Infant child care arlington va: Child Care – Official Website of Arlington County Virginia Government

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Child Care FAQs

The national typical hourly rate in 2022 is $20. 00 per hour for nannies and $17.50 for babysitters. Rates can vary based on the child care provider’s experience, certifications, employment status, and travel expenses. When calculating the cost of child care, you should also account for the number of children they’ll care for and additional responsibilities like household tasks or homework help. Learn more about how to set competitive rates for attracting the best babysitters.

The best way to find child care near you is to post a job detailing your needs on Sittercity, which will be shared with our community of available babysitters and nannies. We’ll notify you when child care providers apply to your job, and from there you can proceed with interviews, background checks, and reference checks so you can find the perfect fit for your family.

You can find experienced and passionate child care providers near you to provide the best care for your child, either in-home or virtually. Child care providers can help families with managing strict schedules, transportation to activities, homework help, last-minute coverage, date nights, and more. Whether you’re looking for full-time, part-time, live-in, or temporary care, you can count on Sittercity for finding passionate and experienced child care providers.

Families find trustworthy child care providers on Sittercity who are passionate about providing safe and enriching care for their children. Many providers report they are First Aid and CPR certified to provide the best care for your family. Babysitters and nannies have the option to complete regular background checks, and you can easily request a recent background check if they don’t have one or it is not recent. Families can also request to see professional references!

Our dedicated team also champions safety across our platform every day. Child care providers go through an identity verification process Berbix when registering an account. Some additional safety measures include Family Watchdog screening, babysitter and nanny reviews, and secure messaging.

Nannies and babysitters share the same primary responsibility of providing safe and enriching care for your child, but there are a few differences between them. Nannies are more commonly associated with regular work, whether full or part-time, offering daily or consistent care to a particular family. There are also several different types of nannies, including au pairs, house managers, doulas, live-in, and overnight nannies.

Babysitters, on the other hand, are typically hired for irregular or occasional work, either full or part-time. If you’re looking for last-minute care for date night, or the occasional few hours after school, a babysitter is a great best option.

Identifying the type and frequency of child care you’ll need is the best way to decide whether a babysitter or nanny is a better fit for your family.

Child care providers on Sittercity love providing enriching experiences for your children, and sharing their passions with them. They’re happy to participate in outdoor activities like sports, or indoor activities like music, baking, tutoring help, and art. Wherever your child’s interests lie, child care providers on Sittercity can engage them in a nurturing way.

Arlington, VA (Childcare & Programs)

There are 126 Daycares in Arlington, Virginia, serving a population of 229,534 people in an area of 26 square miles. There is 1 Daycare per 1,821 people, and 1 Daycare per square mile.

In Virginia, Arlington is ranked 370th of 1092 cities in Daycares per capita, and 146th of 1092 cities in Daycares per square mile.

List of Arlington Daycares

Find Arlington, Virginia daycares and preschools.

A Plus Kids Fun And Creative Learning Center

925 North Garfield Street

Arlington,
VA

Ana’s Kids

2205 South Fern Street

Arlington,
VA

Arliington Public Schools-Arlington Traditional Ext. Day Program

855 North Edison Street

Arlington,
VA

Arlington Career Ctr./Teenage Parenting Program-Infant Care Ctr.

816 South Walter Reed Drive

Arlington,
VA

Arlington Children’s Center

1915 North Uhle Street

Arlington,
VA

Arlington Community Church

6040 Wilson Boulevard

Arlington,
VA

Arlington Early Headstart Child Development Center

601 North Vermont Street

Arlington,
VA

Arlington Montessori House

3813 Washington Boulevard

Arlington,
VA

Arlington Montessori House

3809 Washington Boulevard

Arlington,
VA

Arlington P&R- Carlin Hall Ps & Tot Camp

5711 4th Street South

Arlington,
VA

Arlington P&R-Fairlington Community Center

3308 South Stafford Street

Arlington,
VA

Arlington P&R-Fairlington Community Center

300 North Park Drive

Arlington,
VA

Arlington P&R-Gunston Creative Preschool

2700 South Lang Street

Arlington,
VA

Arlington P&R-Lubber Run Pre-School & Tot Camp

300 North Park Drive

Arlington,
VA

Arlington P&R-Lubber Run Pre-School & Tot Camp

2121 North Culpeper Street

Arlington,
VA

Arlington P&R-Madison Community Center

3829 North Stafford Street

Arlington,
VA

Arlington P&R-Taylor Little Explorers

3700 North Delaware Street

Arlington,
VA

Arlington Public Schools-Abingdon Extended Day Program

3035 South Abingdon Street

Arlington,
VA

Arlington Public Schools-Ashlawn Extended Day Program

5950 8th Road North

Arlington,
VA

Arlington Public Schools-Barcroft Extended Day Program

625 South Wakefield Street

Arlington,
VA

Arlington Public Schools-Barrett Extended Day Program

4401 North Henderson Road

Arlington,
VA

Arlington Public Schools-Campbell Extended Day Program

737 South Carlin Springs Road

Arlington,
VA

Arlington Public Schools-Carlin Springs Extended Day Program

5995 5th Road South

Arlington,
VA

Arlington Public Schools-Claremont Extended Day Program

4700 South Chesterfield Road

Arlington,
VA

Arlington Public Schools-Discovery Extended Day Program

5241 36th Street North

Arlington,
VA

Arlington Public Schools-Drew Extended Day Program

3500 23rd Street South

Arlington,
VA

Arlington Public Schools-Glebe Extended Day Program

1770 North Glebe Road

Arlington,
VA

Arlington Public Schools-Henry Extended Day Program

701 South Highland Street

Arlington,
VA

Arlington Public Schools-Hoffman-Boston Extended Day Program

1415 South Queen Street

Arlington,
VA

Arlington Public Schools-Jamestown Extended Day Program

3700 North Delaware Street

Arlington,
VA

Arlington Public Schools-Key Extended Day Program

2300 Key Boulevard

Arlington,
VA

Arlington Public Schools-Long Branch Extended Day Program

33 North Fillmore Street

Arlington,
VA

Arlington Public Schools-Mckinley Extended Day Program

1030 North McKinley Road

Arlington,
VA

Arlington Public Schools-Nottingham Extended Day Program

5900 Little Falls Road

Arlington,
VA

Arlington Public Schools-Oakridge Extended Day Progra

1414 24th Street South

Arlington,
VA

Arlington Public Schools-Randolph Extended Day Program

1306 South Quincy Street

Arlington,
VA

Arlington Public Schools-Science Focus Extended Day Program

1501 North Lincoln Street

Arlington,
VA

Arlington Public Schools-Taylor Extended Day Program

2600 North Stuart Street

Arlington,
VA

Arlington Public Schools-Tuckahoe Extended Day Program

6550 26th Street North

Arlington,
VA

Arlington Unitarian Cooperative Ps

4444 Arlington Boulevard

Arlington,
VA

Arlington United Methodist Church

716 South Glebe Road

Arlington,
VA

Ballston Children’s Center

3850 Wilson Boulevard

Arlington,
VA

Blue Bird Day School

2401 9th Street North

Arlington,
VA

Bright Horizons At Crystal City

2451 Crystal Drive

Arlington,
VA

Bright Horizons At Rosslyn

1300 Wilson Boulevard

Arlington,
VA

Bright Horizons-Child Care & Education At Virginia Hospital Center

601 South Carlin Springs Road

Arlington,
VA

Busy Bee Child Care & Educational Ctr.

913 23rd Street South

Arlington,
VA

Calvary Children’s Center

2315 South Grant Street

Arlington,
VA

Cherry Blossom Day Care Center

2612 North Pershing Drive

Arlington,
VA

Cherrydale Baptist Church

3910 Lorcom Lane

Arlington,
VA

Daycares near Arlington

• Use My Location
• Bailey’s Crossroads
• Falls Church
• Alexandria
• Washington
• Annandale
• McLean
• Dunn Loring
• Cabin John
• Hillcrest Heights
• Bethesda
• Chevy Chase
• Springfield
• Franconia
• Mount Rainier
• Vienna
• Takoma Park
• Chillum
• Brentwood

Other Arlington Offices

• Animal Hospitals
• Animal Shelters
• Child, Youth, and Family Services
• Daycares
• Food Stamp Offices
• Goodwill Stores
• Salvation Army Stores
• Social Security Offices
• Social Services Departments
• Veterans Affairs Departments
• Victim Assistance Centers
• WIC Offices

Licensed Home-based Daycare in Arlington, VA

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• Clarendon-Courthouse-Rosslyn, VA
• Georgetown, DC
• Falls Church, VA
• Del Ray, VA
• West End Alexandria, VA
• Washington DC
• McLean, VA
• Old Town Alexandria, VA
• Annandale, VA
• Kingstowne-Rose Hill, VA

• Virginia

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This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author’s own.

Neighbor News

Play-based family child care program for children 0-5 years old.

Evgeniya (Jen) Usmanova, Local Business

Posted Thu, Nov 9, 2017 at 6:38 am ET|Updated Mon, Feb 8, 2021 at 9:52 am ET

Brooke’s Home Daycare is a safe and affordable family child care and preschool program in Arlington, VA. The owner and main caregiver is a mom of 4 with 10 years of child care experience and a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting. She offers full-time and part-time care for children from newborn up to 5 years old. This provider also offers peanut and tree-nut free snacks to the children in her care.

