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Coaching Your Clients on the Importance of SPF

Coaching Your Clients on the Importance of SPF

by Kathy Hodge Kramer | Jun 6, 2023 | Uncategorized

Have you ever noticed that there is a lot of mixed information regarding SPF? It’s difficult to know how to choose the best kind, how long it lasts, what number to suggest and whether waterproof REALLY means waterproof. The FDA realized in 2013 that there was a lot of...
Advanced Training and Continuing Education in Aesthetic Medicine

Advanced Training and Continuing Education in Aesthetic Medicine

by Kathy Hodge Kramer | Oct 13, 2021 | Uncategorized

After our Aesthetic Injectable Foundations Courses, one of the most common questions we are asked is, “When can I come back for Advanced Class?” This seemingly simple question has a very complex and multi-layered answer—something that’s usually summed up by, ”it...
Why Aesthetic Injectables Training Might Be Your Next Big Career Move

Why Aesthetic Injectables Training Might Be Your Next Big Career Move

by Kathy Hodge Kramer | Sep 1, 2021 | Uncategorized

Medical field burnout was at 42 percent in 2020. With more challenges on the rise, and the continuing pandemic, many medical professionals are looking for a change of pace. There’s truly no better time to gain some insights into new career opportunities. Does this...
Doppler Ultrasound Technology in Medical Aesthetics: How PNAA Will Enhance Model and Client Safety

Doppler Ultrasound Technology in Medical Aesthetics: How PNAA Will Enhance Model and Client Safety

by Kathy Hodge Kramer | Aug 4, 2021 | Uncategorized

Ultrasound technology is used across the medical field. In the last few years, industries like dermatology, cosmetology, and aesthetic medicine have adopted doppler ultrasound technology. As an education-forward organization, PNAA likes to stay ahead of cutting-edge...
The Importance of Building Customer Relationships in Aesthetic Medicine

The Importance of Building Customer Relationships in Aesthetic Medicine

by Kathy Hodge Kramer | Jul 8, 2021 | Uncategorized

The practice of aesthetic medicine is a relatively new field. But unless you’ve come into the field fresh from school in the last couple of years, there’s a good chance your medical background looks very different. Our students come from a wide variety of medical...
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Kim Mclelland, Patient Care Coordinator at Pacific Northwest Aesthetics Academy

Kim McClelland

Administrative Assistant & Patient Care Coordinator

After graduating with her B.A. in Exercise Physiology and Recreation, Kim worked in the fitness industry until deciding to devote herself to raising her family full-time. Throughout the following years, Kim served on numerous community boards, coached youth sports, participated in theater productions, and helped run the family business.

Kim joined Pacific Northwest Aesthetics Academy as the Patient Care Coordinator and Administrative Assistant, and quickly became a vital part of the team. When she’s not at work, Kim enjoys spending time with family and friends and traveling to warm destinations.

Julie Hoodenpyl, Enrollment Specialist and Certified Aesthetics Instructor

Julie Hoodenpyl, LE

Enrollment Specialist & Lead Skin Care Instructor

Julie has been a Medical Aesthetician since 2005. She has an eclectic background and shares a wealth of knowledge in the field of aesthetics. Working with various colleagues has allowed her to perfect her knowledge and skills with surgical and injectable consultations, multiple laser modalities, and her personal favorite, educating patients on proper skin care. She enjoys teaming up with patients and students to ensure they have the tools and knowledge to achieve their goals.

When Julie isn’t teaming up with Pacific Northwest Aesthetics Academy, she enjoys spending time with her husband and two grown sons, as well as singing in local theatres and lounges.

Kathy Kramer, CEO at Pacific Northwest Aesthetics Academy

Kathy Hodge Kramer, RN, CEO

Certified Lead Instructor

After 27 years of nursing in critical care, trauma, and emergency medicine, Kathy’s interest turned towards aesthetics. In 2010, she switched careers and devoted her time to learning cosmetic injection and laser skills. In 2014, she earned her Certified Aesthetic Nurse Specialist Certification through the Plastic Surgical Nursing Certification Board. Following her certification, Kathy spent seven years working at two premier facial plastic surgery clinics in the Portland area, where she developed a broad base of loyal clients.

In 2016, Kathy co-founded Pacific Northwest Aesthetics Academy, where she develops curriculum and leads courses. She is a National Trainer for PDO Threads for the face and body and continues to treat patients at PNAA on a limited basis. In her free time, Kathy is an RYT 200 certified yoga teacher and enjoys traveling with her husband, Dave.

