Hi, I’m
Catherine Leonard
Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner (ARNP)
Family Nurse Practitioner - Board Certified (FNP-BC)
West Des Moines
Accepting New Patients
Accepting Insurance, see our full list here
Meet Cat, a Family Nurse Practitioner who provides compassionate, comprehensive primary care for patients of all ages, combining evidence-based medical management, preventive care, chronic disease treatment, and whole-person wellness strategies; with a patient-centered approach that tailors individualized care plans, emphasizes measurable outcomes and safety, and integrates lifestyle, nutrition, and behavioral health resources to support long-term health for every stage of life.
Book an appointment with Cat for personalized, family-focused primary care!
Catherine’s Services
Discover the services Catherine offers to help you move forward with confidence, wherever your next step takes you.
Patient Population
Ages: All Ages
Gender: All Genders
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Catherine provides evidence-based, personalized routine and preventive visits for newborns through older adults, helping families maintain long-term health, prevent disease, and manage ongoing conditions.
Who we serve
Newborns and infants: Newborn visits, immunization counseling, growth and developmental monitoring, breastfeeding support, and early anticipatory guidance for parents.
Children and adolescents: Well-child visits on the recommended schedule through age three, followed by annual wellness exams starting at age three. These visits cover physical growth, developmental screenings, behavioral and school readiness checks, nutrition and activity counseling, and preventative guidance for parents and caregivers.
Adults: Thorough annual physicals, age-appropriate screenings, chronic disease prevention and management, medication reviews, lifestyle counseling, and seamless coordination of specialist care when needed.
Older adults: Preventative assessments for cognition, mobility and fall risk, polypharmacy reviews, chronic condition optimization, advance care planning, and compassionate care coordination to support healthy aging.
What’s included in a preventative visit with Catherine
Thorough medical history and personalized health risk assessment
Physical exam tailored to your exact age and current health status
Age-appropriate screenings, including blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes risk, developmental markers, hearing, and vision
Preventative counseling focusing on the core pillars of wellness: nutrition, exercise, sleep, mental health, substance use, and injury prevention
Vaccination counseling and accurate documentation as requested
Referrals and close coordination with specialists, community resources, and therapy services
A clear, written care plan and collaborative follow-up scheduling
At Integrative Family Medicine, Catherine supports informed, family-centered decision making. We do not require vaccines as a condition of receiving care at our practice. Instead, we provide up-to-date vaccine information, discuss benefits and risks transparently, and fully respect the choices parents and caregivers make about which vaccines to accept for their children or themselves. Catherine will document any vaccines received and help design individualized prevention plans that align perfectly with your values and health goals.
Schedule a routine check, well-child exam, or annual physical with Catherine today to prioritize prevention, track development, and maintain lifelong health. Appointments are available for all ages, from newborns to seniors, focused entirely on building a proactive health plan tailored to your family.
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Catherine evaluates and treats common urgent concerns—such as colds, sore throats, sinus infections, urinary tract infections (UTIs), rashes, ear infections, and other acute illnesses—using a patient-centered approach that blends conventional medical diagnostics with holistic, supportive therapies.
Services Provided
Rapid assessment and diagnosis of acute illnesses: focused history, targeted physical exam, point-of-care testing (when appropriate), and timely treatment plans.
Respiratory care: evaluation and treatment for common colds, sore throats, bronchitis, sinus infections, and related symptoms with symptom relief, guidance on when antibiotics are needed, and adjunctive integrative remedies for recovery.
Urinary tract infections (UTIs): symptom assessment, urine testing, personalized antibiotic management when indicated, hydration and prevention counseling, and follow-up care.
Skin and dermatologic issues: diagnosis and treatment of rashes, allergic reactions, insect bites, and localized infections with topical and systemic therapies as needed plus integrative recommendations for skin health.
Ear and eye complaints: evaluation and management of ear infections, conjunctivitis, and related acute problems.
Pain and fever management: evidence-based strategies to control pain, fever, and discomfort while minimizing unnecessary medications.
Coordinated care and referrals: seamless communication with specialists, labs, and imaging when conditions require further evaluation.
Conditions commonly treated
Common colds, coughs, bronchitis
Sore throats and strep evaluations
Sinus infections and sinusitis
Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
Skin rashes, hives, contact dermatitis, insect bites
Ear infections and ear pain
Conjunctivitis (pink eye)
Fever, body aches, and acute pain
What to expect during your visit
Focused intake: review of symptoms, medical history, and any recent exposures or medications.
Targeted exam and point-of-care testing as indicated (rapid strep, urinalysis, influenza, COVID-19, etc.).
