Today we’d like to introduce you to Norah Christensen.
Norah, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
After moving to Portland in 2017 and starting college, I worked as a barista part-time for a few years. Siamak, the owner of 2BWell, was a regular at the coffee shop. One day, he mentioned needing a new front-desk administrative assistant at his clinic, and that the position was mine if I wanted it. I didn’t take him up on it initially– I loved my job at the coffee shop, and had become accustomed to seeing my regulars. After quarantine, however, much had changed at the coffee shop, my regulars were working from home, and morale was low. I ended up taking Siamak up on his offer, and started what both of us thought would be a temporary front-desk job at the clinic. I had other plans for myself once I finished my degree– I planned to continue my education so I could become a therapist. As I’ve become “older and wiser,” I have realized that I’m right where I need to be. Working at 2BWell has taught me so much, introduced me to so many people, and my ability to use the knowledge I’ve gained and relationships I’ve curated to help others is a responsibility I cherish deeply. I’m so proud to be a part of such an amazing group of doctors and practitioners. I can honestly say that I am appreciated for my hard work, which is something I value in and of itself. I want to say thank you to Siamak and Maryam for giving me this opportunity to thrive.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The tough parts of my job are the same reasons why I love doing it. The healthcare system has become so convoluted, and helping to relieve some of the stress of navigating said systems for both the providers and patients is something I find to be incredibly rewarding.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about 2BWell Group?
I am the clinic office manager for 2BWell Group, LLC. 2BWell, founded by Siamak Shirazi, has been a trusted hub for naturopathic and alternative medicine in the Portland Metro area since 2006. What sets us apart is our genuinely inclusive, collaborative approach– we meet people where they are on their health journey, and we take the time to really listen. Together, we design individualized care plans that reflect your unique needs, goals, and circumstances, because we believe healing isn’t one-size-fits-all.
We’re proud to offer a truly comprehensive scope of care under one roof, so patients don’t have to piece together their care from multiple providers. Our four Naturopathic physicians offer services including primary care, musculoskeletal adjustments, acupuncture, sports medicine, nutrition, physical medicine, and functional testing. We’re also honored to be one of the few providers of LENS neurofeedback in the Portland Metro area, a specialty we’re especially passionate about for supporting brain health and nervous system regulation.
Above all, we want people to know that at 2BWell, healthcare is a partnership. We’re here to walk alongside our patients, not just treat symptoms — because wellbeing is personal, and care should be too.
What sort of changes are you expecting over the next 5-10 years?
At our clinic, we’re seeing an increase in new patient inquiries from people who are seeking an ND because they want a comprehensive workup, with a clear treatment plan, follow-ups, and adjustments to the treatment plans as needed. We all, as patients, want to feel seen and heard, which is not something that can be accomplished in 10-15 minutes (in most cases). Insurance denials and delays are also exponentially increasing, while patient benefits and provider reimbursement rates are decreasing.
Big picture, I am an optimist, and like to think that in 5-10 years, the healthcare industry will be easier for patients and providers to navigate. I also like to think that we’ll be in a place where patients are able to access the care they need without exorbitant out-of-pocket costs, because that’s where we deserve to be as a country.
Pricing:
- New Patient Appointment $250
- Follow-up appointment $150
Contact Info:
- Website: https://2bwell.net
- Other: https://substack.com/@2bwell
