Center for Integrative Medicine

Ask the Practitioner

The physicians and specialists at the Center for Integrative Medicine have a wealth of knowledge to share. Although we cannot diagnose medical conditions or offer personal treatment options online, we would be happy to answer general questions you may have about Integrative Medicine, therapies and conditions via our monthly electronic newsletter.

Please submit your question using the form below and it will be considered for our website and monthly newsletter. All Ask the Practitioner answers are archived on our website.

Ask the Practitioner - Archive

Q: "Question: Does the Center have experience with patients who are taking antidepressants and wish to get off them without getting back into a clinical depression?"

(Answer by: Henri Roca, MD, and Mark Beitel, PhD)

Depression and depressive symptoms are experienced by an overwhelming majority of individuals at some time in their lives. A smaller number of people suffer from pervasive major depressive disorder, which can be traced through family systems and even through childhood behaviors. For these individuals, the use of antidepressants may be required over the course of their lifetime especially if they have been prone to suicidal tendencies.

Q: "I have discoloration and bumps on my face that have been diagnosed as rosacea and want to know what changes I can make in my diet to lessen its effects. Also, are there any effective natural treatments or supplements?"

(Answer: by Brett Lieberman, ND, Naturopath/Homeopath)

Rosacea is a common chronic inflammatory skin condition that predominantly affects women between 30-60 years of age. Rosacea is typically diagnosed by physical symptoms which include:

Q: "I have been bitten by a tick – what should I do?"

(answered by Susan Blum, MD and Henri Roca, MD)

Summer outdoor activities can put you at significant risk for contracting Lyme disease. If you do find a tick follow these steps:

Q: "What can I do to prevent and treat my seasonal allergies other than conventional medicines?"

(answered by Natural Pharmacist Scott Berliner, RPh, and Medical Director Henri Roca, MD)

Seasonal allergies can surely put a damper on spring’s energy and vitality. Allergies are a series of symptoms caused by irritation from outside triggers. These symptoms may range from simple eye irritation to skin problems, intestinal issues, sinus congestion and infection, respiratory issues, and even asthma. The effects of allergies can reach every part of a person’s “being.”

Q: "My dentist needs to remove a silver filling from my tooth. Should I be concerned about mercury toxicity in the removal? Should I look for a specially trained dentist to remove the filling and should I do anything to help detox my body?"

(answered Naturopathic Physician Brett Lieberman, ND:)

Removal of mercury fillings is a question that comes up a lot in holistic practice, both from patients experiencing heavy metal toxicity symptoms to patients wanting to live as healthfully as possible and trying to reduce their toxicity exposure.