Our Team

Dr. Benjamin Nykamp is a board-certified Dermatologist who graduated from the University of Michigan and has served the West Michigan Community for over 40 years. Prior to that, he was the Chief of Dermatology for the USAF Regional Hospital in Alabama, where he was awarded the Air Force Commendation Medal for meritorious service and was the Clinic Commander for 928 TAC Clinic, USAFR Chicago/O’Hare. He is a fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology and has been an Assistant Clinical Professor for MSU’s College of Osteopathic Medicine as well as GVSU’s Masters of Physician Assistant Studies Program.

In his spare time, you’ll find Dr. Nykamp hunting, fishing, and creating leather gun holders, powder horns, bags, and knapp flints. Dr. Nykamp is excited to be a part of River City Dermatology and we are grateful to have his support and expertise!

Beth Sweney is the cofounder of River City Dermatology and is excited to offer exceptional dermatology service in Ada, MI. She is a nationally renowned expert in the fields of Psoriasis, Eczema, and Hidradenitis Suppurativa. She strongly believes in treating patients like individuals, and tailoring treatments to meet their individual needs. She is passionate about improving patients’ quality of life through controlling their chronic skin disease. She is a fierce advocate for her patients as she believes everyone deserves to feel comfortable in their own skin.

Beth graduated Summa Cum Laude from Ferris State University, where she was named the Outstanding Graduate in Biology. She then obtained her Master’s of Physician Assistant Studies from Grand Valley State University, and is now Affiliated Clinical Faculty for the MPAS program. She is a fellow of the Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants (SDPA) and published her first research article on psoriasis in January 2024. She is a nationally renowned speaker and passionate educator on Psoriasis, Eczema, and Hidradenitis Suppurativa and is frequently sought for her expertise on medications, protocols, and pathophysiology.

Beth is excited to embark on a unique journey here at River City Dermatology, a brand new practice with a special focus on inflammatory skin disease and the overlap between specialties.

Heather Van Houten graduated from Grand Rapids Community College’s nursing program and is currently continuing her education at Ferris State University, where she is working toward her BSN. Her nursing background includes patient-centered wellness care and compassionate support, with a passion for helping patients feel confident and cared for.

Before becoming an RN, Heather worked in the luxury skincare and spa industry, specializing in skincare consultations, facial services, and client education. She also holds an esthetician license and has always had a strong interest in skin health and preventative skincare.

In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her husband, 2 sons, and dog Milo, going for walks, spending time at the beach, bicycling, and going to the gym. Heather is excited to be part of River City Dermatology and looks forward to helping patients achieve healthy, glowing skin.

Gretchen Wierenga is a native West Michigander who recently returned to the Mitten after 20 years bouncing around the country. She is a mom and a Gigi, and while she misses her family in Seattle, she is excited to get to know each and every one of our patients at River City Dermatology.

Gretchen is fascinated and inspired by Sacred Geometry found in the natural world. In her spare time, she enjoys creating multi-media art, cooking, and decorating.