We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Mackayla Johnson. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Mackayla below.
Hi Mackayla, really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?
From a young age I always knew I wanted to have a career of helping people. During my first few years of university everyone always told me it would get easier after the first year. That wasn’t the case for me, I would study for hours and hours and then would walk into an exam and remember nothing. I was having terrible brain fog along with other symptoms. It wasn’t until I started working with a Naturopathic Doctor that I was diagnosed with celiac disease. Seeing how they took the time to understand my concerns and got to the root cause of my issues intrigued me to look more into Naturopathic Medicine.
I connected with my university and through their career mentorship program I was able to connect with a local Naturopathic Doctor. I was able to ask her all the questions and learn so much about the ins and outs of Naturopaths that after leaving I knew I wanted to apply to the college.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I am a Naturopathic Doctor practising in Selkirk, Manitoba, Canada. I maintain a general family practice with interests in treating digestive concerns, pediatrics, thyroid disorders, anxiety, hormonal health, mental health, stress, fatigue, and weight management.
I enjoys using all areas of Naturopathic Medicine including Botanical medicine, nutritional guidance, raditional Chinese Medicine, Acupuncture and lifestyle counselling. I also have additional certification in IV therapy.
I love pathophysiology so I enjoy educating patients on their health concerns, answering their questions and also keeping up to date with research to ensure I have the most evidence-based treatment options.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
1. Determination – Naturopathic Medical school is very challenging, you make a lot of sacrifices and it’s very easy to burn yourself out. Reminding myself that I was meant to do this and surrounding myself with my friends and family gave me the determination to get through all the licensing exam and starting my career.
2. Setting Boundaries – Patient care is extremely important to me but I also realized early that if I wasn’t taking care of myself how could I expect patients to take me seriously. Setting boundaries was also super important to me to ensure I don’t burn myself out. Some boundaries I set for myself were not answering emails outside of business hours. Finishing all my charts and sending out patient treatment plans before leaving the office.
3. Empathy – Allowing the space for patients to explore their feelings regarding their health concerns or goals. This has allowed me better connections with patients and helps us work together to meet their health goals with treatment plans that they are actually going to be able to implement into their lifestyles.
Who has been most helpful in helping you overcome challenges or build and develop the essential skills, qualities or knowledge you needed to be successful?
My parents. I grew up watching them run successful businesses and saw first hand how many sacrifices they made for my siblings and I. They challenged us to be the adults we are today and don’t hesitate when any of us need a helping hand. I wouldn’t be half the person I am today without them.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.mackaylajohnson.com
- Instagram: @drmackayla.nd
- Facebook: Dr. Mackayla Johnson, ND
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