Alternative Health Doctors Near Me

Papillion NE Lifestyle Medicine Professional Naturopathic Doctor,Functional Medicine Practitioner,Functional Medicine Doctor,Alternative Health Doctor,Natural Medicine Doctor,Naturopathic Medicine,Holistic Doctor
Sneh Kumar

Sneh Kumar

Lifestyle Medicine Professional

Coming Soon


Nutritional coach Personal Life Coach,Holistic Life Coach,Wellness Coach,Holistic Health Coach,Holistic Nutritionist,Nutrition Consultant,Nutritional Therapy Practitioner,Nutrition Coach,Health and Wellness Coach,Personal Coach,Holistic Health,Nutrition Counseling,Alternative Health Doctor,Mental Wellness,Holistic Nutrition
RAMONA JACOBS

RAMONA JACOBS

Nutritional coach

English

Welcome, my name is Ramona. I am a nutritional coach, specializing in gut health.With everything changing in the world, who has the time and energy to focus on food intolerances? Or to figure out gut health and the right products?Suffering from food intolerances is real. I have been on this journey…


NA NA Aromatherapist,Herbalist Aromatherapist,Doula,Death Doula,Holistic Health Coach,Postpartum Doula,Anxiety Therapist,Herbalist,Healer,Essential Oil,Holistic Health,Holistic Medicine,Grief Counseling,Social Anxiety Therapy,Grief Coach,Manifestation Coach,Sleep Therapy,Mental Therapy,Spiritual Cleansing,Alternative Health Doctor,Natural Medicine Doctor,Naturopathic Medicine,Mental Wellness,Holistic Nutrition,Aromatherapy Massage,Obesity Care,Pet Care,Stress Counseling,Grief Recovery Specialist,Mindset Coach,Women's Health,Anxiety Coach,Relaxation Technique,Stress Coach,Sleep Coach,Menopause Specialist,Fatigue Specialist,Inflammation Specialist,Plant Based Diet Coach
Alaura Pittman

Alaura Pittman

Aromatherapist Herbalist
Offers virtual services

English

I am Alaura Pittman, an aromatherapist, and student of herbs. I believe plants are our greatest allies, and that tackling our emotional well-being can aid in our body's health and dis-ease. My passion is helping others discover their unique path to self-healing. I began studying the healing powe…


Holistic Relationship Coach Life Coach,Personal Life Coach,Teen Life Coach,Spiritual Life Coach,Holistic Life Coach,Wellness Coach,Holistic Health Coach,Health and Wellness Coach,Personal Coach,Relationship Coach,Grief Coach,Manifestation Coach,Alternative Health Doctor,Mental Wellness,Sex Therapist,Intimacy Coach
Ali Hendry

Ali Hendry

Holistic Relationship Coach
Offers virtual services

English

Hello, come on in! I am a holistic relationship coach. I help womxn (women, non-binary, trans) navigate relationship changes. This could include: Status • Single due to bereavement or infidelity • Exploring opening up your relationship • Exploring closing your relationship • A change in…


Yoga & Meditation Instructor Yoga Instructor,Senior Fitness Trainer,Personal Trainer for Women,Fitness Instructor,Private Yoga Instructor,Meditation,Meditation Studio,Vinyasa Yoga,Prenatal Yoga,Hatha Yoga,Hot Yoga,Bikram Yoga,Aerial Yoga,Raja Yoga,Beginners Yoga,Yoga Class,Sweat Yoga,Ashtanga Yoga,Postnatal Yoga,Ashtanga Flow,Heat Yoga,Hot Power Yoga,Bikram Hatha Yoga,Antenatal Yoga,Maternity Yoga Class,Haute Yoga,Sauna Yoga Class,Alternative Health Doctor,Fitness Class
Alexis Miller

Alexis Miller

Yoga & Meditation Instructor

English

Alexis designs private sessions to meet your needs. Together, you'll create a custom, ever-evolving program that will support you in reaching your desired outcomes and increasing your resilience. From personalized yoga sessions to yoga nidra meditations to co-meditation visioning sessions, Alexis c…


