A Bit About Me
Heather Yoshimura is an Adult/Gerontology Nurse Practitioner with a diverse background in health optimization and personalized medicine. Educated at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), one of the top ten nurse practitioner programs nationally, she started her career in oncology and telemetry nursing. Her work with patients facing chronic or terminal illnesses led her to integrative medicine, aiming to combine traditional practices with health optimization strategies. This interest evolved from observing the limitations of reactive medicine, inspiring a shift towards prevention: why wait to treat disease when we have the potential to prevent it?
Yoshimura brings a thoughtful approach to her practice with an additional focus on bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) and peptide therapy. Her
insights into identifying and addressing the root causes of health challenges reflect her dedication and knowledge in the field. Her foundational training with Dr. Neal Rouzier has provided her with a solid understanding of hormonal balance, which is critical for tailoring treatments to each patient's unique needs. Additionally, her studies in peptide therapy at the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine (A4M) have prepared her to utilize these advanced treatments in supporting cellular repair and renewal.
Unlike many in her field, Yoshimura has enhanced her practice with a culinary education, setting her apart as a provider who takes diet and nutrition seriously. With a deep understanding of what and how to eat to promote metabolic health and reverse insulin resistance, she offers more than just advice; she provides practical strategies for making healthy food taste better. This unique blend of skills allows her to guide patients toward improving their dietary habits in a way that's both enjoyable and beneficial for their health, emphasizing the importance of taste alongside nutrition.
In addition to her clinical and dietary expertise, she is also educated in the field of aesthetics, thanks to her advanced training under Dr. John Fulton, the co-creator of Retin-A and a pioneer in dermatological health. This unique skill set allows her to offer patients a holistic approach to health that addresses both their internal medical needs and external applications, ensuring a comprehensive strategy for anti-aging and overall wellness.
Yoshimura's professional narrative is deeply intertwined with her own health journey, having previously faced significant multi-year challenges with chronic pain. Despite seeking solutions from leading medical institutions like the Mayo Clinic and undergoing multiple surgeries without success, it was her exploration into integrative medicine that marked a turning point. Integrative techniques such as Pain Reprocessing Therapy and breathwork played a pivotal role in her recovery, modalities that she now teaches to others.
Alongside her clinical duties, Yoshimura also contributes as a medical writer for Rupa Health. She simplifies complex medical topics for a wide audience, reflecting her deep understanding of integrative medicine. Her ongoing commitment to learning and evidence-based medicine ensures she remains informed on the latest in health and wellness in order to provide the best care possible.
Furthermore, she is board certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center, is an active member of the International Peptide Society, and has received additional training from The Institute of Functional Medicine, the Sea School of Embodiment, and The Somatica Institute.
In her free time she loves to play tennis and weightlift, enjoys long walks outdoors with her dog, is an avid reader, likes to travel to new places, and is always experimenting with new recipes in her kitchen.