatre professional. As an acting teacher, Rebecca noticed that she was spending more and more class time teaching yoga. Looking around at a roomful of actors reciting Shakespeare in downward dog pose, she realized that the time had come for her to get her official yoga teacher training. She received her 200-hour certification at the Nosara Yoga Institute, under the direction of Don and Amba Stapleton. That transformative experience deepened her practice and awakened her to the healing possibilities of this ancient art. Having worked in Pulling Down the Moon's Chicago location for three years as an office manager/receptionist, Rebecca gained an interest in women's health, fertility, and pregnancy. After becoming a certified teacher, she studied with world-renowned instructor Janice Clarfield and received further certification in prenatal yoga. In her classes, Rebecca strives to share her love of yoga and her deep respect for the human body and its wisdom.

Patricia Riojas, Yoga Teacher

Patricia has been a student of yoga since 2004. Upon taking her first class, she experienced the immediate healing benefits of the ancient practice. In an effort to deepen her practice and studies of yogic philosophy, she enrolled in Moksha Yoga Center’s 14-month teacher training program along with her husband. She is a certified yoga and prenatal yoga instructor.

She has studied with many national and global teachers of different yoga methodologies and is inspired by the safety and alignment of Iyengar Yoga. She has a personal practice of meditation, pranayama, Hatha yoga, and continues her studies of classical yoga and the Mahadevi (The Mother Goddess).

Patricia whole-heartedly believes in the transformative power of yoga, and the practice as a whole (incorporating the eight limbs of yoga in her daily life). “Yoga enables us to continuously connect with ourselves on a deep level, allowing us to uncover the truth within ourselves, this truth is complete liberation.”

Her own fertility journey allowed her to look to yoga as a form of healing, nourishment and self- acceptance, enabling her to incorporate holistic approaches in her journey to pregnancy. She hopes to share the many healing benefits of yoga with others and inspire them to become their own gurus (teachers) of self-knowledge, self-love and self-compassion in everyday life.

Marcie D. Miller , Licensed Massage Therapist

Marcie D. Miller has been practicing massage since graduating from Baltimore School of Massage in 2001. Because of her interest in women’s health and well-being, she pursued further training in Mother Massage® Pre and Postnatal Bodywork, Manual Lymphatic Drainage, and Pulling Down the Moon’s FEM protocol. She also incorporates stretching, breathing, and body-mind awareness techniques combined with intuition and creativity to give each client a high quality and uniquely personalized massage experience. She is delighted to bring her years of experience and her deep passion for massage to women who are working hard to make their dreams come true. When not massaging, Marcie can be found hiking, strength training, hula hooping, and receiving massage.

Kath Robinson, Licensed Massage Therapist

Kath Robinson is enthusiastic about growing with Pulling Down the Moon's Shady Grove staff. She brings to the table experience as a massage therapist with an emphasis in stress reduction, having worked at The Center for Health Enhancement (focused on preventive health care) at Georgetown University for over 9 years. Kath learned Asian approaches to massage as a senior therapist at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Spa in Washington DC, where she was a member of the opening team and worked with over 4000 clients during her employment there. Some modalities she has had the good fortune to study are: aromatherapy, chi nei tsang, deep tissue massage, myofascial release, prenatal massage, polarity, reflexology, swedish massage and zero balancing.

Having been in practice for 19 years, Kath is filled with gratitude to be working in an environment with superbly skilled practitioners, who collectively and individually support the needs of our clients.

Laura Dubrule, Licensed Nutritionist

Laura brings an eclectic mix of passions to her nutrition counseling. Her years studying acting in New York taught her the importance of connecting with our bodies; this deep sense is fundamental to her understanding of diet and nutrition. Laura completed the program in Nutrition and Food Science at Hunter College in New York, and then went on to complete her dietetic internship at Stony Brook University, a program with an integrative and functional approach. She returned to the city and practiced in a worksite wellness program, delivering individualized nutrition counseling to bank employees in Manhattan and Brooklyn. Her vision for her clients could be called “whole foods meet real world.” She believes that food is meant to be enjoyed and works with her clients to find healthful approaches to eating that are satisfying and enjoyable.

Laura is thrilled to be working in concert with acupuncture, yoga and massage professionals because she believes that the nourishment and care of our hearts and souls is integral to the nourishment of our bodies. She considers it a privilege to be a resource to men and women on their fertility journeys and to celebrate every step long that path as an act of love and creation.

Keri Hammel, Yoga Instructor

Keri is a registered yoga teacher with Yoga Alliance. She received her undergraduate degree from Susquehanna University, her MS from American University and has worked in the biostatistics industry for the past 10 years. Prior to attending her first yoga class in 2005, Keri was working 60+ hours a week and not taking time for herself or her family. As yoga became part of her weekly routine, she realized how much better she felt mentally and physically and how work was becoming less stressful. As the interest turned to a passion, she realized she was molding her ever so important work/life balance to incorporate more yoga into her life.

Since 2007, Keri and her husband have been trying to start a family and have relied on yoga to help deal with the ups and downs of the infertility and IVF journeys. As a result, Keri wanted to immerse herself in all things yoga and she enrolled in a 200-hour yoga teacher training at Sol Yoga in Frederick, MD, under the direction of Dorcas Quynn McWilliams. During this time, she also studied with Jacci Reynolds and received her certification in prenatal yoga.

Keri’s intimate experience with infertility and IVF, coupled with her recent certifications, provide a solid foundation from which to share and provide guidance to other women and families as they go through their infertility journey and pregnancy. She has learned over the past few years that you have to be ready physically and mentally as you travel this road and Keri’s experiences have brought her full circle as she is thrilled to be a member of the Pulling Down the Moon family as a client and now yoga instructor.

Alicia Koundakjian, Yoga Instructor

Alicia accidentally began her yoga practice in 1998 when she agreed to accompany her friend to a class at a local community center in Austin, TX. She found it uncomfortable, frustrating and a little embarrassing but the next morning she could feel the stirrings of yoga's transformational power and knew she was hooked for life.

Ten years later, she received her 200-hour level certification through DC's Yoga District and is currently working toward her 500-hour-level through the Dharma Yoga Center's Life of a Yogi program in New York. Alicia teaches Prenatal and vinyasa classes at several DC yoga studios. She especially enjoys focusing on the healing powers of yoga and revealing how it can help students relieve stress and depression and find greater peace. She sums up her personal yoga practice in the simple words of Swami Sivananda: “Serve, Love, Give, Purify, Meditate, Realize.”

Alicia is a graduate of the Institute for Integrative Nutrition and a Board Certified Holistic Health Coach. Alicia is a native Washingtonian, a former librarian and the grateful mother of a toddler girl.