About Us

Eduardo Castro MD

Founder & Lead Physician

Dr. Castro has devoted over 25 years to the practice of holistic and alternative medicine. His journey began in conventional medicine, but a fortuitous discovery led him to explore effective yet unconventional treatments. With two and a half decades of experience, Dr. Castro has seamlessly integrated over a dozen therapies that are both safe and highly effective, addressing a wide range of health conditions, including autoimmune diseases and chronic pain.

His pivotal experience came under the mentorship of Dr. Elmer Cranton, M.D., at the renowned Mount Rogers Clinic, where he gained expertise in various treatments, including chelation therapy, intravenous treatments, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, bioidentical hormone replacement, chronic illness management, nutrition, and strategies for healthy aging.

During his time at Mount Rogers Clinic, Dr. Castro had the privilege of treating patients from around the world, including Canada, Europe, Central America, and Asia. In July 2015, he established Valley Wellness in Roanoke, Virginia, before relocating his practice to Charlottesville in April 2020. This move allowed him to be closer to his family, daughters, and grandchildren.

Continuing his quest for innovative healing methods, Dr. Castro introduced dynamic treatments such as intravenous Vitamin C for cancer treatment support, ultraviolet blood irradiation, low-dose allergy therapy, low-dose immunotherapy, and oxidative treatment using an activated form of oxygen.

Dr. Castro’s extensive experience also includes speaking engagements at notable events, such as the Central Intelligence Agency Intelligence Community Conference on Disabilities, where he discussed brain injury recovery, and the Future Health Annual Brain Meeting, where he shared insights on the treatment of brain injuries.

Additionally, Dr. Castro is the author of three books: “Healing Young Brains,” “When Diets Work: Overcoming Fat Loss Resistance,” and “Getting Rid of Ritalin.” While these books contain valuable information, he focuses on providing cutting-edge insights into the treatments he discusses, including emerging effective therapies.

As a Vietnam War veteran who served in the United States Marine Corps, Dr. Castro received a Purple Heart and Meritorious Mast for Outstanding Performance during his military service. His commitment to holistic health and healing continues to positively impact the lives of his patients and the field of alternative medicine.

When not in the office, Dr. Castro finds joy in family time, enjoys watching soccer, and is dedicated to researching the latest and most effective patient treatment methods.

Ashley Keese

Head Nurse & Office Manager

Ashley graduated from nursing school in 2008 and initially worked in nursing homes. During this time, she realized that there were significant flaws in our medical system. In 2015, she started working with Dr. Castro and became aware of just how broken the conventional medical world truly is. Since then, Ashley has dedicated her time to helping the practice grow and flourish, with the goal of helping more people in the community and raising awareness about healthy living.

Ashley is passionate about continuously improving her ability to contribute to patient success. She actively seeks out opportunities to learn from webinars, conferences, and the latest functional research. Originally from Christiansburg, Virginia, Ashley moved to Charlottesville in 2020 with her husband and daughter when the practice relocated.

Theresa RN

Clinical Patient Nurse

Theresa has been a registered nurse for over 25 years, with a primary background in cardiology and cardiothoracic surgery and a secondary background in holistic, functional, and integrative medicine.

Her path to integrative care began unexpectedly while working in a holistic family practice, but it quickly became her calling. After her own experience with chronic EBV and Lyme disease, she developed a strong belief in whole-body wellness and the importance of addressing the root cause of illness rather than symptoms alone.

Encouraged by a friend and longtime patient of CIMC, Theresa was introduced to the practice and soon joined the team. She combines her extensive clinical background with her understanding of integrative approaches to support patients on their healing journeys.

Outside of work, Theresa enjoys spending time outdoors and with her animals – two of her favorite ways to unwind and recharge. She’s happiest soaking up sunshine, grounding in nature, and practicing gratitude each day.

Sandy

Business Manager

and the wife of Dr. Castro, serves as the dedicated business manager at Castro Integrative Medicine. A loving wife and devoted mother and grandmother, she understands the importance of balancing professional responsibilities with family life. Sandy brings her passion for excellence and her commitment to family values to every aspect of her work.  She believes in fostering a supportive and nurturing environment both at home and in the workplace. Sandy began her role as business manager when she and Dr. Castro took ownership of  Mount Rogers Clinic in 2001. She returned to college to study business administration, marketing, and accounting. In her role as a business manager, Sandy oversees staff development, clinic growth, finances, and compliance. She approaches her responsibilities with the same dedication and care she applies to her family life.

In her free time, Sandy cherishes the time spent with her family, and friends. Her hobbies include photography and art, and she loves to travel. Both Dr. Castro and Sandy were born in Washington, DC, and grew up in Maryland. They met in junior high school and then went to different high schools. Years later, after Sandy was in college and Dr. Castro had served in the Marines they met again at a friend’s birthday party. It was also Dr. Castro’s birthday and since that party they have celebrated his birthday together every year, for over 50 years.

Carrie

Front Desk Patient Coordinator & Assistant Business Administrator

Carrie joined Castro Integrative Medicine in 2024 and quickly became an essential part of the team. She’s often the first friendly voice patients hear on the phone and the first smiling face they see when they arrive. Carrie helps ensure that every patient feels welcomed, cared for, and supported from the very start of their visit.

Known for her organization, positivity, and genuine compassion, Carrie helps the clinic run smoothly each day while making patients feel at ease. She’s passionate about helping people discover the benefits of functional and integrative medicine and considers it a privilege to witness patients’ health transformations firsthand.

Outside of work, Carrie enjoys spending time with her family and friends, catching live theater performances, exploring local restaurants and wineries, and visiting the beach whenever she can.

Evan

Clinical Assistant

Evan has been passionate about integrative medicine from an early age, and that passion is evident in the care and focus he brings to every patient. As a Clinical Assistant at Castro Integrative Medicine, he plays an essential role in supporting the clinical team and ensuring each visit runs smoothly.

Known for his calm and steady presence, Evan’s dependability and attention to detail help create a welcoming and efficient environment for both patients and staff. His professionalism and genuine care make him an important part of the CIMC team.

Outside of work, Evan enjoys exercising, spending time outdoors, and rock climbing.

Natalia

Marketing Director

Natalia oversees brand management, content creation, digital marketing, patient engagement, and community partnerships. Her role extends to managing our social media, email communications, newsletters, and blog content, along with creating informational slides for our waiting room. Outside of work, Natalia treasures time with her family, and two mini dachshunds. She is an avid Washington Capitals fan and an active member of her church. Natalia plays a key role in connecting our patients with the valuable resources offered at our integrative medical clinic, ensuring they are well-informed about our services and philosophy.