Her program follows the play-based teaching philosophy and uses the Mother Goose Curriculum. She teaches her students to communicate, negotiate, solve problems, get along, and respect each other. This licensed daycare and preschool is located in the Fallview neighborhood of Arlington, and has easy access to Lee Hwy (US-29) and Old Dominion Dr (route 309).

To learn more about the daycare, see photos and read verified parent reviews, click here.

Find out what’s happening in Arlingtonwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

===

CareLuLu helps parents find great child care and preschool. Quickly find the perfect daycare match with a personalized search and get all the info in one place: photos, cost, availability, and verified parent reviews. Best of all, it’s free! Created by Parents for Parents.

Find out what’s happening in Arlingtonwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

The views expressed in this post are the author’s own. Want to post on Patch?

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Clarendon Child Care Center | Arlington, VA

Program areas at Clarendon Child Care Center

Educational cooperative providing childcare services for pre-school age children

Personnel at Clarendon Child Care Center

Financials for Clarendon Child Care Center

• Revenues
• Expenses
• Assets
• Liabilities

Revenues	FYE 12/2020	FYE 12/2019	% Change
Total grants, contributions, etc.	$30,194	$23,967	26%
Program services	$716,294	$750,920	-4.6%
Investment income and dividends	$12,991	$5,573	133.1%
Tax-exempt bond proceeds	$0	$0	–
Royalty revenue	$0	$0	–
Net rental income	$0	$0	–
Net gain from sale of non-inventory assets	$0	$0	–
Net income from fundraising events	$0	$0	–
Net income from gaming activities	$0	$0	–
Net income from sales of inventory	$0	$0	–
Miscellaneous revenues	$0	$0	–
Total revenues	$759,479	$780,460	-2. 7%

Form 990s for Clarendon Child Care Center

Organizations like Clarendon Child Care Center

Data update history

August 8, 2022

Posted financials

Added Form 990 for fiscal year 2020

July 26, 2022

Updated personnel

Identified 8 new personnel

July 26, 2022

Used new vendors

Identified 1 new vendor, including

May 21, 2022

Used new vendors

Identified 2 new vendors, including , and

August 22, 2021

Posted financials

Added Form 990 for fiscal year 2019

Nonprofit Types

SchoolsHuman service organizationsYouth service charitiesCharities

Issues

EducationHuman servicesChildren

Characteristics

Fundraising eventsReceives government fundingAuction fundraisersTax deductible donations

General information

Address

1305 North Jackson St

Arlington, VA 22201

Metro area

Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV

County

Arlington County, VA

Website URL

clarendonchildcarecenter. org/ 

Phone

(703) 528-1361

IRS details

EIN

54-1088503

Fiscal year end

December

Taxreturn type

Form 990

Year formed

1978

Eligible to receive tax-deductible contributions (Pub 78)

Yes

Categorization

NTEE code, primary

P33: Child Day Care

NAICS code, primary

624410: Child Day Care Services

Parent/child status

Independent

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Why prioritizing motherhood in first 3 years is critical

October 2, 2022 | ‘As a society, we really don’t respect mothering’ (Erica Komisar with WTOP’s Hillary Howard and Mike Murillo )

WASHINGTON — It’s no secret that new babies need extra care and attention from their parents — from skin-to-skin bonding in the first few weeks, to snuggles and stories before bed.

But it turns out, that intense closeness is critical well past the first few months of a child’s life. Babies need it for the first three years — especially from their mothers. 

Several years ago, psychoanalyst and parenting expert Erica Komisar started noticing a trend among American families. 

“I was seeing an epidemic level of emotionally troubled children who were really suffering from the absence of their mothers on a daily basis,” said Komisar, citing an uptick in conditions such as ADHD, early childhood aggression and social disorders.

“And it’s just getting worse,” she said.

All the research pointed Komisar to one thing: the critical role mothers play in the first three years of a child’s development.

Why mothers? It’s science

A mother’s physical and emotional presence provides babies with two things: protection from stress and emotional regulation, both of which are important to healthy brain development and the child’s future well-being.

“The way that we become resilient to stress is that our mothers protect us from stress in the first three years, from moment-to-moment throughout the day,” said Komisar, author of “Being There: Why Prioritizing Motherhood in the First Three Years Matters.”

“If our mother isn’t there to protect us from that stress that we feel, then it doesn’t lay the foundation down to be resilient to stress in the future.”

And while care and concern from both mom and dad is important, from a biological perspective, it’s not interchangeable. Komisar says when mothers and fathers nurture a child, they both produce a hormone called oxytocin.

“This is what we call ‘the bonding hormone’ or ‘the love hormone,’” Komisar explained.

The oxytocin mothers produce during bonding makes them more sensitive and empathic nurturers. Whereas the oxytocin that fathers produce in the same circumstance makes them more playfully stimulating and “encouraging of children to be independent and explore.”

Komisar says both are needed in a child’s first three years, but children require much more of the sensitive and empathetic nurturing.

“So the more you’re with your baby, the more you’re present, physically and emotionally for your baby, the less stressed that baby is and the less stressed the mother is,” Komisar said.

What this means for women who work

For many women, bonding with our babies around the clock simply isn’t a possibility. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, women make up 47 percent of the American workforce. Many women return to that workforce before a child is even 3 months old.

Komisar is also a working mother, and understands the dilemmas and demands modern women face. She emphasizes that her book, “Being There,” is not about working vs. not working, since one can be physically present and emotionally checked out.

Rather, it’s about prioritizing children during the first three years. That is why she tells all mothers that “more is more.”

“The more time you’re with that baby, the better off that baby will be,” she said.

For working mothers, Komisar advises to take as much time off as possible after birth and to push the limits on what you can take.

“As women, advocate for yourselves and push the boundaries as much as possible even in the hours that you work,” Komisar said.

If possible, scale back from full-time to part-time. If that’s not an option, make the most of the time you spend with your baby at home by limiting distractions. Komisar says to leave your phone, tablet and computer by the door when you get home, and don’t pick them up until the baby goes to sleep.

When looking for a caregiver, forgo the high-achieving, “tough love” nannies and hire the caregiver who is the most loving toward your child.

“In modern day society, we tend to look for competence. We look for the baby sitters and nannies who can organize our closet, or cook, or food shop or clean efficiently. I say forget all of those things, because the most important thing is if that person is really emotionally and physically present for your baby,” Komisar said.

Another tip she offers working mothers is to keep things in perspective. It’s possible to make sacrifices in the workplace for a few years without derailing your entire career.

“If we’re all going to live as long as they say we’re going to live, then you have many, many years to be high-achieving in your profession — to make lots of money, to have great material success — but you really have a very short time to have this critical influence on your children’s emotional well-being.”

The need for change

Komisar says the obvious answer to help mothers be better able to care for their children during the most critical years is a change in policy.

“As a society, we really don’t respect mothering,” Komisar said, noting that the U.S. lacks a maternity leave policy.

“We have something called The Family Leave Act: This is not a maternity leave policy,” she added.

Komisar says while an 18-month leave, like the maternity policy available in Sweden, might not be attainable for the U.S., six months should be.

“We at least need to have six months of paid maternity leave, another six months of partial paid maternity leave, and another two years of flexible schedules for mothers,” Komisar said.

Related Categories:

Health & Fitness News
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Tags:

being there
| childhood development
| Erica Komisar
| first three years
| maternity leave
| motherhood
| parenting
| rachel nania

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Arlington County Parent Resources

• LGBTQ https://www. accreditedschoolsonline.org/resources/lgbtq-student-support/
• Autism: https://www.cigna.com/individuals-families/health-wellness/topic-autism/
• Eating Disorders: https://www.cigna.com/individuals-families/health-wellness/topic-eating-disorders
• Substance Use Disorders: https://www.cigna.com/individuals-families/health-wellness/topic-substance-use-disorder
• Parents and families: https://www.cigna.com/individuals-families/health-wellness/topic-mental-health/
• Recorded mindfulness sessions (English and Spanish): https://www.cigna.com/individuals-families/health-wellness/climb-mindfulness-podcasts

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Food Allergy Guidelines 2019

APS The section of the Food Allergy Guidelines on Nutrition Education, Food Promotion and Marketing in Policy Implementation Procedures I-10. 30 – Supporting Student Health has been updated for the 2018-19 school year. These guidelines will be implemented across all APS schools to establish consistent practices in this area across all of our sites. Please click here for more information.

Resources to support student success and well-being. Social Emotional Learning Handbook

The Social Emotional Learning Handbook contains a catalog of student support programs that APS school teams can use when determining what students need. The student support included here demonstrates APS’s strong commitment to the well-being and success of our students.

