Functional medicine is an evolution in the practice of medicine that better addresses the healthcare needs of the 21st century. By shifting the traditional disease-centered focus of medical practice to a more patient-centered approach, functional medicine addresses the whole person, not just an isolated set of symptoms. Our practitioners spend time with their patients, listening to their histories and evaluating the interactions among genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors that can influence long-term health and complex, chronic disease. In this way, functional medicine supports the unique expression of health and vitality for each individual.
Ways to Get Started
Coming to the clinic is a great option if you can do so, at least for your preliminary visit, and annually thereafter. Unlike Telemed/Ed, we can diagnose and directly treat you.
Telemed/Ed may be a good option for you if you are unable to come to Connecticut. Although we cannot diagnose or treat you unless you come to the Clinic in person, we can complete a highly detailed investigation, including a history with laboratory analysis. From this body of information, we will create a comprehensive plan of treatment suggestions for you to discuss with your local clinician. If you choose to do so, you may continue to follow-up with us. Telemed/Ed is great option for some individuals unable or unwilling to travel. Skype tele-video conferencing is available and recommended.
Nutrition is the most powerful tool integrative doctors have at their disposal. I would argue that the appropriate dietary program can account for up to 80% of an individual’s success. Thus, for most of us, getting our diet properly “dialed in,” maybe more effective than any other single intervention! Nutrition consultations are great support, and very reasonably priced. Learn about nutrition phone consults HERE. Tele-video conferencing available and recommended
There is much that has been researched about the effects of diet and lifestyle on our immune system. The science is clear about what really works and provides a reassuring path through the conflicting nutrition advice that is shared on some Internet sites. Our highly-qualified nutritionists have funneled that scientific knowledge into a straightforward dietary and lifestyle plan for you to learn and adopt through this program.
Practitioners
Functional Medicine is a personalized, systems-oriented model that empowers patients and practitioners to achieve the highest expression of health by working in collaboration to address the underlying causes of disease.
- Functional Medicine offers a powerful new operating system and clinical model for assessment, treatment, and prevention of chronic disease to replace the outdated and ineffective acute-care models carried forward from the 20th century.
- Functional Medicine incorporates the latest in genetic science, systems biology, and understanding of how environmental and lifestyle factors influence the emergence and progression of the disease.
Dr. Fitzgerald received her doctorate of naturopathic medicine from National College of Natural Medicine in Portland, Oregon.
Kenneth A. Litwin, MD FACP IFMCP, is a highly respected, board-certified Internal Medicine and Functional Medicine physician.
Darisa Espinal, ND, MS, received her doctorate in Naturopathic Medicine at the University of Bridgeport. She earned her BS in Biology from the University of Hartford and completed her Master of Science in Human Nutrition from the University of Bridgeport. She is currently licensed as a naturopathic physician in the State of Connecticut.
Our Nutrition Team
All nutrition appointments are available remotely, conveniently fitting into your life and your schedule no matter where you are or what you’re doing.
All of our Functional Nutritionists are trained and experienced in Functional Medicine through our clinic and the Institute for Functional Medicine. Your nutritionist will help you uncover the root causes of your issues, using detailed histories and functional laboratory testing (often included in your package), and create a highly-tailored Functional Medicine plan just for you.
Our nutrition team also has the benefit of ready access to myself and Dr. Litwin during our weekly Clinical Grand Rounds, to consult on your case should that be needed.
Melissa Parker, MS CNS CDN, is a Certified Nutrition Specialist. During a decade-long career in the fashion industry she completed a comprehensive certification program in the Pilates method. Shortly thereafter, she received a Master of Science in Human Nutrition from the University of Bridgeport. She is also one of the nutritionists for the 3 Years Younger Diet and Lifestyle Program detailed in Younger You by Dr. Kara Fitzgerald.
Miranda Kusi, MS CNS CDN, is a Certified Nutrition Specialist with a MS degree in Human Nutrition from the University of Bridgeport and a board certification from the American Nutrition Association. She is also one of the nutritionists for the 3 Years Younger Diet and Lifestyle Program detailed in Younger You by Dr. Kara Fitzgerald.
Our Administrative Team
We have a fabulous, customer service driven team waiting to assist you.
Please do not hesitate to seek out support or guidance regarding any of your questions or concerns. We love to hear your compliments, too!
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