Meet Theresa Kulikowski-Gillespie, PA-C
Athlete. Veteran. Healer. Human.
It’s easy to lead with titles and accomplishments when I share who I am — and that’s important. You deserve to know that I’ve lived this journey, have the training to guide healing, and understand the real highs and lows of the athlete’s path, the veteran’s transition, and the complex road of chronic illness recovery.
But before the “stats,” here’s what I want you to know first:
I’m a seeker.
I love to laugh.
I’m in awe of the mystery and magic of life.
I’m passionate about discovering what is true, loving, and helpful — and about helping others do the same.
Even after years of practicing medicine and mindfulness, I believe there’s more I don’t know than I do. And while the unknown can feel scary, it’s also where wisdom and possibility live. That’s the space I hold for others.
My Philosophy: Presence, Possibility + Personalized Care
This isn’t just about labs, symptoms, or protocols.
This is about healing through awareness, compassion, and connection.
In our work together, we explore:
The science of functional medicine
The art of mindfulness and trauma-informed care
The power of partnership, not prescription
This is a collaborative space where your voice matters. We focus on root-cause resolution, emotional wellness, and whole-person health — through a lens that honors your body, your story, and your unique healing path.
Professional Training + Credentials
I’m a functional medicine physician assistant, mindfulness meditation teacher, author, Army veteran, mother, military spouse, and former elite and collegiate gymnast.
PA-C, University of Utah Physician Assistant Program
Former Army PA (2009–2012), deployed to Tikrit, Iraq 2010-2011
Graduate, Chris Kresser’s ADAPT Functional Medicine Practitioner Program
Completed training through the Institute for Functional Medicine (IFM)
Certified Mindfulness Teacher, 2-year program with Tara Brach & Jack Kornfield
Author of Beyond the Battlefield and Beyond the Chalk Box
Member, Bronze medal-winning 1995 World Championship Gymnastics Team
1996 Olympic Alternate, 14-time NCAA All-American
All-Around and 2x Balance Beam Champion, University of Utah
My passion for functional medicine for veterans, retired athlete wellness, and mindfulness-based chronic illness care comes from lived experience and years of clinical and spiritual study.
Books, Thought Leadership + Teaching
I’m the author of two books that reflect the core values of My Mindful Medicine:
Beyond the Battlefield: Stories of Tenacity and Mindful Guidance Along the Warrior's Path
➝ A holistic guide to recovery and trauma-informed mindful care for service membersBeyond the Chalk Box: Insight and Inspiration from Olympic Gymnasts
➝ A deep dive into the path of greatness, sport and identity, purpose, and life tools for optimal health and well-being
I also teach mindfulness practices, lead groups, and design courses that integrate compassion, somatic work, and functional medicine tools to support lasting transformation.
Why My Mindful Medicine Is Different
In a world where AI is gaining knowledge by the second, what I offer is something more essential: Authentic intelligence.
I believe we need more than answers. We need to be seen, heard, and understood. We need human connection.
That’s what this clinic is built on: a relationship. A collaboration. A space where we use the best of science and the deepest of presence to build your vibrant, fulfilling, and empowered life — together.
Ready to connect?
Ready to Begin?
If you're a veteran, retired athlete, or chronic illness warrior ready to explore what’s possible through functional medicine and mindfulness, I invite you to connect.
