Spark Health Team
Spark Health is your partner in wellness. Our healthcare team of naturopathic doctors, skincare specialists, physical therapists, chiropractors collaborate to form effective care circles to address patient concerns holistically.
Dr. Elizabeth Romero, MD, MJ-Health Law
Chief Medical Officer
Dr. Elizabeth Romero attended the University of Rochester School of Medicine and is a Diplómate of the American Board of Family Medicine. In addition, she earned a Masters of Jurisprudence in Health Law from Loyola University in Chicago and is finishing her Master of Business Administration at University of Notre Dame, Mendoza School of Business.
Dr. Aliza Cicerone, ND, FABNO
Director of Naturopathic Medicine
Dr. Aliza Cicerone earned her Doctorate in naturopathic medicine (ND) from The National College of Natural Medicine in Portland, OR, and holds additional board certification in naturopathic oncology (FABNO). She completed an integrative oncology residency, where she did extensive training in cardiology, gastroenterology, endocrinology, and dermatology, in addition to operating her own oncology practice. Dr. Cicerone believes a combination of conventional and naturopathic medicine is the key to achieving long-term health.
After her residency, Dr. Cicerone worked as a staff physician at the Cancer Treatment Centers of America in conjunction with medical doctors, acupuncturists, dietitians, mind-body counselors and physical therapists to provide patients with comprehensive, integrative care. Dr. Cicerone believes that a combination of conventional and naturopathic medicine is the optimal way to give patients long-term health and wellness.
A California native, Dr. Cicerone moved back to the San Diego area in 2013 to bring personalized natural medicine to Southern California. She works with patients with a variety of health concerns, including thyroid abnormalities, hormone therapy, digestive disorders, cardiovascular disease and diabetes. A focal point of her practice is cancer treatment and survivorship, where she uses evidence-based natural therapy in combination with chemotherapy, radiation and surgery to minimize side effects, provide immune system support and reduce the risk of recurrence. Dr. Cicerone is a member of the California Naturopathic Doctors Association, the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians, the Oncology Association of Naturopathic Physicians, the American Society of Clinical Oncology and the Society for Integrative Oncology.
Dr. Jennifer Zeglen, ND
Naturopathic Doctor & Clinic Director
Dr. Jennifer Zeglen helps people get their health back in balance and empowers them to create the life they want. After completing pre-medical training at UCLA, she earned her Doctorate in naturopathic medicine (ND) from Bastyr University in Seattle, WA. She operated her own successful family medicine practice for 10 years before joining the SPARK team in 2016. She has consistently blended conventional medical knowledge with natural medicine to create a holistic, individualized focus to patient care.
As a family medicine provider, Dr. Zeglen has specialized in integrative care for all ages and a wide variety of conditions. Areas of her focus include hormone balance, metabolic health/weight loss, autoimmune disease, digestive problems, and pediatrics. Her goal is to uncover the root causes of illness, and design treatment plans that are strategic and do-able. Dr. Zeglen uses a combination of diet changes, exercise, supplements, homeopathy, hormone balance, and health coaching to achieve success.
When away from the office, Dr. Zeglen enjoys exploring and traveling with her family. Dr. Zeglen is a member of the California Naturopathic Doctors Association and the Pediatric Association of Naturopathic Physicians.
Dr. Christina Bradshaw, ND
Naturopathic Doctor
A New Jersey native, Dr. Christina Bradshaw earned her undergraduate degree in biochemistry with a double minor in chemistry and spanish from Villanova University in Pennsylvania. Her passion for medicine and science led her across the country to attend medical school at Bastyr University here in San Diego.
Dr. Bradshaw focused her clinical rotations on dermatology and aesthetics, autoimmune disorders, digestive conditions, and men’s and women’s health. Dr. Bradshaw has done comprehensive training in micro-needling and injections, and loves working with patients of all ages for skin care prevention, treatment, and maintenance.
Dr. Svetlana Voloshin, ND
Naturopathic Doctor
Dr. Svetlana Voloshin’s passion for medicine began in her teens. However, she had not heard of naturopathic medicine until she was faced with health issues of her own. After having a severe reaction to “the best medication” for her condition, she worked with an ND for two weeks and began to see her thyroid levels improve.
