Sleep and Wellness Center in Pearland, TX

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Dr. Kent Smith CEO

As the clinical director at Star Sleep & Wellness in Frisco, Dr. Kent Smith has more than 25 years of experience treating individuals suffering from sleep-breathing disorders. As a partner to many physicians and sleep experts in the Frisco area, his running total for the number of patients successfully treated exceeds 10,000.

Credentials & Affiliations

Dr. Smith is double board-certified by the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine and the American Sleep & Breathing Academy (where he previously served as president), and he’s widely considered to be a pioneer in the field of dental sleep medicine. This is evident in that he was asked to develop the sleep-disordered breathing curriculum for the Las Vegas Institute of Advanced Clinical Studies in 2007. Apart from his position as clinical director, he is also an in-demand speaker who presents national and international lectures to dentists who want to incorporate dental sleep medicine into their practices.

When Not in the Office…

Although Dr. Smith is passionate about helping others achieve better sleep, he is also passionate about his family, which includes his wife, four daughters, and five grandchildren. Not only do they love to travel, but they regularly participate in scuba diving adventures through various ecosystems around the world. Dr. Smith is also a diehard fan of Dallas sports, specifically the Mavericks, Cowboys, and Rangers. During all this, he has also found time to write two fiction mysteries that revolve around his interests in scuba diving and sleep and even learn how to play the hammered dulcimer.

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Dr. Joyce M. Shotwell Medical Director

Born and raised in Lamesa, TX, Dr. Joyce M. Shotwell studied at Baylor University for her bachelor's degree before setting off to the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) in Galveston for her medical degree. She underwent her medical internship and residency in Internal Medical at UTMB and earned her Pulmonary and Sleep Fellowship at Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas. Today, she feels incredibly fulfilled being able to help patients obtain more restful sleep while also improving their overall quality of life.

When Not in the Office…

At home, Dr. Shotwell is married to her husband and loves spending time with their 7 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren. Other than providing sleep medicine to patients for better rest, she has a deep interest in artistic endeavors and textile activities, such as knitting and weaving. One interesting fact about her: before going to medical school, she received a Master's degree in Church music.

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Dr. Zachary Sherma Sleep Physician

One of the reasons Dr. Sherman pursued medicine in the first place was due to his fascination with just how much people don’t know about the human body, and this is even more so with sleep. During his internal medicine residency, he decided that he wanted to become a sleep physician to understand more about sleep physiology and disease. He later worked for a couple of months with a local sleep physician in a small city in Mississippi, where he learned how rewarding it can be to help those with conditions like narcolepsy, sleep apnea, and insomnia. His biggest priority: improving the quality of life as well as the overall physical health of every patient who walks through our doors!

Credentials & Affiliations

Dr. Sherman attended Vassar College before studying at the University of Tennessee College of Medicine. He later went on to complete his internal medicine residency at Baptist Memorial Hospital at Golden Triangle. Then, he achieved his Fellowship at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center in sleep medicine. Today, he is a proud member of the Texas Medical Association and the American Academy of Sleep Medicine.

When Not in the Office…

Other than helping patients get better rest, Dr. Sherman loves spending time with his beautiful fiancée, Emily. Together, they enjoy hiking—especially where mountains are present—as well as traveling to a new country or a small town they haven’t visited yet. His hobbies include playing drums, collecting coins and paper money, watching old movies, and camping. One fun fact about him is that he met George H. W. Bush and Barbara Bush when he was 9 years old on a Disney cruise!

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Dr. Angie Nauman Sleep Dentist

Dr. Angie Nauman has been a part of the dental field for almost 30 years, and she says that she loves her work as a sleep dentist in Frisco because treating people for sleep and breathing problems can literally save someone’s life (as well as their marriage when it comes to snoring!). Born and raised on a century-old family farm in northwest Oklahoma, she has treated thousands of sleep patients for over a decade and loves having the opportunity to help people understand how their sleep is impacting their overall wellbeing. As part of our team at Star Sleep & Wellness in Frisco, she is grateful she gets to help improve their lives in an impactful and meaningful way.

