I no longer practice solely with conventional symptom management or long-term use of pharmaceuticals without exploring root causes. Better long-term outcomes come from assessing biological function and using targeted testing. Testing provides critical data to guide individualized treatment and avoid guesswork. In contrast, conventional medicine clusters symptoms into DSM diagnoses and prescribes medication based on FDA guidelines—often with only 5–45% efficacy over 8–12 weeks. This approach doesn’t address the root causes of neurotransmitter imbalances. Conditions like Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Chronic Fatigue, and Pain can stem from genetics, food sensitivities, and microbiome disruptions.
 

These specialty tests are considered investigational and are not usually covered by insurance, though HSA funds may apply. Home kits are mailed and returned, while some serum tests may be covered—check your benefits. Though the initial cost may seem high, ongoing symptom management without resolution is more costly over time. These tests are an investment in long-term wellness and disease prevention.
 

Through ongoing education, I’ve learned that much conventional research is incomplete or misleading due to unpublished negative results. This flawed data informs current guidelines, but I am no longer comfortable supporting long-term medication use. I now help clients taper off when appropriate. Research shows antidepressants are not more effective than placebo, exercise, or time in most cases. True informed consent should include this data and acknowledge the brain’s adaptive changes, which can lead to lasting effects.