The mission on Atlas Family Chiropractic is to provide lasting pain relief, while maximizing the health potential of those people that seek our care.  We provide state of the art chiropractic care and educational resources that serve to motivate our patients to seek a wellness lifestyle, with an attitude of responsibility for their health.

The following people make up our chiropractic staff.  We are here to serve you and help you reach your health care goals, to the best of our ability.

Dr. Nygaard utilizes the science and philosophy that the body is a self-healing, self-regulating organism.  He is a Board Certified Atlas Orthogonist and is the only Atlas Orthogonist specialist in Western North Carolina.  He saw over 1,900 new patients in his first seven years of practice in Asheville!  Dr. Nygaard holds a Doctor of Chiropractic Degree from Palmer College of Chiropractic in Davenport, Iowa; and trained with the founder of Atlas Orthogonal Chiropractic, Dr. Roy Sweat in Atlanta, Georgia.   He has published articles in chiropractic journals and spoken at advanced seminars regarding this highly specialized, non-invasive chiropractic approach.

Originally from Wisconsin, Dr. Nygaard holds a Master of Business Administration in Human Resources, a Master of Guidance and Counseling and Bachelor of Science in Special Education from the University of Wisconsin, Whitewater.

Dr. Nygaard has lived in Asheville since 1997 when he opened his first office at Westgate Shopping Center. In 2008 the office moved to The Pioneer Building behind Greenlife on Broadway St between !-240 and UNCA.

His interests include running, basketball, hiking, canoeing, music, animals and personal growth and healing.  Dr. Nygaard is active in the Mankind Project, a worldwide men’s movement.

Tenielle, Office Administrator, Patient Advocate and Clinical Assistant

Tenielle has over 8 years of experience in the medical field both in clinical and administrative positions. She came to Asheville from Michigan in October 2008 where banking was her specialty.  She holds a great appreciation for how chiropractic care can change the lives of those she helps. Just seeing the benefits that are possible for patients are truly amazing! Tenielle enjoys bowling, softball, gym time, hiking, biking, scenic mountain drives, telescope viewing and spending time with her 2 cats Patches and Monkey.

Laura, Front Desk Office Coordinator and Clinical Assistant

Laura joined our staff in October 2011 with a Bachelor's degree in Health Promotions from Appalachian State University in Boone, NC.  She was born and raised in the mountains of Asheville and has returned after moving, living and experiencing life in other North Carolina cities, Costa Rica and Greece!  Laura enjoys cooking, running, traveling, hiking, horse-back riding and her 9 year old rat terrier, Gracie.

Josh, P/T Clinical Rehabilitation/Personal Trainer

Josh is a part time member of Atlas but his presence is known. He manages our Business accounts as well as helps with Clinical Rehabilitation when necessary. He also works as a personal trainer - his passion. Josh is a dependable and funny guy!