Dr. Candice Dutko
“A medical professional with a passion for health and wellness beyond the office.”
Academic Background
- B.S. Psychology from College Misericordia (2007)
- Certificate in Addictions Counseling from College Misericordia (2007)
- M.S. Organizational Management from Misericordia University (2011)
- A.A.S. Nursing from Luzerne County Community College (2012)
- M.S. Nursing from Sacred Heart University (2015)
- Doctorate in Nursing Practice from Carlow University (2020)
Certifications
- Girls Gone Strong Certified Women’s Coaching Specialist Level 1
- Precision Nutrition Level 1 Certified
- OPEX CCP Coach
Fitness Accomplishments
- CrossFit
- Ironman finisher
- Olympic weightlifter
- Strong(wo)man competitor
- Triathlete
- Ultramarathon finisher
Why I decided to become a coach
I am fortunate to have had my life improved through fitness and taking charge of my health, and I would like the opportunity to inspire and support others to do the same.
I believe I am a great example of how it is never too late to start your journey. Although I played volleyball in high school, I wasn’t outstanding and don’t really come from what I would consider an athletic family. Fitness has really helped me get more out of life. I don’t really think that before I incorporated fitness into my life and focused on caring better for myself, that I realized what I was missing out on. With my fitness adventures, I have been up and down nearly the entire East Coast with my travels. My daughter is fortunate enough to come along for many of those and I am proud of the example that I am setting for her that anything is possible if you set your mind to it and put in the work.
I would love for people to experience the same great fulfilling life that I have…and it doesn’t need to involve competitions/races…but even just the general feeling of well-being day-to-day and feeling confident that they can go about their day without aches and pains and just feel good knowing that their body is capable of nearly anything.
As a Registered Nurse, I have seen too many people lead a poor existence due to poor health choices and I know it isn’t a life I want to lead. Having worked in hospitals for 9+ years, I would love to help people stay out of the hospital.
As a Coach, my goal is to create a fun, comfortable environment for people to explore their fitness and gain more confidence in themselves that extends beyond the gym. Some of my favorite people to work with are those that are new to fitness. I love seeing them have those moments where they do something they never experienced before or just walk away proud that they lifted some weights. I love helping people feel more empowered and stronger (mentally and physically) than before they met me.
Learn about Achieve Wellness and Fitness.