An in-depth look at experience, local roots, and holistic primary care.
Background and Path to Family Practice
Q: Krysten, Osteopathic Family Medicine of Northern New Jersey recently welcomed you as a Family Nurse Practitioner. Can you share more about your background and what drew you to this role?
Absolutely. I'm a Bergen County native—born and raised in Dumont, New Jersey—so joining this practice feels like coming full circle. Being able to serve the community where I grew up is truly meaningful. I bring over thirteen years of experience in healthcare, including roles in critical care nursing, internal medicine, and outpatient and rehabilitation care. The opportunity to provide primary care right here at home is something I value deeply.
Education and Nursing Journey
Q: Tell us about your educational journey and your initial experiences in nursing.
I earned my Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Ramapo College of New Jersey, and later completed my Master of Science in Nursing as a Family Nurse Practitioner at Fairleigh Dickinson University. Early in my career, I worked as a registered nurse in trauma and surgical critical care at Hackensack University Medical Center—a high-acuity environment that taught me a tremendous amount about patient care, teamwork, and dedication. In 2016, I was humbled to receive the NJTCCA Nursing Excellence Award, which remains a high point in my career.
Previous Roles and Experience
Q: Before joining this practice, what were some of your previous roles?
Prior to joining Osteopathic Family Medicine, I practiced as an Internal Medicine Nurse Practitioner for seven years, providing care in hospital and subacute rehab settings throughout northern New Jersey. This experience helped me appreciate the importance of continuity of care and multidisciplinary approaches, and it's shaped how I approach primary care now—focusing on the whole person and supporting patients throughout every stage of their health journey.
Services and Clinical Interests
Q: What types of care and services do you currently provide?
As a Family Nurse Practitioner and primary care provider, I offer comprehensive primary care, including preventive care, annual wellness visits, routine physicals, and management of both acute and chronic conditions. I believe in forming lasting relationships with my patients, so I can support their health goals over the long term. Each treatment plan is tailored to the individual, and I emphasize education and shared decision-making with every patient.
Q: Are there any clinical interests or specialties you're particularly passionate about?
Yes, I have a strong interest in metabolic health, wellness optimization, hormone therapy, and medically supervised weight management programs, including GLP-1 therapies. These areas are critical in today's healthcare landscape, and I enjoy helping patients make sustainable changes that improve their overall health and quality of life.
Fitness Background and Holistic Approach
Q: We understand you have a unique background in fitness. How does this influence your clinical practice?
Health and fitness have always been central to my life. I've participated in several professional bodybuilding competitions, ultimately earning an IFBB Pro Card. This journey reinforced the importance of nutrition, exercise, discipline, and sustainable lifestyle habits. These principles inform how I counsel my patients, and I strive to incorporate a holistic view of wellness into every patient interaction.
What Sets the Practice Apart
Q: Lastly, what sets Osteopathic Family Medicine of Northern New Jersey apart in patient care?
This practice is truly committed to patient-centered care, focusing on individualized treatment and long-term wellness. We see every patient as a whole person, not just a diagnosis, and empower them to make informed choices. I'm proud to be part of a team that values collaboration, compassion, and personalized care—qualities that align with my own philosophy as a provider.
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