Services
Wellness Maintenance Program...
Preventative medicine for colds, flu, Lyme...
Cardiovascular assessment and treatment...
Hormone testing and balancing...
Mood, behavior and learning - testing and treatment...
Lupus, MS, Crohns’ disease, cancers - treatment...
Genomics - preventive medicine...
WELL-MaP - Wellness Maintenance Program
Our WELL-MaP program is: health & wellness visits, sauna detoxification,
state-of-art lab testing, prevention and health-affirming.
Our intent is for Well-MaP participants to experience a year of health improvement and enhanced vitality. By detoxifying and supporting the function of body systems in need, we turn back the biological clock. This approach is part of the healthcare solution! By steady, thoughtful application of non-chemical methods, we engage the natural healing processes and our capacity to be WELL is enhanced.
At the beginning of the program, we set goals together, and then follow them through the year so we can work to resolving important health concerns. With regular (4+ times a year) wellness/illness visits, (you decide how to use them!) we support these goals with a practical, step-wise process. As an integral part of this program, we provide natural treatments (mild hyperthermia, massage therapy, herbs+ detoxification) which enhance the body’s own healing processes. We work WITH the body!
3 Different levels of Participation…
Well-MaP ‘Light ‘: Entitles you to 4 visits per year, (2 of these can be for steam/massage), discounted ‘green foods’ supplements and availability for e-mail consults once a month. The cost for this version of Well-MaP is $30/month. Children can be added to this plan (4 visits, no steam/massage except as appropriate) for $15 a month each.
Well-MaP ‘Plus ‘ Entitles you to 1 detox series, (4 steam/massage sessions with the accompanying support herbs) per year, 4 wellness/illness visits per year, one lab test (choice of food allergy, adrenal stress, gut inflammation, etc) e-mail consults once a month and discounted ‘green food’ type supplements. Cost is $60 per month.
Well-MaP ‘Swiss-watch’ provides you with 2 steam/massage detox series (each series is 4 sessions + support herbs) per year, 4 Wellness/ Illness visits, one lab test choice (cardio, nutrient metabolism, food allergy, adrenal stress, antioxidant status, female hormone cycle), monthly e-mail consults, discounted chlorella, green foods and antioxidant nutrients, and a home/travel first-aid kit including homeopathic and herbal remedies with directions for use. Cost is $90 a month.
These services provide a shift in focus, an emphasis on Wellness rather than the Illness model. In the Well-MaP system, we work closely with you to move toward individualized health & wellness goals. We identify important areas to address and give you the tools & support to enhance the natural healing capacity of the body. Of course, we intersect with and provide referrals to other practitioners as indicated; acupuncturists, physical therapists, M.D.’s, nutritionists, chiropractors).
Why steam and massage therapy?
Chronic illness generally is caused mostly by how we eat, exercise, handle our stress and what chemicals we’ve been exposed to. Heat/sweating is one of the best ways to rid ourselves of toxins, and has been used by physicians to treat fume-exposed firefighters, chemical workers, and to support cancer patients. Massage therapy enhances lymphatic drainage (a system that otherwise depends on vigorous exercise), helps move blood through the veins and capillaries and relaxes/retrains tight muscles. The non-bone structure of the body, the fascia, is stimulated and realigned with these gentle but effective treatments.
The Well-MaP programs are NOT covered by insurance payments, but Well-MaP costs may be an admissible use in a healthcare savings account. In order to focus on your wellness (and not billing), we require either:
A.) Quarterly electronic bank drafts
B.) Signed checks for each month’s payment provided in advance.
C.) A one-time payment for the years’ program.
While aspects of this regimen are termed ‘detoxification,’ treatments are NOT intended to treat or correct substance abuse issues. Similarly, this is not designed as a weight-loss program, although improved diet, metabolism, and loss of excess fluid may result in decreased body weight.
Preventive, natural medicine to reduce risk of and treat colds, flu, Lyme disease and other common illnesses.
