He completed his undergraduate degrees in both Dental Hygiene and Health Care Administration, centering his capstone project around the method of Motivational Interviewing as a systematic means of improving health outcomes and ethical profitability. His debut into the business of dentistry began by reforming one of the Seattle area’s more prestigious clinics, elevating patient experiences and nearly doubling its annual revenues. Despite his business background, access to oral health is Derik’s true passion. He holds Master’s Degrees in both Public Health and Business Administration, and is currently completing his Doctorate at George Washington University in D.C. alongside a Juris Master’s in Health Care Law, better positioning himself as an advocate for policy change. He currently practices in the District of Columbia and the Commonwealth of Virginia using his media platforms.