Overland Park Office:
913-568-0608
Lawrence Office:
785-760-0695
Every practitioner at Atma comes with a diverse range of expertise, but one thing we all share in common is our sense of dedication to providing above and beyond healthcare.
I founded Atma Clinic to provide thoughtful, cutting edge, and comprehensive care to my home community. I also direct the clinic and its practitioners. I incorporate Ayurveda, herbalism, energy healing, yoga, and many other complementary healing methods into the best current science and research when crafting individual treatment plans.
After graduating from Cornell University (B.A. with Distinction, Biology) and the University of Kansas (Doctor of Medicine), I completed my medical residency in Family Medicine at the University of Arizona. There I studied closely with leaders in Integrative and Functional Medicine through the Andrew Weil Center for Integrative Medicine, drawing from the best in Western and Eastern Medicine. Before starting Atma Clinic, I worked in a more traditional clinic, serving patients with many chronic and acute conditions.
My passion is helping patients find their health. This may mean finding improvement in a complicated illness (the single most common story I hear is, “Doc, I just got back from Mayo, and they couldn’t figure it out!”), helping an elite athlete get that extra five percent and anything in between. I have a special interest in helping people discover a greater connection between their spirit and body.
I started Atma Clinic because I wanted to practice medicine in a more effective and holistic manner. My education and training empowered me to make a huge difference in my clients' health and vitality, but the business-as-usual medical system was keeping me from spending the necessary time and attention with my clients. Through Atma's subscription model, I'm able to form lasting partnerships with my patients.
What is the root cause of your illness? Is it possible to get off of your medications? Have a mysterious illness that no one else can figure out? In-depth personalization of your care offering analysis of your unique genetics, cellular nutrition, gut biome, and the latest in Personalized Medicine. Come, sit, and share a cup of tea with the doctor that hundreds of other Lawrencians trust to solve their toughest health issues.
I grew up in Lawrence and Baldwin City, and I'm delighted to practice in my home community. In 2008, I married Kansas native, Hannah (Kern). We love taking our daughters and son out to explore the plants, rocks, bugs, and animals in our neighborhood. I enjoy traveling, reading science fiction, and relaxing in good company.
Dr. Lauren Poull is an experienced pediatrician and Integrative Medicine specialist at Atma Clinic, providing personalized care to both pediatric and adult patients. Her approach combines the principles of Integrative and Functional Medicine with the latest advancements in medical technology to address the root causes of health conditions. Dr. Poull’s holistic care plans are designed to improve long-term wellness by considering physical, emotional, and environmental factors in treatment.
Dr. Poull earned her B.S. in Film and Television Production from Boston University before earning her Doctor of Medicine degree from the University of Kansas. She completed her pediatric residency at the University of Washington and Seattle Children's Hospital, where she gained extensive experience in pediatric care. Throughout her medical training, Dr. Poull worked closely with leaders in Integrative and Functional Medicine, including Dr. Jeanne Drisko and Dr. Cora Breuner, fueling her passion for holistic care.
Her research on resilience and well-being earned “Best Trainee Presentation” at the 2017 AAP National Conference, underscoring her commitment to advancing the understanding of health and well-being. Dr. Poull is board-certified by the American Board of Pediatrics, a fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics, and an active member of the Section on Integrative Medicine. She is also pursuing a 300-hour intensive program to further deepen her expertise in Integrative and Functional Medicine.
Before joining Atma Clinic, Dr. Poull spent a year working in the ER at Children’s Mercy Hospital and gained five years of experience in pediatric primary care. This diverse background allows her to offer comprehensive care to patients of all ages.
Outside of her medical practice, Dr. Poull is a strong advocate for local food systems, businesses, and schools. She enjoys gardening, visiting the Lawrence Farmers Market, and spending quality time with her family. Dr. Poull resides in Lawrence with her husband, Gabe Lewis-O’Connor, and their children, Eamon and Celia. In her free time, she enjoys engaging with her community and maintaining a healthy, balanced lifestyle.
