Linda Zarrett, CNS

Practice philosophy:

My philosophy is to put the needs of the child and family first.

What are you passionate about and why?

I believe children and teens do the best when they have full support of their families and communities. I love to teach about mental health and small changes that can be made to improve or enhance it.

If you weren't a health care provider, what would you be?

I would work with dogs.

Why did you become a provider? When did you know this was the career for you?

I have worked with a variety of populations, but eventually knew I did not really enjoy anything as much as working with kids and teens. I have found that Gen Z is my favorite generation.

What is something you have learned from your patients?

With Gen Z, I would say I have learned to thrive in the midst of hardship.

What is one of the challenges of this career you enjoy? And why?

One of the challenges is the shortage of mental health care, and the fact that kids end up going so far from home. Kids do best in the home, and I would love to see more access to care.

What is your personal health goal?

Half marathon

What is the best thing you've done for your health or the best health advice you've received?

Running, especially outside, has really made such a difference. I find being outdoors to be refreshing and inspiring, even in some of the tougher seasons in MN.

What are you most proud of?

I would say my kids, who are both adults. They are my greatest success and parenting was definitely the hardest job I have had.

What are a few of your personal achievements?

My biggest achievement is raising two awesome young people, and seeing my son become an amazing father.

In addition, I started running in the pandemic, and am now working toward the half marathon.