To this day, she believes there are natural ways to improve, reverse, and remit autoimmunity. With a bachelor’s degree in biology from George Fox University in Newberg, OR, under her belt, her growing passion for naturopathic medicine led her to pursue her Doctorate in naturopathic medicine from Bastyr University in San Diego.
Dr. Steve Mertz, DC
Chiropractor, Natural Pain Management
After years of private practice and incorporating different staff training methods; Dr. Mertz developed proven systems that allowed staff to perform high-level job skills while keeping centered focus on the patient. Upon coaching hundreds of practices to their success goals, Dr. Mertz began opening multiple integrated practices.
Dr. Mertz enjoys collaborating with other healthcare professionals and learning different holistic treatments for various health conditions. He is an accomplished golfer and enjoys mountain bike riding. Dr. Mertz has been married to his wife for 26 years and has two daughters in college.
Dr. Lamby Ginakes, DC
Director of Natural Pain Management
Dr. Ginakes attended the University of Manitoba for his undergraduate work in pre-med. He received his chiropractic degree in 1993 from Northwestern Health Sciences University, at which time he moved to San Diego and became the owner/center director for Integrated Medical Centers from 1995 to 2017. He joined Spark Health after a company that he founded with Dr. Steve Mertz was acquired in 2020. To this day, Dr. Ginakes continues to oversee natural pain management services.
Patrick Astourian, MSPA-C
Orthopedic Physician Assistant
Patrick Astourian is a physician’s assistant with over 29 years of experience in urgent care, rheumatology, and orthopedics. Before graduating with his masters degree from Samuel Merritt University, he was a USAF medic for 8 years. Patrick has given hands-on musculoskeletal training to multiple doctors in pain management, PM&R, rheumatology, sports medicine, and orthopaedics. As a speaker and author, Patrick has teamed up with the Boston ACR convention to share his knowledge via online training programs and has published books on musculoskeletal ultrasound guided injections.
Danielle Emhof, MPT
Visceral Physical Therapist
Danielle Emhof, MPT is a licensed Physical Therapist and has been practicing since 2001. She received her Master's in Physical Therapy from the University of Pittsburgh. She has certifications in Integrative Manual Therapy and Matrix Energetics, extensive experience in Pilates and is a Kripalu certified Yoga teacher.
Danielle’s treatment approach is grounded in Physical Therapy, and her mission is to empower clients to achieve their life and health goals. She does this by diagnosing and treating the root cause of pain and dysfunction, as opposed to managing symptoms. This is achieved with treatment sessions involving primarily manual therapy (a combination of Physical Therapy, Integrative Manual Therapy and Matrix Energetics). Sessions also may include breathwork, stress management guidance, and meditation.
Danielle enjoys and feels confident working with a variety of clients and conditions. She has a passion for working with chronic symptoms and challenging diagnoses. She is particularly skilled at treating digestive issues, neurological dysfunction, chronic pain, autoimmune symptoms, and anxiety. Recently, she has found her tools extremely helpful for those struggling with post-COVID conditions. She understands the importance of emotional support and compassion in the healing process and provides many tools to address this aspect of health.
Dr. Kim Zevin, DPT
Visceral Physical Therapist
Dr. Kim Zevin graduated from the University of Southern California with a Doctorate in physical therapy in 1998. She worked in outpatient orthopedics and aquatic therapy prior to transitioning into pelvic physical therapy.
As a pelvic therapist, she learned how organs above the pelvic floor affect the pelvic organs and pelvic floor muscles which led her to attend the Barral Institute for visceral manipulation. Visceral manipulation is a type of manual therapy that works to increase mobility, tone, and motion of the viscera and connective tissues after they’ve been restricted due to surgical scars, adhesions, illness, posture, or injury. Releasing these organs and tissues can help restore organ function, alleviate pain in surrounding tissues, and repair structural integrity of the entire body.
Dr. Zevin went on to study Craniosacral Therapy at the Upledger institute, where her studies were focused strongly on releasing stored emotions in the body’s organs and tissues. After that coursework, she wanted to learn more about how to treat the head and brain. That led her to train with Dr. Bruno Chikly, French M.D, D.O. who developed The Lymphatic Drainage and The Brain Curriculum.
She is able to treat a wide range of digestive issues—including GERD, irritable bowel disease, constipation, bloating, gastritis, and SIBO—head issues—including concussions, migraines, brain fog, and TMJ—and chronic pelvic issues—including endometriosis, pelvic pain, bladder incontinence, prostate dysfunction, chronic pelvic pain, and more.