Dr. Mike Mitchell

Medical Director

After attending the UCLA School of Medicine in California, Dr. Mitchell relocated to Oregon for surgical training at Oregon Health & Science University. He has spent the last two decades treating patients in an emergency setting and brings a unique, compassionate touch to every situation. He’s also trained in aesthetic and advanced aesthetic injections and has an extensive background in repairing minor and major facial trauma. As a result, Dr. Mitchell brings his considerable knowledge of facial anatomy to provide highly-informed and effective patient assessments.

In addition to serving as the Medical Director at Pacific Northwest Aesthetics Academy, Dr. Mitchell is the acting Medical Director at a busy medical spa on the Oregon coast and works independently consulting and treating patients in the Portland area.

Saskia Magner, COO at Pacific Northwest Aesthetics Academy

Saskia Magner

Chief Operating Officer

Saskia joined the Pacific Northwest Aesthetics Academy team in January 2019 as Chief Operating Officer. With over 20 years of experience in the aesthetics industry, including work with several leading medical device and pharmaceutical companies, Saskia lends her extensive skills and expertise to ensure PNAA students get the best training possible.

Beyond her work at PNAA, Saskia consults with aesthetic providers to strategize and implement plans to enhance patient outcomes and maximize revenue. Saskia is passionate about aesthetics, travel, the Pacific Northwest, and her family.

Alison Shulz, Instructor at Pacific Northwest Aesthetics Academy

Alison Schulz, ND

Certified Aesthetics Instructor

Alison has been practicing medical aesthetics since completing her training with Pacific Northwest Aesthetics Academy in 2016. Prior to starting her career in aesthetics, she earned her degree in Microbiology and became a Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine (ND).

Since returning to PNAA in 2018 as a Clinical Medical Director and hands-on trainer for Injectable Foundations, Alison makes sure students feel comfortable and confident with injectable procedures. She also meets with new models and clients to discuss treatment plans and goals with their injectors. As a teacher and aesthetics professional, Alison lives for the “ah-ha” moments when it all comes together and students demonstrate the art that goes into aesthetic injections.

Lauren Pearson, Instructor at Pacific Northwest Aesthetics Academy

Lauren Pearson, BSN, RN

Certified Aesthetics Instructor

Since joining the Pacific Northwest Aesthetics Academy team in 2018, Lauren has provided didactic and hands-on training for neuromodulators and dermal filler injections. She earned her Certified Aesthetic Nurse Specialist Certification through the Plastic Surgical Nursing Certification Board in 2014. With 16 years of nursing experience, 9 years in aesthetics, and a background in ICU and post-operative care, Lauren’s multifaceted background makes her an incredible resource for her students.

Lauren appreciates that aesthetics is an ever-evolving discipline. She enjoys continually learning and improving the techniques and procedures that offer her clients the best outcomes and her students the best training. A southern girl at heart—originally from Mississippi—Lauren is known for being an outgoing and caring instructor. She loves giving students the tools they need to help clients look and feel their best.

Donna London, Instructor at Pacific Northwest Aesthetics Academy

Donna London, MSN, FNP-BC

Certified Aesthetics Instructor

Donna is a Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner. She’s originally from the Midwest, where she obtained her undergraduate degrees in nursing and healthcare administration. Her desire to become an advanced practice nurse developed as a result of her growing knowledge that there were thousands of Americans who didn’t have access to basic healthcare services, due to a shortage of primary care providers. It was at that time that she felt a deep responsibility to be part of the solution to fill the gap in underserved areas and for those patients who lack access to quality health care.

Donna later attended Oregon Health and Science University’s RN to BS nursing program where she graduated summa cum laude. She continued on to complete her initial training with Aesthetic Skin Institute in 2016 and opened her own aesthetic practice in California in 2007. Now, she brings 14 years of experience as a practitioner and lifelong student to help Pacific Northwest Aesthetics Academy’s students achieve the highest standards in aesthetic training. In her spare time, Donna enjoys traveling, singing jazz, home decorating and spending time with loved ones.

Svetlana (Lana) Nadirov, Instructor at Pacific Northwest Aesthetics Academy

Lana Nadirov, FNP

Certified Aesthetics Instructor

Lana was 10 years into her acute care nursing carrier when she completed her Basic and Advanced training at Pacific Northwest Aesthetic Academy in 2016. She soon realized that she found her true passion as she dove into the world of aesthetics. She went back to school and earned her Masters Degree as a Family Nurse practitioner. Lana is committed to learning and expanding her skill set to better serve the needs of her clients. She learned from the best aesthetic professionals and took advanced courses in US and Europe. Her caring attitude and love for beauty fuels her practice in two Washington locations: Woodinville and Vancouver.

