Karen Merzenich, CNM
About Karen
Karen Merzenich started at CommuniCare+OLE in 2021. She received a degree in Certified Nurse Midwifery from UC San Francisco in 2020 and completed a BA in Cognitive Science at UC San Diego. Prior to coming to CommuniCare+OLE, she worked in a variety of roles in community clinics and organizations, mostly working with immigrant communities. She specializes in inclusive, patient-centered perinatal and gynecology care, and provides care in both English and Spanish.
My approach to care
My approach to care is rooted in a passion for providing equitable, relationship-centered, collaborative, evidence-based healthcare. I seek to meet patients where they are and treat every patient and family member with the utmost respect and dignity.
Why I went into healthcare
I became a CNM because I want people to feel supported, nurtured, and listened to during their pregnancies, health screenings, and gynecology visits. I enjoy building long-term relationships with patients so I can best support their health throughout their life. I am grateful to have the opportunity to provide top-level care to immigrants, asylum seekers, LGBTQ+ patients, and anyone who has been historically underserved in medicine.
Something you might not know about me
I used to be a professional pastry chef and culinary instructor!