“Functional medicine is defined as a systems biology-based approach that focuses on identifying and addressing the root cause of disease. Each symptom or differential diagnosis may be one of many contributing to an individual’s illness.” It is a holistic approach to healthcare that looks at all parts of the human experience, including lifestyle, environment, and genetics, to create a personalized plan for healing and wellness.
Functional medicine providers take a comprehensive medical history and lifestyle assessment to see a complete picture of a patient’s health by actively listening and gathering a detailed medical history. They work to identify the root cause(s) of the illness, including triggers such as poor nutrition, stress, toxins, allergens, genetics and an individual’s microbiome (the bacteria living in and on your body). Once these triggers are identified, they customize a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses many aspects of a patient’s life, from physical needs, including nutrition, exercise and sleep, to mental and emotional stressors related to social, work and community life.
Functional Medicine Certified Health coaches are trained in helping patients by offering individualized guidance and support in implementing therapeutic plans and lifestyle behavior changes, addressing barriers, and working through the day-to-day challenges that arise as patients continue on their journey toward health and well-being. They have a client-centered approach and educate clients and help them understand the doctor’s plan of care, offer tools and accountability to implement lifestyle changes and are trained to work directly with a client’s functional medicine practitioner. They are experts in behavior change and guide their clients through a process of self-discovery of their own inner strengths and tools that are instrumental to the healing process.
Does your child struggle with any of the following?
Poor sleep
Picky eating
Self-regulation
Gut issues
Focus and attention
Communication
Sensory processing
Aggression
Repetitive behaviors
If you answered yes to any of the above then there may be underlying medical factors driving your child’s symptoms. Let’s explore these together and begin their healing journey!