Lana is thrilled to be a part of PNAA faculty. She finds it rewarding to give back her knowledge and expertise to students and promote safety and excellency in Aesthetic Medicine. She’s down to earth and very approachable and our students feel comfortable asking questions and learning from her.

Leah Easton, Instructor at Pacific Northwest Aesthetics Academy

Leah Easton, CAE

Certified Aesthetics Instructor

After graduating from the University of Puget Sound, Leah decided to pursue her lifelong passion of aesthetics by attending the Euro Institute of Skin Care in 2005. After working in a plastic surgery clinic and a resort spa, she found her happy place at Goodskin Dermatology. She has extensive training in micro needling, chemical peels and laser treatments, and loves to learn about new technology in this ever evolving field. Leah has also been an aesthetics instructor at Spectrum Advanced Aesthetics, working with students to gain confidence and skills to use in their own careers. She finds it incredibly rewarding to help clients achieve healthy and beautiful skin. In her spare time Leah enjoys paddle boarding on any body of water she can find and hiking with her husband and their rescue dog, Max.
Jade Simms, Instructor at Pacific Northwest Aesthetics Academy

Jade Simms LE, CAE

Certified Aesthetics Instructor

Jade is a Licensed Esthetician and Certified Advanced Esthetician. Her passion for esthetics emerged from a desire to merge her interests in science and beauty. When in the treatment room, her goal for all of her clients is to help them achieve their best bare face. Jade is a perpetual student who enjoys researching information, trends, and treatments in the esthetic realm. She finds great joy in sharing what she learns with her clients and other professionals.
Leah Umnitz, Instructor at Pacific Northwest Aesthetics Academy

Leah Umnitz, MSN, FNP-BC

Certified Aesthetics Instructor

Leah is a northwest native and achieved her BSN from University of Portland.  She graduated and went active duty in the US Air Force.  Her duties included pre/post-operative nursing and her  interest for aesthetics sparked when she was assigned to work within the plastic surgery specialty.  She loved the satisfaction her patients felt and the beautiful transformations.  After serving in the Air Force Leah came back to her home town of Bend, Oregon and served at her local hospital, working all areas.  This inspired her to go further to become a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and graduated from Gonzaga University.  She was nominated into Sigma Theta Tau Honor Society.  Her first job out of graduate school was working in medical aesthetics at a local Dermatology Practice. She has over 19 years of experience as a Registered Nurse and 9 years as a FNP.  

Leah now resides in Texas where she owns Fresh Slate which primarily focuses on aesthetics, hormones and wellness.  She travels back to Oregon often to serve her loyal clients and visit with friends/family and get a dose of mountain air.  Leah joined Pacific Northwest Aesthetics Academy in July of 2022 as a Certified Aesthetic Instructor focusing on injectables training at PNAA as well as private, in office trainings.  She loves to teach aesthetics and is inspired by her students’ enthusiasm.

Ellisha Leal, Instructor at Pacific Northwest Aesthetics Academy

Ellisha Leal, CAE, LE

Certified Aesthetics Instructor

I have been in the world of aesthetics since birth because my mom was a makeup artist. She taught me at a young age the importance of health and beauty. I always knew I would  be in the medical or skincare field. I became a  medical assistant working in cosmetic Dermatology. I worked for one of the most sought out doctors in Newport Beach, California. Working beside her taught me so many things in the field of aesthetic beauty. My passion for a more one on one experience with patients lead me to esthetician school. My background as an esthetician and medical assistant lead me into the world of medical spas, plastic surgery, and cosmetic dermatology. In 2016 we moved to the beautiful Pacific Northwest and I once again found myself back in school to obtain my advanced esthetician license. I have 13 years of experience in skincare and will always give 100% of myself to the client. Skincare is not a one thing fits all industry. This is where I love the chance to show a client that whoever you are, I will find what makes you feel beautiful from the inside out. I joined Pacific Northwest Aesthetics Academy in July of 2022 as a Certified Aesthetic Instructor, teaching Skincare for the Medical Provider and love the interacting with our models and teaching our licensed healthcare providers new skills to help them grow their own practices.

When I am not working, you will find me exploring the Pacific Northwest with my three pups.

Elizabeth Docea, Instructor at Pacific Northwest Aesthetics Academy

Elizabeth Docea, FNP-BC

Certified Aesthetics Instructor

I was born in California and moved to Washington at age 13. My parents were born and raised in Romania and came to the US to escape communism and persecution.  They had 5 children, myself included.  They wanted to pursue freedom and opportunity they knew was possible in the US.

