Integrative Medicine is a combination of conventional medical treatment and alternative or complementary healing therapies. This combined approach to medicine offers a holistic viewpoint which considers all aspects of a person’s well being; mind, body and spirit. Broadening medical treatment to include the whole person provides support for making and sustaining health-giving behavioral changes. In addition to providing overall health and wellness support, integrative medicine can be useful for treating many health conditions, illnesses and injuries—particularly chronic conditions.

Nutritional Counseling  |  Bodywork Therapies  |  Movement Therapies  |  Relaxation Therapies  |  Spiritual Care  |  Energy Therapies Based in Healing Traditions

Nutritional Counseling

Diet, Vitamins, Supplements

Nutrition therapies focus on providing essential nutrients to the body. Adding vitamins, herbal supplements to a balanced diet can optimize energy levels and promote health and wellness. Dr. Cantwell and Dr. Goode often use nutritional approaches while Dr. Draisin focuses more often on Chinese herbs. The nutritional products offered at the Store are carefully selected by our physicians, and the health research service offers the latest research about supplements and herbs. A class on weight management is available as well as private consultations with a nutritionist.

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Bodywork Therapies

Massage, Craniosacral, Ayurvedic

Bodywork therapies combine touch, pressure, and soft tissue manipulation in order to promote awareness for healing and relaxation. A wide variety of massage and bodywork therapies are available in the Clinic. Wellness massage is also offered through the Self Care Program. In addition, we offer a massage therapy specialization for certified massage therapists who want to participate in our Health Professional Education Program, and provide massage at the bedside in the hospital.
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Movement Therapies

Feldenkrais®, T’ai Chi, Yoga

Slow, careful movements improve balance, strength, coordination, flexibility and agility. These therapies emphasize gentle movement. All these approaches are available in our classes which feature highly skilled, experienced instructors. Many referrals by health professionals are made to our classes because they are designed to support patients who are dealing with stress and physical complaints. Individuals can also receive private instruction in Feldenkrais, Chi Kung and yoga.
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Relaxation Therapies

Guided Imagery, Expressive Arts, Mindfulness Meditation

Relaxation therapies use breath and other methods to focus the mind in order to achieve a state of calmness. These therapies often help patients understand their thought and behavioral patterns. Jon Kabat-Zinn’s mindfulness-based stress reduction program is available as a class and as individual sessions. Guided imagery is also offered. Expressive arts and guided imagery are specializations in our Health Professional Education Program. Often times, bodywork and movement therapies can also assist patients in a similar fashion if this is what most suits their needs. The Store and Library offer instructional video and audio tapes and CDs, as well as many related books.

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Spiritual Care

Prayer, Meditation, Counseling

Spiritual care and practice bring the resources of one’s faith or spirituality to current emotional and spiritual needs. Our in-hospital services feature non-denominational spiritual care by chaplains who are a part of the Health Education Program in coordination with the Association of Clinical Pastoral Education. Spiritual concerns are supported by all of our out-patient practitioners, and spiritual counseling is available through the Clinic. A labyrinth and meditation chapels are available as well to provide opportunities for patients and families to practice their faith. The Store also offers many tools for spiritual practice.
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Energy Therapies Based in Healing Traditions

Acupuncture, Reiki, Chi Kung

Vital energy is known in ancient traditions as “chi” (Chinese), “ki” (Japanese), and “prana” (Indian). Increasing the flow of vital energy enhances immune function and circulation in the body. Energy therapies involve interaction with the energy fields existing within and around the body. Releasing blocked energy in the body can increase the flow of vital energy. Acupuncture is offered by Dr. Draisin in our clinic as an individual therapy and a low-cost group approach. Some of our Ayurvedic body therapies incorporate acupressure and Reiki is available in the Clinic.

If you would like to learn more about how we can support your patients or practice, please call us at 415-600-HEAL or email and ask about a physician visit or phone consultation or a tour. We also provide consultations for a fee to other hospitals with integrative medicine programs.

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