Dr. Pepe Hernandez
Medical Research & Content Specialist
Dr. Hernandez received his Bachelor’s degree in biochemistry but his interest in how the brain works to guide behavior led him to obtain his Ph.D. in neuroscience from the University of Wisconsin - Madison. He completed his post-doctoral training at the University of Pennsylvania where he focused on understanding learning and memory functions as they relate to aging, stress, addiction, social behavior and other cognitive processes. He enjoys working with seniors with dementia, medical writing, wildlife rehabilitation, and all things outdoors.
Nikaya Kipp, HHP, INHC
Nutritional Specialist
Nikaya is passionate about helping people live vibrant lives. She has worked in the holistic health field for over 23 years, helping hundreds of people manage their pain and live in healthier ways.
Nikaya guides people with digestive issues, gluten intolerance, food sensitivities, and chronic pain to reach their ideal weight and increase their energy and vitality. Nikaya lives a gluten-free, mostly plant-based lifestyle, which has helped her to heal and thrive after she experienced the onset of an autoimmune disease.
Nikaya studied at both the Institute for Integrative Nutrition and Heartwood Institute, and she is a member of the American Association of Drugless Practitioners. In her leisure time, Nikaya enjoys being in nature, playing and laughing with her young son, organic gardening, and creating magic in her kitchen.
Victoria Stegeman, RN
Medical Aesthetic Specialist
Victoria Stegeman RN, is a Medical Aesthetic Specialist, whose talents include injection of neuromodulators and fillers as well as proper use of lasers, and RF machines. She is known for her attention to detail and artistic eye, plus her thorough knowledge in the most advanced skin care procedures and the latest technologies will keep you looking your best! Victoria also Specializes in Women's intimate health issues and is committed to providing the utmost care to her clients. Victoria's enthusiasm and understanding of what the skin needs and how to maximize results make her an asset to our Spark Health team.
Nicole Alexander
Medical Assistant
Nicole has worked as a medical assistance for over 20 years in traditional medical settings and alternative care practices. She is a natural caretaker and loves being able to support patients and provide them with a positive experience. Nicole's vibrant personality will put a smile on your face, and her gentle touch along with her personalized approach will keep you at ease while having your blood drawn or receiving vitamin injections.
Marissa Domanico
Care Coordinator
Marissa is a Licensed Cosmetologist and has an Associates of Science Degree in Medical Assisting. She is also a National Academy of Sports Nutrition Certified Personal Trainer, Fitness Nutrition Specialist, and Certified Nutrition Coach. Marissa was born with a heart condition called Transposition of the Great Arteries resulting in six open heart surgeries, 3 pacemakers, and numerous other heart related procedures; she has been on a lifelong journey of pursuing and living her healthiest life possible. Spark Health aligns with her health and wellness beliefs. Besides living life to its fullest, she enjoys helping people reach their health and fitness goals, going to gym, hiking, spending time with friends, and one day hopes to go skydiving again, which will be her fourth jump. Marissa's family and 3 cats make her life complete!
Holly Mendell
Care Coordinator
Holly received her bachelor's degree in social and rehabilitation services with a minor in environmental biology. She has always had a passion for helping others, which has led her to pursue continued work with a number of nonprofit organizations and inspired her to join the Spark Health team.
She has volunteered her time with numerous organizations, doing everything from building wheelchair accessible tree houses to working as a fellow at a wildlife rehabilitation center and currently frequents the Helen Woodward Animal Center in Rancho Santa Fe, CA. When she is not working at the clinic, you can find her at the gym, running various trail races, horseback riding, cooking, or relaxing by the beach.
AnnMarie Novak
Care Coordinator
AnnMarie is a native Minnesotan. During her free time she loves to spend time with her 3 children and friends and stays active by running and going to the gym. She is passionate about her job and takes the time to make our patients feel welcome, cared for, and part of the Spark Health family.
Dr. Mili Shah, DACM, LAc
Doctorate in Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine
Dr. Mili Shah received her Doctorate in Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine from Pacific College of Health Professionals in San Diego, CA. She has been in practice since 2015 and focuses on an integrative approach that allows for harmony of the mind, body and spirit. She has a gentle yet direct approach and with a focus on gut health, fertility, hormonal imbalances and mental health, all levels of healing can be achieved in treatment.