It seems like every year or two we are being told of a new viral threat. I strive to digest this information and work with each individual to reduce risk of catching significant viral illnesses and provide them with effective support if they DO get a 'bug.' I've been involved with a number of online physician discussions relating to the best means of preventing and treating this years' flu outbreak. I've also explored the medical history about severe outbreaks and the reasons these have been so problematic. There are answers and treatments that work!
In this area, Lyme disease is also a common occurrence. I've worked effectively with dozens of people wishing for a combined approach to recover fully from these infections. With other common infections (cystitis, pneumonia, skin infections) I take an aggressive but careful stance. These generally respond quite well to our treatments, if not, then I promptly refer for appropriate antibiotic treatment.
Detoxification regimens to remove chemical and heavy metal toxins. Ideal for optimal health, recovery from chronic illness, and to prepare for pregnancy.
Natural healing historically emphasized various means to cleanse the body of accumulated toxins. Today, throughout Europe and the U.S., detox-type treatments are used for many complaints; from fatigue to depression to arthritis. We now know the science behind many of the body’s repair and cleansing systems…and how to enhance these processes. This is especially important for women before they become pregnant, to minimize the toxicity passed on to the children. Also strongly indicated for anyone involved with significant chemical or solvent exposure. See this site for good ideas to reduce our toxic load.
We use steam/sauna therapy to induce sweating, enhancing the cellular detoxification functions. External heat/sweating removes toxins, improves circulation, enhances immune function, discourages cancer cells and makes other treatments more effective. Medical history, laboratory tests and examination show us where to base our herbal and nutritional support for the INDIVIDUAL. Each person is recommended a unique combination of phyto-medicines for their system along with the basic support herbs. Emphasis is on enhancing function of the liver, digestion, kidneys, lungs and skin during the detox process. Following steam treatments of 15-20 minutes, patients may opt to receive 30 minutes of massage therapy /neuromuscular re-education to help lymph drainage, relieve tight areas and re-set the nerves and muscles so we may move more freely.
Cardiovascular risk assessment, (state-of-the-art cholesterol fractions, CRP, homocysteine, etc.) and treatment.
Heart and circulation health is extremely important, we use advanced testing and non-pharmaceutical support to reduce risk factors. Our functional cardiovascular testing goes well beyond the standard cholesterol testing, and explores many of the risk factors that are discussed in medical literature but haven't yet made it to most practices. We provide treatment options to statins as well as important biochemical support for those that choose to stay on their effective statins. We design a regimen that works with necessary medications, and communicate with your M.D. to advocate for a safe and effective integrated treatment approach.
Lifestyle factors are obviously important here too, so we provide support and guidance into appropriate exercise, dietary strategies and stress reduction methods, all shown to be extremely important in helping avoid cardiovascular disease. Remember, even with a family history of heart disease, your day-to-day choices,habits and nutrition play a BIG part in having a healthy heart!
Hormone testing and balancing for safe, long-term support. Support for women anticipating pregnancy and basic treatment of dysplasia and HPV.
Hormonal changes are a fact of life, balancing these changes results in fewer and less troublesome symptoms. Amid the controversy surrounding "natural bio-identical hormone replacement" there are some important principles. First, is that each person is different and there is no reasonable one-treatment-for all approach. As I was instrumental in development of the first available urine estrogen metabolism testing by Great Smokies Laboratory (now Genova diagnostics), I am familiar with the issues that are important to safely modify hormone levels. I use urine testing that identifies the beneficial and problematic estrogens and helps ensure that the treatments are not only effective at reducing symptoms, but SAFE for long-term use! I use herbal formulas, hormone precursors and natural, plant-derived transdermal support for both men and women. In Connecticut, ND's are not licensed to prescribe bio-identical hormones.
