Hello, my name is Brooke McNeal, N.D. I would like to share with you the story of my passion and purpose.
Growing up, I was relatively healthy. I had my occasional brush with the conventional medical system, most of which left me disappointed and disenchanted with the care I received. Growing up in Jacksonville, FL, there weren’t a whole lot of options for “alternative healthcare” and there still aren’t to this day…though that is slowly changing! As fate would have it, I was introduced to some alternative approaches to health on a trip to California at the age of 19. I was so enthralled with the idea of using “natural medicine” and “whole foods” for health, it was all I could think about on the plane ride home. That was it, I was hooked, and I knew that this was my path. As soon as I arrived home, I began researching how I could learn more about “natural medicine.” In doing so, I stumbled upon the profession of naturopathic doctor and the Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine. I spent the next two years at Florida State scrambling to finish my degree, plus all the required pre-med classes, so I could graduate and start my naturopathic training as soon as possible. Four intense years later, I receive my Doctorate of Naturopathic Medicine from the Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine.
During school, I focused the majority of my energy on the study of homeopathy, under the guidance of Dr. Stephen Messer, ND. I chose to pursue homeopathy because during my clinical training it became obvious to me that it was the most profoundly healing science that exists in medicine. I witnessed patient after patient recover quickly from conditions that didn’t seem to respond to other therapies. Just before graduation I was lucky enough to be introduced to my second mentor and future husband, Dr. Mark Janikula, ND – the leading expert in treating mental illness using homeopathy.
I moved to Missoula, MT after graduation and started working with Mark Janikula, N.D. at Vital Homeopathic Center. After a few years in the wild west, I missed the ocean too much, so we packed up and moved to sunny Santa Cruz, CA. There we started Fountainhead Clinic, a successful, non-profit naturopathic mental health clinic. Alas, the heart wants what the heart wants, and after many years of living across the country, we decided to move back to the Sunshine State to be closer to our loved ones!
Though my training and degree are in naturopathic medicine and I have practiced as a doctor for 7 years in Montana and California, the state of Florida does not currently license naturopathic doctors. Therefore, my services in Florida are in a consulting and educational capacity only. However, I still have a wealth of knowledge to help you become a healthier, happier person.
I love using homeopathy to help people discover their own innate ability to heal and overcome many types of health challenges. Due to my life’s experience, I have a special place in my heart for the caretakers and loved ones of those with severe mental health disorders. I often find that the needs of these individuals are easily overlooked during a time of mental health crisis in a family. I believe it is essential for the wellbeing of the patient that all loved ones experiencing difficulty during these times also seek the care and support they need, which is why I am honored to offer my services to these individuals.
Thank you for letting me share my story with you. I look forward to hearing yours and hope that I can assist you on your journey towards true health.
Sincerely,
Brooke