Empath Partners, LLC
About Us
We are a team of caring, dedicated professionals that provide a holistic health approach to veterinary clinic wellness.
Heather L.O. Smith, DVM, CVA
Heather is a practicing doctor of veterinary medicine since 2003 with practice experience ranging from private to corporate-run practices, exotic animal medicine, emergency medicine, and veterinary relief work.
In her own words:I have always been in awe of the human-animal bond and have known from the time I was a child that whatever I ended up doing when I grew up, animals would surely play a pivotal role. In my many years of practicing veterinary medicine I have come to find I really have a passion for the art of medicine — those "soft skills" that come more from feeling and experiencing rather than books. I have also found it hard at times to balance all of the demands of being a veterinarian. Balancing being an advocate for a pet vs. what their caregivers think or want to do. Balancing personal life vs. professional demands. I have seen and experienced these dilemmas cause self-doubt, burnout, and a disenchantment with our noble profession. The realization that my colleagues are in great need of help and support has brought forth a new passion — a passion to help those like myself navigate the waters of our vocation and come out on the other side with pride, fulfillment, and an intact love for what we do.
Heather resides in a suburb of Seattle with her husband, her son, her daughter, her Boston terrier "Betty Bean", and her Boxer "Gil"
Erin Parshall, MA, CCFP, Integrative Wellness Life Coach
Erin has been working in the mental health and social work fields since 1999, including family and individual counseling, life coaching, and teaching in a Master's program for Mental Health Counseling.
In her own words:There is something special about the relationship between humans and animals. Of course, I am drawn to this work by my love of animals, but it's not just this. It's an admiration and respect for the skilled veterinarians that help, cure, and protect these beautiful creatures. I want to use my skills to do for them what they do for my furry family members. My super power is to help others be their best self and I cannot think of a more deserving community of people to walk along side. My hope is that I can partner to provide access to care for the caregivers and healing for the healers.
Erin resides in the Seattle area with her husband, her son, her daughter, and her American Staffordshire "Emma".