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Guidelines and Philosophy for a Holistic Medical Approach

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The ideas and philosophy in a holistic approach are somewhat different from a “normal” medical practice and your experience with “routine” medical care. Many problems can best be helped by a holistic approach.

In a holistic approach there are no “magic pills” or quick fixes. It is a process of gradual self-awareness and self-healing, guided by the health practitioner, who may not be able to cure you, but can help you heal yourself. Not all problems are best handled this way. For example, if you have strep throat, I would treat you with penicillin. If you have appendicitis, I would recommend surgery. However, many chronic, ongoing and stress-related problems are not so simply treated and a holistic approach may be especially beneficial.

Please read the following guidelines we will use in our holistic approach to healing. Sign the agreement and we’re off and running. If you don’t think this approach is for you, that’s ok too. Perhaps we can help you locate a more suitable physician. The main thing is that we be very open and honest with one another in order to develop the trust and communication necessary for holistic healing to work.

Holistic Guidelines

  1. There is a saying; “The physician treats, but nature heals”. Healing is ultimately something we allow to occur with the help of mother nature. When we nurture the conditions that allow our healing potential to emerge, the body and mind can be their own greatest healers.
  2. Because we have most of the answers we need within us, my role as a health practitioner is to assist you in finding your own answers and unfolding your own innate healing potential.
  3. We will work together as partners and equals. I will act as a guide or facilitator, not as a parent dictating “laws” of health or treatments. My role will be to provide you with information and assistance so that you can make informed choices. I will give you options, assist you in learning certain skills and gaining insight, but the choice, practice, and use of these is up to you.
  4. A holistic approach means looking at ourselves very clearly and honestly – mind, body, and spirit. Sometimes it involves looking at parts of ourselves we would rather not see as our “issues” or inner blocks to healing are revealed. We need to do this with compassion and without judgment so we can either totally accept them or begin to change them.
  5. Physicians don’t have all the answers. Saying “I don’t know” is not something most practitioners and patients are used to or even comfortable with. The truth is, many times we just don’t know. If the answer seems critical, perhaps I can help you discover it for yourself or assist you in the search for an answer. If necessary, we may refer you to other health practitioners.
  6. Regarding money: Payments are expected at each visit for the time and services rendered. However, I wish to deny no one who sincerely wishes to work with me on account of money. If the fees are a problem, we will do our best to work out something suitable to both of us. We will work out payment plans and occasionally, trade of services. Whatever we work out, must feel “right” to allow the work to proceed smoothly. We will file your insurance claims for you so that you don’t have additional paperwork to deal with.
  7. Health and healing are an ongoing journey without a finite destination. We can improve from wherever we are. Even if we have a serious “incurable” illness, we can still heal our lives and be happier and healthier people.
  8. In a true holistic approach the practitioner benefits and heals as much as the client. Therefore, I see this work as work on myself - you are teaching me as much as I am teaching you. By creating a safe and comfortable environment for helping, and through sharing, openness, and love, we are all healed.