Conner is an experienced Family Nurse Practitioner specializing in integrative and functional medicine. After earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from MidAmerica Nazarene University, he gained valuable experience working as a nurse in a functional medicine clinic and as an ICU nurse at the University of Kansas Medical Center. He then earned a Master of Science in Nursing from Graceland University and is board certified through the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners.
Since joining Atma Clinic in 2020, Conner has worked under the mentorship of Dr. Neela Sandal, where he has focused on helping patients achieve optimal wellness through personalized, evidence-based care. Conner combines the latest in functional medicine with a compassionate, holistic approach to support long-term health and healing for each patient.
With a holistic approach, Conner combines the best of conventional and alternative medicine to address the root causes of health issues, not just symptoms.
Areas of focus:
Conner was introduced to functional medicine and nutrition at a young age from his parents, who were self-educated in holistic medicine. Through his own childhood illnesses, he has seen how functional medicine, diet, and lifestyle can improve one’s health.
Conner and his wife, Kaitlyn, are proud parents of three daughters. As a family, they enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including biking, camping, and exploring nature. They also share a passion for cooking and gardening, often spending quality time together while cultivating their garden and preparing meals.
Melissa completed her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Exercise Physiology at Wichita State University. However, driven by a desire to more effectively support patients in achieving their health goals, she pursued additional education, earning both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Nursing from MidAmerica Nazarene University and Saint Louis University, respectively, to become a Family Nurse Practitioner.
Since joining Atma Clinic in 2024, Melissa has been serving as a holistic family care practitioner, bringing a comprehensive approach to patient care. Her expertise allows her to integrate traditional and functional medicine, focusing on the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. This holistic approach enhances our integrative and functional medical practice by addressing the root causes of health issues, promoting long-term wellness, and supporting patients in achieving their health goals through personalized, patient-centered care. Melissa's unique blend of nursing and exercise physiology expertise further enriches the clinic’s ability to deliver effective, sustainable health solutions.
Melissa’s expertise as a holistic family primary care practitioner is built on a diverse and rich background, which includes the following specialties:
Her comprehensive skill set allows Melissa to provide integrative, patient-centered care that addresses both immediate health concerns and long-term wellness goals.
From the very start of her vocational journey, Melissa’s primary objective has always been to optimize the health of her patients and empower them to make healthy changes that lead to the highest quality of life possible. She hopes that patients will find her motivation and drive, along with her empathy and kindness, to be valuable assets in their care. Melissa’s ultimate goal is to see each patient thrive and achieve their fullest potential in health and well-being.
Melissa is a retired collegiate athlete who still loves staying active and playing sports with her two energetic little boys. When she’s not cheering them on at a field or rink, she can often be found attending sporting events or spending quality time with her close friends and family. Her passion for an active, vibrant lifestyle extends beyond her professional life, and she values the importance of maintaining a healthy balance between work, family, and personal interests.
David Lovely is a Licensed Masters Addictions Counselor, Licensed Professional Counselor, heart-centered hypnotherapist, and SourcePoint Therapy Energy Medicine Practitioner. With over 15 years of experience in the Healing Arts, he has dedicated his career to helping individuals achieve profound transformation and healing. David earned his Master’s degree in Rehabilitation Counseling from Emporia State University in 2013 and specializes in integrative mental health counseling, combining various therapeutic approaches to support his clients in their personal journeys.
At Atma Clinic, David offers a safe, compassionate space for individuals seeking healing and self-discovery. His approach integrates mindfulness, heart-centered hypnotherapy, and energy healing, creating a holistic and nurturing environment where clients can explore their own potential and embrace lasting change.
David's path to becoming a healer began with his own pain and suffering, which led him to a journey of self-realization. This experience has profoundly shaped his approach to therapy, allowing him to connect deeply with others and guide them through their own transformative processes. David finds inspiration in helping people tap into their true potential and witness their growth and empowerment. His life is a conscious choice to be joyful, present, and supportive of others' journeys of self-discovery.
Outside of the Atma Clinic, David strives to be the best human he can be in thought feeling and action. He is consciously raising a family with his beautiful wife and son. He enjoys Yoga, reading, nature and experiencing what life has to offer. David is hungry to learn and be of greater service to this beautiful world we call home.