Clear treatment plan: medications (if needed), supportive care, integrative recommendations (hydration, nutrition, supplements when appropriate), and instructions for monitoring.
Follow-up and safety netting: guidance on warning signs that require urgent care and timely follow-up to ensure recovery.
Get fast, thoughtful acute care from Catherine Leonard, FNP-BC—where medical expertise meets integrative, family-focused treatment in Des Moines. Book an appointment today to address your acute health concerns with confidence and compassion.
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With board-certified expertise and a patient-centered approach, Catherine blends evidence-based medical care with lifestyle-focused interventions to manage high blood pressure (hypertension), thyroid disorders, type 2 diabetes, and common metabolic conditions. Her goal is to reduce symptoms, prevent complications, and improve long-term health through personalized care plans.
What Catherine provides
Comprehensive assessment: thorough medical history, medication review, targeted physical exam, and appropriate diagnostic testing (labs, blood pressure monitoring, A1c, thyroid function tests).
Individualized treatment plans: medication management, dose adjustments, and collaborative care when specialty referral is needed.
Lifestyle and nutrition counseling: practical guidance on diet, physical activity, weight management, sleep, and stress reduction tailored to chronic disease control.
Ongoing monitoring and follow-up: routine visits and remote check-ins to track blood pressure, glucose, and thyroid markers; adjustments based on response and goals.
Patient education and self-management support: clear explanations of conditions, action plans, and tools to empower patients to manage symptoms and prevent complications.
Conditions commonly managed
Metabolic and Cardiovascular Health
High Blood Pressure (Hypertension): Tracking systemic arterial pressure to protect long-term vascular and heart health.
Type 2 Diabetes and Prediabetes: Managing blood glucose levels, insulin resistance, and long-term metabolic health.
High Cholesterol (Hyperlipidemia): Optimizing lipid panels and cardiovascular markers through integrated therapeutic lifestyle strategies.
Metabolic Syndrome: Addressing the concurrent combination of elevated blood pressure, high blood sugar, and irregular cholesterol levels.
Endocrine and Hormone Balance
Hypothyroidism: Managing an underactive thyroid to restore systemic metabolism and vitality.
Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis: Supporting the immune system and thyroid function in cases of autoimmune-related thyroid sluggishness.
Adrenal Dysfunction and Chronic Fatigue: Investigating root causes of prolonged exhaustion, stress-response imbalances, and unrefreshing sleep.
Respiratory and Immune Health
Chronic Asthma: Proactive airway management and tracking to preserve optimal daily breathing and lung function.
Seasonal and Environmental Allergies: Identifying triggers and strengthening the body's natural defense barriers against persistent allergens.
Chronic Sinusitis: Managing ongoing sinus inflammation and localized immune responses.
Digestive and Gastrointestinal Support
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): Navigating chronic digestive discomfort, bloating, and irregular motility through gut-directed protocols.
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Addressing persistent acid reflux by evaluating digestive function and dietary triggers.
And more!
Book an appointment with Catherine Leonard, FNP-BC for personalized, integrative chronic disease management designed to lower risk, improve symptoms, and support lasting health.
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Catherine combines evidence-based lifestyle counseling, medical nutrition guidance, and advanced pharmacotherapy — including semaglutide and tirzepatide — to help adults achieve sustainable weight loss, improved insulin sensitivity, and better overall metabolic function.
Services and approach
Comprehensive metabolic assessment: medical history, body composition, labs (A1c, fasting glucose, lipid panel, thyroid, liver function), and medication review to identify underlying contributors to weight and metabolic issues.
Personalized treatment plans: individualized goals, dietary guidance, activity recommendations, sleep and stress management strategies, and behavior-change coaching tailored to each patient’s lifestyle and medical needs.
Safe use of GLP-1 and GIP/GLP-1 therapies: expert initiation and monitoring of semaglutide and tirzepatide for eligible patients to support appetite regulation, glycemic control, and weight reduction while minimizing side effects.
Ongoing follow-up and optimization: regular visits to adjust dosing, monitor labs and vitals, address side effects, and combine medication with lifestyle interventions for long-term success.
Coordinated, integrative care: collaboration with primary care, endocrinology, nutrition specialists, and behavioral health as needed to manage comorbid conditions like type 2 diabetes, prediabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidemia.
Who benefits
Adults seeking medically supervised weight loss and metabolic improvement
Patients with type 2 diabetes or prediabetes aiming to improve glycemic control
Individuals who have tried lifestyle changes alone and need adjunctive pharmacotherapy
Patients looking for a holistic plan that integrates medication, nutrition, exercise, and behavior change
Book a consultation with Catherine Leonard, FNP-BC at Integrative Family Medicine to start a personalized plan for weight management and metabolic health using proven medical therapies and integrative lifestyle strategies.