FORT POLK LOUISIANA Holistic Nutrition Wellness Practitioner,Behavior Change Specialist,Fitness Nutrition Speciaist,Spouse Master Resilience Trainer,Yoga Instructor,Meditation Instructor,Weight Loss Specialist,Plant-Based Diet Educator Health Coach,Dietician,Personal Trainer,Yoga Instructor,Physical Therapist,Life Coach,Personal Life Coach,Christian Life Coach,Teen Life Coach,Holistic Life Coach,Wellness Coach,Yoga Therapist,Sports Nutritionist,Holistic Health Coach,Senior Fitness Trainer,Holistic Nutritionist,Nutrition Consultant,Nutritional Therapy Practitioner,Nutrition Coach,Nutritional Therapist,Anxiety Therapist,Health and Wellness Coach,Personal Coach,Family Coach,Relationship Coach,Meditation Teacher,Fitness Coach,Private Personal Trainer,In Home Personal Trainer,Personal Trainer for Women,Fitness Instructor,Private Yoga Instructor,Meditation,Meditation Studio,Breathwork,Holistic Health,Mental Health,Vinyasa Yoga,Prenatal Yoga,Hatha Yoga,Hot Yoga,Bikram Yoga,Aerial Yoga,Raja Yoga,Beginners Yoga,Yoga Class,Sweat Yoga,Ashtanga Yoga,Postnatal Yoga,Ashtanga Flow,Heat Yoga,Hot Power Yoga,Bikram Hatha Yoga,Antenatal Yoga,Maternity Yoga Class,Haute Yoga,Sauna Yoga Class,Grief Counseling,Nutrition Counseling,Career Counseling,Behavioral Health Counseling,Social Anxiety Therapy,Cognitive Behavior Therapy,Grief Coach,Sleep Therapy,Mental Therapy,Sports Physical Therapy,Weight Loss Coach,Alternative Health Doctor,Mental Wellness,Holistic Nutrition,Prenatal Fitness Class,Fitness Class,Plyometrics,Obesity Care,Keto Specialist,Vegan Dietician,Pediatric Nutritionist,Functional Nutritionist
Manda Lynn McVey

Manda Lynn McVey

Holistic Nutrition Wellness Practitioner Behavior Change Specialist Fitness Nutrition Speciaist Spouse Master Resilience Trainer Yoga Instructor Meditation Instructor Weight Loss Specialist Plant-Based Diet Educator
Offers virtual services

English

Welcome to Wellsilience As an Army wife, familiar with juggling the uncertainty of military life, I can tell you that what we put in and on our bodies makes all the difference. Not to mention how we treat those bodies and how we see ourselves through and in relation to them. ​ Join me for tip…


Buda TX Nutritional Therapy Practitioner Nutritionist,Health Coach,Life Coach,Personal Life Coach,Holistic Life Coach,Wellness Coach,Holistic Health Coach,Holistic Nutritionist,Nutrition Consultant,Nutritional Therapy Practitioner,Nutrition Coach,Nutritional Therapist,Health and Wellness Coach,Personal Coach,Holistic Health,Holistic Medicine,Nutrition Counseling,Weight Loss Coach,Alternative Health Doctor,Natural Medicine Doctor,Mental Wellness,Holistic Nutrition,Private Cooking Class,Healthy Cooking Class
Inna Benyukhis

Inna Benyukhis

Nutritional Therapy Practitioner
Offers virtual services

Coming Soon


Denver CO Owner, Family Nutrition Services Holistic Health Coach,Holistic Nutritionist,Nutrition Consultant,Nutritional Therapy Practitioner,Nutrition Coach,Nutritional Therapist,Holistic Health,Holistic Medicine,Nutrition Counseling,Alternative Health Doctor,Natural Medicine Doctor,Mental Wellness,Holistic Nutrition,Pediatric Nutritionist,Functional Nutritionist
Sara Peternell

Sara Peternell

Owner, Family Nutrition Services

English

Hi and welcome...you have come to the right place! I’m a board-certified holistic nutritionist, who specializes in family nutrition, Hashimoto's and thyroid health. I’m also an avid public speaker on health and nutrition and the co-author of a bestselling baby food cookbook. Nearly two decades of n…


Vista CA Functional Nutritional Therapy Practitioner Holistic Life Coach,Wellness Coach,Functional Medicine Practitioner,Holistic Health Coach,Holistic Nutritionist,Nutrition Consultant,Nutritional Therapy Practitioner,Nutrition Coach,Nutritional Therapist,Health and Wellness Coach,Personal Coach,Holistic Health,Nutrition Counseling,Weight Loss Coach,Alternative Health Doctor,Natural Medicine Doctor,Mental Wellness,Holistic Nutrition,Meal Prep,Private Cooking Class,Healthy Cooking Class,Beginner Cooking Class,Kids Cooking Class,Functional Nutritionist
Patti McCoy

