2026 Winter/Spring Group Visit Schedule
WELLNESS WEDNESDAY AND THRIVING THURSDAY
Remember -- 30 Min Check-ins with Kristen open every 4th Thursday 6-7 PM.
Beacon Internal and Obesity Medicine
Founded by Dr. Lori Smith, MD, DABOM, Beacon Internal and Obesity Medicine (BIOMe) brings a patient-centered model of primary care to Cabarrus County through its Direct Primary Care (DPC) approach—focused on value, access, transparency, and continuity.
BIOMe officially opened virtually in May 2025 and began in-person services in September 2025. Dr. Smith launched the practice to provide an alternative to a traditional healthcare environment.
Direct Primary Care is a membership-based model, BIOMe offers predictable, accessible, and comprehensive primary care without the barriers of deductibles, co-insurance, or copays. It provides autonomy in the physician–patient relationship, focusing on prevention, chronic disease management, and timely care before conditions become serious or life-threatening.
“Access to primary care and continuity of care are key to driving down healthcare costs,” Dr. Smith explains. “Independent primary care gives patients real choice, transparency, and meaningful partnerships with their doctor.”
Click here to read more.
Kristen Russell
I'm Kristen Russell, M.Ed, LMHC (she/her) and I believe that everyone can benefit from therapy; whether working through challenging situations, participating in self-discovery, or needing a non-judgmental space to express yourself. My approach is collaborative and client-driven, emphasizing multiculturalism and inclusivity.
I utilize a combination of approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Relational Cultural Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. My goal in working with you would be to further connections, encourage self-acceptance, and provide support and validation so that you can function healthily and happily, both in and out of therapy.
I am passionate about supporting those in marginalized communities while examining systemic oppression that impacts one’s health. As a therapist, I hope to empower every individual to live authentically and powerfully as themselves.
I earned a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from the University of Alabama (Roll Tide!) and earned my Master's of Education from North Carolina State University.
Jennifer Katafigiotis
Hi! I'm Jennifer.
My passion for health, nutrition, and weight management has been a lifelong journey. After earning my degrees from Fairleigh Dickinson University and Montclair State University, I dedicated over 30 years to helping individuals achieve their wellness goals.
Recognizing a gap in nutrition education for children, I founded WWC KIDS® Food Tutor®, a program launched at the American Academy of Pediatrics' 2018 conference and honored in 2019 by The International Forum on Advancement in Healthcare.
Beyond my professional roles, I cherish mentoring students and volunteering for community health initiatives. If I won the lottery tomorrow, you'd still find me working with my patients the next day—because this is more than a job; it's my calling.