Machelle Stokes, APRN-CNP, specializes in women’s health at Utica Park Clinic. Machelle adds, “I really value women’s health because there are so many different stages women go through throughout the lifespan. Helping individuals navigate those changes and what’s best for them and their body is important to me and empowering for patients.”

Machelle’s drive to pursue a career in medicine began at the age of 13 when her father was electrocuted, changing the trajectory of her family, she said. “I watched as countless members of his medical team helped encourage him and support him along with our family through the healing journey and I vowed to be a part of that strength and hope for others one day,” she said.

When it came time to focus on a specialty, Machelle didn’t expect to end up in women’s health. She said, “I thought I would be in a completely different specialty while I was entering my last year of nursing school, and then I had an externship in labor and delivery. I was able to see the obstacles women have to endure to bring a life into this world, and I knew from that moment this was where I wanted to be. I want to help individuals, especially during their reproductive years to understand their bodies and how to advocate for themselves and their health.”

Comfort and connection are important factors for Machelle’s patients and their experiences. She said, “I pride myself on meeting patients where they are at. At the end of the day, we are all people trying to do our best, so I find in order to best connect and communicate with patients it is vital to be relatable, respectful, compassionate and empathetic.”

Advice that Machelle likes to remind and share with patients is to give yourself grace. “We will work as a team to get you where you need to be,” she said.

Outside of work, Machelle enjoys spending time with family, friends and her two dogs. She adds, “I have two miniature whoodles, Coco and Dior, that are my world. I’m also obsessed with finding bargains and redecorating.”