13 reasons why – new season starts May 18, 2018

Warning for Families About Students Watching 13 Reasons Why Season 2 Last fall, we reached out to families to tell you about the Netflix series, Reasons 13 . We wanted to reach out to families to let you know that Season 2 of Reasons 13 will begin streaming on Netflix on Friday, May 18th. We expect that some students who haven’t watched Season 1 can watch it now, and those who have seen it can watch it again before Season 2 is released. For these reasons, we wanted to share information with families so that you are ready to support your child if they watch the series. Season 1 of the Netflix series was adapted from the popular book of the same name by Jay Asher. The book and TV series follows a group of students as they piece together a story left behind by a classmate who died by suicide. Although the story touched on important topics, the content was very descriptive. Last fall, critics raised concerns that the show was romanticizing or glorifying suicide while leaving no healthy alternative to children struggling with emotional issues. When plans for a second season were announced, staff at the School Counselors Association of America (ASCA) reached out to Netflix and worked with them on the project. Netflix has responded in a number of ways, including asking the actors to step out of characters to address important issues, provide warning information before each episode, and create a discussion guide. ASCA also strongly objects to the unethical and off-character portrayal of the “school psychologist” character in “Season 1”. However, ASCA has not been allowed to announce a second season, so ASCA expects the same or similar topics to be covered and does not expect Season 1 to be any less disturbing for some students. We continue to believe that it is of the utmost importance for our children and youth to process such information with a trusted adult. For this reason, we want to encourage families to talk to your children about what they are watching, whether at home or elsewhere with their friends. APS suicide prevention resources available through In Crisis / Need Help Now button under “Quick Links” on the APS main web page. Finally, as always, we want to remind families that all APS School Counselors, School Psychologists and Social Workers are available if you have any questions or concerns.

Resources provided by ASCA

https://www.schoolcounselor.org/asca/media/asca/FactSheets/AFSP13Reasons. pdf

https://13reasonswhy.info/

LGBTQ resources (local, national and national)

Arlington’s LGBTQ resource page is for a community that seeks acceptance and balance We can serve our diverse population, which includes people from all walks of life, including those who identify as LGBTQ. Our vision, which affirms that each of us matters, means that our community is one where diversity is not only tolerated, but valued and respected. For more information click the link above.

Arlington Families

Arlington Families is a website that connects parents and guardians to valuable online resources about what’s happening with families in Arlington, Virginia. Find a play area, meet other parents at a workshop, learn about school options, find something fun to do on the weekend, or join in on some practical parenting ideas! Go to the Arlington Family website for more details.

Family of projects (CFSD)

Parents and children (newborn age – 5 years) Learning together! Various classes Monday through Saturday from 10:30am to 12pm or 30pm to 2pm at various locations in Arlington. Bilingual early childhood development and parental support. Contact Cheryl Fuentesat [email protected] or 703/228-1549 for more information.

Strengthening Families (CFSD) Fortaleciendo la Familia

For all families with young people aged 10 to 14. Programs in English or Spanish. Babysitting and dinner. Contact Jan Landis at [email protected] or 703/228-1108 for more information.

Arlington Partnership for Children, Youth and Families (APCYF)

• Workshops and Information on Development Assets, READY Coalition and Arlingtonteens.com
• For asset information, call 703/228-1671.
• For READYCoalition, call 703/228-1683 or visit www.readycoalition.org
• For information about the TeenNetwork Board, call 703/228-1506.
• For online resources for teens, visit www.arlingtonteens.com

Arlington Public Schools: Parent Academy

The APS Parent Academy slot machine offers parents and guardians of Arlington school-going children the opportunity to access information on a wide range of topics.

Arlington Public Schools: Even Start Program

Family Literacy Program offering English language education to parents and limited preschool care at Barcroft Elementary School. Includes parent education component. Contact Kathy Kostar, Even Start Coordinator at (703) 228-8846 or kathleen.costar @apswa.us

Stop Child Abuse Now

The Parent Relations Manual is a bi-annual publication of parenting programs offered in Northern Virginia.

Parent Connection Resource Guide

SCAN offers Parenting Program Parenting classes in English or Spanish and parent support groups. For information about SCAN parent classes, contact the parent education coordinator at 703/820-9001.

Northern Virginia Family Services (NVFS) Healthy Families

Northern Virginia Family Services (NVFS) Healthy Families Programs provides free family assessment and home visiting services to pregnant women and parents with children aged 0 to 3 years . Healthy Families is associated with Healthy Families America , Child Abuse Prevention Initiative America . For more information, visit http://www.nvfs.org/healthyfamilies or contact Elizabeth Willingham at 571 / 748-2712.

Capital Youth Empowerment Program (KIEP)

Offers Fathers in touch parent class and Project success for teenagers. Visit http://www.cyep.org/ for current registration and class schedule information.

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Anna P.

Summer in Greece

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VA Family is looking for a live-in nanny

We are a family of 5. The youngest child is Bella. She is 4 years old and attends Goddard Prep from Monday to Friday. Bella is very energetic and playful. Andreas had just turned seven. He is in 1st grade at Crestview Al…
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Anna T.
Need help with 3 kids 8,11,13. While in Greece

Hello, we are a family of 5. Our children love Greece 2 girls 1 boy. Most days in Greece are like bouncing off the walls. And some days we just stay by the pool and relax. We have our own hotel on the island, so it’s very convenient. ..
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Kim N.
Family doctor looking for a reliable nanny

Hello! My husband and I are both physicians in the VA region of the USA. We are looking for someone who has experience taking care of babies and would like to be part of our family! We have a 21 month old son and he is very active! He loves the number…
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Looking for a caring nanny for 3 boys

We are an American-Hungarian couple with three wonderful boys aged 5, 8 and 10 living in a suburb of Richmond, Virginia. We are very family oriented and are looking for an outgoing, positive nanny who would love to be a new addition…
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We are looking for a nanny 5 days a week 5 to 6 hours a day to take care of our newborn baby due in March. We are looking for a long term. We ask that you be fully vaccinated against covid, annual flu and Tdap. I would also like to add…
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Dear future nanny / Tudor! We, Denise and DeAndre, would like to invite you as our Au Pair (nanny / Tudor) in (Henrico, Virginia (USA)). Your stay will begin on 1 August 2022 and will last 12 months or longer. Let’s reevaluate…
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cost of living in different parts of Virginia

One of the things that is always associated with big money is the cost of living, especially in Virginia . So we’re going to see the cost of living in Virginia, whether it’s west, Richmond, Arlington, Alexandria, Norfolk, Reston, McLean and Hendon.

The cost of living in West Virginia

The cost of living in West Virginia has risen sharply, averaging about 7%, still less than the national average (9%). Luckily, depending on your preferences, you can find cheaper housing in areas of West Virginia and cheaper rentals to live in.

Transportation Cost of Living in West Virginia

Transportation costs can also add significantly to the cost of living. 91.7 percent of commuters in West Virginia commute to work compared to 85.5 percent nationally. The average motorist in the state drives 10,496 miles per year. However, taking into account average fuel economy and average gas prices (standard gasoline costs an average of 2020 dollars per gallon in West Virginia in the middle of 9age 81), the average motorist in the state can expect to spend $81 on gas alone per year.

Other transportation costs, such as car insurance, also vary by state. According to Insure.com, the median insurance rate in West Virginia is $1,580, more than the national average of $1,517. According to EPI data, the average single adult in the state spends $10,439 annually on transportation.

Richmond Virginia Cost of living

The cost of living in Richmond, Virginia is 4% cheaper than the national average. However, the cost of living in Richmond, Virginia, or anywhere else can vary based on factors. For example, your profession, the average salary in the area, and the real estate market in the area.

The cost of living in Richmond, Virginia is 11% lower than the national average and utility bills are 6% higher. Cost of Living in Richmond, Virginia. Transportation costs such as bus fares and petrol prices are 8% lower than the national average.

Cost of Living in Arlington, VA

If you’re looking to buy a home in the beautiful state of Virginia, you’ll find that it has one of the most competitive housing markets in the country. In addition, buying a home can be a time-consuming and complicated process. In addition to the down payment, a closing fee will be charged, which is usually 15-20% of the sale price. If you have a home in the same location, the sale of that home must also be completed. Once you’ve bought and moved into a new home, you’ll have to pay for utilities and maintenance, as well as property taxes and home insurance, all of which will add to the cost of living in Arlington, Virginia. There are many benefits to living in Arlington, Virginia, but the high cost of buying a home is not one of them.

Access to and cost of health care and accommodation in Arlington, Virginia.

Virginia ranks 29th among all states in terms of overall healthcare access and affordability. In addition, healthcare costs make up a significant portion of the cost of living in Arlington, Virginia. Meanwhile, the ability to afford medical care, as well as the ability to receive treatment, are critical predictors. And how much you pay for this vital resource if you move to another state. Your cost of living in Arlington, Virginia will rise if interest rates or out-of-pocket expenses are high.

Will spending on food in Norfolk, Virginia affect the overall cost of living?

Yes, the cost of food is significant, because we all need to eat! Plus, if you plan wisely, you can save money on your food bills. Go to retailers like Costco or Albertsons to buy in bulk and save a lot of money. During certain seasons of the year, roadside stalls and farmers’ markets offer inexpensive local produce. Most importantly, there are many strategies to cut food costs and reduce the overall cost of living in Norfolk, Virginia.

Are there any decent recreational opportunities around Norfolk, Virginia, despite the cost?

Norfolk, Virginia doesn’t have a big sports team, but don’t worry, check out local college and high school schedules. Moreover, these games usually have very low ticket prices, and the energy and enthusiasm of the spectators often make up for the lack of skill.

How much does internet and cable TV cost in Norfolk, Virginia?

