Karis Kerbs listens closely to children and their families to understand their concerns and develop a plan for a healthy future. She loves caring for pediatric patients of all ages—babies to adolescents—and appreciates their unique personalities and boundless energy.

Karis enjoys educating individuals about their health, giving them the autonomy and knowledge to make choices that enhance their well-being. She has a special interest in adolescent health, including mental, behavioral, and sexual health.

Karis earned a doctor of nursing practice at Oregon Health & Science University in Portland, Oregon, graduating through the pediatric acute and primary care nurse practitioner program. She previously spent more than a decade as a pediatric emergency registered nurse. Before joining Vancouver Clinic, she performed physical examinations, treatment, and safety planning for pediatric patients possibly experiencing child abuse or neglect.

Away from medicine, Karis likes to attend outdoor shows with her three children, her boyfriend, and her sister. U2, Jack White, and The Black Keys are among her favorites. Karis also likes to hike, work in her vegetable garden, bake sourdough bread, and read. She typically spends a week each summer volunteering as a medical provider at a youth camp, where injuries include bug bites, homesickness, and the occasional broken bone.