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Are you unsure where to start with persistent symptoms, health concerns, or wellness goals? Catherine provides general consultations designed to help you piece it all together.
What to expect
Thorough listening and patient-centered intake to understand your full health story, lifestyle, and priorities
Comprehensive assessment of symptoms, medical history, medications, and relevant labs or imaging
Integrative diagnostic thinking to uncover underlying drivers such as hormonal imbalance, immune or inflammatory issues, nutrition gaps, stress, sleep disturbances, or chronic conditions
Collaborative treatment planning that blends conventional medicine, lifestyle medicine, nutrition guidance, targeted supplements, and referrals when needed
Clear, achievable recommendations and follow-up to track progress and refine care
Who benefits
Adults and families seeking a personalized approach to chronic symptoms (fatigue, digestive issues, pain, sleep problems)
Patients with complex or overlapping concerns who want a comprehensive evaluation
Individuals trying to optimize health, prevent disease, or transition care to a practitioner skilled in both conventional and integrative approaches
Book a general consultation with Catherine Leonard, FNP-BC to get clarity on your symptoms, a targeted plan for improvement, and compassionate guidance every step of the way.
Professional Experience & Credentials
Master’s in Nursing: Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner (ARNP)
Board Certified FNP
Specialty: Primary Care/Family Practice
“My interest in integrative and holistic medicine grew from these experiences. In the emergency setting, I often found myself thinking about what led patients to acute situations, and in family medicine, I began to notice recurring patterns in patients dealing with chronic concerns such as fatigue, digestive issues, and hormone imbalances. I was drawn to a more comprehensive approach to care—one that looks beyond individual symptoms and focuses on the whole person.”
My Background
I grew up in the small town of Atlantic, Iowa, where a strong sense of community played a central role in shaping who I am today. I was actively involved in sports—volleyball, basketball, and softball—and as the oldest of three siblings, I learned early on the value of responsibility, teamwork, and support. Growing up in a close-knit environment, along with spending time around animals (including our beloved Great Danes), helped foster my appreciation for connection, resilience, and overall well-being.
I attended Briar Cliff University in Sioux City, Iowa, where I earned my nursing degree while continuing to play both basketball and volleyball. I was also involved in student government, which helped strengthen my leadership and communication skills. I was drawn to Briar Cliff for its supportive, close-knit environment, and that sense of encouragement from both faculty and peers played a significant role in my development as a healthcare provider.
After graduation, I began my nursing career in the emergency department in Des Moines during the COVID-19 pandemic. This experience challenged me to quickly develop strong clinical judgment, adaptability, and resilience in a fast-paced environment. I later transitioned into family medicine, where I discovered my passion for caring for patients across all stages of life—from newborns to older adults—and building meaningful, long-term relationships.
My interest in integrative and holistic medicine grew from these experiences. In the emergency setting, I often found myself thinking about what led patients to acute situations, and in family medicine, I began to notice recurring patterns in patients dealing with chronic concerns such as fatigue, digestive issues, and hormone imbalances. I was drawn to a more comprehensive approach to care—one that looks beyond individual symptoms and focuses on the whole person.
In my own life, I have experienced how impactful lifestyle-focused changes can be. Prioritizing nutrition, movement, sleep, and stress management has significantly improved my overall well-being, and this has reinforced my belief in the power of these foundational habits. It allows me to not only recommend these changes to patients, but to truly understand the challenges and benefits that come with them.
Within my practice, I have a strong interest in supporting patients across the spectrum of performance, recovery, and longevity. I enjoy working with athletes of all ages to optimize performance, prevent injury, and maintain overall health. I am especially passionate about working with patients recovering from injury or surgery. Having personally undergone knee surgeries, I understand both the physical and mental challenges of recovery, which allows me to approach care with empathy and a practical, individualized mindset.
I also enjoy working with older adults who are focused on longevity and maintaining a high quality of life. My goal is to support patients in improving energy, mobility, strength, and overall wellness so they can continue doing the things they enjoy for as long as possible.
I take an integrative, patient-centered approach to care that combines evidence-based medicine with a focus on lifestyle, prevention, and long-term health. My goal is to empower patients with the knowledge and tools they need to take an active role in their health and achieve sustainable, meaningful results.
Book an Appointment
If Catherine’s approach to care resonates with you, use the button below to book your appointment today. She looks forward to supporting your journey to greater health, connection, and vitality.