Patti McCoy

Functional Nutritional Therapy Practitioner

English

I empower young adults to reduce inflammation and balance their gut health by providing tools, knowledge, and skills in Foundational nutrition, so they can feel healthy, confident, and strong.I believe that real-food home cooking is the key to living a long, healthy life. However, most young adults…


San Diego CA Holistic Health Coach,Reiki Practitioner,500-hr Certified Yoga Instructor
Julia Allard

Julia Allard

Holistic Health Coach Reiki Practitioner 500-hr Certified Yoga Instructor
Offers virtual services

English

My name is Julia. I practice a holistic approach to health and wellness, meaning I look at how the different areas of your life are related to your overall well-being. I believe in bio-individuality, which is the concept that everyone is different and we each have unique needs that are constantly c…


Vancouver BC Mompreneur, Pelvic Health Advocate & Educator,Physical Therapist Physical Therapist,Holistic Health,Holistic Medicine,Physical Therapy,Sports Physical Therapy,Alternative Health Doctor,Obesity Care,Carpal Tunnel,Applied Kinesiology,Occupational Therapist,Women's Health,Integrative Health,Stress Coach,Energy Coach,Joint Pain Specialist,Pelvic Floor Therapy,Migraine Specialist,Back Pain Specialist,Shoulder Pain Specialist,Hip Pain Specialist,Knee Pain Doctor,Nerve Pain Specialist,Pelvic Pain Specialist,Back and Spine Specialist,Sciatica Pain Relief,Neck Pain Treatment,Whiplash Treatment,Herniated Disc Specialist,Sports Injury Doctor,Arthritis Doctor,Scoliosis Doctor,Carpal Tunnel Doctor,Pinched Nerve Specialist,TMJ Specialist,Vertigo Doctor
Hennie Ng

Hennie Ng

Mompreneur, Pelvic Health Advocate & Educator Physical Therapist
Offers virtual services

English

Hennie is a dedicated women’s health advocate, educator and coach. As a licensed physical therapist in BC, Canada, she specializes in pelvic floor health, postpartum recovery and post-surgical rehabilitation. Having navigated through postpartum exhaustion, persistent pain, and pelvic floor challeng…


Austin TX Certified Integrative Nutrition Health Coach,Allergies Health Coach,Clean Beauty Expert Health Coach,Holistic Health Coach,Nutrition Coach,Health and Wellness Coach,Personal Coach,Holistic Health,Nutrition Counseling,Alternative Health Doctor,Natural Medicine Doctor,Mental Wellness,Holistic Nutrition,Meal Prep,Private Cooking Class,Healthy Cooking Class,Food Allergist
Renata Esteves

Renata Esteves

Certified Integrative Nutrition Health Coach Allergies Health Coach Clean Beauty Expert
Offers virtual services

English, Portuguese

Hi, I'm Renata. I am Health coach and Clean Beauty expert. My passion is working with women who struggle with allergies and support them to detox their life and beauty routine. I encourage my clients to take control of their health, and help them get to the root cause of their symptoms to improve t…


Virginia Beach VA Health and Wellness Coach | Functional Nutrition Expert | Certified Change Specialist | Owner, Bloom Health and Wellness LLC Nutritionist,Health Coach,Counselor,Life Coach,Personal Life Coach,Christian Life Coach,Teen Life Coach,Wellness Coach,Sports Nutritionist,Functional Medicine Practitioner,Holistic Health Coach,Holistic Nutritionist,Nutrition Consultant,Nutritional Therapy Practitioner,Nutrition Coach,Nutritional Therapist,Health and Wellness Coach,Personal Coach,Family Coach,Relationship Coach,Holistic Health,Nutrition Counseling,Weight Loss Coach,Alternative Health Doctor,Mental Wellness,Holistic Nutrition,Obesity Care,Pediatric Nutritionist,Functional Nutritionist,Stress Counseling,Self Esteem Coach,Grief Recovery Specialist,Mindset Coach,Women's Health,Anxiety Coach,Trauma Class,Integrative Health,Relaxation Technique,Goal Setting,Visualization Technique,Stress Coach,Gas and Bloating Specialist,Chronic Fatigue Specialist,Sleep Coach,Acne Specialist,Menopause Specialist,Fatigue Specialist,Hashimoto Disease,Thyroid Specialist,Lyme Disease Specialist,Inflammation Specialist,PMS Specialist,Gut Health Specialist,Hormone Specialist,Adrenal Gland Specialist,Epstein Barr Specialist,Energy Coach,Brain Fog Specialist,ADHD Specialist,Joint Pain Specialist,Gout Specialist,Detox Specialist,Teen Nutrition Coach,Paleo Diet Coach,Plant Based Diet Coach,Anemia Specialist,Endometriosis Specialist,LGBTQ Therapist,Depression Therapist,FODMAP Specialist,Resilience Coach,Liver Cleanse Specialist,Athlete Nutrition Plan,Digestive Health Specialist,Corporate Retreat Activity
Heather Truman, MHA, MBA