The average monthly cost of an Internet connection in the United States is $66. 20. However, there are many providers and packages available, many of which combine Internet, TV and telephone service. Even within the same region, prices for different packages can vary greatly. Hence, you should weigh your alternatives based on your usage and preferences. And then choose the most suitable one for your needs. One tip to reduce these costs and the overall cost of living in Norfolk, Virginia is to get cable TV service from a different provider. For example, Direct TV, Netflix, Sling, Amazon Prime or others.

What is the average cost of moving to another location and what should I consider?

For a distance of 1,200 miles, the average cost to move to another state is about $5,600. However, this fee can vary greatly depending on the distance traveled and the amount carried. You may find that after you move in, you will need to buy a lot of new items for your new home. For example, window coverings, rugs, lights and outdoor gear. Make a budget for these types of expenses. And include them in the cost of living in a new place for the first year. Finally, despite the lack of monetary costs, moving causes stress. Which is exacerbated if you have children or pets. Make sure you plan ahead for any additional care your children and pets will need to ensure a smooth transition.

Will the cost of electricity in Norfolk, Virginia, increase in the future?

In Virginia, the cost of electricity has increased by 4.114% over the past year. Electricity rates can vary based on usage rates, government regulations, and even the weather.

What types of childcare are available in Norfolk, Virginia and how much does it cost?

The projected annual cost of childcare in Norfolk, Virginia is $10,458.21 (state average). This price ranks 1st in the country. Some businesses have day care centers where you can bring your child to work and receive care. However, some colleges and educational institutions with children’s education programs may also have low-cost kindergartens. So consider these options to see if you can cut down on childcare costs.

Should I expect to pay a lot of rent in Norfolk, Virginia?

Living in Virginia $950 for a large two-bedroom apartment in Norfolk. He needs a huge apartment because he has two children.

Reston Virginia cost of living

If you want to buy a home in the beautiful state of Virginia. You will find that it has one of the most competitive residential properties in the country. Buying a home can be a time-consuming and complicated process. In addition, there will be closing fees in addition to the down payment, which are typically 15-20% of the sale price. If you have a home in the same location, the sale of that home must also be completed. Once you have bought and moved into a new home, you will have utilities and maintenance fees. As well as property taxes and home insurance, all of which will increase your cost of living in Reston, Virginia. Living in Reston, Virginia has many benefits, but the high cost of buying a home is not one of them.

Health care access and affordability and cost of living in Reston, Virginia.

Healthcare costs are a significant part of the cost of living in Reston, Virginia. Moreover, the ability to afford medical care, as well as the ability to receive treatment, are critical factors in how much you will pay for this vital resource if you move to another state. Also, your cost of living will rise if interest rates or out-of-pocket expenses are high. At the same time, accessibility is determined by identifying potential barriers to health care delivery. For example, the inability to obtain insurance coverage, the need to travel long distances to medical facilities and the lack of appropriate medical facilities and/or health professionals. Another important factor is the timeliness of care, or how quickly you can contact your health care provider.

McLean, VA Cost of Living

In McLean, VA, the total cost is approximately $0 per month. The typical monthly rent in McLean, Virginia for a one-bedroom downtown apartment is approximately $0 and utilities are approximately $0 per month. Other costs per person living in McLean, Virginia would be approximately $0. Including markets, transit, restaurants, sports and recreation.

If you’re looking to buy a home in the beautiful state of Virginia, you’ll find that it has one of the most competitive housing markets in the country. Buying a home can be a time-consuming and complicated process. In addition to the down payment, a closing fee will be charged, which is usually 15-20% of the sale price. If you have a home in the same location, the sale of that home must also be completed. Once you’ve bought and moved into a new home, you’ll have to pay for utilities and maintenance, as well as property taxes and home insurance, all of which will add to your cost of living in McLean, Virginia.

Conclusion

Living in Virginia has many benefits, but the cost is not one of them.

Frequently Asked Questions about the cost of living in Virginia

Is it expensive to live in Virginia?

Virginia scores 103. 7 on the Cost of Living Index, which is based on the US average of 100. This means that compared to the national average, the cost of living in Virginia is higher. However, compared to other East Coast cities, Virginia is relatively affordable and has a reasonable cost of living.

How does Virginia rank in terms of cost of living?

Overall, Virginia is in the middle when it comes to the cost of living. In a survey by CNBC’s Global Board of CFOs, Virginia ranks 25th among states for cost of living, meaning it’s more expensive than about half the states and cheaper than the other half.

Is it cheaper to live in Virginia or California?

California is 8.8% more expensive than Virginia. .

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Medical and surgical abortion – the health of the whole woman

August 13, 2021 March 31, 2017

Finding out which abortion method is right for you.

We believe that compassionate, personal and safe abortion care is a vital part of women’s health care. We specialize in this unique area of ​​medicine and have a remarkable experience. Our Whole Woman’s Health clinics are the leading abortion specialists for your body, your mind and your heart.

While you may have heard of medical abortions and/or surgical abortions, knowing which one is right for you can be a difficult decision. Let’s take a look at these two very common abortion methods.

Both medical (“abortion pill”) and surgical procedures are excellent and safe methods. Some patients prefer the convenience of a surgical procedure because after 1 day they know their abortion is complete and can return to their normal activities. Some women choose to have an abortion in the comfort of their own home and set the time for the abortion according to their work schedule, child care or life schedule. The fees for both are comparable, and insurance and funding sources can help cover either option.

Some women choose to have a medical abortion in the comfort of their own home and schedule the abortion according to their work schedule, child care or life schedule. The fees for both are comparable, and insurance and funding sources can help cover either option.

Medical abortion

Medical abortion (sometimes called the abortion pill) is available to women up to 10 weeks pregnant (this varies by clinic, so please call our Empower line at 877-835-1090 for specific information).

Medical abortion involves taking two different drugs to terminate a pregnancy. Your doctor will give you the first mifepristone tablet. This pill blocks the production of a hormone needed for pregnancy and separates the pregnancy from the uterine wall.

The second drug, misoprostol, should be taken at home 24 to 48 hours after the first drug. You put the tablets in your mouth between your cheek and gums and let them dissolve; if they have not dissolved after 30 minutes, the remaining tablets can be swallowed with water.

Misoprostol will cause the uterus to contract and the cervix to open slightly, allowing the body to rule out pregnancy, which may be accompanied by mild to severe cramping and heavy bleeding. This tablet empties the uterus and this process is often described as heavy periods with spasms.

When you complete your medical abortion, you will need:

• Be at home or at the home of someone who knows what’s going on
• Have a phone number
• Be within one hour of the emergency room
• No other obligations, including small children to take care of.
• Bring along or “on call” a support person who knows what’s going on and has a car.

Surgical Abortion

Although every surgical procedure carries some risk, the truth is that abortion is one of the safest and most common outpatient procedures in the US – 10 times safer than full-term pregnancy and vaginal delivery.

• Early surgical abortion: specialized surgical abortion at 3-5 weeks of gestation.
• First Trimester Abortion Care: 1-2 day abortion procedures with additional intravenous sedation (Same Day Surgical Consultation at our Twin Cities office).

After the anesthesia of your choice has been administered, your doctor will perform a pelvic exam to determine the exact position of your uterus. To do this, insert two fingers into the vagina, place one hand on the lower abdomen and gently press on the abdomen so that the size and position of the uterus can be determined.

The doctor then places a speculum into the vagina so that the walls of the vagina do not separate. He/she will hold the cervix, the entrance to the uterus, with an instrument called tenaculum. The doctor will then insert several narrow rods called dilators into the cervix to further open it. The doctor uses a suction cannula and other special instruments to remove the pregnancy from the uterus.

The whole process may take 5 minutes. A staff member will be in the room with you and the doctor to help you through the procedure. Please also ask for your support specialist to be included in the process.

• Second Trimester Abortion Care: 1-2 Day Surgical Abortion Procedures (Timing time and length of pregnancy varies from clinic to clinic according to state law. Please contact our Empower line at 877-835- 1090 for specific information).

To have an abortion in the second trimester, the cervix must be dilated more than in the first trimester. This process takes time and it will be safer for you if it is done slowly. There are two ways to dilate the cervix: dilate the cervix overnight with kelp, or use a medicine called misoprostol (Cytotec) to soften and dilate the cervix. Our doctor will review your ultrasound and medical history and recommend the method they think is the safest and most comfortable for you. A doctor often recommends both expansion methods. Our main concern is your safety and comfort.

Kelp is made from sterile natural materials that absorb moisture from your body and expand slowly over several hours. The doctor will use a speculum (a clean metal instrument used to open your vagina) to look inside your vagina. When the dilator is inserted and opened, you will most likely feel a lot of pressure in your pelvis, which may be uncomfortable but should not cause pain.

The doctor will look for the cervix, which is the end of the uterus, as in a Pap smear. He/she will then insert the kelp into the cervix and allow it to dilate during the night so that the abortion can be safely performed the next day. The amount of kelp depends on the gestational age and the discretion of the doctor performing the abortion, usually only 2 or 3 is required. After the introduction of kelp, you can go home and rest for the evening.

Although we do not intend to carry a pregnancy due to dilation alone, there is a small chance that this can happen, in which case you should call the nurse. This method requires two visits on two consecutive days; You can expect to be here for about 3-4 hours on the first day and 1-2 hours on the second day. The doctor will perform a pelvic exam to make sure the cervix is ​​sufficiently dilated and then complete the abortion procedure.

