Women Leaders Magazine features Erika Jordan on redefining healing beyond traditional care
A story of purpose, innovation, and patient-first leadership
In a world where many patients are told, “There’s nothing more we can do,” Erika Jordan chose to ask, “What more can be done?” At the Hyperbaric Healing Treatment Center, Erika has made it her mission to bridge the gap between conventional limitations and what’s possible through hyperbaric oxygen therapy. In this inspiring feature, Erika shares her journey from EMT to industry leader, her passion for personalized care, and the bold vision that drives her to create meaningful change in healthcare, one patient at a time.
The Women Leaders Magazine feature:
Could you please share your journey and what inspired you to become a Hyperbaric Director and eventually start your own center?
My journey into hyperbaric medicine began in the fast-paced world of emergency medical services, where I worked as an EMT. During that time, I witnessed how traditional treatments could fall short for patients with chronic conditions or complex needs. One pivotal experience was observing the stark difference hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) made in a patient suffering from a chronic wound that hadn’t healed for months. That moment shifted my perspective completely. I realized this wasn’t just an adjunctive treatment—it had the potential to change lives in ways that conventional medicine often couldn’t.
Fueled by curiosity and determination, I pursued additional certifications, including becoming a Certified Hyperbaric Technologist (CHT) and Certified Hyperbaric Specialist (CHS). These credentials gave me the clinical foundation, but more importantly, they gave me the confidence to lead in a specialized field where expertise is critical. Over time, my passion merged with an entrepreneurial spirit, and that’s when the vision for Hyperbaric Healing Treatment Center was born.
I didn’t just want to open a clinic—I wanted to create a sanctuary of healing. A place where science meets compassion, where each patient is treated as an individual, not a diagnosis. Founding my own center allowed me to establish an environment where clinical excellence, safety, and empathy could coexist and thrive.
How did your passion for hyperbaric therapy develop, and what motivates you to lead in this specialized healthcare field?
My passion for hyperbaric oxygen therapy developed gradually, shaped by firsthand clinical experiences and patient stories. One in particular stands out: a non-responsive patient with severe brain trauma showed remarkable cognitive improvement after undergoing a series of HBOT sessions. Witnessing that transformation lit a fire in me. This was a treatment with profound potential—especially for people who felt like they had run out of options.
What motivates me daily is the possibility of giving hope where hope has faded. Many of our patients have been told there’s nothing more that can be done. HBOT often represents their last chance to improve their quality of life. That responsibility—to offer care that can truly make a difference—drives me to stay at the forefront of this field.
Leading in hyperbaric medicine also means educating others. I’m motivated to raise awareness about the efficacy and safety of HBOT, advocate for broader access, and challenge the outdated notion that it’s only for diving injuries. There’s a whole world of applications that remains underutilized, and I’m here to help change that.
What are some of the unique challenges you faced while establishing Hyperbaric Healing Treatment Center, and how did you overcome them?
Starting a hyperbaric center is no small feat. One of the biggest challenges was educating both the public and medical professionals about HBOT’s applications beyond the most commonly known ones, like carbon monoxide poisoning or diabetic foot ulcers. I spent a great deal of time building relationships with referring providers, explaining clinical indications, and providing literature and case studies to help them understand the science behind the therapy.
Another major hurdle was navigating insurance coverage and reimbursement policies. Many insurers are hesitant to approve off-label treatments, even when there’s emerging evidence to support them. I’ve had to advocate tirelessly for our patients, writing letters of medical necessity, collaborating with physicians, and staying current with research to support our treatment protocols.
Staffing was also a challenge. Hyperbaric medicine requires specialized knowledge, and finding professionals trained in this niche area wasn’t easy. I made it a priority to invest in education and certification for my staff and created an internal training model that ensures consistent quality and safety.
Through perseverance, networking, and a strong commitment to excellence, we not only overcame these obstacles—we used them as opportunities to grow stronger as an organization.
How would you describe your leadership style, and how has it evolved since you started?
I would describe my leadership style as compassionate, collaborative, and adaptable. I’ve always believed in leading by example, and that starts with showing up—mentally, emotionally, and professionally—for my team. When I first started, I was very hands-on, involved in every aspect of the business. Over time, as the organization grew, I learned the importance of delegation and trusting others with responsibility.
Now, my leadership is more strategic. I make data-informed decisions while still prioritizing human connection. I encourage my team to share their insights, bring forward new ideas, and take ownership of their roles. I also regularly seek their feedback because I truly believe that the best results come from a collaborative environment where people feel heard and valued.
As a leader, I’ve also learned to embrace uncertainty. In healthcare, especially in a specialized field like hyperbaric medicine, things can change rapidly. Being flexible and responsive—while staying true to our mission—has helped me grow into a more effective and resilient leader.
In what ways do you empower your team and foster a culture of innovation and care at your center?
Empowerment at our center starts with education. Every team member, from clinical staff to front office administrators, receives ongoing training and professional development opportunities. We also encourage certification in hyperbaric medicine and related fields. The more informed our team is, the more confident and innovative they become.
We have an open-door policy where ideas are always welcome. Whether it’s a new patient intake process, a chamber maintenance technique, or a marketing initiative, I want everyone to feel like they have a voice. We regularly meet to review protocols and outcomes, and I encourage the team to bring forward suggestions for improvement.
But empowerment isn’t just about ideas—it’s also about recognizing effort. I make a point to celebrate wins, both big and small, and to highlight the contributions of individuals who go above and beyond. That sense of appreciation builds trust and morale, which in turn fuels a culture of excellence and care.
What role do you believe women leaders play in transforming the healthcare industry today?