I always knew I wanted to be in the medical field growing up and having to accompany my grandparents who didn’t speak English to their doctor’s appointments in order to translate. Graduated nursing school in 2001 and spent the next 10 years in the acute care hospital setting at a level 1 trauma center. Decided it was time to move away from bedside nursing and graduated with my FNP in 2011. Spent the next 10 years as an NP in the ER, urgent care and family medicine. My passion for skin and aesthetics started in family medicine after seeing and treating many skin ailments. I entered aesthetics after deciding to take a course through PNAA and loved the ability to mix medicine with art. I value my time with patients and educating them on what treatments they are receiving as well as working with them to achieve a more youthful refreshed version of themselves. I joined PNAA as a Certified Aesthetics Instructor for Injectables in October of 2022.

Lesley Gretz, Instructor at Pacific Northwest Aesthetics Academy

Lesley Gretz, RN

Certified Aesthetics Instructor

Lesley graduated from OSHU School of Nursing in 2003. From there she worked at a local hospital in the Cardiac Recovery Unit for several years prior to entering into aesthetics. She joined a small private plastic surgery practice in 2007 where she was personally trained on injectables, lasers and post operative care by the surgeon. Today, she has an incredible practice with patients she adores and loves to continue learning new and innovative techniques.

She lives in a small suburb of Portland with her husband and three children. She enjoys spending time with her family and friends.

“I have lived in the Pacific Northwest my entire life and I love where I live. This place gives us a unique opportunity for many reasons. In plastic surgery it has allowed me to inject in a more natural way that compliments a patient rather than defines them. I love everything about PNAA’s program because it encourages a safe and knowledgeable practice for practitioners. We didn’t have this when I started and it is something this industry so desperately needs.”

Angie Cherry, Director of Marketing and Communications at Pacific Northwest Aesthetics Academy

Angie Cherry

Director of Marketing and Communications

Angie has been in sales and marketing since 1999, beginning in real estate and then in 2003, expanded her education when she earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science. Since then, she has owned her own marketing firm and yoga studio, has worked in project management, graphic design, web development, marketing and communications.

Taking the leap into aesthetics is an exciting new chapter in her journey and she joined the team here at PNAA in January of 2023. Angie manages our social media platforms, websites, design collateral, online marketing and SEO, promotional materials and community outreach.

In her personal time, Angie enjoys spending time with her three boys, adventuring outdoors, reading and teaching yoga as a RYT Certified instructor and trainer.

Daisy Hall

Graphic Design & Marketing Assistant

Daisy Hall joined the team in 2021. Daisy is trained as a graphic designer and pursuing a bachelor’s degree in digital media and communications. Prior to working at PNAA, Daisy worked as a creative director and freelance designer. Daisy is passionate about the creative process, communicating effectively, and highly relational. At PNAA Daisy is utilizing her talent, skills and education to assist with all of our digital needs as well as assisting the team with our technologies.

A native of the Pacific Northwest, in her spare time, Daisy enjoys all the activities the Pacific Northwest outdoors brings, traveling abroad and really good coffee.

Joy Giger, LAE

Skin Care Instructor

Joy is Advanced Aesthetician in OR & WA and practices at a busy Medical Spa in Vancouver WA. After 16 years in private practice as a bookkeeping pro while raising 3 sons single handedly she decided to pursue her passion for aesthetics.

As an Advanced Aesthetician Joy uses a wide variety of modalities to help clients reach their goals. Among her favorites are pixel laser skin resurfacing, IPL skin rejuvenation, micro-needling, and Coolsculpting. Joy’s priority is to safely deliver high quality, effective results to her patients. While practicing the technical skills of aesthetics is Joy’s daily focus, her passion is to continue learning and helping others while building lasting relationships.

When not in the treatment room she loves to hike, kayak, work out and spend time with her loved ones.

Jennelle Suarez, MSPA, PA-C

Certified Lead Instructor, Scottsdale, AZ

After graduating with her B.S. in Biomedical Sciences at the University of Central Florida, Jennelle continued her education at Keiser University in Fort Lauderdale, where she graduated with her Master’s as a Physician Assistant. She’s also certified in Botulinum Toxin and Dermal Filler. As a clinical provider, Jennelle practices aesthetic medicine through a natural and holistic approach. She has a passion for guiding other medical professionals in the aesthetic medicine industry through a safe, effective, and integrative approach.

Jennelle joined Pacific Northwest Aesthetics Academy in January of 2020 as a Certified Aesthetic Instructor in Scottsdale, where she teaches the Aesthetic Injectable Foundations Course. Jennelle is motivated by leading her students into the world of aesthetic medicine while also helping them jumpstart their aesthetic careers. When she’s not offering endless support to her students, Jennelle owns and operates Holistic Beauty Innovations, an aesthetic medicine practice in Scottsdale. Her approach to aesthetic medicine incorporates a multi-faceted approach to a patient’s aesthetic care plan and encompasses the world of regenerative medicine.

