Today we’d like to introduce you to Monica Friske.
Hi Monica, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I decided I wanted to be an animal chiropractor when I was 14. Prior to the age of 14 I wanted to be a veterinarian but I didn’t like the idea of having to put animals down. Chiropractic provided me the opportunity to help animals as well as humans without having to make those really hard decisions that veterinarians have to make. So I followed as many vets and chiropractors as I could to understand as much as I could about animals and if my decision was the right one for me. After graduating from ETSU with a BS in exercise science I attended Sherman College of Chiropractic to acquire my Doctorate in Chiropractic with the intent to specialize in the equestrian partnership. While in school however, I realized how much I enjoyed chiropractic care for people. Once I graduated school I immediately went out west to attend Options for Animals- the original animal chiropractic school. I finished my 200+ hours of post doctorate education for animal chiropractic and then flew out to Oklahoma to sit for the American Veterinary Chiropractic Association examination. I opened my office as soon as I returned from Oklahoma as a certified animal chiropractor. However, my office was in Bristol and I practiced on people and animals with veterinary supervision. In the last year, I moved from Bristol, TN with my two daughters to Knoxville to be closer to family. I am in the process of building my mobile chiropractic practice for humans and their four legged family members.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
There are always struggles but its the struggles and the hard times that make you stronger and reveal better ways of doing things. When I graduated from chiropractic school I took 30 days to find an office location and get everything set to open upon my return from post doctorate education. I graduated June 14th, moved back to TN the last week in June, left for Kansas to options for Animals the end of July and returned the beginning of September then immediately left that next weekend back out to oklahoma to sit for my AVCA test returning to open my office that next Monday to see patients. Then at the end of of the month I got married. Two years into practice I had my first daughter. I worked up until I was 41 weeks pregnant. I only took a two week maternity leave before stepping back into practice with my new born at my side. 4 years later I had my second daughter. I worked up until I had her as well at 39 weeks. also only took a two week maternity leave before heading back to the office with her at my side. 10 months after she was born I got divorced. We almost made it two years but realized we needed to be closer to family. God opened some doors for us to move to Knoxville. So we picked up and moved to be right next to family in Lenoir City. With the help of family and friends I practiced one day a week in my mobile practice and 4 days a week as a lead doctor in a practice in Knoxville. Recently, I decided to go completely mobile to give myself more opportunity to spend time with my children and serve more animals and people in their homes. In short, my struggles and speed bumps in the road really were not struggles but a way to propel me personally and professionally to knew heights and opportunities to serve in a different or new capacity.
As you know, we’re big fans of Simply Chiropractic. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
I am a mobile chiropractor. I can come to you, your business or farm. Certified by the American Veterinary Chiropractic Association, I can see you and your animals in one location convenient for you and your family. I have been apart of the equine community for more than 25 years giving me a unique insight into the training and care for the horses under chiropractic care. I have also been a personal trainer which helps me to better understand biomechanics in the rehab process. I provide strictly chiropractic care and basic exercises. I am quick to refer to other professionals when needed whether that is a veterinarian, physical therapist or orthopedist. I do not take any form of insurance. If you are looking to utilize your insurance I have some wonderful offices to send you to for care.
Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
There is so much to love about Knoxville! UT is a huge draw for both their medical and veterinary services as well as the sports! We love that there is something for everyone to do. It doesn’t take long to go to gatlinburg or a great hiking spot to see a waterfall or an amazing sunset. There are so many treasures here such as farm to table restaurants, farm fresh foods, activities for kids,
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