Jenessa Mayer, PA-C | Integrative Primary Care, Functional Medicine

My favorite part of being a PA is connecting with patients and learning the “why” behind their desire for health and wholeness. It is the biggest privilege to learn about the varied life experiences that influence an individual’s wellbeing and life outlook. My journey to CIH started with my upbringing on a dairy farm in Southeastern Wisconsin and continued at Marquette University, where I completed my Undergraduate and Physician Assistant education. I then practiced for nearly 5 years at an Academic Medical Center in Milwaukee, where I worked with the Intensive Care and Abdominal Solid Organ Transplantation teams. My encounters with chronically and critically ill individuals during this time inspired me to search for deeper and preventative solutions for the myriad symptoms that patients face and led me to Functional Medicine.

Past clinical and personal experiences have given me an appreciation for the comprehensive tenets of Integrative and Functional Medicine. While genetics and lifestyle play a role in disease and wellness, so do the environment and the social determinants of health. I feel increasingly connected to my Midwest farm roots as I learn of the healing powers of the soil, food, and nature. Equally important are social connections and cultural traditions. Clinical experiences ranging from mobile clinics in rural Central America to time on the Turtle Mountain Reservation in North Dakota to urban medical centers have allowed me to walk with patients of diverse backgrounds and have broadened my perspective on the many challenges patients face. I am passionate about the blending of conventional medicine, food, community, movement, and other integrative therapies to lessen the public health epidemic of chronic disease and to promote wellness for all. Healthier individuals make for healthier communities and a healthier world!

When I am not in clinic, I enjoy running and hiking, experiencing sunrises and sunsets, traveling, perusing farmers’ markets, spending time in prayer, marveling at how my nieces and nephews grow, and completing coursework to obtain my Master of Public Health degree.

I am thrilled to be part of the wonderful CIH family and look forward to collaborating with you and learning your “why”!  

Location: CIH Potomac Office