Make a List

• 1). List all your health issues, no matter how small, even if you have been told that they are not linked.
  For example, you may have abdominal pain, cry easily, have hot hands and constant urinary problems. An acupuncturist or doctor of oriental medicine would relate all your symptoms to your lung meridian, which is just one of 14 paths of energy that run through your body.
  
  
• 2). Contact friends or associates with an interest in holistic medicine to get a referral. If you do not know anyone, you can start by asking a licensed massage therapist for a referral. Many therapists refer to these practitioners and will be happy to assist you. The American Massage Therapy Association is also a good place to start seeking a therapist in your area. Another option is using an online search engine like Google or the local phone book.
  
  
• 3). Interview the practitioner you have chosen. If the practitioner has his or her own own practice it will make this process easier. Discuss any worries you may have. Ask the practitioner how many years they have been in practice and what they specialize in. Explain that you are new to holistic medicine and describe your health issues to find out if the practitioner can help you. If the practitioner states that he or she cannot help, then ask for a referral.