Credentials & Affiliations

Dr. Nauman started working as a dental assistant while she was a sophomore at John Brown University, and even though she was accepted into the OU College of Dentistry, she couldn’t imagine getting a degree from there because she was a dedicated OSU fan. So, she ultimately graduated from the University of Nebraska School of Dentistry.

Over the decades, she has completed countless hours of continuing education, with many of them dedicated to sleep apnea and airway treatment. Today, she is double-board certified by the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine as well as the American Sleep & Breathing Academy (where she has Diplomat status). She also has certifications to provide myofunctional therapy and Invisalign.

When Not in the Office…

Dr. Nauman’s life is delightfully busy at home for her and her husband, Nate, thanks to their five children and five acres! Most of her “free” time is dedicated to her family and running everyone between their various sports. When they do have a moment to relax, Dr. Nauman and her husband love being outdoors, and you’ll often find them hanging out at the lake, hiking, hosting large gatherings, or just playing with their dogs.

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Dr. Daniela Sever Sleep Dentist

Dr. Daniela Sever loves having the ability to directly influence people's lives with careful guidance and treatment. Often, patients walk into her office feeling exhausted, depressed, and resigned to their condition. Nothing makes her happier than igniting a spark to motivate them to seek treatment and start feeling better! She can’t wait to show you what’s possible and help you start enjoying the consistent sleep and energy that you deserve.

Why Did You Decide to Become a Sleep Dentist?

Dr. Sever knew she wanted to become a dentist starting at 16. She always enjoyed working with her hands and loves the idea of creating beauty and self-confidence with her work. Today, she has had an amazing 40+ year career in dentistry!

Where Did You Study Dentistry?

After graduating from the Harvard School of Dental Medicine, Dr. Sever went on to practice general dentistry for 35+ years, and she has largely focused on sleep dentistry for the last two decades. On top of her countless hours of real-world experience, she is always seeking further knowledge and completing advanced training. She was part of one of the first dental practices to receive Facility Accreditation from the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine, and today, she is a Diplomate of the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine.

Outside of the Office, What Do You Like to Do?

Originally from Prague, Czechia, Dr. Sever’s husband is a scientist, chef, and historian, and they have four children in total. When she isn’t spending quality time with them, she likes to take walks, exercise, discover new places, and learn new languages (she’s fluent in multiple!). Getting to meet and learn from new people is one of her greatest pleasures.

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Dr. Craig Harder Sleep Dentist

Bio Coming Soon!

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Dr. Ravin Chodavadia Sleep Dentist

Bio Coming Soon!

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Dr. Chris Kirby Sleep Dentist

Born and raised in Garland, TX, Dr. Chris Kirby has been hard at work in the field of dentistry for well over three decades. As a board-certified sleep dentist, he offers essential treatments to help patients achieve the quality rest they deserve. For him, the best thing about his job is being able to work alongside an amazing team that he can rely on. Knowing that together, they are improving lives and building strong relationships is incredibly rewarding for him. Read on to learn a little more about his education and background before coming in for your appointment!

Why Did You Decide to Become a Sleep Dentist?

Dr. Kirby knew that he wanted to become a dentist when he was a young child. Growing up, his dentist had a major impact on him and he realized later that he had the skill set required to be a compassionate dental professional. Aside from that, it was truly Hermey, the elf in “Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer,” who inspired him the most! Later, he gained an interest in sleep dentistry, and he’s remained committed to learning as much as possible so that he can provide patients with the care necessary for better rest.

Where Did You Study Dentistry?

Dr. Kirby is a proud Texas A&M University graduate. He later studied at Baylor College of Dentistry for his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree. Over the years, he’s undergone countless hours of continuing education in various areas, including surgical training at Misch Center for Advanced Dentistry, his study with Dr. John Kois in Seattle, Washington, The Pankey Institute in Key Biscayne, Florida, and his current course on Orofacial Pain and TMD from Rutgers University. He also trained at Ben-Pat Institute, where he did his residency in Craniofacial Pain and Dental Sleep Medicine.

