For more than 15 years, Beverly Word has spent her life helping others heal. A Memphis native and licensed psychotherapist, she supports people through some of life’s hardest moments every day. But while she was caring for her clients, Beverly realized she needed help caring for herself.
That’s when she turned to Church Health.
About two years ago, Beverly began struggling with high blood pressure and persistent pain that left her feeling anxious and overwhelmed. As an entrepreneur, finding affordable, trustworthy healthcare felt especially important — and difficult.
“I decided to reach out to Church Health,” Beverly said. “As an entrepreneur, it was really helpful to have this resource.”
From her very first appointment with Dr. Barnhart, Beverly knew this experience would be different.
“Dr. Barnhart is comprehensive, and that is what I love,” she said. “She didn’t just say, ‘Your blood pressure is high, let’s add more medication.’ She looked at every area of my life.”
Instead of treating only symptoms, Dr. Barnhardt asked deeper questions:
What stress was Beverly carrying? How was she eating? What did her daily life look like?
Together, they created a care plan focused on Beverly as a whole person — not just a diagnosis.
Medication adjustments helped Beverly feel relief quickly and the support didn’t stop there. Dr. Barnhart connected her with a nutritionist, recommended pelvic floor therapy, offered mental health services, and even encouraged eye care.
“Dr. Barnhart wanted to hit every single thing that was happening — and that really helped me feel a whole lot better.” — Beverly Word
One of the biggest turning points in Beverly’s journey came through working with Church Health nutritionist Kimberly Boone.
“This was the first time in my life I’d ever gone to a nutritionist,” Beverly shared. “With Kim, she simplified everything, and she made it make sense for the life I’m living right now.”
Instead of strict diets or unrealistic routines, Kimberly focused on education, sustainability, and partnership. Beverly learned how small, practical changes could make a lasting impact on her health.
“She didn’t send me out to buy $200 worth of supplements,” Beverly said with a laugh. “She showed me how to get the vitamins and nutrients I need from my food.”
Today, Beverly says the changes have been life-changing.
She has more energy, feels more connected to her body, and has even reduced one of her medications. She’s also two pant sizes smaller than when she first came to Church Health.
Most importantly, she’s learned to prioritize her own health the same way she prioritizes the wellbeing of others.
“I’m a whole lot more aware of what I need to do to take care of me — and not just take care of my clients,” she said.
For Beverly, Church Health is more than a clinic. It’s a place where people genuinely care.
“If you have never been to Church Health, do it,” she said. “Trust the process. There are people here who really care, and you can feel that care and concern right at the front desk.”
“From the moment you walk through the doors, you feel like this is somewhere where I’m going to be taken care of.”