Dr. Jess Barr Desbrow chose University of Western States with certainty, as the culmination of seven post-undergrad years of following her dreams and her heart, working and playing across the country and the world. Staying true to form, she took her time growing her practice from one room in her home in 2008, to now being the owner of a multi-disciplinary clinic in a beautiful and bright Southeast Portland four-square. Portland Family Health is home to chiropractic, massage, midwifery, acupuncture, naturopathy, lactation consulting, nutrition and mental health providers. Dr. Jess specializes in pediatric and pre/post-natal care, and adores the collaborative in-office team that both she and her patients benefit from.
What inspires you to donate to UWS?
I believe in the field of chiropractic. I recognize the passion behind what University of Western States is doing and I want to support that path. I am thankful for the education I received at UWS and what that has allowed me to do for others and for myself.
What are some things you are most passionate about, including other charitable causes?
In my work, I am passionate about supporting new life. The ideal scenario for me is to work with a woman through pregnancy and help set her up mentally and physically for a smooth and beautiful birth. Then I offer gentle energetic care for the new baby while supporting the mother through safely regaining strength and establishing healthy patterns. Ultimately, I love seeing dad and other siblings as well for full family wellness and watching everyone grow and thrive together. Homeless or addicted pregnant women is an area of special charitable attention for me, as is mentoring teen girls towards realizing their potential of how strong, smart and capable they are.
Tell us about your professional endeavors since graduation. What aspect(s) of your career are you most proud of?
I am on the third generation of my practice, having moved from being a solo practitioner in my home, to having teamed up with one other person in a one-room office, and now owner, manager and provider at an eight-room, multi-modality wellness center. I am most proud of creating a collective of collaborative providers that support patients as well as each other in achieving all of our lifestyle goals.
When you look back on your experiences at UWS, what sticks out as memorable? How did your time at UWS prepare you for your career/life?
Honestly, I most remember studying. To protect my personal relationships, I never studied after leaving school, so I filled in every gap while there. I would study on the beautiful lawn at lunchtime or between classes. I would study while walking though the adjacent neighborhoods when I’d sat too long. I think my approach helped me to create a sweet balance between very focused work time separate from focused personal time that I think my family still thanks me for. I will also never forgot cadaveric dissection.
What do you hope to pass on to the world through your charitable giving (or mentoring or volunteering)?
My mission in life is to help others discover and achieve their greatest potential. I believe chiropractic care can really do that for both the doctor and the patient. I like to mentor others toward following their dreams, working hard when it’s time to work hard, taking good care of themselves and always keeping the focus of lifestyle joy steady in the balance.
