FAQ

Naturopathic Medicine is based on the philosophy of Vitalism: that all living beings possess an intelligent, living energy which gives us an innate ability to heal. Naturopathic Medicine, based in European traditions, calls this energy the Vital Force. Oriental Medicine traditions call it the Qi; Ayurvedic Medicine from India refers to it as Prana. Every traditional culture from around the world has their own term for this phenomenon, and more than 95 different names for the Vital Force have been recorded.

Historically, the early European roots of Vitalistic philosophy in healing date back to around 500 B.C. in Greece, and the system of medicine known as Greek Medicine, of which Hippocrates, the Father of Modern Medicine, was a practitioner. Naturopathy evolved in the late 1800’s, predating our conventional medical system, and was heavily influenced by both Chinese Medicine and Ayurvedic Medicine. The term ‘Vital Force’ appears to have been a translation of the Terms ‘Qi’ and ‘Prana’. 

The Vital Force is a natural wisdom of the body which constantly works to restore health to the human system — in essence a living, intelligent, feedback control system. Naturopathic medicine is designed to work with this inherent healing ability in a holistic manner to restore balance and harmony to the whole person.

Using a scientific approach coupled with traditional wisdom, a naturopath works with modalities that may include acupuncture, supplements, vitamins, constitutional hydrotherapy, manipulation, nutrition, and other modalities to help create an environment within the body to prompt it to heal.  The naturopath also helps to empower patients to live their best lives. 

I’ve helped patients heal from a variety of health challenges, including the recent pandemic. But yes,  I do specialize in gastrointestinal disorders, anxiety and fatigue, chronic and autoimmune disease, heart health, and family wellness.

Yes. My youngest patient is 3 months old, and my oldest just turned 92.

Dr. Firisin treats a broad range of conditions. Some of the most common conditions treated include: 

• Acute illnesses
• Adrenal Hypofunction
• Anxiety
• Asthma
• Autoimmune Disorders
• Blood sugar Dysregulation
• Diabetes
• Bronchitis
• Cholesterol issues
• Coughs
• Colds
• Depression
• Eczema
• Epstein-Barr
• Family Practice/Wellness
• Fatigue
• Food intolerances
• Flu
• Gastrointestinal disorders
• Heart health
• High blood pressure
• Inflammation
• Lyme disease
• Metabolic disorders
• Psoriasis
• Thyroid disorders
• Viruses

No. Naturopathic Medicine is not recognized by Medicare. No Medicare and Medicare plans and secondary plans will be billed for Naturopathic services. Fees are due at the time of service, please contact the office to inquire about payment options.

Your first meeting with Dr. Firisin will include a thorough intake and discussion about your concerns, any pertinent physical exam, and together you will determine the next steps. This may include further information gathering, testing and nutritional evaluation, and initial recommendations for supplements, remedies and lifestyle changes to begin your treatment plan. After reviewing your case, Dr. Firisin may send you additional treatment recommendations to get your healing journey started.

Unfortunately insurances do not cover supplements. Some individuals are able to use their Health Savings Accounts and Flexible Savings Accounts to purchase supplements. 

Yes. If after your initial or follow up visit, Dr. Firisin determines blood work is clinically necessary, she will submit a requisition most commonly to Quest or Lab Corp. Some Specialty diagnostics such as food intolerance evaluations and Covid-19 Antibody testing may require an in office blood draw done by Dr. Firisin.

Yes. These services can be purchased in packages of 6 visits and are grouped this way for optimal clinical results.

A personalized health plan may integrate dietary and lifestyle advice, mind-body techniques, exercise, detoxification, vitamins and minerals, acupuncture, constitutional hydrotherapy, physical body work, both eastern and western herbal therapies in order to help restore wellness.

No. I communicate as needed with other physicians and am able to refer to specialists and work with other doctors on your healthcare team in your best interest. 

Many people are seeking a Naturopath in Fairfield County with the hope of finding an effective solution to their health concerns. Naturopathic medicine provides natural, safe and effective solutions to your whole health.

No. When working with patients seeking optimal health and wellness, Dr. Firisin only requires you bring your desire and motivation to improve your health and well being and improve your quality of life!

True healing takes time. The majority of patients will experience improvements early in their program but Naturopathic medicine is not a quick fix. With Dr. Firisin’s support and expertise, you can expect your health and the way you live your life to change for the better.