Dr. Travis Zinner, DACM, LAc
Doctorate in Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine
Dr. Travis Zinner grew up using Chinese medicine to heal a wide range of ailments Western medicine did not have an answer to. After having experienced so many miraculous results, he now finds excitement in sharing this ancient medicinal art with others.
Dr. Travis started his professional acupuncture journey in 2016. He is a passionate healer with an alternative approach and is dedicated to helping his patients move through a wide range of physical, emotional and spiritual transitions in the most efficient and transformative way possible.
His treatments are specifically tailored to the needs of each patient to make sure they receive the approach that works best for them. Time and again he has seen the incredible healing power of Chinese medicine and he is excited to share these experiences with you.
Dr. Brooke Campbell, ND
Dr. Brooke Campbell earned her Doctorate in Naturopathic Medicine from the National University of Natural Medicine in Portland, Oregon. She is passionate about integrative primary care and individualized medicine, with special interests in cardiovascular and metabolic disease, dermatology, pediatrics, and women’s health. She enjoys working with patients of all ages to create collaborative treatment plans that include personalized nutrition, targeted herbal supplementation, lifestyle recommendations, and more.
Originally from Arizona, she grew up surrounded by desert botanical plants and has always loved natural medicine. She earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Arizona, graduating with honors in Nutritional Sciences with minors in biochemistry and psychology. She has additional experience as a Health Coordinator for an elementary school, and previously worked in the research sector investigating herbal and lifestyle interventions for type 2 diabetes.
In her free time, she enjoys hiking, reading, kayaking, and spending time at the beach.
Our Licensed Naturopathic Doctors (ND) and Specialists
At Spark Health, you're in good hands. Our naturopathic medical specialists come with decades of experience in helping patients achieve desired outcomes for their overall health and appearance. From conditions like hair loss, complications arising from poor body posture, food sensitivity, poor sleep cycles, IBS and many more, our naturopathic practitioners work together to evaluate the best course of treatment for you. We also chart out evidence-based wellness plans so that patients can experience long-lasting healing.
The team starts all consultations with a thorough assessment of your health along with physical exams and lab tests. This provides a clear picture of how we can work on your current and underlying health conditions. Our holistic medical practice uses treatments that are non-toxic and non-invasive.
Dr. Elizabeth Romero, MD, MJ-Health Law
Chief Medical Officer
Dr. Elizabeth Romero attended the University of Rochester School of Medicine and is a Diplómate of the American Board of Family Medicine. In addition, she earned a Masters...
Dr. Aliza Cicerone, ND, FABNO
Director of Naturopathic Medicine
Dr. Aliza Cicerone earned her Doctorate in naturopathic medicine (ND) from The National College of Natural Medicine in Portland, OR, and holds additional board certification in naturopathic...
Dr. Jennifer Zeglen, ND
Naturopathic Doctor & Clinic Director
Dr. Jennifer Zeglen helps people get their health back in balance and empowers them to create the life they want. After completing pre-medical training at UCLA, she earned her Doctorate in naturopathic medicine (ND)...
Dr. Christina Bradshaw, ND
Naturopathic Doctor
A New Jersey native, Dr. Christina Bradshaw earned her undergraduate degree in biochemistry with a double minor in chemistry and spanish from Villanova University in Pennsylvania. Her passion for medicine and science...
Dr. Brooke Campbell, ND
Naturopathic Doctor
Dr. Brooke Campbell earned her Doctorate in Naturopathic Medicine from the National University of Natural Medicine in Portland, Oregon. She is passionate about integrative primary care and individualized medicine, with special interests in...
Dr. Steve Mertz, DC
Chiropractor, Natural Pain Management
After years of private practice and incorporating different staff training methods; Dr. Mertz developed proven systems that allowed staff to perform high-level job skills while keeping centered focus on the patient...
Dr. Lamby Ginakes, DC
Director of Natural Pain Management
Dr. Ginakes attended the University of Manitoba for his undergraduate work in pre-med. He received his chiropractic degree in 1993 from Northwestern Health Sciences University, at which time he moved to San Diego and...
Dr. Mauricio Martinez, MD
Supervising Physician
Dr. Martinez is board certified in family medicine with 20 years of experience practicing medicine. He specializes in sports medicine and addiction medicine.