Heather Truman, MHA, MBA

Health and Wellness Coach | Functional Nutrition Expert | Certified Change Specialist | Owner, Bloom Health and Wellness LLC
Offers virtual services

English

Hi! I am truly excited for the opportunity to meet with you, get to know you and build a trust-filled relationship in a space where you can feel heard and supported. Optimal health and wellness is defined by you! I believe you can achieve balance through many pathways - it is your journey. Heal…


Denver CO Holistic Nutritionist,Certified Nutrition Therapy Practitioner,Personal Trainer Nutritionist,Dietician,Personal Trainer,Holistic Life Coach,Wellness Coach,Ayurvedic Practitioner,Functional Medicine Practitioner,Functional Medicine Doctor,Fertility Specialist,Holistic Health Coach,Holistic Nutritionist,Nutrition Consultant,Nutritional Therapy Practitioner,Nutrition Coach,Nutritional Therapist,Personal Trainer for Women,Holistic Health,Nutrition Counseling,Weight Loss Coach,Alternative Health Doctor,Mental Wellness,Holistic Nutrition,Athletic Training,Running Training,Speed Training,Strength Training for Women,Resistance Training,Couples Personal Training,Obesity Care,Keto Specialist,Food Allergist,Vegan Dietician,Pediatric Nutritionist,Functional Nutritionist,Stress Counseling,Fertility Coach,Women's Health,Anxiety Coach,Integrative Health,Liver Support,Autoimmune Specialist,Infertility Specialist,PCOS Specialist,Stress Coach,Gas and Bloating Specialist,Chronic Fatigue Specialist,Acne Specialist,Menopause Specialist,Fatigue Specialist,Hashimoto Disease,Thyroid Specialist,Lyme Disease Specialist,Inflammation Specialist,PMS Specialist,Gut Health Specialist,Hormone Specialist,Adrenal Gland Specialist,Epstein Barr Specialist,Energy Coach,Brain Fog Specialist,ADHD Specialist,Joint Pain Specialist,Gout Specialist,Detox Specialist,Teen Nutrition Coach,Paleo Diet Coach,Plant Based Diet Coach,Depression Therapist,Skin Health Specialist,FODMAP Specialist,Liver Cleanse Specialist,Athlete Nutrition Plan,Digestive Health Specialist,Insomnia,Sleep Doctor,Multiple Sclerosis Specialist,IBS Specialist,Weight Loss Program,Rheumatoid Arthritis Doctor,Holistic Therapist,Fibromyalgia Specialist,Lupus Specialist,Osteoporosis Specialist,Nutrition Therapy,Mindful Eating,Eating Disorder Treatment,Food Allergy Doctor,Food Sensitivity Testing,Chronic Pain Specialist,Gluten Free,Celiac Disease Specialist,Medical Nutrition Therapy,Diabetes Specialist,Digestive Issues,Osteoarthritis Specialist,Colitis Specialist,Crohn's Specialist,Cholesterol Specialist,Cancer Specialist,Blood Pressure Specialist,Heart Health Specialist,Renal Specialist,Autoimmune Disease Doctor,Meal Plans,Keto Diet Coach,Vegan Diet,Vegetarian Diet,Intuitive Eating Dietitian,Pregnancy Nutrition,Postpartum Nutrition,Behavior Modification Therapy,Stress Management Class,Constipation Doctor,Integration Coach,Wellness Counseling,Headache Specialist,Weight Management Doctor,Pain Management,Depression Counseling,Anxiety Treatment,Supplement Store,Irregular Periods,Post Birth Control Syndrome,Grocery Store Tour,Women's Health Specialist,Certified Holistic Health Practitioner,Gut Health,Frozen Shoulder,Cooking Lessons,Pantry Detox,Plant Medicine,Intimacy Coach,Impotence Specialist,Organic Food,Muscle Building,Weight Training,Calisthenics Workout,Protein Powder,Low Fat Diet,Alkaline Diet,Anti Inflammatory Diet,Mens Health,Endurance Training,Metabolic Specialist,Migraine Specialist
Jaci Salley