Concerns about HPV infections or abnormal PAP tests are quite common with women. Naturopathic therapies have a VERY good track record showing effective treatment of these conditions. I work with you to develop a plan and support follow-up with your regular or Gyn physician. While HPV vaccines have been portrayed as the 'cure' and preventive choice for HPV infections, these are not without potential side effects and it is unknown how long they last over time. For both treatment and prevention, I find that women do extremely well with a combination of homeopathic and naturopathic remedies, some locally applied and some taken internally. You and your daughters have options!
Testing and customized treatment for challenges in mood, behavior and learning, including autism.
Over the past 10 years, I have been periodically immersed in the research and treatment of individuals on the autistic spectrum. I have given talks at DAN!(Defeat Autism Now) conferences in Seattle and Washington DC and over the past 8 years, have worked extensively in Spain, sponsored by the group AVA (La Asociación para Vencer el Autismo y Trastornos del Desarrollo) of Barcelona. In my work there, I advise parents and teach physicians the functional medicine approach to autism, and use many components of the DAN! protocol. As with all significant conditions, there are those that seem not to respond to our treatments, but nearly all the patients improve in key areas of their lives, with improved overall health and better interaction with parents, teachers and siblings.
Watch Dr. Furlong's video about Autism & Gut Dysfunction.
I frequently work with people dealing with mood and behavior issues,helping to identify promising areas of treatment. For children with the common diagnosis of ADHD and similar, there are often alternatives to medications that support the developmental process, permit normal personality to remain vibrant, and help the individual have better success with school, friends and family. While medications are sometimes an important means to move a person toward healing, I find the natural methods are often effective and better tolerated, with fewer side-effects.
Comprehensive treatment regimens for more complex conditions such as lupus, MS, Crohns’ disease, cancers, etc.
Naturopathic medicine is extremely well-suited to address what we would call serious, chronic conditions, ESPECIALLY when first diagnosed! Our approach is to address many of the issues involved in the CAUSE of the condition. This approach doesn't cover up symptoms, it seeks to treat the origin of the symptoms. This is a basic but often radical departure from such treatments as steroids to treat auto-immunity, anti-inflammatories and strong immuno-suppressants to treat arthritis or inflammatory bowel disease. There are times when the pharmaceuticals are necessary, but we use methods which minimize the need for strong medications, permitting their use in a less-intensive manner.
For cancer patients, it is important to work closely and intensively. I use a four-fold approach:
A.) Enhance the immune system
B.) Make the body chemistry less hospitable for cancer cells
C.) Use agents to prevent damage from necessary chemotherapy/radiation/surgery.
D.) Use laboratory testing to monitor the immune system and asses the status of the cancer (where possible)
These strategies must be individualized to each persons' situation, but these principles help people do well with whatever type of cancer treatment they choose. For example, the toxicity of the drug Adriamycin primarily involves the heart. There are specific and effective ways to protect the heart while not interfering with the treatment benefits of the Adriamycin. This is a good example of truly integrated medicine, using methods to best help the individual.
Genomics...Preventive medicine of the future!
Testing the genes can seem like one of those science fiction ideas; a bit scary but filled with promise and possibility. Through the 12+ years of working with genetic testing through Genova Diagnostics, I am convinced that certain genetic information can be extremely useful in preventing disease and providing information that people need to best protect their health. The genetic tests I run are based upon the principal of 'modified gene expression'...we can't change our genes but we CAN change how they behave in the body!
Genes will do different things depending upon the nutritional and health status of the individual. By finding out if certain genes are present, we can take steps (nutritional, lifestyle, medication choices) to change what the genes do, and likely improve long-term health risk. This approach is particularly useful in three areas: cardiovascular health, how our body detoxifies substances, (including medications) and hormone metabolism. These tests are cutting-edge, research-supported and help us to know our unique susceptibilities. The benefit is that we have more information to PREVENT future problems or be more effective with current treatments. Such testing can also provide insight for our kids to best help them from a young age.
This type of genetic testing is ONLY done privately between Dr. and patient, so no insurance company has a record of the test unless YOU decide to provide it. I'm happy to schedule a time to discuss this topic with you and show you specifically what the tests provide.