David’s therapeutic approach is centered on creating a safe, sacred space for each individual’s healing journey. He fosters an environment of safety, non-judgment, and compassion, where clients are empowered to explore and heal without fear of criticism. Drawing on his own experiences and over a decade of practice, David skillfully holds space for individuals to release old patterns and reconnect with their authentic selves. Clients working with David often leave their sessions feeling more spacious, illuminated, and better equipped to make informed, conscious choices as they move forward in their journey.
Ashley is a holistic dietitian specializing in the needs of the patients at Atma Clinic, collaborating closely with the providers there. She focuses on nutrition counseling and education, working with clients to ensure their specific needs are met while accommodating their dietary preferences.
After working in the public education system for eight years, Ashley went back to school to pursue a passion in the field of nutrition. She studied Nutrition and Dietetics at Kansas State University, earning a Bachelors degree in Nutrition and Dietetics. She then completed their Didactic Program in Dietetics followed by an extensive 14 month long internship. Through this supervised practice, she had the opportunity to provide nutritional counseling and education in diverse settings such as schools, private practice, hospital, and an addiction treatment center. Ashley will have completed the process of becoming a registered and licensed dietitian upon passing the credentialing exam by the end of 2022.
Thanks to Ashley's background in teaching and guiding young adults on their individual college and career journeys, she is pulled towards leading people on the path towards self-sufficiency, fulfillment, and happiness. Her passion is educating patients on using the power of nutrition and general wellness to take their health into their own hands. She enjoys counseling and helping patients reach their health goals by way of small, realistic lifestyle changes that are both sustainable and patient-focused. Ashley is also inspired by an intuitive eating lifestyle that honors and respects the body’s innate communication signals and promotes a healthy relationship with food. Other topics she is passionate about include decreasing our environmental toxin load to support better health and nutrition to support greater mental health.
When she is taking intentional breaks away from work and research, Ashley is usually outside with her family hiking, camping, kayaking, playing, and exploring. Being out in nature is an important opportunity for each of us to ground, align, and recharge. Staying active is her primary mode of self-care, whether it’s yoga, strength training, or playing in the local kickball league. Ashley and her husband enjoy passing on their love of the outdoors and active lifestyles to their two young children.
With each patient Ashley establishes a safe, welcoming space to explore the complex history and relationship we have with food. She will always lean towards a more positive approach of adding more nutrient density to our routine versus a completely restrictive mindset, with the exception of obvious food intolerances and major inflammation sources. Because what we consume goes beyond foods and beverages, counseling sessions will also be woven with guidance towards other healthy environmental exposures that have just as great of influence on how our bodies and minds function. Patients will leave their sessions educated, empowered, and inspired to continue incorporating mindful nutrition and living at home.
"I've always appreciated how Dr. Sandal had new treatments for me to try, new ways of looking at my problems, and new directions to go in, which is so important when dealing with persistent, chronic and sometimes vague symptoms. He listens patiently, and takes my concerns seriously. I feel safe, respected, and well taken care of at Atma Clinic. I really like that the practitioners at Atma Clinic use a blend of both traditional and alternative approaches, this was a huge asset in my medical care, and a benefit when dealing with long-term, persistent symptoms. And, I like how the different practitioners at Atma Clinic all work together to find the best care for their patients, which is a completely new approach for me to experience. Atma Clinic is the place to go if you are looking for a truly comprehensive, holistic approach to your healthcare in a supportive environment with personalized treatment, and professional care."
– C.A. in Lawrence, KS
I am the practice manager here at Atma Clinic, and have 40 years experience managing business in many settings and disciplines, particularly in healthcare and technology.
I have known Dr Sandal for many years, and I remember when he originally told me about his aspirations to take up Integrative Medicine when he was attending KU Med. When I had an opportunity to help Dr. Sandal enact this vision, I jumped at the chance because I know how much Integrative Medicine works, and I know the kind of impact it could have in Lawrence.
