Born and raised in Key Largo, Dr. Lauren McCormick is proud to serve the same community that shaped her. A graduate of Coral Shores High School and later Palmer College of Chiropractic, Dr. Lauren brings a personalized, patient-centered approach to Seaside Chiropractic—blending evidence-informed techniques with heartfelt care.

Dr. Lauren specializes in pediatric and prenatal chiropractic, offering gentle, effective support for growing families. She’s passionate about helping little ones thrive through early intervention and supporting moms through every stage of pregnancy. Whether it’s improving a baby’s sleep and digestion or relieving pelvic pain and discomfort during pregnancy, her care is designed to meet each patient right where they are.

She primarily utilizes Diversified, Thompson, Gonstead, and Activator Methods as part of the Palmer Package and holds certification in Activator Basic Scan protocol. Her treatments often combine spinal adjustments with soft tissue work to restore alignment, reduce tension, and improve function—always tailored to the individual.

What sets Dr. Lauren apart is her belief in partnership-driven care. She listens closely, educates thoroughly, and empowers patients to take an active role in their healing. Her goal isn’t just pain relief—it’s helping patients feel stronger, more balanced, and better equipped to live fully.

When she’s not in the office, you’ll find Dr. Lauren enjoying life on the water, playing volleyball, or spending time with family. Her approach to health reflects her lifestyle: active, present, and grounded in what matters most.

Born and raised in Key Largo, Dr. Lauren McCormick is proud to serve the same community that shap... Read More

Dr. Leslie Merritt, a native of Ft. Collins, Colorado, brings a deep-rooted passion for wellness and an active lifestyle to her role as a chiropractor. Growing up in the Rocky Mountains, she immersed herself in swimming, running, and hiking. Competitive swimming was a significant part of her upbringing, leading her to seek chiropractic solutions for body balance from an early age.

Dr. Merritt’s journey took her to NCAA Division I University of Maryland Baltimore County, where she not only pursued her studies but also swam for the university team. During summers, she gained valuable hands-on experience interning at sports medicine clinics, hospitals, and physical therapy centers, deepening her understanding of injuries and rehabilitation. She graduated with a BA in History in 2005.

Subsequently, she ventured to Minnesota to undertake her Chiropractic studies at Northwestern Health Sciences University. While there, she discovered a love for running, completing four marathons alongside her chiropractic education.

In November 2008, Dr. Leslie Merritt earned her Doctorate in Chiropractic. Following graduation, she established a practice in Denver, Colorado, catering to the community near her hometown. In 2009, she took her expertise to Key Largo, where she joined forces with Dr. Lu Elaine Johnson. Her marriage to Kyle in 2014 marked another significant milestone.

In 2015, Dr. Merritt co-founded Seaside Chiropractic with Dr. Malea Joel, marking a new chapter in her career. To enrich her skill set, she pursued post-graduate studies, acquiring certifications in Graston, Full Body Active Release Technique, Active Release Nerve, Functional Movement Screen, Sacro-Occipital Technique, and Nutrition Response Testing.

While maintaining an active lifestyle remains central to her being, Dr. Merritt cherishes quality time with family and friends. Boating, traveling, and serving the vibrant Keys community are her cherished pastimes.

Dr. Leslie Merritt, a native of Ft. Collins, Colorado, brings a deep-rooted passion for wellness ... Read More

Dr. Jesse Suess is a Certified Chiropractic Sports Physician® and a member of the Active Release Techniques® (ART) Elite Provider Network. He specializes in helping athletes, recreational movers, and active adults recover from injuries, eliminate pain, and optimize performance through movement-based chiropractic care.

Dr. Suess is also proud to serve as a Visiting Specialist at the Ocean Reef Medical Center, where he provides concierge-level care for Ocean Reef Club members.

He grew up in Bergen County, New Jersey and began his academic journey at Montclair State University before completing his Bachelor’s degree at Logan University in St. Louis. There, he studied Exercise Physiology, Kinesiology, and Physical Education with a focus on neuromuscular rehabilitation.

After five years in private practice in his hometown, Dr. Suess moved to South Florida and trained in one of the region’s top Sports Medicine clinics. In 2021, he and his family relocated to the Florida Keys, where he now serves both local residents and seasonal visitors at Seaside Chiropractic.

In his personal life, Dr. Jesse makes a valiant effort to practice what he preaches. He stays active by feeding his passion for the game of baseball through coaching the local little league, and as he is an active member of the Professional Baseball Chiropractic Society.

Dr. Jesse also enjoys working out, fishing, and playing pickleball. He also loves cooking and he cherishes spending time with his wife and his three daughters.

Dr. Jesse Suess is a Certified Chiropractic Sports Physician® and a member of the Active Release ... Read More