The Sankofa Practice

Welcome to The Sankofa Practice in Burien, Washington, where primary care is built on relationships, trust, and personalized care. Founded by Joycelyn Thomas, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, The Sankofa Practice was created to provide compassionate, comprehensive healthcare for individuals and families at every stage of life.

As a family provider, professor, and researcher, Dr. Thomas believes that exceptional healthcare goes beyond treating symptoms. True wellness begins with understanding the whole person—including your medical history, family background, cultural experiences, and everyday lifestyle. This whole-person approach allows patients to receive care that is both personalized and meaningful.

The practice is guided by the West African principle of Sankofa, which teaches the importance of looking to the past to move forward with wisdom and purpose. Throughout more than 30 years in nursing and healthcare leadership, Dr. Thomas has seen firsthand that lasting health is built on understanding each patient's unique story.

Dr. Thomas provides a full range of family medicine and primary care services, including preventive care, chronic disease management, weight management, wellness visits, and care for patients from infancy through older adulthood. With convenient in-person and telehealth appointments available, patients can access high-quality care in the way that best fits their needs and lifestyle.

In addition to caring for patients, Dr. Thomas is dedicated to advancing health equity and educating future healthcare professionals as a faculty member at the University of Washington and Director of the Center for Anti-Racism & Equity in Nursing.

At The Sankofa Practice, patients are active partners in their healthcare decisions. Every voice is heard, every experience is valued, and every patient is empowered to achieve their healthiest future.

We look forward to partnering with you and your family on your journey to lifelong health and wellness.