Holistic and Integrative Family Medicine combines conventional (allopathic) medicine with complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). Dr. Sue Stone is board-certified in both Family Medicine and Holistic Medicine and has over 20 years experience in family and emergency medicine. Thus, she provides all the services of an ordinary Family Practitioner. But, her practice is far from ordinary.
Conventional medicine, while being a powerful tool for some clinical problems, inadequately addresses many common complaints as well as serious illnesses, and certainly does very little to promote wellness. The beauty of integrative medicine is the ability to utilize many tools, depending on the particular problem and the individual patient's preference. Dr. Stone emphasizes emotional and spiritual alignment with whatever mode of healing you choose.

One of the most significant downfalls of allopathic medicine is that it fails to address the underlying causes of many conditions. Alternative laboratory testing, such as saliva testing for hormones, as well as screening for heavy metals, Candidiasis, and food sensitivities is available.

Dr. Stone favors the use of natural medicines and lifestyle changes over prescription medicines. Food as medicine and extensive nutritional counseling are an important part of wellness programs and disease treatment. Referrals to conventional specialists as well as alternative practitioners are utilized. Alternative modalities available in the area include:

Traditional Chinese Medicine (acupuncture)
Energy Medicine (such as reiki)
Meditation
Spiritual practices
Body work/massage (many kinds)
Chiropractic
Rolfing or Structural Integration
Craniosacral therapy
Breathwork
Compounding pharmacy

In Holistic Medicine, health is viewed as much more than the absence of illness. Optimal health is achieved by addressing all aspects of the individual, including physical, emotional, mental, environmental, social and spiritual. Lifestyle modification and stress-management are crucial.

A major determinant of healing outcomes is the quality of the patient/physician relationship. Illness can be a learning opportunity for both patients and physicians. Physician and patient are two sides of the same coin. Emotional blocks to healing and faith in the body’s incredible ability to heal itself are emphasized.