Alex Shink
February 16, 2024

Nicole Bladin, FNP-C, MSN, IFMCP.

1. What's your practice focus and what kind of clients knock on your door ?

In my practice my main focus is gut health and toxicities. My typical client is one who has been struggling with symptoms or chronic disease, has seen many other practitioners/doctors and is not getting answers or resolution. The other subset of people in my practice are those looking to improve their current state of health and prevent future disease development.

2. Tell us about yourself. 

Most functional practitioners have a story of how they switched their practice from treating symptoms to delivering personalized care that addresses the root of dysfunction. I am no different. I have worked in medicine since the age of 18 but never really felt like I was making a difference until I fell into integrative care and eventually functional medicine and biotoxin illness. The difference I am making in my patient's lives is what motivates me each day.

3. Tell us the story of a patient who you are most proud of helping.

Oh my gosh only 1?!? I have a young kid in my practice who I started seeing at age 4. He was previously diagnosed with autistic disorder and attention deficit disorder. He could not speak in comprehensible sentences, read, or write. He has been with my practice for a little over a year and is now speaking in comprehensible sentences, reading and writing. He is calmer and sleeps better as well. This is a huge life changer for the child and the family and it feels good to be a part of it.

4. What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a practitioner in private practice?

The business side! I am not a business person so this was a big learning curve for me. I am a solo practitioner right now so all the business "stuff" falls on me. My biggest hurdle right now is social media. Social media is not something I am a fan of but it's a necessary evil when you own your business. Also, I own everything that happens in my practice. I have to be on top of it everyday which is stressful but I also love what I do so I look forward to it.

5. What are the top 3 tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a private practice today?\

The top three tips I would give.


  1. No risk, no reward - It's not easy but the difference you can make is worth it
  2. Don't be afraid - you are enough, have confidence in yourself
  3. Define your niche, but maintain flexibility - hone in on what you love to do the most and go for it! This can change over time so know that your path may also evolve

6. Where can people find you?

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