Jaci Salley

Holistic Nutritionist Certified Nutrition Therapy Practitioner Personal Trainer
Offers virtual services

English

Hi, I'm Jaci Salley, a Holistic Nutritionist and Personal Trainer dedicated to helping you achieve balance through whole, natural foods and exercise. My journey in holistic nutrition and wellness coaching has fueled my passion for empowering others to take charge of their health. I believe in a …


Boulder CO Nutritional Therapy Practitioner Nutritionist,Sports Nutritionist,Functional Medicine Practitioner,Holistic Health Coach,Holistic Nutritionist,Nutrition Consultant,Nutritional Therapy Practitioner,Nutrition Coach,Nutritional Therapist,Health and Wellness Coach,Holistic Health,Holistic Medicine,Nutrition Counseling,Sleep Therapy,Weight Loss Coach,Alternative Health Doctor,Mental Wellness,Holistic Nutrition,Functional Nutritionist
Kassandra Hobart

Kassandra Hobart

Nutritional Therapy Practitioner
Offers virtual services

English

FUNCTIONAL NUTRITION IS MORE THAN WHAT YOU EAT Take back your energy, your sleep, your food My approach to wellness through functional nutrition heals underlying root causes, while addressing symptoms, all from the comfort of your home.


Nutritionist,Yoga Instructor,Holistic Life Coach,Wellness Coach,Sports Nutritionist,Holistic Health Coach,Senior Fitness Trainer,Holistic Nutritionist,Nutrition Consultant,Nutritional Therapy Practitioner,Nutrition Coach,Nutritional Therapist,Personal Trainer for Women,Fitness Instructor,Private Yoga Instructor,Meditation,Holistic Health,Holistic Medicine,Vinyasa Yoga,Prenatal Yoga,Hatha Yoga,Hot Yoga,Bikram Yoga,Raja Yoga,Beginners Yoga,Yoga Class,Sweat Yoga,Ashtanga Yoga,Postnatal Yoga,Ashtanga Flow,Heat Yoga,Hot Power Yoga,Bikram Hatha Yoga,Antenatal Yoga,Maternity Yoga Class,Haute Yoga,Sauna Yoga Class,Nutrition Counseling,Sleep Therapy,Weight Loss Coach,Alternative Health Doctor,Natural Medicine Doctor,Mental Wellness,Holistic Nutrition,Prenatal Fitness Class,Fitness Class,Keto Specialist,Vegan Dietician,Pediatric Nutritionist,Functional Nutritionist
Haley Halteman

Haley Halteman

Offers virtual services

English

Welcome! My name is Haley Halteman. I'm a Master Nutrition Therapist, Certified Nutrition Therapy Practitioner, Board Certified Holistic Nutritionist, and 200hr RYT with Yoga Alliance. I believe physical health and emotional peace are not only possible, but also interconnected. My mission is to hel…


Nutritionist,Wellness Coach,Sports Nutritionist,Holistic Health Coach,Holistic Nutritionist,Nutrition Consultant,Nutritional Therapy Practitioner,Nutrition Coach,Nutritional Therapist,Holistic Health,Holistic Medicine,Nutrition Counseling,Weight Loss Coach,Alternative Health Doctor,Natural Medicine Doctor,Mental Wellness,Holistic Nutrition,Functional Nutritionist
Heather Donahue

I am a Certified Holistic Nutritionist passionate about teaching women how to heal their gut and overcome the embarrassing symptoms of an unhealthy gut.I created a 5 step program that fits busy lifestyles. The Simply Great Health program is customized to your unique situation. I used this program t…


Wellness Coach Health Coach,Wellness Coach,Holistic Health Coach,Anxiety Therapist,Health and Wellness Coach,Personal Coach,Holistic Health,Alternative Health Doctor,Mental Wellness,Mindset Coach,Anxiety Coach,Trauma Class,Relaxation Technique,Goal Setting,Visualization Technique,Mindfulness Class,Stress Coach,Gas and Bloating Specialist,Chronic Fatigue Specialist,Sleep Coach,Fatigue Specialist,Inflammation Specialist,Gut Health Specialist,Energy Coach,Resilience Coach,Digestive Health Specialist

