Providers at Life Medical

Dr. Barrett is a chiropractor and certified functional medicine practitioner who provides evidence-based, patient-centered care at Life Medical. With a background in biochemistry and advanced training in nutrition and rehabilitative medicine, he focuses on treating the root causes of chronic pain and musculoskeletal conditions. He works with patients of all ages, helping them restore function, improve health, and live active, balanced lives.

Dr. Gringauz is a physician specializing in physical medicine with decades of experience in rehabilitation, cardiology, and pediatric care. Trained in both Belarus and the U.S., she completed her residency at the University of Colorado and a fellowship in pediatric spinal and brain injury rehabilitation. Fluent in Russian and English, she continues to provide compassionate care to patients in the Minneapolis area.

Dr. Bacaner is a board-certified internal medicine physician with advanced training in public health, tropical medicine, and integrative care. She specializes in functional and nutritional medicine, immigration and travel medicine, and is credentialed to certify patients for medical cannabis in Minnesota. Fluent in several languages, she combines Western and integrative approaches to address complex chronic conditions with a patient-centered focus.

Dr. Biel is board-certified in internal medicine, general surgery, and integrative and holistic medicine, with more than 25 years of experience. He specializes in regenerative orthopedic treatments—including prolotherapy, PRP, stem cells, and ozone therapy—to help patients heal joint, ligament, and tendon injuries without surgery. His patient-centered approach combines advanced regenerative medicine with traditional care to restore function, relieve chronic pain, and optimize long-term health.

Dr. Karachenets is a board-certified family physician providing comprehensive primary care and preventive medicine for patients of all ages. She has special interests in pulmonology, dermatology, women’s health, geriatrics, diabetes, obesity management, and chronic disease care. Fluent in English, Ukrainian, Russian, and conversational Polish, she is dedicated to delivering patient-centered, compassionate care that promotes long-term health and wellness.

Dr. Starchook is a board-certified anesthesiologist with expertise in interventional pain management. He completed his residency at the University of Minnesota and has been practicing medicine for more than a decade. Recognized as a Minnesota Monthly Top Doctor in 2014 and 2015, he is dedicated to helping patients manage pain and improve quality of life.

Dr. Tank is a board-certified integrative family physician specializing in holistic healing and osteopathic medicine. Fluent in English and Russian, she combines traditional and non-traditional therapies—ranging from nutrition and lifestyle counseling to osteopathic manipulation—to help patients achieve whole-person wellness. Her patient-centered approach emphasizes treating the mind, body, and spirit for lasting health.

Dr. Freidson is a chiropractor with nearly two decades of experience and advanced certifications in Active Release Technique (ART) and the Graston Technique. With a background in kinesiology and exercise science, he integrates soft tissue therapies and chiropractic care to help patients improve mobility, reduce pain, and enhance overall performance.

Vincent is a licensed acupuncturist and practitioner of Chinese medicine and Tui Na. With advanced training in Oriental medicine and years of experience in integrative health settings, he provides natural pain relief and holistic care tailored to each patient. His approach emphasizes complementary therapies that support healing and overall well-being.

Akhsa is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner who provides comprehensive care for patients of all ages, from infants to older adults. She is fluent in English, Russian, and Ukrainian, and has a strong interest in integrative and preventative medicine. As part of Life Medical’s multidisciplinary team, she focuses on family care, injury management, and long-term wellness.

Scott is a physical therapist with more than 25 years of experience treating patients in outpatient, hospital, long-term care, and home health settings. He specializes in outpatient orthopedics and chronic pain management, using manual therapy, functional exercise, and patient education to help restore mobility and improve quality of life.

Dena is a speech-language pathologist who works with patients of all ages to improve communication and swallowing function. She specializes in articulation and language therapy, as well as rehabilitation for speech and swallowing challenges caused by stroke or muscle damage. Passionate about helping patients reach their goals, she provides individualized, supportive care at Life Medical’s St. Louis Park office.

Ker is a mental health professional fluent in English, Thai, Lao, and Hmong. With decades of experience in social work and community services, he specializes in supporting Southeast Asian populations, immigrants, and refugees. Drawing from both personal and professional experience, Ker helps individuals and families overcome trauma, depression, anxiety, and life transitions through compassionate care.

BJ is a registered dietitian nutritionist with more than 30 years of experience in clinical care, research, and wellness programming. She takes a functional medicine approach to nutrition, helping patients manage conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, digestive issues, and weight control through personalized dietary therapies. Fluent in English and Hebrew, she also founded the award-winning DERECH Program, which promotes mindful eating and lasting lifestyle change.

Alena is a Physical Therapist Assistant and Chiropractic Assistant who supports patients in their recovery, rehabilitation, and long-term wellness. She assists with therapeutic exercise, chiropractic treatments, and patient education, combining clinical knowledge with a compassionate, patient-centered approach. Alena is dedicated to helping individuals improve function, reduce pain, and achieve their health goals.

Yelena is a Marriage and Family Therapy Intern who provides individual, couples, and family therapy at Life Medical. She takes a compassionate, client-centered approach, helping clients strengthen relationships, navigate life transitions, and build emotional well-being. Drawing on family systems theory and evidence-based practices, she creates a supportive space for growth and healing.

I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Human Services and a Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy, and I am currently completing my Doctor of Ministry degree at Bethel University with a focus on church leadership. My professional and academic journey has centered on integrating social science, including therapy and mental health, with spirituality to create a multi-disciplinary platform for innovative approaches to human flourishing, support growth, and well-being.