Vika Brewster, ND

Dr. Brewster graduated from Bastyr University June 2021 with specializations in mind-body medicine, clinical pharmacology and treating PwP (people with Parkinson’s) and diabetes. During her time at school she taught classes for the basic science boards, neurology and physical exam diagnosis. Her passion for patient-based care doubled her clinical hours.

SCHOOLS ATTENDED/DEGREES:

Bastyr University, Kenmore, Washington- Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine
Lesley University, Cambridge, Massachusetts- Bachelor of Psychology and Minors in Cognitive Neuroscience and Studio Arts

WHAT ATTRACTED YOU TO BE A PROVIDER?

I’m interested in establishing a relationship with my patients so I can weave an understanding of their health from their story. It’s easy to treat symptoms. Results comes from listening, creating trust and then working to take back to health together.

WHAT ARE YOUR SPECIALTIES? WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO TREAT AND WHY?

I am interested in treating a myriad of dis-ease. I have a deep interest in treating mental health. I started school thinking I would become a therapist, and that passion is present in every case. I am also interested in neurology: Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, headaches, etc. My preference is to encourage people to become their own health advocate through mindfulness, diet, and botanical medicine.

WHY DID YOU MOVE TO ALASKA?

This is my first year in Alaska. I wound up in this charming place deciding where to do my residency and I couldn’t be happier with my decision!

WHERE HAVE YOU LIVED BEFORE ALASKA?

I lived in Washington, Massachusetts, New York, Switzerland, and Texas.

PREVIOUS CAREERS?

I worked as a server throughout college. Juggling challenging classes, an internship, and a full time job taught me how to work hard and multitask with a smile. As well as teaching science classes at my college, I also taught at Splash and Spark (programs at MIT).

HOBBIES AND OTHER INTERESTS?

I love backpacking, running, and hiking. I am attracted to creative outlets and enjoy spicing up my life with cooking, creating art, and playing D&D. I have plans to continue practicing my French, playing guitar and learning how to reupholster furniture.

FAMILY

My grandmother is my favorite person in the world and she is still strutting her stuff in NYC in her wild outfits and heels! My father and brother are still in Texas (for reasons unbeknownst to me- I guess they like concrete).

I currently live with my cat, Satsuma who I rescued at 7 years young. It’s been a hard journey to overcome her previous trauma together, but it’s worth every moment.

BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS?

The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel Van Der Kolk
Anything by Brene Brown or Eckart Tolle
Already Free by Bruce Tift
The Untethered Soul by Michael A. Singer