Meet Dr. Sharalyn Martin | Doctor of Nursing Practice, Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

We had the good fortune of connecting with Dr. Sharalyn Martin and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Dr. Sharalyn, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Smart Care Clinic & Wellness Spa was born from both experience and heart. As a migrant from Jamaica, I’ve walked a journey defined by hard work, perseverance, and faith — a journey that taught me the value of compassion and the power of possibility.

Through 31 years of working in healthcare, from being a registered nurse, climbing the ladder all the way to a Nurse Practitioner, and a Doctor of Nursing Practice, I saw how patients often felt unseen or rushed — treated, but often with little knowledge what they were being treated for. I have seen and heard patients being turned away at reception desks because they had a balance that they couldn’t pay, and sometimes the lack of privacy and tact with which they would be told, and I knew there had to be a better way. I envisioned a place where healthcare could be professional personal and affordable, where each patient is valued, heard, and nurtured — not just medically treated but holistically cared for.

The name Smart Care carries deep meaning. The “S” comes from my first name, Sharalyn, and “Mart” from my last name, Martin — a reflection of the heart and mind I’ve poured into this vision. It also represents the smart and thoughtful approach we bring to care: blending science and empathy.

At Smart Care Clinic & Wellness, we combine comprehensive primary care with wellness and spa services to create an experience that heals and restores. Every detail — from the environment to the way we listen — is designed to remind patients that their care truly matters.

This clinic is more than a business; it’s a legacy. I wanted my children, ShaDean, Shadae and Davyn, to see that with determination, integrity, and belief in yourself, anything is possible. Smart Care stands as proof that when you lead with passion and purpose, you can transform both lives and communities.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I have a deep passion for poetry — both writing and reciting it. Words have always been my art form. They give me a voice, a rhythm, and a release. If I wasn’t in the medical field, I would probably be an attorney, because I’ve always loved verbal expression — and yes, I’ll admit, I do have a little bit of attitude to go with it!

For me, poetry and medicine actually share something in common — both require empathy, emotion, and connection. Whether I’m reciting a poem or caring for a patient, my goal is the same:, to touch hearts, bring healing, and remind people they’re not alone in their experiences.

But the road to where I am today wasn’t easy. Growing up, I faced my share of financial struggles and obstacles, and even while attending graduate school here, but giving up was never an option. I’ve never been a quitter. Every challenge became a lesson in resilience. I learned to turn setbacks into stepping stones and to use potential outcomes — not my current circumstances — as the motivation to keep going.

Each hardship strengthened my faith and determination. I reminded myself that rough roads often lead to beautiful destinations. Those experiences molded me into the woman, the professional, and leader I am today.

What I’m most proud of is that Smart Care Clinic & Wellness Spa stands as a symbol of perseverance and purpose. It’s more than a business — it’s a reflection of my belief that compassion, hard work, and a clear vision can truly change lives.

If there’s one thing I want the world to know about me and my brand, it’s this: I’m living proof that passion, perseverance, and prayer can make dreams real. My goal — through both my work and my words — is to inspire others to believe in themselves, care deeply for others, and never stop pushing toward their own version of greatness.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend was visiting, I’d make sure their trip included a Saturday, because we would definitely be going to church together. My faith is a big part of who I am, and sharing that experience — the music, the fellowship, and the love, and showing off my best friend— is always special. She would probably arrive on a Friday evening, and after catching up, we’d prepare for Sabbath. On Saturday, we’d attend church, and later that night, I’d invite a few close friends over for an evening filled with laughter, conversation, and maybe a little too much dessert! I love those moments of connection — where we just relax, talk about life, and enjoy each other’s company.
On Sunday, we’d start the day with breakfast at IHOP, then head downtown to explore Centennial Olympic Park. We’d ride the big Ferris wheel, maybe stroll through the area, and stop for ice cream at Bruster’s on the way home. That evening, I’d cook one of my favorite dishes — Jamaican brown stewed snapper with rice and peas — and we’d settle in to watch some sports. I have to say, I love watching football, basketball, or baseball — emphasis on watching, not playing! (laughs)
During the weekdays, we’d visit the Martin Luther King Jr. Center and Stone Mountain Park, and spend time just hanging out, relaxing, and catching up on life. Honestly, I don’t need fancy outings to have fun — even if we just sit at home talking, laughing, and sharing stories, that’s my idea of a perfect time.
And of course, through it all, we’d be taking lots of pictures. I believe pictures tell our stories — they capture the joy, the laughter, and the little moments we might one day forget. Long after the week ends, those photos would remind us of the love, friendship, and memories that make life truly special.
When my friends visit, their happiness becomes my mission. I always ask what they’d like to see or do and do my best to make it happen. And while I don’t have a list of “must-try” restaurants, I do love bringing different foods home and enjoying them together — there’s something comforting about a good meal shared in the warmth of home.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I always say it takes a village — and I’m truly blessed by mine. I hate to start calling names because I never want to leave anyone out, but I have to give special recognition to my husband, Dean, my children, my parents and my immediate family, who have been my biggest cheerleaders from day one. Their love, faith, and encouragement have been the foundation beneath everything I’ve accomplished.

I also have a few close friends who are more like sisters — women who have walked beside me through every challenge and milestone. They’ve been my sounding board, my support system, and my reality check and sometimes just the ears that I need to listen when I needed it most.

The truth is, Smart Care Clinic & Wellness Spa wouldn’t exist without the people who believed in me, prayed for me, and reminded me that I could do it even when things got tough. Their encouragement keeps me grounded, grateful, and motivated to give that same level of support and care to others every single day.

i cannot leave out my schools through out this venture, starting with my elementary school, the Ewarton Primary School in St. Catherine, Jamaica, St. Jago High School and more specifically, the graduating A2 class of 1987, which consisted of some of the best individuals anyone could have spent their high school years with as we transitioned into adulthood, and my University Hospital of the West Indies School of Nursing Batch 95. Lastly, but certainly not least, my church family both Ewarton SDA church in Jamaica and here in Georgia, my New Hope SDA church family in Ellenwood, Ga.

Website: www.smartcareclinicwellness.com

Instagram: #smartcarewellness

Facebook: Smart Care Clinic & Wellness Spa LLC

Image Credits
Terrence Bowen Photography dba Photos By Terbo www.photosbyterbo.com