Katherine Vanderbilt, DNP, APRN

Practice philosophy: My practice philosophy is to partner with families to provide them with all of the knowledge they need to make empowered decisions about their reproductive health care. I believe informed consent and shared decision making are essential in accomplishing this goal.

What are you passionate about and why? I am passionate about every patient feeling heard and valued during their health care experiences. I strive to not only support families through their physical journey of pregnancy and birth, but also the emotional and personal transformation that occurs when welcoming a new family member.

If you weren't a health care provider, what would you be? A classical musician. Prior to becoming a nurse, I got a degree in classical cello.

Why did you become a provider? When did you know this was the career for you? I learned about the role of a midwife early in my nursing career, and I love that midwifery combines the science of human physiology with the appreciation of the complexity of the human experience.

What is something you have learned from your patients? That the time and space I share with families listening to their experiences in and out of health care helps me partner with them in meeting their health goals. There are many ways to build a family!

What is one of the challenges of this career you enjoy? And why? I enjoy that no two experiences in pregnancy and birth are alike. I love the variety and that I get to experience things differently every day.

What is your personal health goal? To move my body every day and to share my health at every size mentality with my children.

What is the best thing you've done for your health or the best health advice you've received? Joining a fitness community. I love being able to combine my love of movement with social engagement.

What are a few of your personal achievements? Becoming a parent! I love seeing my child learn and take in the world. Seeing the wonder of the world through a child's eyes brings me joy.