Neurology in Laurel, MD

Rachel Salas, M.D., M.Ed., is a professor in the Department of Neurology at Johns Hopkins Medicine, with a joint appointment in the school of nursing. She is a sleep neurologist at the Johns Hopkins Center for Sleep and Wellness, where she works with patients experiencing issues with sleep, including obstructive sleep apnea, insomnia, snoring, circadian rhythm disorders and restless legs syndrome (RLS). She has expertise in long-standing complex insomnia and RLS. As a certified feng shui master, Dr. Salas brings a unique lens to how physical spaces — clinical, academic and personal — affect sleep, cognition, productivity and overall well-being. Dr. Salas also serves as director of Academic Career Design Program Portfolios in the provost’s Leadership, Advancement, and Development (LAD) Academy. For over a decade, she has led the neurology clerkship, reflecting a deep commitment to shaping the next generation of health care professionals. Nationally, she is chair of the undergraduate education subcommittee for the American Academy of Neurology and an executive member of the Alliance for Clinical Education, with prior leadership in interprofessional education at Johns Hopkins. A nationally recognized sleep neurologist, educator and coach, Dr. Salas is known for integrating science, systems thinking and human-centered design to optimize performance, well-being and environments. Through her signature Academic Career Design coaching, she works with faculty and clinicians to align their strengths, values and professional trajectories, supporting both career advancement and sustainable success.Recognized as a Top Doctor in Baltimore magazine for multiple years, Dr. Salas is a sought-after speaker who translates complex science into practical, actionable strategies. She is available for keynotes, workshops, media commentary and consulting on the following topics:Sleep health and brain optimization across the lifespanInsomnia, circadian rhythm regulation and behavioral sleep strategiesSleep disordersDesigning sleep-supportive environments in homes, hospitals and workplacesThe intersection of neuroscience and feng shui for well-being, sleep and professional developmentAcademic Career Design: aligning purpose, productivity and professional growthBurnout prevention and sustainable high performance in health careInterprofessional education and leadership in academic medicineEnvironmental influences on cognition, mood and health