About
Dr. Emily Zerba founded Thrive Osteopathy to bring simple, affordable, and holistic primary care to Carbondale, Colorado. She earned her undergraduate degree in Molecular Cellular and Developmental Biology, summa cum laude, from the University of Colorado, completing an honors thesis in stem cell regulation. She then earned her medical degree from the University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2017 and completed her residency in Family Medicine at St. Anthony's Family Medicine program in Westminster, Colorado.
Dr. Zerba holds board certification in Family Medicine and by the North American Menopause Society. She carries additional training and certifications in integrative medicine. Her approach centers on empowering patients to lead healthier lives through prevention and lifestyle changes. She is passionate about musculoskeletal health, chronic disease management, and the hands-on techniques of osteopathic manual therapy. An established physician in the Roaring Fork Valley, she stays current with the latest research and technology to serve her patients well. Outside the clinic, she skis, mountain bikes, road bikes, and spends time outdoors with her family.
Education & Training
Undergraduate
University of Colorado, B.S. Molecular Cellular and Developmental Biology (summa cum laude), Honors Thesis in Stem Cell Regulation
Medical School
University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine (2017)
Residency
Family Medicine, St. Anthony's Family Medicine Program, Westminster, Colorado
Additional Training
Additional training and certifications in Integrative Medicine; Board Certified by the North American Menopause Society
Certifications
Conditions Treated
Who is Dr. Zerba right for?
Dr. Zerba serves patients of all ages, from children through seniors, across the Roaring Fork Valley. Adults managing chronic conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or thyroid disorders benefit from her preventive and integrative approach. Patients dealing with musculoskeletal pain, migraines, or sports injuries find particular value in her osteopathic manual therapy skills. Women navigating menopause have a board-certified specialist in Dr. Zerba. Her small panel size means same-day and next-day appointments stay accessible for urgent needs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Dr. Zerba treats a broad range of acute and chronic conditions. These include migraines, musculoskeletal pain, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, thyroid disorders, and mental health conditions. She also handles urgent care needs like colds, flu, strep, rashes, and acute injuries.
Yes. Dr. Zerba holds board certification in Family Medicine and by the North American Menopause Society. She also carries additional training and certifications in integrative medicine.
Dr. Zerba earned her medical degree from the University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2017. She completed her Family Medicine residency at St. Anthony's Family Medicine program in Westminster, Colorado. Before medical school, she graduated summa cum laude from the University of Colorado with a degree in Molecular Cellular and Developmental Biology.
Osteopathic manual therapy, or OMT, uses hands-on techniques to improve the body's musculoskeletal system, nervous system, and circulation. Dr. Zerba offers OMT to both members and non-members. Techniques she uses include dry needling, cupping, trigger point injections, and other manual approaches. Members pay $100 per OMT visit.
Yes. Dr. Zerba sees patients of all ages, including children. The practice offers pediatric care, school physicals, sports physicals, and annual wellness exams for kids. The monthly membership fee for children under 18 is $65.
Yes. Dr. Zerba holds board certification by the North American Menopause Society, making her well-equipped to manage menopause-related health concerns. Patients can address hormonal health, symptom management, and preventive care as part of their regular membership visits.
Dr. Zerba holds additional training and certifications in integrative medicine. She combines evidence-based medical care with osteopathic techniques and lifestyle-focused strategies. Her goal is to treat underlying causes rather than symptoms alone.
Yes. Dr. Zerba makes her cell phone number available to members. She also remains available for patient emergencies 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Members can also communicate with her via phone, text, and email through the practice.
Yes. Dr. Zerba offers battlefield acupuncture as a treatment for pain. This service is included in membership for eligible visits, with any supply costs added at wholesale pricing.
Dr. Zerba's in-person medical assistant, Julyana Ulloa, is bilingual in English and Spanish. She grew up in the Roaring Fork Valley and helps ensure Spanish-speaking patients feel welcome and understood at the practice.
Doctor profile last updated April 11, 2026