Today, Dr. Kirby is a Diplomate in the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine as well as a member of multiple prestigious organizations, including the:

• American Dental Association
• Texas Dental Association
• American Academy of Cosmetic Dentists (AACD)
• International Congress of Oral Implantology
• Pankey Institute
• American Sleep and Breathing Academy
• John Kois Institute
• Ben-Pat Institute

Dr. Kirby has also received several awards and recognitions, along with being chosen by his peers in Texas Monthly Magazine for outstanding service to his patients 17 years in a row. He was even named as a member of their Super Dentist Hall of Fame. Today, he is dedicated to providing the highest quality of dental, sleep, and TMD care for his patients.

Where Did You Study Dentistry?

Away from dentistry, Dr. Kirby is married to his beautiful and talented wife—a high school and collegiate fitness and dance coach. They have two adult children who they’re incredibly proud of, and they love spending time with them when they get the chance. Other than being with his family and hanging out with his dog, Fynn, he is also an avid golfer and loves everything outdoors, including hunting, fly fishing, hiking, and going to the beach. He and his wife also enjoy listening to live music and traveling whenever possible. One fun fact about him is that he’s been in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade on numerous occasions due to his wife being one of the choreographers for many years. He was also chosen as a Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Squire and given his own “plot” of land several years back.

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Dr. Katie Collier, FNP Sleep Nurse Practitioner

Katie Collier is a sleep nurse practitioner in Frisco who understands physical and mental challenges can play a part in a person’s inability to achieve adequate sleep. As a family nurse practitioner, she finds enjoyment in watching patients experience a true transformation on the inside and outside, as it not only grants greater health and wellness but also improved confidence in their day-to-day lives.

Credentials & Affiliations

Knowing she would enter the healthcare field one day, Katie watched her father serve as a respiratory therapist for more than four decades. Attending the University of Texas at Austin, she earned her bachelor’s degree before earning her master’s degree at the University of Texas at Arlington.

Currently serving as a family nurse practitioner, she specializes in cardiology, obesity, and sleep medicine.

Before serving in her new role at Star Sleep & Wellness in Frisco, she worked in the cardiology department at Children’s Health Dallas/UT Southwestern for more than a decade. To ensure that she remains abreast of the latest changes in the field, she maintains membership in the American Academy of Sleep Medicine and the Obesity Medicine Association.

When Not in the Office…

Married with three daughters, a dog named Hazel, and two hermit crabs, Katie stays busy between the office and home. But she always enjoys spending time with her family. Whether it is going camping, seeing live music, or taking boat rides on the lake, that is where you’ll find her.

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Dr. Sunita Parajuli, PA Sleep Nurse Practitioner

Sunita loves to sing and has the ability to get along with absolutely everyone, so she is a joy to have around the office! She is a graduate of Texas Woman’s University and, as a sleep nurse practitioner in Frisco, she is passionate about helping our patients improve their health and quality of life by eliminating their sleeping issues.

Originally from Kathmandu, Nepal, Sunita lives in Farmers Branch with her husband and their three children. In her free time, she likes to garden, watch movies, and relax with her family.

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Dr. Joanne Yen, PA Physician Assistant

Joanne Yen is our knowledgeable physician’s assistant here at Star Sleep & Wellness. She brings well over a decade of experience to the table, and one of her favorite aspects of her work is being able to help her patients achieve and maintain a healthy lifestyle, which includes getting great rest every night! Learn more about Joanne Yen, PA by reading her biography below

Credentials & Affiliations

Originally from Dallas, Texas, Joanne went on to complete her undergraduate studies at the University of Texas at Austin and attended UT Southwestern, where she earned her Master of Physician Assistant Studies. She is NCCPA-certified and a member of the Texas Academy of Physician Assistants.

