Holistic Health practitioners come in all flavors. What allows them to be placed in a group like this is a common belief that you need to look at the whole person when treating them for an illness. They believe you need to pay attention to the body, the mind, emotions, and the spirit. The techniques differ and the emphasis will differ depending upon the client's needs.

The techniques tend to be less invasive and have fewer side effects than traditional medicine. There has also been less research and independent verification of the benefits of holistic medicine compared to traditional medicine. Therefore, a few words are in order.

Don't abandon traditional medicine. If you break a leg you are probably better off at a hospital emergency room than seeking out an aroma therapist!

What kinds of things do holistic health professionals do? Everything from Acupuncture to Massage and Bodywork to Nutrition and Spiritual Counseling.

Some have no tools other than their own body and mind. Some have needles, black boxes, biofeedback machines and an array of natural substances for you to taste, smell or even burn on your body.

Another difference among holistic health professionals may be the length of treatment. Some will be able to almost work miracles in a single session. Other times it might take a lifestyle change on your part to gain any benefit.

Did I mention that with most Holistic Medicine practitioners you are expected to contribute some effort to your own healing?

One final word. The licensing and regulation of practitioners is not uniform. Different states have different rules (or no rules). Use this network as a first step to finding the unique person and style that will bring you the greatest benefit.

This network was launched in August of 2002 and is being updated every day. If today you don't find a practitioner near you, come back in a month.