Although both medical abortion and surgical abortion are safe and reliable, it is important that you choose the procedure that is right for you. Please call our Empower line at 877-835-1090 to ask specific questions, get more information and make an appointment at any of our clinics.

Rollover Roe: A heartfelt response from our CEO

June 24, 2022

Me and all of us at Whole Woman’s Heath are emotionally devastated today. Rowe’s appeal is not an abstraction for us – today we had to call hundreds of our patients in Texas and cancel their appointments. Today, our staff at our 9 clinics in 5 states across the country are trying to make sense of this decision for themselves, their families, and our future. This SCOTUS decision will change the course of our lives forever.

Today I am both heartbroken and outraged. I’m disgusted And even more betrayed. I feel sad for the future of the United States. I am horrified by what this says about how women, pregnant women and families are treated in this country. The US should be a beacon of freedom, human rights and justice in the world. Instead, our Supreme Court struck down a constitutional right for the FIRST TIME IN US history.

I don’t think the damage this will do to the lives of millions of people and future generations can be exaggerated. Judge Alito and his accomplices have inflicted one of the worst self-inflicted wounds this nation has ever had. Under this ruling, they have approved a full-scale attack on every person who is or could become pregnant in the US. We know this because we have been at the forefront of the fight for abortion rights, health and justice for many years.

Abortion is a moral good. Abortion WILL SAVE lives.

We have seen the positive impact of legal abortion on the lives of countless individuals, families and communities over the decades. Each of us knows someone and loves someone who has benefited from an abortion.

As states across the country bear the impact of many thousands of other state-sanctioned pregnancies each year, we will see how inalienable are abortion rights and access to the health, well-being of individuals and families, and our country itself. .

As thousands of pregnant women suffer from dangerous complications and even die due to pregnancies they were forced to carry to term, we will see more clearly how far the US has fallen and how far it has failed to protect the health and well-being of parents.

As postpartum care, childcare, education and other life-saving support systems go beyond their limits, we will see how empty the promises of so-called pro-life politicians are to our country’s families – and especially to our children. .

And, as always, the harm caused by all of this will fall hardest on people of color, immigrants, the economically disadvantaged, and other marginalized communities.

We know all this because we have seen it in the lives of the people we care about every single day as they walk through our doors seeking help, advice, support, compassionate listening and trustworthy high quality care.

Their communities are our communities—the very communities in which we work and live, in which we have built our families and raised our own children.

When their lives are unnecessarily and irreparably damaged by this decision, we too will suffer.

To them – to our patients and to all the people who need somewhere to turn for help and support at this moment – I want to offer the strongest reassurance possible:

Whole women’s health is here for you. We are not leaving. Is always.

Whole Woman’s Health will continue its long and proud tradition of providing high quality, compassionate, personal abortion services in the remaining states where the needs and rights of pregnant women are still respected and protected by law.

Our clinics in Virginia, Maryland, Minnesota and Indiana are open and ready to help. Our mail order medical abortion program is here to serve you. And our guide program – designed specifically to help people find their way from a state where they are denied an abortion to a state where they can have an abortion – our program is ready to help each and every applicant get the abortion they need. . If you would like to support this initiative, please donate now.

We will do everything we can to help ensure safe, timely and affordable care for those whose rights and access to safe and legal abortion services have been brutally and unfairly denied.

We will continue to fight desperately against the freedom, family and rights extremists responsible for this heinous attack on the people, families and communities we serve. We will not stop fighting until our rights and access to the help we all need are fully restored.

Pregnant women deserve better. Families deserve better. Literally every living person deserves better than this terrible failure of compassion, decency and humanity.

And that is why we will persevere and persevere in our mission of showing the compassion, empathy, support and care that all people in our country deserve.

In Solidarity,

Amy Hagstrom Miller
President & CEO
Whole Women’s Health & Women’s Health Alliance

Provider Archives – Unity Care NW

Mel Agan, DDS

Bellingham Dentist at Unity Street Children’s Clinic

As a dental student, I rotated through Unity Care NW and knew I would be back after graduation. The supportive staff and commitment to quality healthcare for our community is what keeps me here.

I received my B.S. in Cellular and Molecular Biology from Western Washington University at 1997 and a DDS degree from the University of Washington in 2001. I am a member of the Academy of General Dentistry and a former member of the National Health Corps. I am certified in ABCD Pediatric Dentistry and remain an affiliate faculty member of the UW Department of Pediatric Dentistry. I served on the Education Committee for Whatcom County’s oral health coalition. I speak Turkish fluently.

Katherine Brighton, RDH

North Whatcom Dentist’s Wellness Center

I joined Unity Care NW in June 2019 and have many years of private practice experience. I joined UCNW to be able to change the world for the better. I completed my AAS in Dental Hygiene from Shoreline Community College and my Certificate in Dental Care from Bellingham Technical College.

I enjoy working in public health because it involves teaching and helping people.

Laurie Brion, DDS

Bellingham Dentist at Cornwall Adult Dental Clinic

Unity Care NW provides a great opportunity to improve the health and lives of people in our community, especially those with limited resources, through quality care, prevention and education.

I received my DDS from the University of Washington School of Dentistry in 1985. During my career, I have worked with local health centers, worked in private practice, and taught in the Dental Hygiene and Dental Care program at Bellingham Technical College. I speak French fluently.

I am a member of NNOHA (National Oral Health Access Network).

Mark Brooks, DDS

North Whatcom Health Center Dentist

I have been working in community dentistry for over 25 years. I enjoy providing quality dentistry to people in our community.

I graduated from Virginia Commonwealth University/Virginia Medical College. I was able to complete my general practice residency at the University of Utah. I have worked for the Indian Health Service and the Sea-Mar Community Health Centre.

I joined Unity Care NW in May 2020 at North Whatcom Medical Center.

Mason Cooper, MD

Bellingham Dentist at Cornwall Adult Dental Clinic

I joined Unity Care NW in November 2021.

I received my BS in Human Nutrition from Arizona State University in 2005 and my DMD from the Arizona School of Dentistry and Oral Health in 2010. I received my certification in public health concepts from AT Still University, a purely community-focused university. health and clinical dentistry. I had my own practice at Blaine for 10 years but left it to pursue a career serving those who are more in need of oral care services.

I enjoy using my skills to help members of our community who might not otherwise have access to dental care.

My hobbies are snowboarding, drumming, cooking, gardening and hiking.

Jan Kerlett, RDH

Bellingham Dental Hygienist at Unity Street Children’s Clinic

I started with Unity Care NW (formerly known as Interfaith Community Health Center) as a Dental Hygienist on September 1998, after receiving an AAS in Dental Hygiene from Lake Washington Technical College. My story really started here in November 1995, when I came to work as a part-time dental assistant in preparation for enrolling in dental hygiene school. Needing a part-time dental job while in college led me to public health, where I discovered that my passion was not just working on people’s teeth, but helping the overall health of the entire community.

I especially love working with children. Most of my work is in all of Whatcom County’s elementary and high schools, where I work with a dental assistant to apply sealants and fluoride to over a thousand children’s teeth each year. In 2015, I participated in the Washington State Smile Survey, which performed visual screening of thousands of Whatcom County children ages 3 to 11. During my many years at UCNW, I have given dental presentations in kindergarten and elementary school classrooms, dental hygiene classes, and WIC Social Workers.

When I work in the clinic, I enjoy using all my sills for oral hygiene, including conventional hygiene, anesthesia and restoration. I love the opportunity to work with our entire dental team to deliver the highest quality service while making it as fun and easy as possible!

Heather Devlin, RDH

Bellingham Dental Hygienist at Unity Street Children’s Dental Clinic

I enjoy using my education and skills to help our community members live healthier lives.

I received a bachelor’s degree in fitness and exercise from Western Washington University in 1996 and an AAS in dental hygiene from Lake Washington Technical College in 2000.

Adam Drews, DMD

Bellingham Dentist at Cornwall Adult Dental Clinic

I joined UCNW in May 2020.

After completing my undergraduate studies at the University of Michigan, I received my DMD from the College of Dental Medicine, Midwestern University in Illinois. After a cross-country trip, I completed a residency in general dentistry at NYU Langone at Healthpoint CHC. I have experience in private practice and in public healthcare settings, working with patients from different walks of life and cultures.

What I love most about public health is education and impact on vulnerable populations in the community, and expanding access to health care for all. In my spare time, I enjoy playing hockey, pursuing new hobbies, and following my favorite Detroit sports teams.

Jonathan Henry, MD

Associate Dental Director

I joined Unity Care NW in April 2019.

I graduated from the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine in 2011 with DMD. I received my bachelor’s degree in cell biology from Western Washington University, where I also played on the football team.

Since I completed my degree, I have worked as a General Dentist in Bellingham in private practice and healthcare. I am passionate about using my talents and skills to help people in Whatcom County achieve optimal oral health, especially for low income families. I love helping patients get used to going to the dentist!

Rebecca Gora, DDS

Associate Dental Director

Since Unity Care NW In 2003, I enjoyed working as a team with my colleagues to help children in our community grow up to have healthy smiles.

I graduated from the University of Oregon in 1994 with a bachelor’s degree in general science. In 2003, I completed my DDS degree from Creighton University. I am ABCD Certified in Pediatric Dentistry and a former member of the Whatcom County Oral Health Coalition and the National Health Corps. I am also an affiliate faculty member of the Department of Pediatric Dentistry at the University of Washington.