New York City New York Holistic Life Coach Life Coach,Personal Life Coach,Christian Life Coach,Teen Life Coach,Spiritual Life Coach,Holistic Life Coach,Wellness Coach,Relationship Counselor,Marriage and Family Therapist,Mental Health Counselor,Spiritual Counselor,Christian Marriage Counselor,Family Counselor,Premarital Counselor,Energy Healer,Human Design Reader,Holistic Health Coach,Anxiety Therapist,Health and Wellness Coach,Personal Coach,Family Coach,Relationship Coach,Healer,Intuitive Healer,Career Coach,Business Coach,Speaking Coach,Holistic Health,Mental Health,Weight Loss Hypnosis,Counseling,Couples Counseling,Christian Counseling,Grief Counseling,Career Counseling,Social Anxiety Therapy,Grief Coach,Manifestation Coach,Psychotherapy,Sleep Therapy,Mental Therapy,Couples Therapy,Spiritual Cleansing,Weight Loss Coach,Alternative Health Doctor,Mental Wellness,Obesity Care,Chaplain,Spiritual Mentor
Rev Lenise D Harris

Rev Lenise D Harris

Holistic Life Coach
Offers virtual services

English

Mom of Two, Spiritual Advisor, Author, and Speaker. My services are for the modern spiritual woman looking to get unstuck, attract healthy love, and live in her purpose. I use alternative healing & spiritual interventions. My main focus is on Mindset, Self-Love, Manifestation, Purpose, and C…


Brooksville Florida Certified Level II Tai Chi & Qigong Instructor Personal Trainer,Senior Fitness Trainer,Personal Coach,Meditation Teacher,Tai Chi Instructor,Qigong Instructor,Private Personal Trainer,Personal Trainer for Women,Fitness Instructor,Breathwork,Holistic Health,Mental Health,Sleep Therapy,Mental Therapy,Sound Therapy,Spiritual Cleansing,Weight Loss Coach,Alternative Health Doctor,Mental Wellness,Brazilian Jiu Jitsu,Kung Fu,Qigong,Martial Arts Training,Muay Thai Training,Aikido Training,Mixed Martial Arts,Taekwondo Class,Tai Chi,Athletic Training,Strength Training for Women,Fitness Class,Plyometrics,Obesity Care,Spiritual Mentor,Women's Health,Anxiety Coach,Mindfulness Class,Stress Coach,Sleep Coach,Energy Coach
Paula Nelson

Paula Nelson

Certified Level II Tai Chi & Qigong Instructor
Offers virtual services

English

Welcome. I'm a retired U.S. Army officer and former newspaper editor who embarked on my journey into Tai Chi while still in active service. Although my initial interest was piqued during my military days, my pursuit of Tai Chi was temporarily sidelined by time constraints and professional respons…


FAQs:

What is Alternative Health?

It is a range of practices and products. Rather than using drugs and surgery, most treatments are intended to help the body heal itself or improve well-being.

What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is the practice of penetrating the skin with thin, solid, metallic needles which are then activated through gentle and specific movements of the practitioner's hands or with electrical stimulation. Acupuncture is part of the ancient practice of Traditional Chinese medicine. Traditional Chinese medicine practitioners believe the human body has more than 2,000 acupuncture points connected by pathways or meridians. These pathways create an energy flow (Qi, pronounced "chee") through the body that is responsible for overall health. Disruption of the energy flow can cause disease. By applying acupuncture to certain points, it is thought to improve the flow of Qi, thereby improving health. Studies have shown that acupuncture is effective for a variety of conditions. Acupuncture is not for everyone. If you choose to see an acupuncturist, discuss it with your doctor first and find a practitioner who is licensed and has proper training and credentials.

What is Homeopathy?

Homeopathy is a complementary or alternative medicine. This means that homeopathy is different from treatments that are part of conventional Western medicine in important ways. It's based on a series of ideas developed in the 1790s by a German doctor called Samuel Hahnemann. A central principle of the "treatment" is that "like cures like" – that a substance that causes certain symptoms can also help to remove those symptoms. A second central principle is based on a process of dilution and shaking called succussion. Practitioners believe that the more a substance is diluted in this way, the greater its power to treat symptoms. Many homeopathic remedies consist of substances that have been diluted many times in water until there's none, or almost none, of the original substance left. Homeopathy is used to "treat" an extremely wide range of conditions, including physical conditions such as asthma and psychological conditions such as depression.

What is Ayurveda?

Ayurvedic medicine (“Ayurveda” for short) is one of the world's oldest holistic (“whole-body”) healing systems. It was developed more than 3,000 years ago in India. It’s based on the belief that health and wellness depend on a delicate balance between the mind, body, and spirit. Its main goal is to promote good health, not fight disease. But treatments may be geared toward specific health problems. In the United States, it’s considered a form of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM).

