A Heart for Healing: Mary Loya Brings Compassion to Every Visit

With more than two decades of experience in women’s health, Mary Loya, WHNP, is a trusted and compassionate presence at our Denton South Center. Since joining Health Services of North Texas (HSNT) in 2018, Mary has been an advocate for the patients she serves, offering support and education every step of the way. 

Mary began her career in 1995 as a nurse, initially working across nearly every hospital floor, except OB and Pediatrics. It wasn’t until her time as a clinic nurse at a public health department that she was inspired by the women’s health nurse practitioners she worked alongside. “I just really admired the bond they had with their patients,” she recalls. That admiration led her to pursue her nurse practitioner degree through the Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner program at UCLA, followed by a master’s program based out of Denver. 

After working for many years in California, Mary made the move to Texas to be closer to her growing family, including her children and five grandchildren. She retired from public service in California and found a new professional home at HSNT, continuing her mission to provide high-quality care to women. 

Mary’s approach to healthcare is rooted in education, empathy, and understanding. She believes that many health issues can be prevented through better knowledge about the body and nutrition, and she takes every opportunity to make that education part of her patients’ visits. “Even if I only have 15 minutes, if I can take an extra two to go over a 24-hour diet recall or explain what’s happening in their body, I will,” she says. “You only have one body. Your health is too precious.” 

Mary is known among her patients and colleagues alike for her grounded and relatable approach. She emphasizes building trust from the very first minute of an appointment by meeting patients where they are, listening without judgment, and making them feel safe asking even the most personal or “silly” questions. “No question is ever dumb,” Mary says. “We’ve all been young and unsure. Everyone deserves the chance to understand their body and make empowered decisions.” 

She also recognizes that health is never just physical. Our health is shaped by stress, financial strain, domestic situations, transportation barriers, and so much more. “You can’t assume anything,” she explains. “We don’t know what someone is going through when they walk through our doors.” 

Outside the clinic, Mary enjoys spending time with her grandchildren, traveling, and attending jazz festivals and local events. A former marathon runner, Mary brings the same dedication and endurance to her practice that she once brought to the 26.2 miles she’s run four times and counting. 

Fun Fact 

Mary is a retired California public servant and once ran a full marathon just for fun! 

To new and returning patients, she offers this encouragement:  

“Open up. Be honest. Ask questions. I want you to feel comfortable learning about your body because knowledge is power, and you deserve to be in control of your health.”