When Not in the Office…

Whenever she isn’t at the office, you can find Joanne spending time with her two daughters, who are active in sports and musical theater, and her husband. Together, they like exploring new restaurants, especially sushi and Indian cuisine. She also enjoys playing games, watching movies, and singing karaoke!

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Dr. Rejina Shrestha Nurse Practitioner

Bio Coming Soon!

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Dr. Raymond Kwan, PA Physician Assistant

Originally from Houston, TX, Raymond has been an essential part of our team for some time, and he’s loving every minute of what he does. For him, the best part of his job is being able to help people get a better understanding of their health concerns and formulate treatment plans designed to improve their quality of life. Today, he has the opportunity to be part of our patients’ journeys toward better sleep, and he looks forward to building lasting relationships with everyone who walks through our doors!

Credentials & Affiliations

Raymond studied at Texas A&M College Station for his undergraduate degree. Now, as a Physician Assistant, he gets to help develop treatment plans for patients so that they can get the essential treatment they need to get quality sleep. He remains dedicated to pursuing additional training whenever possible so that he can continue providing high-quality care for others.

When Not in the Office…

If you don’t find him at the office helping patients, Raymond is typically spending time with his beautiful and loving wife, along with his two small children and their Australian cattle dog. Other than being with his loved ones, he also enjoys traveling to and exploring national parks, eating amazing food, and playing volleyball!

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Dr. Allison Mirike, PA Physician Assistant

Originally from Sonora, TX, Allison Mirike has been in the medical field as a physician assistant for well over two decades and counting. She feels incredibly fulfilled being able to make an impact in people’s lives by helping them improve their quality of sleep. Alongside our talented and compassionate team, she also gets to help promote better physical and mental health for our patients, and she looks forward to working with them every day she’s here. Read on to learn a little more about her background and education.

Credentials & Affiliations

Allison first attended Angelo State University in San Angelo, TX for her undergraduate degree. She later went on to study at UT Southwestern Allied Health Sciences School in Dallas, TX. Afterward, she spent the next twenty years or more as a Physician Assistant in various areas of healthcare, including family medicine, internal medicine, women’s health, and now sleep medicine.

When Not in the Office…

If you don’t find her at the office working with patients, Allison is likely spending time with her husband, son, and their dogs in Prosper, TX. Other than being with her loved ones and friends, she also enjoys attending sporting events as well as participating in outdoor activities. In her spare time, she enjoys baking and making cakes!

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Dr. Angelique Ferraris Physician Assistant

A Texas native, Angelique has been working in the medical field for well over a decade, and she loves every minute of her work. The best part about her job is having the opportunity to be alongside an amazing team that is equally passionate about improving the quality of life and overall health of every patient who walks into our office. Ever since she can remember, she’s always had an interest in working in the medical field, and it was when she was a nurse that she decided to become a Physician Assistant. While working in family practice, she witnessed the impact sleep disorders had on the daily life and overall well-being of her patients, causing her to grow an interest in sleep medicine. Today, she enjoys providing quality patient-centered care to help people get the rest they deserve.

Credentials & Affiliations

Angelique attended the University of North Texas to obtain her Bachelor of Science in Biology. She later completed her Licensed Vocational Nurse program and then worked as an urgent care LVN for three years. She then went on to study at the Physician Assistant school at the University of North Texas Health Science Center to achieve her master's before working in primary care at a family medicine group for eight years until finally joining our team at Star Sleep & Wellness.

She is a proud member of several organizations, including:

• Texas Medical Board
• American Academy of Physician Associates
• Texas Academy of Physician Assistants
• National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA)

When Not in the Office…

Angelique has been happily married to her husband for well over a decade. Together, they have a beautiful daughter who they love to watch play soccer, as well as two dogs that keep the family active. Other than spending time with her loved ones, she also enjoys listening to live music, going to cookouts, and attending and watching sporting events. She also moved to Colorado, North Carolina, and Georgia when she was younger before ending up back in Texas.