Possessing an extensive background as nurse practitioner (NP), Victoria Deeks currently serves as a certified hypnotherapist and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) practitioner with Central Oregon Hypnotherapy. Based in Bend, she assists clients in addressing trauma and personal stressors that cause issues such as anxiety, insomnia, depression, and phobias. Victoria Deeks’ efforts enable people to access core strengths and find a calm and peaceful space within. Ms. Deeks previously served as an NP with Peak Medical Clinic in Klamath Falls, where she managed patients with chronic illnesses. She also delivered hormone testing and evaluations. Drawing on a decade of experience as a level I trauma intensive care unit nurse, she referred patients to appropriate specialists as applicable. Ms. Deeks added functional medicine to her qualifications after treating many patients who were not being fully served by the allopathic medicine spectrum of interventions. Ms. Deeks also has experience as a salmon permit owner and boat owner in Bristol Bay. She fished commercially for Peter Pan Seafoods for three seasons. Throughout her career, she has balanced professional endeavors with the rigors and rewards of raising four young men as a single mom. She presently spends time with her grandchildren, introducing them to the simple pleasures of rural life.
What is your typical day, and how do you make it productive?
I try to start with meditating each day. Meditation makes my day flow together. I get online to address emails, then off to work. I have chosen a practice where I have lengthy appointments that allow me to get to know my patients and vice versa. I enjoy working in a specialty that focuses on a body system in depth. After my clinic work, I may see clients at my hypnotherapy practice.
How do you bring ideas to life?
I enjoy collaboration. I talk with my partner and close friends about ideas to get another perspective. I enjoy researching new ideas. Things will align in an amazing way if the idea is meant to be pursued. If not, I try to identify what needs changing. I enjoy challenges.
What’s one trend that excites you?
Being in healthcare for 40+ years, I am excited to see areas once considered alternative being merged with traditional western practices. I believe incorporating several aspects of healthcare practice offers more support for clients and ways of addressing issues. I enjoy collaborating with acupuncturists, massage therapists, Reiki practitioners, nutritionists etc. Merging them with my own functional medical practice leads to best client outcomes.
What is one habit that helps you be productive?
Meditation and exercise helps balance me mentally, physically, and spiritually. I have more energy and focus as I move through my day.
What advice would you give your younger self?
You don’t have to do it on your own. Build relationships, develop new ones and maintain those that already exist.
Tell us something you believe almost nobody agrees with you on?
I can’t say nobody agrees with me, but I am not sure this is a prominent focus for others: be a part of your local community to build support for others and yourself. Share your ideas and opinions with others. Spread the wealth within yourself.
What is the one thing you repeatedly do and recommend everyone else do?
Merge with your community through events or meetings held regularly. Immerse yourself in the energy that surrounds you.
When you feel overwhelmed or unfocused, what do you do?
Go for a walk, talk with my partner or a close friend. This usually presents me with another interpretation of what I am experiencing, and I relax and move along.
What is one strategy that has helped you grow your business or advance in your career?
I enjoy continuing my education. This expands what I can offer and increases my knowledge. Thus, expanding perspectives. I listen to clients and peers’ feedback as well, knowing its value.
What is one failure in your career, how did you overcome it, and what lessons did you take away from it?
Feeling like I needed to “know it all” earlier in my career. At times, I was afraid to ask for help from peers. At times, this placed a barrier to my progress. I am now excited to consult with my peers when presented with something I want advice on. I am also honored to have someone ask me questions!
What is one piece of software that helps you be productive? How do you use it?
Adobe allows me to sign documents easily. I use Gmail for my emails and find less junk mail sent my way, or it’s readily sent to spam. This makes my inbox shorter.
Do you have a favorite book or podcast you’ve gotten a ton of value from and why?
Good Energy by Casey Means, MD. She offers amazing information on specifics to incorporate into daily life that maintain good health and prevent health issues emerging. Taking these steps early in life, as early as possible, will lead to your best overall wellbeing. I like her podcasts as well.
What’s a movie or series you recently enjoyed and why?
Love on the Spectrum on Netflix. I love hearing others’ stories. We are all seeking a deep love connection in life. All of our brains function differently. Understanding how someone with a particular brain pathway through the same things I do is fascinating to me. I want to praise the people in the program for sharing themselves with so many others.
Key learnings
- Keep open to learning daily, we are never too old. Be open to what comes your way on a daily basis.
- Be part of your local community. Do so at your own level of comfort. Get out and meet people at local events or join groups that interest you.
- Build on your ideas and see where they take you.
- Build balance into your daily routine. Accompany work with fun activities and relaxation.