I am a member of NNOHA (National Oral Health Access Network).

Ashley Hutto, DDS

North Whatcom Health Center Dentist

I joined Unity Care NW in October 2016. I received my BS in Biology from the University of Texas at San Antonio and my DMD with honors from the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. After graduating, I completed the Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) program at the Northwest Dental Residency/Yakima Valley Farm Workers’ Clinic in Eastern Washington, where I spent most of my days working for the Union Gospel Mission along with many volunteer dentists who took care of the homeless. patients.

I am a member of NNOHA (National Oral Health Access Network).

Marco Mass Pasqua, DDS

Bellingham Dentist at Unity Street Children’s Clinic

Public Health gives me the opportunity to reach out to my community and help those in need of quality and gentle dental care.

I received my DDS from the National Autonomous University of Honduras in 1999. I completed my Masters in Pediatric Dentistry from the University of Barcelona in 2003 and completed the Postgraduate Program in General Dentistry (AEGD) from the Lutheran Medical Center in 2014. I speak Spanish fluently .

Chrissa Mickelweit, DDS

Bellingham Dentist at Unity Street Children’s Clinic

I received my BA in Spanish from Wall Wall University in 2005 and my DDS from Loma Linda University School of Dentistry in 2012. After graduation, I was in private practice and started working for Unity Care NW in 2015. I am currently a member of the National Health Corps. I enjoy being part of a great team here and I especially enjoy creating positive dental experiences for children.

John Nickell, DDS

North Whatcom Health Center Dentist

I enjoy working in public health because I am lucky to be able to serve those who need medical care the most.

I received my bachelor’s degree in microbiology from the University of Washington in 1971. I went on to earn a DDS from the University of Washington in 1975. I am a member of the American Dental Association and the Washington State Dental Association.

Patrick Pasiga, DDS

Bellingham Dentist at Cornwall Adult Dental Clinic

I joined Unity Care NW in 2021.

I graduated from the University of Washington with a bachelor’s degree in communications and chemistry. In 2015, I graduated from Washington State University School of Dentistry with a Leadership Award from the International College of Dentists. I completed my Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) in the Lake Chelan area at Yakima Valley Farm Workers Clinics.

My hobbies outside of the clinic include skiing, hiking, mountain biking and trying to find the best enchiladas around.

I enjoy working in public health because it allows me to be directly involved in society in many ways other than as a health care provider.

Courtney Schick, MD

Dentist

I attended Tufts University School of Dental Medicine and NYU for advanced training in general dentistry. I am a member of the Mount Baker Dental Society, the Washington State Dental Association, and the American Dental Association.

My interests include skiing, gardening, hiking and cycling.

I enjoy being part of a team that provides compassionate help to everyone, regardless of the person’s ability to pay.

Carrie Shane, DDS

Dental Director and Bellingham Dentist at Unity Street Children’s Clinic

I have over 20 years experience as a dental practitioner, including over 17 years as program manager and strategic planner for Unity Care NW dental programs in Bellingham and Ferndale. I received my PhD from Creighton University and my Bachelor of Arts from Western Washington University.

I am a member of NNOHA (National Oral Health Access Network).

Lauren Sukirman, MD

Dentist at Unity Street Children’s Clinic

I joined Unity Care in 2022.

I received a BS in Chemistry from Florida State University and an MD in Dentistry from the University of Florida College of Dentistry. I work for the American Dental Association and the Washington State Dental Association.

My interests include hiking, cycling and spending time with my family.

I enjoy working in public health because I am passionate about helping those in need. I love being able to help bridge the gap for people to access quality healthcare.

Hieu Tran, RDH

Bellingham Dental Hygienist at Cornwall Adult Dental Clinic

I enjoy working in public health because I believe everyone deserves access to dental care.

I completed my AAT from Whatcom College with honors in 2010. I then completed my AAAS in Dental Hygiene from Shoreline Community College in 2013. I am fluent in Vietnamese.

Lareina Albertson, ARNP

Nurse Practitioner

I received a bachelor’s degree in nursing from the University of Oregon Health Sciences and a master’s degree in nursing from the University of New Mexico.

I specialize in family medicine, interested in women’s health, genital care (including hormone replacement therapy) and STI testing and prevention (including PrEP).

I enjoy spending time with my family and our dog, hiking, hiking and exploring.

Public health has always interested me. Growing up in a rural area, I understand the barriers low-income communities face in accessing quality health care. Through my work at Unity Care NW, I am committed to providing high quality, easily accessible, and culturally competent care to all people with medical needs.

L Antrim Caskey, RDN

Nutritionist

I am originally from Baltimore, Maryland and joined Unity Care NW in September 2019.

I used to be a New York freelance photojournalist specializing in long documentary work; my work has been published in New York times Wall Street Magazine and Nature and featured in documentaries including The Last Mountain .

I went back to school in 2016 at the University of Idaho to pursue a career as a nutritionist. The Covid restrictions inspired the development of an online nutrition education program, Dietitian Kitchen , a program that I host on the UCNW YouTube page.

I am thrilled to be able to share my passion for cooking delicious, nutritious food to help our patients develop healthy habits for life.

Lisa Benjamin, ARNP

Nurse Practitioner

I joined UCNW in July 2020. I am delighted to work in the field of public health with a team that is committed to providing high quality, accessible and affordable health care for our community. Building relationships with patients is important to me and my goal is to empower patients to be as healthy as possible. I completed my Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of British Columbia and most recently my Master of Nursing from Frontier Nursing University, specializing in family practice. I am a longtime resident of Bellingham and have previously practiced in various settings with Peacehealth for the past 21 years.

Don Brank, MD

Physician

I received my BA from Goshen College in Goshen, Indiana, and my MD from the University of Virginia School of Medicine in Charlottesville, VA. I completed my family medicine residency at the Shadyside Family Clinic in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. I have spent the last 27 years at Northern Navajo Medical Center in Shiprock, New Mexico as a staff physician, and have also served on various other roles and committees over the years related to Pharmacy and Therapy, Use Review, Anti-Corrosion Clinic coagulation, prison. medicine, ambulance. I am certified in family medicine.

Barb Clure, MD

Physician

I served as Medical Director at the Swinomish Indian Health Clinic in La Conner for 9 years before coming to Unity Care NW in September 2012.

I also worked as a physician at the Bellingham Clinic of the Sea Mar Public Health Center for 10 years and at the Ferndale Medical Center for 2 years. I received my bachelor’s degree in biology from Whitman College, Walla Walla, where I was a Sherwood Scholar. I received my M.D. from the University of Colorado, cum laude, and completed my family practice residency at the Ventura County Medical Center.

Elizabeth Geringer, DO

Associate Medical Director

I joined Unity Care NW in August 2019.

I received my bachelor’s degree in biology from Pacific Lutheran University in Tacoma, Washington. I received my MD from Pacific Northwestern Medical Sciences College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed my residency in the Family Medicine Program at the University of Wyoming at Cheyenne. I moved back to the Bellingham area to be close to Skagit County where I grew up.

I am board certified in family medicine with special interests in osteopathic manipulation and women’s health.

I enjoy working in public health because I enjoy working with a team to provide high quality comprehensive care for families.

Colin Goggin, MD

Physician – North Whatcom Health Center

I enjoy working in public health because I can work with people to improve their health and happiness, regardless of their ability to pay or have health insurance.

I received my B.S. in Biology from Carleton College in Northfield, Minnesota and then my M.D. from the University of Virginia School of Medicine in Charlottesville, Virginia. I completed my family medicine residency at Exempla – St. Joseph Family Medicine in Denver, Colorado. I am certified by the American Board of Family Medicine and can communicate in Spanish.

Muriel Handshi, ARNP

Associate Medical Director

I first joined Unity Care NW (formerly the Interfaith Community Health Center) in 1991 as a nurse practitioner. After I graduated from the University of Washington with a master’s degree in nursing in 1992, I returned to Unity Care NW and was the third provider at the medical center. Previously, I served as Medical Director and Quality Improvement Coordinator at UCNW. I also have experience in an STD testing and treatment clinic and a Well Child clinic.

Francis Jablonsky, MD

GP

I joined Unity Care NW in September 2021.

I received my medical degree from Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine in Cleveland, Ohio and completed my family medicine residency at Long Beach Memorial Medical Center in Long Beach, California. While in residency, I helped expand medical care to include PrEP and hormone therapy for trans patients. After completing my residency, I worked as a physician at Vista Community Clinic, a community health center in Vista, California. There I served a large number of patients with diverse cultural and complex medical problems and worked in their women’s center.

I love helping patients take charge of their health through education, and I take on the role of advocate for my patients as my guiding philosophy in medicine!

Sharon Junge, MD

Physician – North Whatcom Health Center

I joined Unity Care NW in November 2018 with a degree in Family Medicine.

I graduated from Loyola Stritch Medical School and completed my family medicine residency in Carbondale, Illinois. I have worked in non-profit clinics in several states and in Australia and have also volunteered overseas in St. Lucia, Brazil and Tanzania. I have taught at the University of Illinois, the University of Washington and the University of Dodoma.

I love working in a clinic that doesn’t limit the number of people that can be seen and goes above and beyond to help patients with many health problems.

