Livia O. Kell, MSN, FNP-C: Empowering Patients at Every Step
After arriving in the U.S. from Brazil in 2009 on an au pair visa, Livia Kell faced a new language and an uncertain path to serving others. Within a few years, she mastered English, passed her nursing boards, earned citizenship and built clinical expertise. Today, as founder of Rooted Health
Integrative Medicine, she focuses on prevention, personalization and long-term wellness, helping women, immigrants and people from all walks of life be seen and heard in the healthcare.
What pushed you to start your own practice?
The turning point was realizing I wanted to change how care is delivered. When patients understand the why, they are more likely to follow through and achieve lasting results. That’s what led me to create an integrative, evidence-based model focused on personalized care and expanded access.
For those starting over, how do you build confidence?
Invest in your education, seek mentorship and stay committed even when progress feels slow. Confidence comes through action. Don’t try to fit into a mold—your unique story is your strength. And don’t let anyone make you feel like you don’t belong. Differences in background often reflect differences in exposure, not value. Embrace that and use it to your advantage.
How do you find confidence amid uncertainty?
I remind myself that growth comes with discomfort. Feeling uncomfortable and uncertain often means you’re stepping into the next level. Shift your focus from self-doubt to service. When you focus on helping others, confidence follows. Trust your experience and your intention.