I live with my wife Sakhi and son Nimai on a 41-acre plot of land where we tend a small herd of dwarf Zebu cows, grow food in our kitchen garden, take care of a small orchard, and look after the land. I was born near Glasgow, Scotland, and have lived all over the U.S. My passions include yoga, kirtan, gardening, cow protection, walking, travel, cooking (I’m a nearly life-long vegetarian), carpentry, and of course my friends and family. We often host yoga gatherings on the land which we call Bhaktivan (the forest of devotion).
I am the practice manager here at the Atma Clinic and manage all medical aspects of the clinic. I have worked alongside Dr. Sandal since he founded Atma Clinic in 2016. I studied at MidAmerica Nazarene University and obtained my Medical Assistant certification from Pinnacle Career Institute.
I became interested in health care at a young age when my mother was diagnosed with cancer, and I learned about the life-saving capabilities of medicine. After working in traditional medicine for over 10 years, and I'm excited to be a part of an Integrative Medicine practice.
I spend my free time at various sporting events for my three sons, who play football, basketball, soccer, track, and kickball. I also love hiking, reading, board games, Marvel Comic movies, hippos, and fuzzy socks.
I am the Social Media Manager/Administrative Assistant here at Atma Clinic. I have been in the medical field, one way or another for over ten years. I started in the dental field, was a surgical assistant and eventually moved to the administrative side of things. I studied Massage Therapy at Wellspring School of Allied Health. After graduating, I opened my own massage studio.
As I entered the dental field, I became interested in the medical world. I loved seeing all sorts of different treatment, helping these people turn their lives around. While I was in school, I learned so much about functional and integrative medicine and became very interested, as I was struggling with my own health problems. When I opened my massage studio, I specialized in Swedish Massage and Headache Relief. After those experiences, I was so happy to become part of the Atma Family. I feel right at home with my co-workers and the patients. I'm so happy to be part of something so wonderful.
In my free time, I love singing, dancing and making Tik Toks with my ten year old and three year old. I especially love watching a good documentary with my husband. Things that make me smile extra are crystals, karaoke and massage.
ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT
I am an administrative assistant here at Atma Clinic. I bring over 20 years of experience in office management as well as graphic design. Being able to work with the patients at our clinic is such a blessing to me as well as working with the caring staff.
Throughout my life I have found myself working to help others in one capacity or another from volunteering to teaching and working with youth. For the greater part of my adult life I have worked alongside my husband operating our business, when just a few short years ago our lives took a drastic change. We found ourselves in the role of full-time caregiving for two of our beloved family members. As challenging as it was, knowing we were providing them with the care they deserved was something we knew we had to do. Being able to share my love for others' wellbeing here at the Atma clinic is a blessing to me, and to see the providers and staff go above and beyond for our patients just affirms that I have found a wonderful home here at Atma clinic.
In addition to working here at the Atma clinic, I am also an elementary art teacher and a freelance graphic designer! My family has not lived in Lawrence for long, but my husband has significant family roots here. We have two amazing boys that inspire me everyday. We love to get out and explore our surroundings, ride our bikes and travel (mostly to our favorite place, Cannon Beach, OR)!
I'm a medical assistant and phlebotomist with over 22 years of experience specializing in family medicine. My own experience with post covid syndrome led me to seek holistic treatment for myself and inspired me to become more involved in integrative medicine. I attended Pinnacle Career Institute and Washburn University.
After being diagnosed with post covid syndrome, I began researching holistic medicine as an alternative treatment. After being in family medicine for over 22 years and having interacted with the wonderful staff at the Atma Clinic in the past, I was lucky enough to come full circle and become a part of the Atma family.
In my free time, I love attending KU basketball games, spending time with family, and watching some Chiefs football.
I have been a Medical Assistant for the last 8 years. Here at Atma Clinic, I assist the providers with patient care, administering IV infusions and phlebotomy. I am currently in nursing school pursuing my Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Baker University.
Atma Clinic has introduced me to the healing that can be accomplished through the use of holistic medicine, which has inspired my own health journey.
In my free time, I enjoy listening to a good podcast and hanging out with my friends & sister. I am an entrepreneur and business owner of a beauty brand franchise and a lover of all dogs. I love country music and attending concerts.
