Dr. Natalie M. Guley

Philosophy of care | I strive to treat every patient as a whole person – not just a diagnosis or imaging finding. I know facing a neurosurgical problem can be intimidating, and I aim to meet that with compassion, clear communication and respect. Listening closely and understanding what matters most to you is at the heart of how I care for people. I’m a logical thinker who values evidence-based medicine, but I also believe strongly in creativity and flexibility – especially when the path isn’t straightforward. Some of the best care comes from balancing solid science with open-minded problem-solving. As a surgeon, I know I’m being trusted in a deeply personal way, and that trust is something I take seriously. Building strong, honest relationships with my patients is one of the most meaningful parts of what I do. | Why I entered medicine | Medicine – and eventually neurosurgery – felt like a natural fit for my fascination with the brain, the spinal cord and the complexity of the human nervous system. It offered a rare blend of intellectual challenge, technical precision and the opportunity to help people during some of the most difficult moments in their lives. Problem-solving is at the core of how I think. I’m drawn to the logic of piecing together complex clinical puzzles and the hands-on focus that surgery requires. Just as meaningful to me is the human side of this work – being present for patients and their families, listening with compassion and building trust through thoughtful, personal care. | Community involvement | For me, being a physician means staying connected to the broader community and finding ways to serve beyond the hospital. As a neurosurgeon, that might look like education on brain and spine health, injury prevention, or simply being a resource when questions or concerns arise. To me, that’s what it means to be a good steward of the community I serve. | Personal interests | Outside of work I enjoy gardening, cooking, reading and being outdoors – whether it’s hiking, camping or simply spending quiet time in nature, which I find healing for everyone. At home I love spending time with my husband, daughter and our dogs and cats.