Meet the DC’s

We love what we do, and we do it with passion.

Dr. Steve Merritt

Dr. Steve began his chiropractic practice 42 yrs ago following graduation from Palmer College of Chiropractic. In addition to his doctoral degree, Dr. Steve is a Diplomat of the National Boards of Chiropractic and has been licensed in Maine, New Jersey as well as Florida. Initially he joined his father in a very busy family practice in Wayne NJ. After training for a year, his father retired leaving the practice to Dr. Steve and a partner. After 7 years in that location, Dr. Steve “came to his senses”. He sold the practice to his partner, bought a sailboat and moved to Florida. After a year of sailing during which he met and married his wife Helen he sat the Florida State board and was licensed in Aug. 1986.  He bought the practice in Hobe Sound from an old family friend and began living his dream. The Merritt`s wasted little time starting a family and soon had 4 active children. Soon he got recruited by the local soccer club and that began another passion in their family’s life that continues to this day.

The Hobe Sound practice is a reflection of the family that he grew up in. Being a 3rd generation chiropractor, Dr. Steve learned that chiropractic is an effective health maintenance system and the practice has had continued growth over the past 35 years. During this time he was helped in the practice by 2 of his brothers and then most recently by his oldest daughter, Dr. Nicole Townsley. Today, Dr. Steve and Dr. Nicole share the week and work together to bring simple quality chiropractic health care to the Hobe Sound community.

Dr. Nicole Townsley

Dr. Nicole Townsley received her diploma from the International Baccalaureate Program and attended the University of Florida. After completion of her bachelor’s degree she went on to Palmer College of Chiropractic Florida for her doctorate. She graduated in 2013 as a 4th generation chiropractor in her family, following her father, uncles, grandfather, great uncles and great grandfather, making her the first female chiropractor in the family. She then joined her father in the Hobe Sound practice where they share the work, joy and passion that is principled chiropractic. Dr. Nicole is known for her delicate and accurate touch and her post adjustment hugs. Her passions include family care with a special love for pediatrics.

After meeting in chiropractic college, she married Dr Jason Townsley who runs Merritt Chiropractic Office in Stuart. Together they have a 8-year-old son who is not yet a chiropractor. Her interests outside the office include dancing which she has done all her life. She still dances tap and jazz with her mother, Helen Merritt, who is also the office manager. It is this family dynamic that truly make Merritt Family Chiropractic Center something special.