INITIAL CONSULT: WHAT IS INVOLVED?
Homeopathy realizes that each and every one of us is completely unique. Thus in order to find the right remedy for you, a detailed understanding of who you are, what your complaints are, and how you experience them, is needed to accurately assess your case.
Not only will you be asked about your presenting complaint and possible causative factors, you will also be asked about your general energy level, your past medical history and about your lifestyle (including eating and sleeping patterns).
You will be talking about your personal interests, what makes you happy or stressed, which events or situations are having an impact on you. The aim is to form a picture of your nature and the parts that are unique to you.
That’s why the initial consultation can take up to two hours long.
Everything we discuss will be treated in the strictest confidence.
HOW MANY VISITS WILL I NEED?
Because homeopathy is individualized, there is no clear cut answer here. It is important to emphasize that homeopathic treatments is best viewed as a process (JOURNEY TO HEALTH) rather than an isolated attempt for a quick cure.
Some people can achieve expected results with only 2 consults – that is true for health issues that are still very recent. I like to ask my clients to commit with a minimum of 3 appointments, which will be spread out in a period of 2-3 months (consults are generally scheduled 5 weeks apart).
Careful monitoring of your progress is required if steady gains are to be achieved. Your homeopathic prescriptions will be adjusted as necessary. Consequently, your follow-up visit(s) are vitally important.
With health problems that have been going on over several months or years you might need monthly visits for 3–6months. Your progress will be monitored and remedies and potencies may need changing over time.
WHAT TO EXPECT AFTER STARTING TREATMENT?
A number of changes typically occur after taking your homeopathic remedy. Some people experience a period of exceptional well being and optimism. Almost always, improved well-being accompanies or precedes true cure.
Some people do not notice any changes at all in the beginning of their treatment. In this case a change in the dosage and or selection of remedy may be necessary.
Occasionally symptoms appear to get worse for a short time. This is a good sign that the remedy is taking effect. Sometimes a cold, rash or some form of discharge may appear during the ‘detox’ phase, but often that is accompanied by a definite sense of feeling better, healthier overall.
Similarly, old symptoms can reappear, usually with decreased severity and for a short period. These symptoms will pass, and they are a confirmation and a very important part of the healing process, signing your journey back to health.
If any response to your treatment concerns you, be sure to discuss this with your homeopath. You might find it helpful to make notes of any changes and take them with you to discuss at your next appointment.
HOW LONG DOES TREATMENT TAKE?
This depends on a number of factors:
1) What type of illness you are suffering from
2) How long you have had the illness
3) Your age and overall health
4) Your sensitivity
The longer you wait before seeking treatment, the longer it takes to treat. For acute (short-term) ailments, treatment can be very rapid. Long standing complaints take time to treat. Homeopathy cures from the inside, and often outer symptoms such as a skin complaint, are the last to clear. Be patient! In the long term it is much better to address the underlying imbalance than merely relieving or suppressing the symptoms.
It is important to mention that in most cases, you will only be taking the remedy for a short period of time (untill your symptoms resolve). Homeopathic remedies do NOT cause dependency.
WHAT IF I HAVE A QUESTION BETWEEN CONSULTS?
I am available most times via text/email or in cases of emergency, by phone. We expect in the early days of treatment you will have questions about the process, and this is fine. As your treatment progresses, you will find you have fewer questions as homeopathy becomes a part of everyday life.
WILL I NEED TO CHANGE MY DIET OR LIFESTYLE?
A healthy diet, regular exercise, enough sleep and relaxation are all part of being healthy. Sometimes old habits are difficult to break however. After homeopathic treatment most people remark they are much healthier both physically and emotionally, and are able to make healthy choices in a way that feels natural and effortless.
WHAT ABOUT SEEING A GP?
I recommend maintaining a relationship with your primary care doctor. Your doctor will be able to order any tests that you may need. Most importantly, you should not discontinue any prescribed medication without the consent of your medical doctor.