Women leaders are redefining healthcare from the inside out. We bring a perspective that’s rooted in empathy, multitasking, and strategic problem-solving. In my experience, women in healthcare leadership tend to prioritize holistic solutions that benefit both patients and team.
We’re also challenging outdated hierarchies and creating more inclusive, emotionally intelligent workplaces. I see more women advocating for mental health resources, flexible work environments, and patient-centered care models. Our approach isn’t just about treating illness—it’s about healing communities.
Women leaders are also role models. We show the next generation that it’s possible to be both compassionate and powerful, to lead without compromising authenticity, and to create spaces where everyone—regardless of gender—can thrive.
What emerging trends in hyperbaric medicine excite you the most right now?
One of the most exciting trends is the use of HBOT for neurological conditions, including post-concussion syndrome, traumatic brain injuries, and even long COVID. The research coming out of institutions like the University of South Florida and Israeli clinical studies is promising. It’s showing that HBOT can stimulate neuroplasticity and reduce inflammation—two key factors in brain recovery.
Another exciting trend is integrating HBOT with other wellness modalities like IV therapy, physical therapy, and regenerative medicine. At our center, we’re seeing great results from patients who combine care plans. It reflects a shift from compartmentalized treatment to truly comprehensive healing.
We’re also witnessing exciting advancements in both chamber technology and custom treatment protocols. Today’s hyperbaric systems feature optimized oxygen delivery controls and sophisticated safety integrations. These innovations not only improve treatment precision and comfort but also elevate the overall standard of care we’re able to provide.
Can you share a success story where hyperbaric treatment significantly transformed a patient’s life?
There are many, but one that I’ll never forget involves a young man who suffered a major stroke. He was non-verbal, confined to a wheelchair, and had been told by multiple specialists that he had reached the limits of recovery. His family reached out to us as a last resort.
After 40 sessions of HBOT, he began to speak in full sentences and was able to walk short distances with assistance. The day he walked into our center and said “thank you” was one of the most emotional moments of my career. That success wasn’t just about physical improvement—it restored hope and gave his family a sense of peace.
That story reminds me why we do what we do. It’s not just about protocols and chambers—it’s about the lives we touch.
How do you ensure your center stays ahead in technology, patient care, and healing methodologies?
We stay ahead by staying curious. I constantly review new clinical studies, attend medical conferences, and maintain relationships with thought leaders in the field. Our protocols are routinely reviewed and updated to align with the latest science.
Technologically, we invest in state-of-the-art Sechrist hyperbaric chambers with advanced safety and comfort features. We also implement digital systems for scheduling, charting, and patient education, which enhance both the provider and patient experience.
Most importantly, we listen to our patients. Their feedback shapes everything from scheduling systems to comfort measures during treatment. Staying ahead means being proactive, not reactive—and always putting patients first.
What is your vision for Hyperbaric Healing Treatment Center over the next 5 years?
Over the next five years, I envision expanding our footprint across Central Florida and beyond. We’re already on track with new locations like Leesburg opening soon. The goal is to increase accessibility while maintaining our high standards of care.
Another essential part of our vision is community education. We aim to demystify hyperbaric oxygen therapy and expand awareness of its benefits—particularly for those suffering from radiation injuries following cancer treatment. By actively participating in initiatives like the American Cancer Society’s Making Strides Against Breast Cancer committee, I help bring this information directly to survivors, caregivers, and healthcare providers. Through public events, outreach efforts, and engaging digital content, we continue to lead with both knowledge and heart.
How do you balance business growth with maintaining personalized patient care?
Balance starts with intention. From day one, we’ve committed to individualized care. Even as we grow, we keep our patient-to-provider ratios low and build treatment plans around the whole person—not just their diagnosis.
We also focus on internal culture. Our team is aligned with the mission, so growth doesn’t dilute our values. We measure success not just in patient volume, but in patient outcomes and satisfaction.
Scaling with integrity means we never lose sight of why we started: to heal, to listen, and to make every patient feel seen.
What advice would you give to aspiring healthcare entrepreneurs looking to make a difference?
Start with your “why.” Let that guide every decision. Understand the business side, but never let it overshadow patient care. Surround yourself with people who share your vision, and don’t be afraid to invest in your own education.
Healthcare entrepreneurship is not easy—it takes grit, empathy, and constant learning. But if you stay grounded in purpose, the impact you can make is extraordinary.
How do you maintain your own well-being and stay inspired as a leader in such a demanding field?
I treat my well-being as a priority, not a luxury. Spending time with my daughters, Ella and Eva, grounds me. I also love to go fishing—being near the water brings me peace and perspective.
Professionally, I stay inspired by attending conferences, mentoring others, and staying active in networks like the American Cancer Society. When I see the ripple effect of our work in the community, I’m reminded that this isn’t just a job—it’s a calling.
What empowering message would you like to share with future leaders and innovators aiming to impact healthcare positively?
Your vision matters—even if no one else sees it yet. The most meaningful innovations often begin as unconventional ideas. Don’t wait for permission to lead. Lead with integrity, compassion, and courage.
And never forget: healing starts with how we treat people—not just their symptoms, but their stories.
Read the Women Leaders Magazine feature here:
Erika Jordan: Building a Sanctuary of Healing Beyond Traditional Care
Take the first step toward healing
Discover the transformative power of hyperbaric oxygen therapy with the guidance of Erika Jordan and the expert team at the Hyperbaric Healing Treatment Center. If Erika’s story has inspired you, or you’re simply curious about how HBOT can benefit your health, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Contact us today to learn more about our treatments and take the first step towards a healthier, revitalized future. Your path to healing begins here—let us be a part of your wellness journey.