Laboratory consultations
As an expert in functional medicine testing, I am pleased to provide a written, clinically-focused analysis of any testing you may have had performed at Genova Diagnostics or any other lab that performs similar functional testing (amino acids, organic acids, toxic elements etc.). These referenced analyses can be particularly helpful to the physicians working with you to develop a treatment plan.
International consultations (Consultas internacionales) Para mi pacientes de Espana, Italia y Mexico, pideme por e-mail si usted quiere una consulta. Este servicio esta SOLO para pacientes que vi' en el pasado...de Barcelona, Antequera, Tenerife, Sevilla, o Bologna.
For the Trek...
One important principle when being out in nature is to be prepared for unexpected delay or challenge of weather, sickness or injury. We prepare a customized health kit to augment your basic first aid kit. Developed from my own experiences traveling and camping out of reach of standard medicine and medical help, they are practical support for common conditions that can mean danger for the hiker/trekker. Remedies for acute illness/injury, herbal formulas for a variety of conditions and other items specific to your travels are included in a portable kit for your car or pack.
Another feature which I make available is a special energy/survival concoction. These formulas are intended for what would be termed "extreme" or expedition-type hiking or trekking. Typically, we provide five days of these supplements to enhance performance in extreme environments, be they heat, cold, desert or high altitude. Based upon research and the traditions/experience of indigenous cultures, these herbal/nutriceutical combinations are serious support for serious endeavors. Contact me at least 2 months before your departure date to be sure I can meet your needs.
Health travels...
Three times a year, we organize small groups to embark upon travels for health & healing . These journeys are intended to provide a relaxing, yet deeply fulfilling connection to the Vis Mediatrix Naturae, the healing Power of Nature. Each trip is a brief exploration of the region, with emphasis on fostering a deep connection with the natural world. Through this communion with the mother Earth and contacts with the local people, we come to re-appreciate simple things; air, mountains, wind, water, delicious but simple food, and the good feeling of exerting ourselves a bit. Three locations are available at this time.
The Umbria region of Italy... we visit the hilltop town of Parano, bask in the springs of Saturnia and explore areas rich in the essence of the ancient Etruscans. We visit a number of areas, staying at bed and breakfasts (agriturismos) where we indulge in artisan cheeses, wines and homemade food items unique to each farm. Sections of the hiking are simple walks, other areas are strenuous climbs up in altitude to feel our lungs and stimulate our appetites! We participate in local celebrations, an acknowledgment of the connection between harvest, health and the cycles of life. Enjoying a quiet sunset over the Mediterranean,we are recharged and delighted at our discoveries.
San Martin de Los Piramides/Mexico...We fly to Mexico City and catch a ride out to the Piramides of Teotihucan, about 1 1/2 hours away. Staying at a local posada or other accommodations, we visit with a local elder, Tlakaelel, who shares the oral tradition of the ancient societies of Mexico and welcomes us to his Temazkal. This healing/cleansing steam bath is available to all, Tlakaelel and his helpers are professionals, having lead hundreds of such ceremonies. We spend a day hiking up Cerro Gordo, to a nature preserve/state park, and find a spot on the mountain where we can sit and listen to the wind and feel the strength of the volcanic rocks. We visit the sacred site of the yearly Mitotianilitztli. a four-day ceremony marking the connection of life to the energy of the Sun. A day at the Pyramids is accented with the personal knowledge of Tlakaelel, who guides us to some unexpected discoveries.
Catron county, New Mexico...We fly to Albuquerque and drive through the malpais, an area of volcanic intrusion into the prevailing geology. We spend 3 days camping and exploring the high plateau, one with wind, pinon pine and juniper, in a land with 'more elk than people.' Finally we spend time at a special canyon, where the Guardian of the area shows us how the riverbank has been lovingly returned to the original plant life. Foraging for wild foods, watching myriad stars and the milky way in our unobstructed nights, we drink deeply of the wildness that nourishes and fortifies our soul.
Where do you want to go next?
Home...
Online Ordering...
Contact Me...