What is Naturopathy?

Naturopathy is a distinct primary healthcare system that blends modern scientific knowledge with traditional and natural forms of medicine. It is based on the healing power of nature and it supports and stimulates the body’s ability to heal itself. Naturopathy is the art and science of disease diagnosis, treatment and prevention using natural therapies including dietetics, botanical medicine, clinical nutrition, hydrotherapy, homeopathy, fasting, naturopathic manipulation, traditional Chinese medicine/acupuncture, exercise, lifestyle counseling, detoxification and chelation, environmental assessment and adjustment, spiritual healing, health promotion, and disease prevention.

What is Chinese Medicine?

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is thousands of years old and has changed little over the centuries. Its basic concept is that a vital force of life, called Qi, surges through the body.  Any imbalance in Qi can cause disease and illness. This imbalance is most commonly thought to be caused by an alteration in the opposite and complementary forces that make up the Qi. These are called yin and yang. Ancient Chinese believed that humans are microcosms of the larger surrounding universe, and are interconnected with nature and subject to its forces. The balance between health and disease is a key concept. TCM treatment seeks to restore this balance through treatment specific to the individual. It is believed that to regain balance, you must achieve the balance between the internal body organs and the external elements of earth, fire, water, wood, and metal.

What is Chiropractic?

Chiropractic is a form of alternative medicine concerned with diagnosing, treating, and preventing mechanical disorders of the musculoskeletal system, especially of the spine. It has esoteric origins and is based on several pseudoscientific ideas. The primary chiropractic treatment technique involves manual therapy, especially manipulation of the spine, other joints, and soft tissues, but may also include exercises and health and lifestyle counseling.

What is Massage Therapy?

Performed by a licensed massage therapist, massage therapy involves using different pressures, movements, and techniques to manipulate muscles and other soft tissues in the body. With the goal of slowing down your nervous system, massage therapy can be used to release stress and tension, provide relief from symptoms, heal injuries, and support wellness.

What is Tai Chi?

A tai chi practice involves slow-motion flow — and with that comes a cadre of health benefits, too, including better balance, mobility, and coordination. Tai chi (also called tai chi chuan or tai ji quan) is a mind-body exercise that combines movements, meditation, and deep breathing, according to the American Tai Chi and Qigong Association (ATCQA).

The word “tai” means “supreme,” “chi” means “boundary,” and “chuan” means “fist” or “movement,” according to the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, which runs a wheelchair and adaptive tai chi program. Put those definitions together, and tai chi chuan translates to a method of movement that cultivates inner peace, power, and awareness, and fosters overall wellness.

Though there are several different forms of tai chi, its movements include a series of postures that you flow through during a tai chi class with the guidance of an instructor.

What is Complementary Medicine?

Complementary medicine is a term used to describe the types of treatments you may receive along with traditional Western medicine. Examples of complementary medicine include massage, meditation, biofeedback, tai chi, reiki, music therapy, guided imagery, and dietary supplements.

What are Alternative Therapies?

Alternative therapies refer to any medical treatments that are not traditional medicine techniques. Alternative therapies could either be used alongside conventional medicine or instead of it. The term is often used interchangeably with "complementary medicine." In medical spaces, the practice is referred to as Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM). The National Institutes of Health (NIH) does make a distinction between complementary and alternative medicine. According to them, when it's used alongside traditional medicine, it's complementary, but if it's used in place of conventional medicine, then it's considered an alternative. However, most people are likely to use these therapies alongside traditional medicine. When a licensed healthcare provider uses both alternative therapies and conventional medicine, then it's called integrative medicine. A doctor or healthcare provider who uses integrative medicine uses all therapeutic methods to ensure their patients are healthy. 

Alternative Health Services Categories

There are different categories of alternative health services

- Complementary” treatments are used with standard medical practices;

- Integrative” practices blend approaches together;

- Alternative” treatments are in place of conventional medicine.

Different Alternative Health Services

Western medical practice has accepted some alternative care approaches. Here are the different alternative health services:

1. Acupuncture (acupressure) uses needles (pressure) along energy paths in the body to balance the flow of energy, typically for the treatment of pain.

2. Biofeedback teaches relaxation techniques to control body functions, such as heart rate, blood pressure, and muscle tension, to improve conditions such as high blood pressure, headaches, and chronic pain.

3. Chiropractic manipulation focuses on muscles, bones, and nervous systems. Typical treatment is an adjustment to injured areas to loosen muscles, resolve pain, and regain mobility.

