Find a Practitioner

How to Find an Alternative Healthcare Practitioner

Our database gives you direct access to thousands of practitioners around the country. It is our intention for the near future to have these individual healthcare practitioners reviewed so that you can see what other people experienced when they were treated. In addition, we have an extensive list of websites linking you to licensed alternative health care professionals. If you live in a small town or if you are not finding the practitioners you want within the database, there are other ways to find alternative care. Begin by looking in the yellow pages for one of the many therapies you can find listed in Glossary. Even if you locate only one practitioner, call them. Start somewhere. If there are no listings, you need to do deeper detective work. Go to your nearest health food store and see if someone in the herb and supplement department has a recommendation. Another option is to ask a local Massage Therapist or to inquire at a Yoga Studio. Prior to scheduling your first appointment, ask the practitioner the following questions:

• Are they a licensed alternative health care practitioner and what is their area of expertise? If not licensed, inquire about their prior training and certification.
• How many years have they been practicing?
• Do they have clients you can call as referrals?
• Clarify fees and inquire about insurance options.
• If necessary, are they willing to speak with your primary care physician?

• Come to the first visit prepared to answer questions about your health history including any injuries, surgeries, or major illnesses, as well as prescription and non-prescription drugs you may be taking, and your vitamin or supplement program.
• Be prepared to express your health goals and your interest in exploring alternative healing modalities. Also, let them know if you are currently working with other healthcare practitioners.

• Is this the right practitioner for you? If the answer is no, find someone else. It is okay to see someone once and then change your mind.
• Could the practitioner answer your questions in a way that satisfied you?
• Did you feel comfortable and supported in their presence?
• Does the treatment plan seem reasonable and acceptable to you?
• If the therapy or practitioner is not right for you, can they refer you elsewhere?