Columbia Laser Skin Center is the first comprehensive skin and vein center in the Columbia Gorge Region. We offer the full array of aesthetic medical services to enhance the total beauty that lies within us all.
Some of our services include: Titan®, Botox®, Restylane®, Juvederm, Microdermabrasion, Intense Pulse Light (IPL), Laser Genesis, Facial & Leg Vein Treatment, Laser Hair Removal, Chemical Peel, Massage, and Mystic Tan.
John D. Willer, DO
Board Certified Ophthalmologist, OwnerGraduated from Ohio University College of Osteopathic Medicine in 1993
from Ohio University/Grandview Hospital in 1997
Dr. Willer practiced Ophthalmology in Texas and Colorado before relocating to the Gorge. He has received specialized hands-on training in aesthetic medicine, cosmetic procedures, and has completed advanced Botox training in Portland. Dr. Willer is the ‘vision’ behind Cascade Eye Center. He became a certified paramedic and served with local volunteer fire departments.
Dr. Yale Popowich
Board Plastic SurgeonDr. Popowich obtained his medical degree at the Medical College of Pennsylvania/Hahnemann University School of Medicine in 1998, then completed his general surgery training at Stanford University in Palo Alto, CA in 2004. He completed his residency training in plastic and reconstructive surgery at Oregon Health & Sciences University in 2006. He is certified by both the American Board of Plastic Surgery, and the American Board of Surgery.
Dr. Popowich devotes a large part of his practice to patients with breast cancer who will be undergoing mastectomy, thus requiring his reconstructive skills. As a cancer survivor himself, he works closely with each patient to help her attain her goals in a safe, caring way.
Mary ‘Tita’ Comeaux-Fortier, NP-C
of Nurse Practitioners in 1998
Tita enjoys integrating her expertise in medicine, aesthetics, nutrition and art to give her clients the best possible results. Her multidimensional approach has evolved over years of working in various specialties and with many different types of clients.
She has 28 years of nursing experience with advanced training in aesthetic medicine. Her previous medical experience includes family practice medicine, cardiology, emergency care, orthopedics, and women’s health. Tita also has specialized training as a nutritional therapist. In addition, Tita has studied art and architecture and enjoys incorporating an ‘artistic approach’ into her aesthetic medicine practice.
Deb Bailey – Registered Nurse
With a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing Deb is a Registered Nurse with many years of experience in a variety of medical fields including obstetrics, pediatrics, psychiatry, surgery and aesthetics. Deb has worked in laser centers and for over five years worked as a surgical assistant to a facial plastic surgeon. She has been involved in all areas of treatment of the skin and the face Over the last ten years she has accumulated a broad base of knowledge and experience in the field of aesthetic nursing that includes all areas of laser treatment, facial fillers, Botox, skin analysis, and skin treatment & rejuvenation.
Given this experience Deb has developed a passion for aesthetics and a desire to use her skills to provide the best treatment plans to those seeking help with counteracting the effects of aging on the face and skin.
To quote Deb, "As I have aged and dealt with the effects of aging myself, I have developed a passion for helping women and men find solutions to keeping their own appearance natural, healthy and youthful. It is my goal to understand each of my patient's unique needs and to develop for them a personalized plan that addresses their special concerns."Deb plans to continue to attend seminars and training programs to stay current with the ongoing changes in the field of aesthetics.
Since moving to Hood River Deb has developed a love for the area and all that it has to offer. She enjoys hiking, gardening, reading and entertaining.
Kim Stolte, RN
in Kentfield, CA in 1997
since 1997
After graduating from nursing school, Kim moved to Hood River in 1997. Born in Colorado, grew up in Montana, Kim enjoys hiking, skiing, biking, and watersports. She is a mother of 3 boys and owns her own business, www.swaddlekeeper.com. Kim is the primary contributor to educational bulletin boards in the labor and delivery department of PHRMH. She is a neonatal resuscitation instructor, preceptor of new RN graduates, and a full-time employee.
Angie Herriges – Licensed Medical Aesthetician & Laser Technician
Born and raised in the Columbia Gorge, Angie is a certified Medical Aesthetician and has received advanced training as a Laser Technician. She has been a member of the Columbia Laser Skin Center team since 2007. After wanting to offer a healthy alternative to tanning beds, Angie formed Sun Free, LLC, a spray on tan business located within Columbia Laser Skin Center. Angie is very excited about the new developments in anti-aging skin care. She enjoys helping each client define their skin care goals and achieving the best results possible. Angie currently lives in The Dalles with her husband and two daughters.
Anna Lyons – Licensed Medical Aesthetician
A native to the Columbia River Gorge, Anna, is a Licensed Medical
Aesthetician. She received her in-depth educational foundation in
aesthetics at the Euro Institute of Skin Care. Anna acquired advanced training in skin physiology and cutting edge technologies. She is excited to be a part of the team at Columbia Laser Skin Center.
Cathy Ryan – Licensed Massage Therapist
Originally from Lake Oswego, Cathy graduated from the Oregon School of Massage in 2000. Cathy has received extensive specialty training in–
Cathy is licensed for massage in both Oregon and Washington. When not working she loves to sea kayak and travel to interesting places on our beautiful Earth. Cathy also keeps busy with her Sunnyside Alpaca Ranch in Trout Lake.
Michelle Ashley – Licensed Massage Therapist
A graduate of Oregon School of Massage, Michelle’s mission is to help her clients achieve “Happiness, Well-Being and Relaxation” through massage. Michelle loves spending time with her family. When not working Michelle also enjoys raising farm animals and the beautiful outdoors of South Wasco County.
Debby Van DeVanter – Licensed Massage Therapist
A native Oregonian, Deb graduated from Ashmead College in 2001. Deb is renowned for her kindness, work ethic, and great sense of humor.
When Deb is not hard at work as a massage therapist she loves gardening, photography and skiing.
Erika L. Wilson, BS, MHS Practice Administrator
An Oregon native, Erika is responsible for the day-to-day operations of Columbia Laser Skin Center. Her past experience in health care empowers each member of the Columbia Laser Skin Center team to care for our clients to the best of their abilities. When not at work Erika loves spending time with her husband and two children. She also lives to play tennis; early morning runs with her canine companion ‘Rufus’; and kayaking in the beautiful Columbia Gorge
Shawna Russell – Clinical Administrator
Originally from Sunnyside Washington, Shawna received her BA from Eastern Washington University. When not at work or taking part in her numerous volunteer opportunities, Shawna enjoy spending time with her husband and two wonderful children.
Becky Weir – Clinical Administrator
Before moving to the Gorge in 1997, Becky grew up in New York State. Becky is also a co-owner with her husband in a local electrical business. She loves camping in the beautiful Northwest; socializing with family & friends; and watching her kids participate in the sports activities.
Amber Strain – Clinical Associate
Born in California, Amber was raised in the Columbia Gorge where she attended school in White Salmon. Amber has always been passionate about the aesthetic industry and it is truly her dream to work at Columbia Laser Skin Center. An additional part of her passion for aesthetics is her license in permanent cosmetics. When not working, Amber loves spending time with her three beautiful daughters playing outdoors and taking in all the activities the Gorge has to offer.