Nora Medina, CAE

Scheduling Coordinator & Skin Care Instructor

Following two decades in the medical field focusing on women’s healthcare, Nora decided to transition to a career in clinical aesthetics. Before joining Pacific Northwest Aesthetics Academy in 2016, Nora owned and operated a day spa and worked as a staff member at two other aesthetic offices.

As a licensed Master Clinical Esthetician holding a Certified Advanced Esthetician license from the state of Oregon, Nora enjoys connecting with students and patients, helping them achieve their goals, and providing the best experience possible each step of the way. While her work keeps her very busy, Nora makes as much time as possible to spend with her grandkids and family and enjoy the Pacific Northwest’s food scene and natural beauty.

Wendy Alexander Jacobson, BS, RN

Certified Lead Instructor, Advanced Injectables

Wendy’s interest in the human form, anatomy, and biochemical make-up stemmed from her studies at Portland State University, where she earned her B.S. in Biology. After completing her undergraduate studies, she received her Nursing degree from Breckinridge School of Nursing. Here, she graduated Magna Cum Laude and was nominated into the Alpha Beta Kappa honor society. Wendy went into nursing with a passion for the aesthetic industry and always planned on becoming an expert Aesthetic Nurse.

Wendy has now been working with patients for over 20 years. She attends countless advanced workshops in aesthetic medicine across the United States and is currently on faculty as a Certified Aesthetic Instructor for Pacific Northwest Aesthetics Academy. She’s also the co-owner of W Aesthetics and Wellness with locations in Portland, Sisters, and Bend.

Teri Scott, MSN, NP-C, CWCN-AP

Certified Lead Instructor, Seattle, WA

While Teri always knew she wanted to be a nurse, her path was non-traditional. Following high school, she elected to serve in the United States Air Force to support her educational goals. During this time, Teri trained and worked as a diesel mechanic while seeing the world and meeting many amazing people. With the end of the Cold War and the chipping away of the Berlin Wall, Teri grabbed her DD214 and headed to the University of Texas, where she pursued her Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing. After ten years as an RN working primarily in coronary and intensive care units, she went back to school to earn her Master’s Degree from Seattle Pacific University as a Family Nurse Practitioner. That was over a decade ago.

To this day, Teri supports her colleagues as a nurse practitioner providing support on wound care and advice regarding specific needs for elders. She’s also a Master Injector and teaches others the art of medical aesthetics at Pacific Northwest Aesthetics Academy. Her service model provides patients and students with accessibility, regardless of where they’re at in life. Teri brings a keen eye for aesthetics and the skills to help people maintain a gorgeous, natural look.

Jamie Carmona, NP-C, MSN, BSN

Certified Aesthetic Instructor

As a Board Certified Aesthetic Nurse Injector, Jamie brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to students at Pacific Northwest Aesthetics Academy. Jamie has been a registered Nurse in the ER for over 17 years, a RN at a plastic surgeon’s office for five years, and the APRN/Owner of Luxe Med Spa Aesthetics since May 2019.

As a Certified Aesthetic Instructor at PNAA, Jamie teaches students up-to-date, comprehensive treatment modalities for their aesthetic clientele. Through one-on-one training sessions, she strives to help students become more confident in their skills in order to give their personal clients a happy, positive experience and outcome.

Known for her calm, gentle touch, clinical expertise and artistic eye, she delivers highly personalized care and training for all of her students and clients. Jamie also loves to travel, paint and go to the beach in her free time.

Bre Rouse, RN

Certified Aesthetic Instructor

Bre joined the Pacific Northwest Aesthetics Academy team in November 2020. She has 7 years of experience as a registered nurse in the Central Oregon medical community and has been certified in Aesthetics since 2014. She has lived in Bend for over 20 years and loves everything that the Central Oregon lifestyle offers. With a background in obstetrics and gynecology, she has continued her passion for women’s healthcare through aesthetics and wellness, and is excited about the growing male aesthetic population.

Bre values patient safety and education and understands the importance of staying up-to-date in an ever-changing industry. PNAA students can feel comfortable and confident in her care, knowing that she takes the time to stay educated on the latest products, technology, and techniques.

Bre is excited to be a part of this thriving industry and is honored to be able to provide top-notch training to students in Oregon. Her goal is to continue to expand her expertise in all aspects of non-surgical medical aesthetics.