More about Integrative medicine
What is integrative therapy?
The integrative therapies offered at Saint Raphael’s have been medically proven
safe and effective. For example, the U.S. Agency for Health Care Policy and
Research reports that there is “strong evidence” for the effectiveness of
relaxation therapy in reducing chronic pain in patients with cancer.
The terms "integrative" and "alternative" are frequently used interchangeably,
but there are important distinctions between them. Webster's Dictionary defines
"alternative" as "existing outside of the established system." Sometimes,
expensive and unproven alternative therapies are promoted as treatments for
cancer and are used instead of traditional oncology treatments, such as chemotherapy
and radiation therapy.
"Integrative" is defined as "bringing together in a unified whole." At Saint Raphael's
we offer integrative therapies and treatments, which can help a patient feel better
emotionally, mentally and often physically. These treatments, many of which are free
or cost a nominal fee, are offered in conjunction with traditional oncology treatments.
The Looking Forward program provides integrative services, not alternative treatment.
To learn more about integrative therapy - sometimes referred to as complementary medicine -
please click here to read Complementary
Medicine 101 from the Better Health archives.
Integrative Wellness Consultations
Integrative Wellness Consultations are one on one counseling sessions that combine
traditional psychotherapy principles with integrative therapies. Participants are
assessed and helped to create an integrative wellness program to enhance their
emotional, physical and spiritual well being. To schedule a consultation, contact
(203) 789-3836 or dscully@srhs.org.
Expressive painting art therapy
Expressive painting art therapy focuses on the process of art making and is ideal for
the artistically undiscovered. It is art that the painter reflects on for personal
meaning and can contain important, meaningful representational images but it is not
required. The goal is to tap into your creativity as a tool for healing and stress reduction.
It is a very freeing process that has been scientifically shown to reduce stress, tension,
anxiety and pain while improving general well being.
- Monica Baer of North Branford has hanging over her fireplace the paintings she created in this
class. “The paintings are our personal expressions, and they’re very meaningful to me,” says
Monica, 47, who was diagnosed with breast cancer in February 2003 – just six months after her
best friend died from the same disease. “When I was first diagnosed, I was so afraid of dying.
But now I’m hopeful. Looking Forward has been a very important part of my recovery. It let me
connect with my own feeling about wellness, as well as with other women who share similar
stories, pains and dreams.”
- Mastectomy Camisole Project: Each woman undergoing breast surgery at the Hospital of Saint
Raphael (mastectomy or lumpectomy) receives a complimentary mastectomy camisole to wear home.
This specially designed camisole allows for insertion of a soft puff on the affected side, so
patients can go home feeling balanced and more comfortable with this challenging appearance
change.
Breast prosthesis fittings by a certified fitter.
Following breast surgery (mastectomy or lumpectomy) and after your swelling has returned to
normal, it is important to be properly fitted for breast prosthesis. Wearing a properly fitted
prosthesis ensures proper spinal alignment and can significantly enhance your body image.
Fittings with a certified fitter are available by appointment in the Looking Forward The
Looking Forward Specialty Shop in the McGivney lobby also offers individual appearance
consultations, as well as a variety of supportive products.
Ongoing educational workshops
- Freedom from Smoking Classes: Participants improve coping strategies, learn how to make
positive behavioral changes and how to become non-smokers for good. For more information,
contact Pat Garofolo, M.S., B.S.N., at (203) 789-3545 or
pgarofolo@srhs.org
- I Can Cope: This educational series helps cancer patients and their significant others
better understand cancer, its treatment, associated side effects and management. It focuses
on communications, stress management, body image and sexuality, and emotional issues related
to a cancer diagnosis and living with cancer. Physicians, nurses, social workers and other
health professionals help participants by increasing knowledge, positive attitudes and skills.
For more information, contact Rosemary Spinelli-Reyes, M.S.W., L.C.S.W. at (203) 789-3846 or
rspinellireyes@srhs.org.
- Strength for Caring: An educational program for caregivers that teaches loved ones how to
care for people with cancer - and themselves -- during a trying time. Participants learn to
recognize and manage symptoms such as pain, fatigue and depression. They will discover ways
to handle emotions associated with caring for a family member with cancer, community resources
and ways to cope with care giving. For more information, contact Rosemary Spinelli-Reyes,
M.S.W., L.C.S.W. at (203) 789-3846 or
rspinellireyes@srhs.org.
See our Calendar of Events for details about Looking
Forward integrative medicine classes, or call (203) 789-3111 for more information.
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