Dr. Kathryn Gies, DC
Dr. Kathryn Gies, DC, is the founder and medical director of Avant Wellness. She is trained in the evaluation, diagnosis, and natural management of human ailments. Her professional philosophy and comprehensive approach to care reveals and addresses the root cause of health concerns as she supports her patients on their path to health and wellbeing. Her collaborative process is based on mutual intention and creating attainable goals for advancing each individual patient’s health and well-being.
Dr. Gies completed her Doctoral studies at National University of Health Sciences. She has also completed more than 650 hours of advanced clinical training and certifications in the areas of nutrition, acupuncture, and natural therapies for family and pediatric care.
This diversified background, paired with attention to evidence-based clinical advancements in biological health sciences has informed the Whole Health and Natural Medicine philosophy shared among all Avant Wellness clinicians.
Dr. Sofia Romano, DC
Dr. Sofia Romano received her Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology and Health from Miami University of Ohio before completing her Doctoral studies at the National University of Health Sciences. She has also undergone extensive trainings in functional medicine, equipping her with a comprehensive, patient-centered approach to care.
She believes that true healing begins by addressing the root cause of illness, not just managing symptoms. Using a whole body approach, she takes the time to understand each person’s unique story, exploring the connection between lifestyle, nutrition, environment, and genetics while providing personalized care plans designed to meet each patient’s individual needs.
Krista Klosowski
Krista Klosowski, MSACN, BSN provides holistic nutrition services with a collaborative and patient-centered approach. Using whole-food nutrition and lifestyle methodology, Krista provides personalized nutrition plans that target root cause health issues and provide essential nutrients to support each patient as they reach and maintain optimal health and wellness.
Krista is a Registered Nurse and received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from Calvin College. She received her Master of Science in Applied Clinical Nutrition degree from New York Chiropractic College.
Krista works with a broad spectrum of patient concerns, from disease prevention to specific health conditions. Her experience, passion for nutrition, and care for patients makes her a great partner for reaching personal goals and improving health.
Sophie Laird
Sophie Laird, MSNHL, RDN provides holistic nutrition services with a passionate belief that nutrition plays a pivotal role in achieving optimal health. Sophie creates individualized nutrition plans to address the underlying causes of dysfunction, and provides patients support throughout their treatment to achieve their desired health outcomes.
Sophie is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and received her Bachelors of Science in Nutrition from the University of Texas at Austin. She received her Master of Science in Nutrition, Healthspan and Longevity and from the University of Southern California, where she also completed 1200 hours of clinical training in nutrition to receive her Registered Dietitian credential.
Sophie recognizes the importance of personalized nutrition strategies, recognizing that each person’s needs are unique and require a tailored approach. Combining compassion with practical solutions, Sophie helps her clients navigate the complexities of dietary changes and overall wellness, empowering them to make informed, lasting changes that align with their health aspirations.
Carla Winter Bryant, ARPN
Carla is a Family Nurse Practitioner with more than 28 years of experience in the medical field. Her background includes 10 years practicing as a nurse and nurse practitioner in Emergency Medicine, Intensive Care, and Medical-Surgical settings.
In 2010, she began integrating Functional Medicine into her clinical practice. She later owned and operated her own clinic in Montana for 10 years before relocating to Chicago in 2021. Over the past 18 years, Carla has successfully treated more than 1,500 patients dealing with Mold illness, Lyme disease, and Autoimmune conditions. She also serves as a Legal Nurse Consultant and provides testimony in cases involving mold-related illness.
Carla has extensive expertise in gut health, bioidentical hormone therapy, peptides, ozone therapy, and IV nutritional therapy. For the past five years, she has also incorporated regenerative (stem cell) treatments into her practice. In addition, she travels throughout the United States helping physicians establish Functional and Regenerative Medicine clinics.
Her passion is helping people restore their quality of life while empowering them with the knowledge to care for themselves.
