Why I got in to integrative medicine

Jamey’s Story

When I first announced that I would be pursuing studies in integrative medicine, I was met with a mixture of skepticism, questioning, and interest.  After more than thirty years in a traditional medically-based profession, the question I was asked most frequently was, “What are you going to do with that?” 

The truth is, in studying integrative medicine, one has to use the information to find their own way.  I had always been interested in some of the topics that are associated with integrative practices, such as herbalism, energy medicine, and spirituality and I hoped that in learning more, I would be able to apply them to my practice. 

Occupational therapy takes a holistic view of the clients who are served, integrating body, mind, and spiritual concerns into therapeutic methodology and there is a special interest group that addresses integrative practices. So, I wasn’t looking for a new profession but to be a better practitioner in my current profession.

 To some people, this made sense. To others, the whole idea of considering anything other than Western medicine was too far “out there” to have much validity. I also hoped that my studies would offer research data to support the use of integrative practices as effective.

As I began my formal studies, I was able to offer information that did just that. I also was able to achieve my goal of using what I was learning to support my therapy practice.

 An unexpected benefit was that my studies and a required research project led to an entirely new profession, the teaching of yoga. When I retired, this became my new part time work. To anyone who is considering integrative medicine, I would encourage them to enter without preconceived notions of how to apply it. If one is open-minded, the studies eventually will lead to the path one is to follow.

—Jamey, MA