MEDICAL ASSISTANT
I am a Medical Assistant here at the Atma Clinic. I have over 5 years of experience in the medical field. Most of my experience was gained as a medic with the U.S. Army.
I am a firm believer in an Integrative and Holistic approach to medicine. I have watched people struggle with getting the correct diagnosis, being overprescribed medications and being dismissed by mainstream medicine. Everyone deserves to have a medical care team that looks at patients as a whole. It's inspiring to see the healing that happens here and I am glad to be a part of that.
I have a wife and two daughters. I try to stay in the Lawrence community. In my free time, I enjoy running and playing tabletop games with my friends.
I am a Medical Assistant here at the Atma Clinic, and I am also an online student of the Psychology program at Fort Hays State University. I have my sights on continuing education at the University of Kansas with the focus on behavioral neuroscience. I discovered the rewarding nature of the patient-caregiver relationship at a young age, when I got a job as an ER receptionist at the local hospital in my hometown of Great Bend.
I enjoy learning about patients on a personal level, to assist the doctors and specialists in performing the best care available. I believe in empowering people to take control of their health and well-being. It's so refreshing when I see a patient realize better health is within their reach, and together with the Atma Clinic, we can treat the whole patient.
In my free time, I love spending time with my family and friends, and especially animals of all kinds. I've recently discovered the love of birdwatching from the yard of my home in Lawrence, and the many parks and trails Lawrence has to offer. My favorite bird of all is the Jayhawk!
I am a Registered Nurse with over 35 years of healthcare experience. My career in healthcare began as a Certified Nurse Assistant in 1984 and then continued as a Licensed Practical Nurse. In 2000, I graduated as a Registered Nurse from Excelsior College. I’ve practiced as a Registered Nurse in the Lawrence community for more than 20 years—having the privilege of assisting patients in achieving their healthiest self. This experience has given me a diverse skill set and I am excited to share these with the patients at Atma Clinic.
My love for nursing and serving others began at a young age, inspired by my own grandmother who was a Registered Nurse. Healthcare is much more than a diagnosis or numbers on a chart—it requires a patient centered approach that considers so much more about a person. I am eager to learn and participate in Atma Clinic’s Holistic approach to medicine.
In my free time, I can be found cheering on the Chiefs, Jayhawks, and Royals. When the weather is nice, I love to “glamp”—especially at Melvern Lake. I also enjoy spending time with my family: 4 children and 6 grandkids. And those who know me know that I REALLY love tacos.
I am a semi-retired “professional nerd who left the corporate and University world to find a way to serve others. I have a passion for holistic healthcare and a deep repugnance for the state of “health”care in the US.
I am inspired by:
● Genuine belly laughs
● Creative expression
● Rube Goldberg machines
● People who have dedicated their lives in service to others
I (RYT500) am a practicing yogi of 20+ years. My yoga journey began like many other Westerners; I practiced to relieve stress and stay active while raising children and working the corporate grind. After my first class I was hooked for life. I spent many years studying the hot yoga 26 & 2 sequence, Ashtanga primary series, and traditional Hatha before I was encouraged to share my practice with others as a guide. I am a student of Gopi Mata Devi Dasi as well as a graduate from the Academy of Vedic Arts in Maharashtra, India. I offer a variety of classes around the Lawrence area and you can catch me every week at Om Grown Studio in Baldwin City. I regularly volunteer with Hospice where I offer spiritual care to the dying and their loved ones. I am blessed to serve our community as a Certified Death Doula and Conscious Dying Coach. I enjoy traveling the world, vegetarian cooking, forest preservation, spending time with my loving family, and implementing Bhakti yoga into everyday life.
You should not rely on this information as a substitute for, nor does it replace, professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about your health, you should always consult with a physician or other healthcare professional. Do not disregard, avoid or delay obtaining medical or health related advice from your healthcare professional because of something you may have read on this site. The use of any information provided on this site is solely at your own risk. Nothing stated or posted on this site is intended to be, and must not be taken to be, the practice of medical or counseling care.
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