For Dr. Nicole Arceo, pediatrics is about building relationships as much as it is about medicine. She loves getting to know families, celebrating milestones, and helping kids feel confident and cared for, whether it’s a well check, a tough day, or anything in between.
A Southern California native, Dr. Arceo studied genetics at UC Irvine before going on to medical school at Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine in New York. She completed her pediatric residency at Los Angeles General Hospital, where she also trained in integrative medicine. She is board certified by the American Board of Pediatrics and a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics (FAAP).
When she’s not in the office, Dr. Arceo enjoys cooking, traveling, and making ceramics. She also has a knack for refinishing antique furniture and recently started training for her first run.
Nada Sarsour, PA‑C, combines education and empathy in her approach to patient care. Growing up in Milwaukee and Phoenix, she studied at Arizona State University before teaching and volunteering with refugees overseas—experiences that inspired her medical path. She earned her PA-C from Midwestern University and is certified by the NCCPA. With a diverse clinical background, Nada is passionate about pediatric and women’s health, prevention, and empowering families through education. In her free time, she loves traveling, cooking, and relaxing with her family and a good Netflix series.
Dr. Heather Nichols has been caring for children in Ventura County since 2006 and joined Coastal Pediatrics in 2013. She believes that pediatrics is most meaningful when families know their doctor truly cares, an approach that guides every visit, from newborn care to navigating the teen years.
Originally from Maryland, Dr. Nichols earned her biology degree from Bucknell University and a master’s in bioethics from Case Western Reserve before completing medical school at Drexel University. She went on to finish her pediatric residency at Brown University’s Hasbro Children’s Hospital. In 2013, she became a Certified Lactation Education Counselor, adding another layer of support for new mothers. She is board certified by the American Board of Pediatrics and a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics (FAAP). Her clinical interests include allergy and immunology, rheumatology, and developmental and behavioral pediatrics.
At home, Dr. Nichols is married with two children. She loves traveling, crafting, and listening to music, and can often be found playing video games with her kids.
Born and raised in Oxnard, Dr. Benjamin Pecht was excited to return to his hometown in 2005 to join Coastal Pediatrics. He loves being part of the same community where he grew up, caring for children and families through every stage of development.
Dr. Pecht studied biology at Princeton University before earning his medical degree at the University of California, San Diego. He completed his pediatric residency at UCSD Medical Center and Children’s Hospital San Diego. He is board certified by the American Board of Pediatrics and a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics (FAAP). In addition to primary care, Dr. Pecht has special interests in sports medicine, urgent care conditions, and supporting families with premature babies.
Outside of the office, Dr. Pecht and his wife are busy raising three children, a daughter and twin sons. He is happiest in or near the water, and enjoys swimming, surfing, scuba diving, and just about anything aquatic.
Dr. David Blank has been caring for families at Coastal Pediatrics since 1995, making him one of the longest-serving members of our team. A Southern California native, he was drawn to pediatrics early on because of the joy in watching children grow and the importance of prevention in helping families thrive.
Dr. Blank earned both his Bachelor of Science and his medical degree from Oral Roberts University before completing his pediatric residency at Loma Linda University Medical Center. He is board certified by the American Board of Pediatrics and a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics. Over the years, he has also enjoyed teaching as a Clinical Assistant Professor at Western University of Health Sciences.
Outside of medicine, Dr. Blank is a devoted husband, proud father of four, and now a grandfather, roles that give him special perspective in partnering with families. He stays active in his church community, enjoys flying as a private pilot, and makes the most of Southern California’s sunshine and beaches.
