Grand Rapids, MI
English, Patois
Guest Writer
Gaynel Nave, NMD
Naturopathic Physician
Dr. Gaynel Nave is an Arizona licensed naturopathic doctor who practices as a naturopathic educator both online and in-person in Grand Rapids, Michigan, as well as a board member of the Psychiatric Association of Naturopathic Physicians (PsychANP). Her practice is focused on facilitating women reconnecting to their identities by addressing the connection between their hormonal and mental well-being.
Experience Highlights
- Clinical director of FullJoy Wellness
- Public speaker on public health, health advocacy, DEI, PCOS, PMDD, intergenerational trauma, and Black women’s mental health
- Community health consultant for mental health and naturopathic medicine
- Medical author and editor for INM and Ecoparent
- Professional speaker for WANP, WIC, PsychANP
Education Highlights
Dr. Nave earned a BSc in Biology pre-med with a minor in missions, concentrating on cross-cultural communication and sustainable medicine from Huntington University. Subsequently, she achieved a Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine from Sonoran University of Health Sciences (formerly SCNM). Complementing her academic background, she obtained certificates in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion from the University of South Florida and Women’s Entrepreneurship from Cornell University. Dr. Nave’s educational journey involved numerous hours dedicated to learning through interdisciplinary collaboration, active engagement in women’s public health advocacy, participation in research studies, and continuous education through CMEs. She has specialized in trauma-informed therapies, including the principles of IFS, EMDR, and somatic-based therapies. This diverse educational foundation positions her to provide comprehensive and inclusive care in her field.
Bio
Dr. Gaynel Nave, an esteemed expert in intergenerational trauma, collaborates with BIPOC and third culture women leaders, guiding them to embrace their inner strength through the transformative lens of psychoneuroendocrinology—the intricate interplay between hormones, the nervous system, and psychological well-being. Her expertise spans addressing challenges related to the entire perimenopause to postmenopause transition, PCOS, PMDD, and postpartum all within the broader context of public health and at the intersection of society, culture, trauma, and the third-culture experience.
As the visionary and founder of FullJoy Wellness, Dr. Nave has created a practice dedicated to holistic health solutions tailored to you. Her distinctive perspective is shaped by her Jamaican heritage, her naturopathic medical training from Sonoran University of Health Sciences and her trauma-informed expertise.
Beyond her clinical work, she engages in public health talks, consults with organizations, advocates for improved perimenopause, PCOS, and PMDD care, and serves in leadership roles in her church’s women’s group and on the Psychiatric Association of Naturopathic Physicians (PsychANP) board. In her personal life, she finds fulljoy in singing, hiking, dancing to soca, crafting, and expressing her regal style. Visit her website to explore more.
“Just because it’s normal doesn’t mean it can’t be better”
Experience
Dr. Nave, as the clinical director of FullJoy Wellness, brings a wealth of expertise in intergenerational trauma, women’s health, and psychoneuroendocrinology. Her professional journey includes forging crucial partnerships with local public health organizations, such as WIC, where she advocates for policies related to PCOS, menopause, PMDD, and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). A sought-after speaker and medical contributor, Dr. Nave addresses a spectrum of topics, including DEI, PCOS, intergenerational trauma, racism, menopause, COVID-19, and the mental health needs of marginalized communities, both in public health forums and professional spheres. In clinical practice, she empowers female and Assigned Females at Birth (AFAB) clients, integrating cultural experiences, clinical education, interdisciplinary partnerships, trauma-informed training, advocacy, and exploring the intersectionality of beauty, style, and health.
Outside clinical responsibilities, Dr. Nave champions professional growth, contributing to the development of training programs for clinicians. She actively engages in her community through expressions of style, participation in the arts, and outdoor activities, showcasing a comprehensive commitment to holistic well-being and the advancement of healthcare practices. Dr. Nave’s multifaceted contributions establish her as a leading force in the field, shaping the narrative of healthcare with her dedication and expertise.
