Maria T. Forstner, A-GNP-C, is a board-certified adult-gerontology nurse practitioner with TPMG Gastroenterology — Williamsburg. She earned her Associate of Applied Science and Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Angelo State University at San Angelo, Texas where she graduated with distinction. In May of 2020, she completed her Master of Science in Nursing at Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond. She is also a member of the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners and Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing.

Prior to joining TPMG, Maria gained extensive experience working in surgical settings providing pre-operative and post-operative care. As a nurse practitioner, she provides comprehensive care for adults and geriatric patients with a focus on preventative care and the management of gastrointestinal chronic conditions. She is an advocate of screenings for serious conditions, such as colon cancer. Maria is a firm believer in preventative screenings, knowing that these are powerful tools that patients can use to better their lives.

Maria strives to always leave things better than you found them. She finds this especially true when caring for others. Her passion lies in helping others achieve their wellness goals through prevention and intervention. Rather than simply treating the illness or condition, Maria seeks to encourage and empower her patients to take an active role in their health. She finds this to be particularly true for chronic disease management.

Paramount to her philosophy of care, Maria places her patients’ well-being first, no matter what. Through a collaborative relationship, she strives to work through any challenges they may face together. In doing so, she emphasizes the value of establishing trusted relationships with her patients. In her words, “trust is essential for providing the best possible care.”

As a former Major in the U.S. Army, she has had the privilege of providing care to underserved communities. She served in various medical missions as a surgical nurse, in both her military career and with civilian NGOs. Through these experiences she gained a newfound perspective of the important role healthcare plays in our society. She is grateful for the many opportunities and challenges that have enhanced her training and left her with lifelong memories.

Maria is fluent in Spanish, enabling her to communicate directly with Spanish-speaking patients. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, kayaking, bicycling, and spending time with her Golden Retriever. Her other passions include pottery, yoga, and cooking, and she especially loves trying new, mostly healthy, recipes! TPMG warmly welcomed Maria to TPMG Gastroenterology — Williamsburg in 2021 and then again in 2026.

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Education

Undergraduate: Associate of Applied Science and Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Angelo State University
Graduate: Master of Science in Nursing, Virginia Commonwealth University

Interests & Activities

Member, American Academy of Nurse Practitioners and Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing