Welcome
I am an independent Massage Therapist and Natural Health Practitioner located in Pittsfield, Massachusetts. I treat adults and children who have acute, chronic or difficult/unusual conditions. Using a combination of treatments, I focus on the health of the entire person rather than treating symptoms or a single dysfunction.
The goal at Melanie Flynn Natural Health and Massage is to help my clients attain proper health by using holistic, non-invasive therapeutic approaches. By holistic, I am referring to treating the body as a whole, not fragmented or isolated. Holistic healing promotes optimum health and well-being, not just the treatment of symptoms. Holistic medicine is not to "fix" the body's parts; it is to help maximize the body's natural healing mechanisms and immune system.
The body's design is to heal itself to function in a balanced state. Still, due to environmental toxicities, underlying weaknesses, stress, viruses, etc., it may sometimes need help to regain its natural balance. Together, we can strive to relieve your symptoms while working to remove the underlying cause of your illness so you can enjoy a full and happy life.
What Is a Natural Practitioner?
Natural health practitioners improve their patients' health using natural medicines and techniques. Naturopathic physicians perform many of the same tasks as regular physicians, such as taking medical histories, examining patients and diagnosing injuries or illnesses. However, instead of prescribing medications for treatment, they may suggest natural remedies such as changing a patient's diet or using natural herbs to treat the ailment.
What Does a Natural Health Practitioner Do?
Natural health practitioners are responsible for combining alternative health remedies to help cure or lessen problems a patient may be experiencing. Some alternative healthcare approaches include massage, reflexology, detoxification, and diet modification.
Can a Natural Health Practitioner Diagnose?
The scope of practice is significant when deciding whether to seek a natural health practitioner or a medical professional. Natural Health Practitioners do not use medical terminology or focus on symptoms. They do not "treat," "cure," or "heal" diseases or conditions. They are, however, able to physiologically support the organs, help to build the body's immunity, and use non-invasive techniques.
In natural health, the root cause is the most critical factor in deciding what techniques to try and which to avoid. Natural Health also focuses heavily on prevention rather than finding a cure, as in conventional medicine. For example, natural health practitioners prioritize supporting the immune system so that the body can naturally protect and heal itself from ailments.
Do Natural Health Practitioners Prescribe Medications?
Natural health professionals do not prescribe medications. They can recommend healthy foods, herbs, or supplements that may help to support the body's organ systems and functions. One distinguishing factor between natural health and conventional medicine is the methods used to support an individual. Conventional medicine treats patients with prescription drugs, dietary changes, preventative measures, radiation, and invasive surgeries. Natural health practitioners are called to practice non-invasive techniques, such as herbology, massage therapy, or iridology. Natural health supporters prefer all-natural techniques whenever possible, for long-term or acute issues, especially over the use of synthetic drugs.
What Type of Schooling Is Needed to Become a Natural Health Practitioner?
I graduated from the New Eden School of Natural Health & Herbal Studies. My studies include over 30 credited hours of anatomy/physiology, diagnosing, chemistry, herbology, nutrition, and consulting. I am registered with the International Association of Natural health practitioners. I have also been a licensed massage therapist and member of the Association for Massage Therapists for more than 20 years.
What Conditions Do You Commonly Treat?
- Muscle Pains, Tension, Injuries
- Digestion related complaints- reflux, bloating, constipation, IBS
- Gut issues gastric problems
- Hormonal imbalances
- Emotional/Mental Health- low mood, anxiety, depression, panic attacks
- Thyroid- Hypothyroid, Adrenal Fatigue
- Joints- Arthritis, joint problems
- Headaches- Migraines, stress headaches, tension headaches, sinus problems
- Sleep problems
- Fatigue-chronic fatigue, low energy, inflammation, pain
- Fibromyalgia
And many more!
How Do The Consultations Work?
Before the initial consultation, you will be sent an Optimal Wellness Questionnaire regarding your general health. After you fill out the form and return it to me, I will carefully review it and research treatment options and recommendations. We will have you make an appointment for your initial consultation to further discuss your conditions and future treatment plan. Each plan is unique to the individual, with recommendations for diet, lifestyle and supplements, if required. Please plan a least an hour for your initial consultation.
Why Are the Appointments So Long and So Many Follow-Up Appointments?
Sickness doesn't happen overnight, so your healing won't either. It takes time to get to the root cause of your illness. We must take it step by step and not let any stone go unturned. We want you to get better and that takes time. It's a process. Your health and wellness are my top priority
How Can I Make an Appointment?
You can call 413-281-9071to make an appointment.
Can I Use My Health Insurance?
Unfortunately, most insurance companies do not see the value of alternative or preventative medicine and offer little to no benefits. For your convenience, payments can be made in cash, check, credit card, Venmo, or PayPal.