Patrick Astourian, MSPA-C
Orthopedic Physician Assistant
Patrick Astourian is a physician’s assistant with over 29 years of experience in urgent care, rheumatology, and orthopedics. Before graduating with his masters degree from Samuel Merritt University, he was a USAF medic for...
Danielle Emhof, MPT
Visceral Physical Therapist
Danielle Emhof, MPT is a licensed Physical Therapist and has been practicing since 2001. She received her Master's in Physical Therapy from the University of Pittsburgh. She has certifications in Integrative Manual...
Dr. Kim Zevin, DPT
Visceral Physical Therapist
Dr. Kim Zevin graduated from the University of Southern California with a Doctorate in physical therapy in 1998. She worked in outpatient orthopedics and aquatic therapy prior to transitioning into pelvic physical...
Dr. Pepe Hernandez
Medical Research & Content Specialist
Dr. Hernandez received his Bachelor’s degree in biochemistry but his interest in how the brain works to guide behavior led him to obtain his Ph.D. in neuroscience from the University of Wisconsin - Madison. He completed...
Dr. Mili Shah, DACM, LAc
Doctorate in Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine
Dr. Mili Shah received her Doctorate in Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine from Pacific College of Health Professionals in San Diego, CA. She has been in practice since 2015 and focuses on...
Dr. Travis Zinner, DACM, LAc
Doctorate of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine
Doctorate of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine from Pacific College of Oriental Medicine. Bachelors of Kinesiology from San Diego State University. Certified trainer for the Institute of HeartMath.
Nikaya Kipp, HHP, INHC
Nutritional Specialist
Nikaya is passionate about helping people live vibrant lives. She has worked in the holistic health field for over 23 years, helping hundreds of people manage their pain and live in healthier ways. Nikaya guides people with...
Victoria Stegeman, RN
Medical Aesthetic Specialist
Victoria Stegeman RN, is a Medical Aesthetic Specialist, whose talents include injection of neuromodulators and fillers as well as proper use of lasers, and RF machines. She is known for her attention to detail...
Nicole Alexander
Medical Assistant
Nicole has worked as a medical assistant for over 20 years in traditional medical settings and alternative care practices. She is a natural caretaker and loves being able to support patients and provide them with a positive experience.
Marissa Domanico
Care Coordinator
Marissa is a Licensed Cosmetologist and has an Associates of Science Degree in Medical Assisting. She is also a National Academy of Sports Nutrition Certified Personal Trainer, Fitness Nutrition Specialist, and Certified Nutrition...
AnnMarie Novak
Care Coordinator
AnnMarie is a native Minnesotan. During her free time she loves to spend time with her 3 children and friends and stays active by running and going to the gym. She is passionate about her job and takes the time to make our...
Holly Mendell
Care Coordinator
Holly received her bachelor's degree in social and rehabilitation services with a minor in environmental biology. She has always had a passion for helping others, which has led her to pursue continued work with a number...
Based on the patient’s health condition, Spark Health naturopathic doctors offer Functional Nutrition Counseling, IV Nutrient Therapy, Food Sensitivity Testing, Digestive Health, Skin Care, Non-Surgical Joint and Back Pain Management and many more.
Spark Health blends the 100-year-old practice of naturopathic medicine with evidence-based methods. Spark Health naturopathic clinic provides treatments and personalized care for every individual by treating the root causes of disease rather than its symptoms. This eliminates ineffective treatments and reduces costs.
Naturopathic medicine is a distinct health care profession that combines natural therapies with modern science. Our NDs are trained and certified in Naturopathic medicine and they treat the root causes of health problems rather than their symptoms by using a combination of natural supplements, prescription medications, nutrition, lifestyle counseling, and Nutritional IV therapy.
Homeopath Doctor is trained to practice in one discipline–homeopathy, and only uses homeopathic principles to treat the patients.
Naturopathic physicians are not opposed to drugs or surgery. When appropriate, NDs refer to specialists and other providers.
Our healthcare team uses collaboration as the foundation for forming effective care circles that address patient concerns. Based on your conditions and in consultation with you, our doctors will advise treatment sessions.
We believe in the power of holistic healthcare and its ability to set the stage for lasting results. When you start your Spark Health journey, you’ll gain access to the following resources that will help you move your health objectives forward from the inside out:
- Primary care doctor
- Personalized care plan
- Clinic, offering access to all supportive services under one roof
- Unique healthcare partnership that will transform your life