Interview by Andrew Champagne
Kaitlyn Shikada, DC, was a star at Life West. A 2018 graduate, she was valedictorian of her class. She was on the accelerated track, earning her degree in just three years. She participated in several service trips to India, Fiji and Mexico. And, oh yes, she was also a Student Champion.
Dr. Kaitlyn Shikada
Now practicing at Family First Chiropractic in Reno, Nevada, Dr. Shikada has continued to shine and support her alma mater. She recently played host during a Life West Career Night for prospective students earlier this year, for example. In this interview, she offers her perspective on how chiropractors may overcome challenges they face in their practice.
What skills does a prospective chiropractor need in order to be a good communicator?
SHIKADA: The person you are is the chiropractor you are. Work on yourself and how you’re able to serve your people. There are so many ways to perfect your art, but that personal work is a big thing. Make sure you listen and have empathy for people. We can say all the right things and communicate chiropractic, but you also have to be able to communicate to the patient’s needs. Listening and being able to lead them to optimal health is very important.
What do chiropractors need to know on Day 1?
SHIKADA: We’re already so capable of helping people, and new graduates may forget that because school is pretty stressful. Know and trust that putting your hands on someone, and connecting with their story, is so healing. The more confident you are in your adjusting, the more you can work on other things, like creating your own systems.
What do chiropractors need to know on Day 2?
SHIKADA: Allow yourself to fail. The sooner you do that, the quicker you learn the lesson. Give yourself permission to make mistakes and learn from them.
What do you wish you knew when you were starting out?
SHIKADA: When you’re aligned with your purpose, bigger opportunities open. Follow your heart. Even when things don’t work out according to your plan, they tend to work out.