Susan Kranzpiller, MD

Medical Director

I joined Unity Care NW May 2020.

I started my career as a registered nurse in the US and Germany before and during medical school. I received my MD from the Ruprecht-Karls-Universitate in Heidelberg, Germany, then completed my family practice residency at the Southwestern Washington Medical Center in Vancouver, Washington. Since then, I have worked in family practice in Washington, Oregon, and California. My most recent position was with PeaceHealth in Bellingham, Same Day Care Clinic and Family Practice Clinic.

I enjoy working in community health care because it empowers all of my patients to fulfill their obligations and take care of their health.

Katherine Mayer, MD

GP

I joined Unity Care in 2021.

I received my bachelor’s degree from Western Washington University and my PhD from Temple University School of Medicine in Philadelphia. I completed my residency at First Hill Swedish Family Medicine in Seattle. I worked for the Country Doctor in Seattle for eight years as a Family Medicine Physician, providing midwifery, HIV care, gender-affirming care, and addiction treatment.

I feel that my role as a family doctor is to work with my patients to become healthy and whole so that they, in turn, can focus on caring for their families and friends, helping them to be healthy and holistic. I enjoy taking care of entire families at all stages of life, from newborn care to elderly care. Se habla español.

Denise Plesier, PA

PhD student

My journey with Unity Care Northwest began in October 2020 and this is an opportunity I am grateful for. One of the many aspects of community health like UCNW that I appreciate is the diversity and inclusion that characterizes this environment. It means so much to me to be able to express my skills and personality in a place where everyone is welcome and treated with respect and compassion.

Although I am new to UCNW, I am not new to this type of work. My husband and I moved here from Michigan in 2003 when I started working as a primary care provider at Sea Mar Community Health Centers for 10 years and then for 6 years on a nearby Indian reservation. In addition to being a doctor, other joys in my life include hiking, yoga, cooking, going to retreats for spiritual and personal growth with friends, video chatting with my godson, and spending quality time with my husband. I enjoy an active, balanced life of work and play.

Alicia Portillo, PA-C

PhD student

I joined Unity Care NW in 2022.

I have a bachelor’s degree in biology from the University of Puget Sound in Tacoma, Washington and a master’s degree in physician assistant (MPAS) from Northern Arizona University Biomedical Phoenix Campus.

My experience includes serving as a US Peace Corps volunteer in Mozambique and partnering with the International Center for AIDS Care and Treatment Programs (ICAP) to register and improve HIV care. After Pennsylvania State High School, I worked as a research physician at the Johns Hopkins American Indian Health Center (CAIH) in the Southwest, working on a Phase 3 clinical trial in partnership with IHS, after which I worked at Planned Parenthood in Los Angeles.

My interests include mountain climbing, hiking and environmental protection. Se Habla Español. I enjoy working in public health because it gives me the opportunity to provide affordable care and be a resource for the underprivileged. It is also helpful to be able to help remove barriers to healthcare that a person may face.

Ann Slater, ARNP

Nurse Practitioner

I graduated from the University of Wisconsin with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 1985 and a Master of Nursing in 1996 as a Family Nurse Practitioner.

I love bringing my diverse experience to Unity Care Northwest. I worked here permanently and then since 1999 as a medical practitioner.

Public health feels like home, especially here where I’ve been fortunate enough to meet so many patients and colleagues. I enjoy working in this team spirit and common goal of providing integrated and accessible medical, dental and mental health services for everyone in our community.

In my spare time I enjoy fresh air, music and the company of friends and family.

Angela Taylor, ARNP

Nurse Practitioner

I have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of British Columbia and a Master of Nursing in Family Nursing from the University of Victoria.

I previously worked as a nurse for Mt. Baker Planned Parenthood. Prior to that, I worked as a medical staff at the Skagit Regional Clinic and at the Arka Mira Emergency Hospital.

I enjoy meeting patients where they are and working together to create a realistic plan for how they can achieve their happiest and healthiest self!

John Tilly Jr. MD

GP

I joined Unity Care NW in 2015. I received my medical degree from Jefferson Medical College in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, then completed my residency in internal medicine at York Hospital in York, Pennsylvania. I am board certified in internal medicine and have worked for the US Health Commission for nearly 30 years. I spent most of my public health services at Lummi Tribal Health, where I retired.

Keith Wojnicki, ARNP

Associate Medical Director

I am a Family Nurse Practitioner and HIV Specialist. I joined Unity Care Northwest in 2014 as an opportunity to return home and serve the community that I grew up in for most of my childhood. I have a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Washington. I worked 6 years in the neonatal intensive care unit at the University of Washington before completing my Master of Science in Nursing/Nursing Practitioner from Seattle Pacific University. Having spent time in the intensive care unit and volunteering in Uganda, I have seen first hand that access to high quality primary health care for all is the answer to many of the problems we see in medicine. At that time, I decided to do a residential residency in Tacoma, Washington, with a focus on caring for people living with HIV. I received my HIV degree from the American Academy of HIV Medicine in 2016. I enjoy working with people of all ages and all stages of life to promote health and wellness.

Gabriel Worcella, DO

Physician

I received a Bachelor of Science in Biological Science and a specialization in Nutrition and Food Science from the University of Vermont. I received my MD from Western Medical Sciences University in Pomona, California. During my residency at Middlesex Family Medicine Hospital, I also completed an integrative medicine fellowship at the Andrew Weil Center for Integrative Medicine at the University of Arizona. I worked as a hospitalist in Middlesex, then worked in the emergency and family medicine department at Virginia Mason in Seattle.

I enjoy hiking with my dog, camping, going to the beach, traveling and gardening.

I see people of all ages interested in women’s health and sports medicine. I include integrative medicine as well as the principles of osteopathy and treatment based on the interests and needs of the patient. I love building relationships with patients for life and helping them lead a healthy lifestyle!

Jesse Wynn, ARNP

Nurse Practitioner – North Whatcom Health Center

I have a bachelor’s degree in biology from Western Washington University and a master’s degree from the University of San Diego. I joined Unity Care NW in 2012 as a Family Nurse Practitioner with experience in pediatrics and low income primary care, and I currently work out of our Ferndale office. I have worked extensively with various populations, including the mentally ill and the homeless. Before joining UCNW, I worked for the Yakima District Health Service.

Joanne Balsiger, PharmD

Associate Director of Pharmacy

I became part of the Unity Care NW team in February 2017. I have 20 years of experience as a pharmacist/pharmacy manager in both retail and outpatient settings. I received my PhD in Pharmacy from the University of Washington and am certified in Immunization, Smoking Cessation, Lipid Management, and Drug Therapy Management.

I am honored to work with Unity Care NW service providers to improve patient health in the communities we serve.

Michael-Ann Cooley, RPh

Pharmacist

I joined Unity Care NW in June 2019. I received my Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy from Oregon State University College of Pharmacy. I have many years of experience in retail and clinical pharmacies and look forward to moving forward in the clinical setting. I am a Certified Immunization Provider and received emergency contraception training from the Washington State Pharmacy Association.

I enjoy being able to offer affordable health care to everyone and also work as a team to improve the health of our community.

Brian Henley, PharmD, RPh

Pharmacist

I joined Unity Care NW in pharmacy in 2015. I completed my PhD from the University of Washington. For the most part, I have worked as a pharmacist/pharmacy manager in various branches of the Arlington Pharmacy, but recently I have also worked at Rite-Aid and Haggen.

Jason Lim, PharmD, RPh

Pharmacist

I started working as a pharmacist at Unity Care NW in 2015. I have over 14 years of experience and previously worked for Rite Aid, Custom RX Shoppe and most recently Hoagland Pharmacy.

Lisa Nelson, PharmD, RPh

Pharmacy Director

I have over 10 years experience as a pharmacist and have been with Unity Care NW since 2013. I manage all aspects of our pharmacy. My responsibilities include overseeing all pharmacy operations, including dispensing and educating patients on pharmaceuticals; care coordination and consultation with Unity Care NW medical, dental, and mental health providers; scheduling and control of personnel; conclusion of contracts and billing; enforcing state and federal regulations; and providing excellent customer service.

Jack Tai, RPh

Pharmacist

I have a degree in Pharmacy from the University of British Columbia. I have 17 years of experience as a pharmacist in an outpatient and community pharmacy. I used to work as a pharmacist at Walgreens, Huggens & PeaceHealth.

I am thrilled to be part of an organization that is committed to providing quality health care for everyone!

Tam Tran, PharmD

Pharmacist

I started working for UCNW in 2021.

I received my PhD from the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and the University of Health Sciences in 2013. I have 10 years of experience in a retail pharmacy. I am familiar with pharmacy services for home medicated infusions and anticoagulants. I enjoy helping people with their questions about OTC products and prescription drugs.

I speak Vietnamese fluently.

I am honored to be joining Unity Care to continue to provide the services our Whatcom County communities deserve.

Hayley Akra, LMHC

Consultant – North Whatcom Health Center

I enjoy helping others create meaning in their lives by creating a safe place to be fully present and explore life’s challenges together. I work with a holistic approach and tailor my consulting style to each client I work with. I value collaboration in the therapy room with an emphasis on mindfulness, learning about core beliefs, emotional regulation, and creating holistic recovery goals. I have a desire to help people achieve their unique goals by building on their strengths and providing them with the necessary resources they need to succeed.