4. Massage therapy is the manipulation of soft tissues, such as muscles, tendons, and ligaments to ease tension and reduce pain.

5. Naturopathy typically involves a variety of treatment services including nutrition, behavioral changes, herbal medicine, homeopathy, and acupuncture. Naturopathic doctors have training in both conventional and alternative medicines.

6. Aromatherapy uses essential oils from plant roots, leaves, seeds, or blossoms to promote healing.

7. Ayurveda/Ayurvedic medicine uses a variety of approaches, including herbs, massage, and special diets to balance the body, mind, and spirit for overall wellness.

8. Homeopathy uses the body’s ability to heal itself, using diluted substances that are based on “like cures like” principles. 

9. Reflexology applies pressure to specific areas on the feet, hands, or ears for overall health.

10. Yoga therapy uses yoga techniques such as posture and breathing exercises, deep relaxation, and meditation to help manage conditions and reduce symptoms.

Benefits of Alternative Health

Each type of complementary medicine may target a specific aspect of your health. In general, complementary approaches may provide one or more of these health benefits:

1. Relieves pain.

2. Reduces anxiety and stress.

3. Reduces nausea.

4. Improves mood.

5. Increases relaxation.

6. Improves wound healing.

7. Encourages feelings of well-being, pleasure, positivity, and inner peace.

8. Relieves muscle tension.

9. Decreases tiredness.

10. Improves flexibility and circulation.

Different Alternative Health Practitioners

Alternative medicine is a broad field that covers a wide range of career options. Some popular choices include Chinese medicine practitioners, massage therapists, personal trainers, nutritionists, chiropractors, and aromatherapists. Learn more about some of these career options here.

Chinese Medicine Practitioner

Chinese alternative medicine includes acupuncture, oriental medicine, and herbology. As one of the healing arts, it deals with understanding and treating the body as a whole by identifying the body's energy points, which are known as meridians. The techniques seek to balance the body's Yin and Yang. Acupuncture involves the application of fine needles to the body's meridians to cure certain ailments, while herbology uses natural plant remedies as an alternative to prescription drugs.

Massage Therapist

A career in massage therapy could be another option. It incorporates different features of alternative medicine with modern science. Traditional massage therapists manipulate the muscles to ease pains. However, massage therapists who are interested in alternative medicine often include elements of Reiki, herbology, aromatherapy, reflexology, ayurveda, and other common forms of the healing practice.

Personal Trainer

Although personal training does not necessarily include elements of alternative medicine, some clients look for personal trainers who include both traditional and non-traditional techniques in their wellness regimens. Personal trainers may integrate life coaching, nutrition, and other holistic healing techniques into a routine of personal wellness.

Chiropractor

Chiropractic therapy, one of the most mainstream forms of alternative medicine, involves adjusting the spine to cure back pains. A chiropractor typically works with people who have suffered sports injuries, whiplash, and related ailments.

Aromatherapist

Aromatherapy uses fragrances of various essential oils and plant extracts to cure a variety of conditions and relax the body. This practice involves a mixture of different elements of herbology and therapeutic massage.

Other Career Options

Holistic healthcare treats the whole person, not just the symptoms. It takes into account one's spiritual, emotional, mental, and physical health. Other career options might exist within the following branches of the healing and medicinal arts:

1. Ayurveda

2. Homeopathy

3. Naturopathic medicine

4. Energy healing

5. Kinesiology

6. Botanical medicine

7. Nutrition

How to Choose an Alternative Health Practitioner

If you are considering getting care from a complementary and alternative health practitioner, ask questions to get information to make informed decisions.

1. What education and training do you have?

 2. Are you licensed to perform any health care services? If so, what is the license and where is it from?

 3. Do you have any other credentials related to your practice?

 4. What are your fees?

 5. Will my insurance cover your fees?

 6. Do you have a supervisor? If yes, how are you supervised?

 7. What plan of care do you recommend for me?

8. What types of therapy will you use? How many sessions will I have?

 9. What outcome can I expect?

 

Sources:

Te Ara

Johns Hopkins Medicine

NHS

WebMD

GCRN

Wikipedia

Cleveland Clinic

Everyday Health

NH HealthCoast

Very Well Mind

Consumer Guide

LEARN

 

The content herein is provided for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Medical information changes constantly, and therefore the content on this website should not be assumed to be current, complete or exhaustive. Always seek the advice of your doctor before starting or changing treatment. If you think you may have a medical emergency, please call your doctor or 9-1-1 (in the United States) immediately.