Meet the Team at New Life Chiropractic

Dr. Tim Smith – Clinic Owner
Drs. Tim and Catherine Smith founded New Life Chiropractic here in Rocklin, CA in 2012 with a mission to empower families to live a healthy life naturally though Chiropractic and Holistic health care. Drs. Tim and Catherine Smith are committed to fostering wellness in the community through education, support, and personalized care. They believe in the transformative power of Chiropractic and are dedicated to helping families thrive. They understand the importance of education and empowerment in making informed health choices.
Dr. Tim Smith epitomizes experience, expertise, and unwavering dedication in the field of chiropractic care. As a magna cum laude graduate of Life Chiropractic College West, he specialized in spinal correction, extremity management, neuro-muscular education, nutrition, and neurology. His journey as a Max Living doctor reflects his commitment to delivering the 5 Essentials of health, bolstered by certifications in nutrition, fitness, detoxification, and advanced spinal correction.

Dr. Catherine Smith – Clinic Owner
Dr. Catherine Smith, a distinguished graduate of Palmer West Chiropractic College, embodies unparalleled experience and expertise in chiropractic care. Her journey began with a bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology from San Diego State University, with a focus on Fitness, Nutrition, and Health. With a passion to serve, Dr. Catherine has treated individuals across all stages of life, from newborns to the elderly. Her extensive experience includes working with a diverse range of athletes, honing her skills as a member of the Palmer West Sports Council.
As a mother to two beautiful girls, Dr. Catherine has shifted her focus to supporting pregnant moms, postpartum care, and pediatrics. She holds certifications as a Webster Certified Chiropractor and Birth Fit Professional, enabling her to provide safe guidance through the motherhood journey, encompassing chiropractic care, exercise, and nutrition for both mother and baby. She passionately advocates for a natural approach to pregnancy and motherhood, while meeting her patients where they are in their health and wellness journey. With dedication and compassion, Dr. Catherine empowers her patients to embrace holistic health and thrive in every stage of life.

Dr. Angelo Gassoumis – Chiropractor
Dr. Angelo Gassoumis graduated from SCUHS in 2022 with an emphasis in sports medicine. He received his bachelor’s degree in Athletic Training from Loyola Marymount University while also working as a certified personal trainer. Dr. Angelo has a big passion for health and fitness and was introduced to chiropractic care while working for a chiropractor in the years he spent bodybuilding after receiving his bachelor’s degree. From that moment on he knew he wanted to become a chiropractor and help people live their highest quality of a healthy life. Dr. Angelo is motivated to bring the highest quality of care to his patients through spinal correction and education on the 5 essentials.

Dr. Thor Clemens – Associate Chiropractor
Dr. Thor Clemens graduated from Palmer College of Chiropractic in October of 2021. He opened a chiropractic franchise focusing on hormone and gut testing, nutrition and supplements. Along the way he learned humility, strengthened his already empathetic demeanor and also strengthened his new relationship with Jesus. The franchise stopped making sense as his dream was to produce custom orthopedic shoes to help people optimize their God given bodies. He was led to New Life Chiropractic. Amazed by the simplicity and power of the 5 essentials approach strengthened his conviction for natural solutions to improved health and increased longevity.
With a passion for sharing chiropractic with the world Dr. Thor leads
community outreach at New Life.

Mariana Shaffer – Front Desk Chiropractic Assistant
Mariana serves as a compassionate check-in chiropractic assistant, dedicated to supporting individuals on their wellness journeys. Her profound commitment to leaving a positive impact drives her professional endeavors, as she strives to enhance the well-being of every individual she encounters. Mariana’s realization of New Life Chiropractic’s shared dedication to improving lives resonates deeply with her own values, solidifying her belief in the importance of leaving things better than they were found. She is unwavering in her promise to prioritize the quality of life, health, and happiness of each patient she assists.
Beyond her role at the clinic, Mariana finds joy and fulfillment in outdoor activities, particularly hiking through nature and engaging in sports with her boyfriend. Soccer has been a passion of hers since the age of five, and she continues to pursue it actively, participating in co-ed adult soccer leagues during her free time. Mariana’s dedication to personal growth extends to her academic pursuits; she is currently working towards her bachelor’s degree in marriage and family studies with aspirations of becoming a marriage and family therapist, furthering her mission to positively impact the lives of others.

Veronica Alonzo – Case Manager
Veronica is deeply passionate about her role at New Life Chiropractic as the Patient Case Manager, finding fulfillment in the positive connections she builds with patients daily. Veronica enjoys working out, participating in outdoor activities, and spending time with family. Her interest in personal health and wellness sparked through fourteen years of playing soccer competitively. Her love for the job stems from the meaningful interactions and the opportunity to contribute to the well-being of others. Veronica discovered this rewarding position through her interest in holistic healthcare, aligning perfectly with her desire to be part of a team that prioritizes care and community.

Phylicia McGilbery – Office Manager
Phylicia brings over 15 years of multi-location management experience to her role as Office Manager at New Life Chiropractic. Known for her strong organizational skills and high standards, she helps ensure each part of the patient experience runs smoothly and efficiently. Her personal journey with health has shaped how she views wellness—as something we’re always learning, adjusting, and growing through.
At home, Phylicia stays busy with her husband, their two daughters, and a small herd of animals that includes dogs and horses. Whether she’s coordinating schedules or out riding with her girls, she’s passionate about creating a healthy, active lifestyle and teaching her children to take care of their bodies and minds from the start.

Elizabeth Paplanus – New Patient Concierge
Elizabeth is thrilled to join the team at New Life Chiropractic as the New Patient Concierge. Her passion for helping people thrive naturally and holistically drives her commitment to providing exceptional patient care.
With a solid background in healthcare staffing, she has the skills and experience to ensure a welcoming and informative experience for every new patient. Outside of work, Elizabeth enjoys spending quality time with her husband and their two teenage sons, who are avid baseball players. She also loves reading and traveling to explore new places and cultures.
Elizabeth looks forward to supporting patients on their journey to optimal health and well-being!