Exploring Life & Business with Michelle Allen of Ivy Pediatrics

Today we’d like to introduce you to Michelle Allen.

Hi Michelle, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
At a young age, I knew I wanted to be a pediatrician. By the fifth grade, that decision felt clear, and it went on to quietly guide every step that followed, from my education to the values that shape how I practice today.

After completing my medical training, I entered traditional practice settings and followed the expected path. I gained valuable experience, but I also became increasingly aware of the limitations of the system. Visits were designed to be brief and access was limited, yet I was determined to give my patients the time, access, and support they deserved. I knew the kind of pediatrician I wanted to be and I began to see that the existing model didn’t fully allow for that.

Ultimately, I chose to step away from the traditional system to devote more time to my family. That pause became a period of clarity and it was during that time that I felt called by God to build a practice that reflected my values and approach to care.

That realization pushed me to build something different. I founded my pediatric direct primary care practice with a focus on deep relationships, direct access and proactive wellness. I wanted families to have a real connection with their pediatrician, support beyond scheduled visits, and care that emphasizes prevention rather than reaction.

While I am only a few months into this work, I already see the difference this model makes for families. Each day reinforces why I chose this path. I have created a space for meaningful relationships, thoughtful care, and a practice that continues to grow alongside the community it serves. I see this as the beginning of a long-term commitment to caring for children and families in a way that is personal, sustainable, and centered on what every family deserves.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
No, it hasn’t been a smooth road—and I don’t think it’s supposed to be. Leaving a traditional system meant stepping into a lot of uncertainty. I was building something from scratch, learning the business side of medicine as I went, and trusting my own vision in a space that doesn’t always encourage new approaches.

There were very real challenges along the way. Figuring out new systems, managing finances, and growing slowly and intentionally have all taken time. On top of that, I was learning how to balance building a practice while being present for my family. Some days felt slower than I expected, and there were moments where I questioned the pace, my progress and even my vision.

But those challenges pushed me. They required consistency, patience, and showing up even when progress felt slow. They forced me to stay grounded in my faith, my priorities and committed to what I was building, especially on the days when building something from scratch felt heavy. Looking back, the road hasn’t been easy, but it’s been so rewarding. And it has strengthened my confidence in what I’m building and why it matters.

As you know, we’re big fans of Ivy Pediatrics. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Ivy Pediatrics is Atlanta’s premier pediatric direct primary care practice providing compassionate care for growing lives. I’ve reimagined what a doctor’s office can look like by building care around what matters most: a child’s health and their family’s peace of mind. I care for children from birth through adolescence, and my goal is to be a consistent, trusted partner for families. I’m not just someone they see during brief visits when something goes wrong.

What sets my practice apart is how care is delivered. Families have direct access to me, longer visits, and support beyond the exam room. That allows me to focus on education, early intervention, and helping parents feel confident in the decisions they’re making for their children. Care isn’t rushed, and questions don’t have to wait until the next appointment.

I specialize in caring for newborns, and have a Fourth Trimester program, which includes in-home visits and proactive guidance and support before and after a baby is born. This allows families to receive personalized care and support in the comfort of their own home during one of the most important and vulnerable transitions. At the same time, my practice is designed to grow with families, continuing care through childhood and adolescence with a strong emphasis on prevention and long-term health.

What I’m most proud of, brand-wise, is that this practice reflects how I believe medicine should be practiced. It’s thoughtful, relationship-driven, family-focused and intentionally designed around quality rather than volume. I want readers to know this is a practice for families who value connection and clarity, especially during moments that can feel overwhelming, and care that always feels personal, never rushed or impersonal.

What matters most to you? Why?
What matters most to me is living and working in alignment with my values, and my faith plays a central role in that. My relationship with God grounds how I approach my family, my career, and the way I care for others. It reminds me that this work is about service, stewardship, and showing up with integrity.

In my practice, that means caring for children with intention and treating families with compassion, patience and respect. I believe that when parents feel supported, educated and at peace, they’re better able to care for their children. Offering that level of care is something I take seriously.

My family also matters deeply to me. Building a practice that allows me to be present both at home and at work has been important, and that balance keeps me grounded and focused on what truly matters.

Ultimately, I see my work as a calling that guides me to serve with compassionate care and humility. It’s important to me that what I build reflects that purpose and leaves a profound impact on the families I serve.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.ivypeds.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ivypediatrics/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Ivy-Pediatrics/61577956986369/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ivy-pediatrics/

Image Credits
Selam Woldemichael at Selam Photogen!c