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Hi, I’m Mary M. Ernsberger — The No-Nonsense Nana

Over 25 years ago, I began a journey that would shape not only my family’s life but also the lives of countless families seeking holistic, natural solutions for their children. As a single mother of three, I experienced firsthand the challenges of navigating education, behavioral differences, and health concerns. My youngest son was diagnosed with ADHD after a brief evaluation, and I felt compelled to find gentler, drug-free alternatives that supported his unique strengths and needs.

That personal journey inspired my mission: to empower parents with the knowledge, tools, and guidance needed to help their children thrive emotionally, physically, and behaviorally — naturally.

My Approach

I combine lived experience with formal education in nutrition, holistic therapies, and child wellness. By focusing on root causes, I help families uncover the reasons behind behavior challenges and implement practical, sustainable strategies that foster growth and balance.

I believe in:

  • Honoring every child’s authentic self

  • Supporting families with practical, evidence-informed guidance

  • Creating solutions that are gentle, effective, and long-lasting

Credentials & Education

I hold extensive credentials to support families holistically, including:

  • Master’s in Education — American InterContinental University

  • Master’s in Complementary Alternative Medicine — American College of Healthcare Sciences

  • Bachelor’s in Health and Wellness — Kaplan University

  • Certificate in Holistic Nutrition (1200 hours) — Energetic Health Institute

  • Associates in Mind-Body Psychology and Western Herbalism — Southwest Institute of Healing Arts

I am also a member of the National Association of Nutrition Professionals (NANP) and the Alliance of International Aromatherapists.

Author & Educator

I have authored four books focused on holistic parenting, behavior, and natural solutions. I am completing my first book series which includes a book for parents, youth (8 to 13), and children (4 to 8) - hoping to be out in January 2026:

  • Beyond Labels: Raising Children Who Thrive

    • Max and Me: A Story About Big Feelings and Growing Calm (4 to 8)

    • More Than A Label: Finding Your Voice, Your Strength, and Your Way (9 to 13)

  • Parenting Consciously: Out of the Box Solutions for Nurturing Your Authentic Child

  • Recognizing the Greatness in Each Child: Learning Differently Should Never Mean Learning Disabled

  • Plants vs Pills: Natural Solutions to the Over-Drugging of America’s Youth

  • un-Broken Children: Removing Labels – Restoring Health & Wellness

I am also co-author of the international bestseller My Big Idea Book (Expert Insights Publishing & Viki Winterton).

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As the owner/founder of Mountain Family Holistic Nutrition, I offer parents drug-free answers to the ‘why’ of their child’s disruptive behaviors at home and in the school environment so the entire family can enjoy healthier lives while reaching their full authentic potential – holistically. My goal is to help parents identify the root cause of the behaviors that are disrupting their lives and families.  Together solutions are identified that empower parents as they partner with their authentic children to restore balance in everyone's life.

My authentic children are now grown.  My daughter and older son live in Florida with my four grandchildren and my youngest son lives nearby in SW Virginia.  I share my homestead with my kitty, MoJo.   

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