I received a bachelor’s degree in psychology and addiction counseling from Indiana Wesleyan University and then a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from Stetson University. I joined the Unity team in December 2019 and I enjoy working in our community.

Chalice Bailey, LMFT

Consultant

I joined Unity Care in 2022. I have a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Seattle University and a master’s degree in psychological counseling with a focus on marital and family therapy from Antioch University.

My approach is to show the strengths of life experience as we overcome life’s challenges together. I draw on compassionate research to uncover the traumas and beliefs that undermine our best efforts in life.

I am a member of the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapists and the Washington Association of Marriage and Family Therapists.

I appreciate Unity Care NW and their values, which align with my own, in that we are here for each other and with each other – we are all family.

Heather Bomben, LMFT

Consultant

I received my Masters in Family Therapy from Drexel University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and I am certified in Attachment-Based Family Therapy from the Family Intervention Science Center at Drexel University. I am a member of the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapists.

I enjoy working with an emotion- and attachment-focused approach, helping people understand how they feel, why their emotions serve them or not, and how they can move forward in their lives in a healthier, more mindful way. I appreciate the multicultural and racial impact on people’s lives and take this into account as a fundamental part of my practice.

I love being part of a team at Unity Care that takes the whole person into account. I believe therapy is most effective when people feel supported, understood, and connected to themselves and their community.

Ashley Carter, LMHC

Lead Children and Family Counselor

I consider my job a privilege to partner with those who are striving to grow and explore their lives. I am committed to providing people with a safe place to improve their health, resilience and wellbeing while identifying the changes they desire in their lives.

I have a BA in Psychology from Kent State University and an MA in Counseling from Walden University. I have 10 years of proven practice experience in community behavioral health services in a variety of roles.

My favorite part of working in public health is being part of a team that can create positive life changes that affect the larger whole.

Janet Klingaman, ARNP

Psychiatric Nurse

I received a BA in Nursing and an MA in Psychosocial Nursing from the University of Washington School of Nursing. I am certified in adult and nursing psychiatry by the American Nursing Certification Authority. I have over 20 years experience in rural Eastern Washington as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner – 6 years with the Northeast Washington Regional Support Network and the last 12 years with the Northeast Washington Alliance Counseling Service. Prior to completing my master’s degree, I gained 10 years of nursing experience, including positions as a psychiatric nurse, psychosocial nurse, and curator. I started working at Unity Care NW in 2013.

Colleen Curtis, LMHC

Consultant

I joined Unity Care NW in July 2019.

I have been in the mental health care field for many years since I received my master’s degree in counseling psychology from Assumption College in Worcester, Massachusetts. My approach is collaborative, supportive, empowering and compassionate to help clients improve their awareness, health and functioning.

Mallory Hamilton, LMHC

Counselor

I received a master’s degree in rehabilitation counseling from Western Washington University.

I work with children, adolescents, couples and adults, specializing in working with people with a history of trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD and/or autism spectrum disorder.

My professional activities include volunteering for non-profit organizations that support protected and vulnerable members of the Whatcom County community. I also organized trauma training for volunteers working with people without shelter.

My interests include walking, cold water swimming, yoga and dancing. I enjoy working in public health because it brings together medical, behavioral, dental, case management, health care goals, and pharmaceutical needs under one roof. Supporting an individual’s autonomy and building trust in their support network creates long-term effects. The hope is that the struggle decreases and the relief increases.

Lara Heike, ARNP

Psychiatric Nurse

I joined Unity Care in 2022.

I am a certified Mental Health Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Adult Clinical Nurse Specialist with over 20 years of experience. I am from rural Kansas and have degrees from OK University, the University of Texas, and the University of Tennessee. I served PMHNP for thirteen years. I also worked in a counseling and psychiatric clinic in Dallas, Texas.

In my spare time I like to spend time with my husband and grandchildren. I am an avid gardener and love DIY projects.

Pam Jacobs, PhD

Psychologist

I was the Chief Behavioral Health Specialist at NDA Native American Rehabilitation Association (NARA), where I also served as Director of Adult Mental Health and Clinical Supervisor. I have been in private practice for 15 years in Hillsboro, Oregon and served as an adjunct professor at the Pacific University Graduate School of Psychology where I taught courses in basic clinical skills, advanced clinical skills, and business psychology. I received my BA from Stanford University and my MA and PhD from the Pacific Graduate School of Psychology (now the University of Palo Alto) in Palo Alto, California. My interests include hiking and bird watching, traveling and horseback riding.

Kathy-Gray Landham, LMHC

Consultant

Hailing from the great state of Tennessee (good old Rocky Top!), I completed a bachelor’s degree from Middle Tennessee State University with a degree in liberal studies and a master’s degree from the Seattle School of Theology and Psychology in 2016. My clinical specialty since my internship days combines a critical social approach to therapy with mindfulness practice and somatic work. My favorite (FAVORITE) part of being a community member is working with people to make tiny changes in their daily lives that ultimately have a big impact on their overall sense of health and well-being.

Libby Michel, LMHC

Consultant

I received a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Western Washington State University and a master’s degree in clinical mental health from Antioch University. I have previously worked with youth and adults in Catholic community services as a specialist in comorbid substance use disorders and before that as a specialist in substance use disorders.

I enjoy working in public health because of the team approach to caring for each person.

Tim Raymond, LICSW

BH Primary Care Consultant – North Whatcom Health Center

I joined UCNW’s Ferndale Behavioral Health team in 2020.

I have several years of experience in various psychiatric institutions. Much of this experience is with chronically mentally ill people with substance use disorders. I received a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Western Washington University and a master’s degree in social work from Eastern Washington University.

Jeremy Rutherford, Ph.D.

Psychologist

I am a licensed psychologist and received my doctorate in counseling psychology from New Mexico State University. I received a master’s degree in psychology and clinical focus from Eastern Washington University and a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Gonzaga University. Prior to joining UCNW, I was the Behavioral Health Coordinator for Cougar Health Services at WSU.

I like to work with solutions, behavior and compassion. I believe in the value of a holistic approach and value multiculturalism and diversity. I am passionate about fair mental and physical health and believe healthcare is a right. Interacting with others

I enjoy working with other members of the community to improve their health and mental health.

Julia Scherting, LMHC

Consultant

I received a Bachelor of Arts in Therapeutic Recreation from Western Washington University and a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Western Washington University. I use a person-centered, trauma-informed approach to help patients achieve their health goals.

Areas of interest include trauma, anxiety, body image/eating issues, depression, grief, relationship issues/attachment difficulties, finding meaning, LGBTQIA + ally. I have a background as a recreational therapist and yoga instructor who is integrated into my work as a consultant through modalities such as encouraging participation in natural environments for healing and somatic approaches to coping with stress.

I find satisfaction in being part of an organization that uses an integrative approach that helps patients improve various aspects of their health in a holistic way.

Marian Schultz, LICSW

Consultant – North Whatcom Health Center

I joined Unity Care NW in November 2018.

I received my MSc in Social Work from Wall Wall University and have over 20 years of experience using evidence-based practices to improve the behavioral health of individuals, couples and families in multidisciplinary settings.

I enjoy being part of a team that treats each person as unique and supports them in making positive changes in their lives.

Richard Sprague, LICSW

Consultant

I have a Masters in Social Work from Eastern Washington University and am a licensed clinical social worker. I joined Unity Care NW in 2010. I have been educated in specialized areas including suicide prevention, domestic violence, eating disorders, crisis prevention and personality disorders.

Amanda Waters, LICSW

Consultant

I joined Unity Care NW in 2021.

I received a bachelor’s degree in social work from Metropolitan State University Denver and a master’s degree in social work from the University of Denver. Prior to UCNW, I worked in Northwest Colorado as a General Practitioner.

I am passionate about the whole person, holistic care and walking with people to achieve their best health according to their own needs and goals. I believe that every person should have a safe place where they can be seen, heard and express their true self.

Amanda Weiss, LICSW

Child and Family Counselor

I joined UCNW in June 2021.

I have a Master’s Degree in Social Work from Eastern Washington University at Cheney. I have many years of experience as a therapist with children and families, including working for Lutheran Community Services in Spokane and the Baja Columbia Mental Health and Children’s Center in Vancouver, Washington. I also worked for the Vancouver Strengthening Foundation Counseling Service, providing in-home and in-home therapy services to families referred from the Office of Children and Juvenile Courts. I practice at the Mental Health Clinic at 1616 Cornwall Avenue and also at Carl Kozier Primary School.

Public mental health work has provided an opportunity to witness resilience in action and to contribute to building hope in partnership with children and families.

Josh Whaley, LICSW

Lead Specialty Advisor BH

I joined Unity Care NW in April 2018. I received my Master of Social Science degree in 2001 from Eastern Washington University. I received my bachelor’s degree in psychology from Western Washington University at 1997 year. I have been counseling people for almost 20 years. I have experience in social work in hospices as well as experience in clinical management. I also worked in emergency departments as a crisis consultant and had a private consulting practice in Spokane and Olympia, Washington. I have a background in Dialectical Behavior Therapy and use Narrative, Acceptance and Commitment and CBT approaches in my work with people. Mindfulness-based stress reduction is a pillar of my work. I am also an approved clinical supervisor and look forward to mentoring other consultants as we progress in our careers.