Welcome Dr. Heidi Lucas, ND FABNO to Hill Park Integrative Medical Center

We are very excited to announce a new addition to our medical team, Dr. Heidi Lucas, ND FABNO.

Dr. Heidi Lucas is a highly skilled Naturopathic Doctor specializing in integrative cancer care for the past 20 years. She combines conventional and natural medicine to provide personalized treatment plans to heal from the side effects of treatments, enhance treatment outcomes, strengthen the body, improve quality of life, and enhance overall health.

Dr. Lucas provides consultations for cancer patients and their families in all stages of cancer from recent diagnosis and active treatment to maintenance phase, as well as those with a strong family history of cancer. Many of her cancer patients continue in her care for ongoing family medicine concerns as Dr. Lucas is known for her depth as a clinician and her commitment to patients’ lifelong wellness.

Dr. Lucas completed her doctorate at Bastyr University and a rigorous two-year oncology based residency at Seattle Cancer Treatment and Wellness Center, where she was invited to continue as a staff physician for 6 years and received her board certification in naturopathic oncology care, earning a position as a Fellow of the American Board of Naturopathic Oncology (FABNO). She continued as an integrative oncology physician associate at Lifespring Cancer Treatment Center. She is a committee member of the Oncology Association of Naturopathic Physicians and an active member of the California Naturopathic Doctors Association.

Dr. Lucas has worked alongside oncologists and conventional physicians for the entirety of her career, and is frequently sought by conventional oncologists for her expertise in integrative oncology and natural medicine. She is an active educator and speaker of integrative oncology at leading cancer centers including the Hearst Cancer Resource Center, Leukemia Lymphoma Society, Oncology Nursing Society, American Cancer Society, Gilda’s Club, Cancer Lifeline, Rooted SB, Bastyr University, and many hospitals around the country.

As a naturopathic doctor, specializing in oncology, Dr. Lucas offers expert care in research and clinically based nutrition, evidence based and historical uses of botanical medicine, mistletoe therapy, integrative oncology IV therapy, individualized meditation instruction, as well as exercise plans and therapeutic yoga to optimize immune function and stress management.

Dr. Lucas believes in nutrient-dense therapies and is a strong advocate of farm to table sustainability, which is advocated in her incredible detail to phytonutrient treatment plans down to specific vegetable varieties. As a certified Therapeutic Yoga and Meditation teacher, Dr. Lucas innately understands the body’s capacity to heal and embodies this practice herself in her own way of life.

“Every patient is an individual with their own story and voice. I use a multifaceted approach to treatment that includes engaging the mind, heart and physical body.”

We are honored and so very excited that Dr. Lucas will be joining our Hill Park team and community. We innately know that her expertise will strengthen our community, her care and knowledge will change the course of life for many of our patients, and that our amazing region will embrace her.

Dr. Lucas is currently accepting new patients starting July 29th.

Dr. Lucas will see patients remotely via telehealth, phone consults, or in-person at our center every 2-3 months. She will be at Hill Park July 29, 30, and 31st to see patients. We are actively scheduling her wait list, please call our Patient Coordinator Gabrielle to learn more about Dr. Lucas’ practice and scheduling.

You can reach us at 707-861-7300 or [email protected] to schedule an in person or telemedicine appointment or book an appointment through the website.

Could Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy Be Your Path to Hope and Healing? Insights into Eligibility and Contraindications

This post has been shared by our colleagues at Temenos Center, offering Psychedelic and Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy in Petaluma and at Hill Park Integrative Medical Center in Sebastopol.

Have you been feeling stuck in the cycle of treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, chronic pain, or other conditions like addiction, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, grief, or long COVID? Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) is emerging as a groundbreaking treatment offering hope for many individuals. When exploring KAP, it’s important to be aware of any contraindications—specific conditions or factors that might make the treatment less suitable for some individuals.

We understand that navigating a new treatment can feel overwhelming. Our goal is to make this process as straightforward and supportive as possible. At Temenos, we’re trained to help you examine whether KAP might benefit you. Email [email protected] for a complimentary 20-minute consultation to discuss how we can support your journey to better health.

Contraindications

Understanding who should avoid KAP is as vital as knowing who might benefit. At Temenos, our staff members are dedicated to offering personalized assessments to determine if KAP is a good fit for your unique needs. We understand that some conditions may require further evaluation, and we’ll guide you through the process every step of the way. Please note that this overview is a starting point, not a substitute for professional medical advice. 

Contraindications can be broadly categorized into psychological and physiological groups:

Psychological:

  • Severe mental health conditions: Individuals with a personal or family history of psychosis or schizophrenia and active mania (as seen in bipolar disorder) are typically advised against undergoing KAP. People with bipolar disorder may be eligible if they are using a mood-regulating medicine prescribed by their psychiatrist.
  • Current mental state: For those experiencing intense emotions or suicidal thoughts, prioritizing stabilization is key. We can help you find resources to get you the support you need before considering KAP.

Physiological:

  • Cardiovascular issues: People with uncontrolled blood pressure are ineligible, as ketamine can induce changes in blood pressure and heart rate.
  • Neurological conditions: Individuals with a personal or family history of seizures or epilepsy are at risk of exacerbating these symptoms with ketamine use.
  • Medication interactions: Certain medications, like Benzodiazepines or MAOIs, can interact with KAP. If you’re currently taking any medications, we’ll discuss them during your consultation to ensure a safe and effective treatment plan. This may involve adjusting your medications under the careful guidance of your healthcare team.

General Medical Considerations:

  • Substance use: A history of substance misuse may complicate treatment and increase the risk of dependency on ketamine and is best addressed before pursuing KAP. Temenos can help you find support.
  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Due to potential risks to the baby, pregnant mothers are typically excluded from KAP treatments. There are potential breastfeeding protocols that may make KAP possible (i.e., the “pump-and-dump” method).

Safety and Supervision – Am I Still Eligible with Contraindications?

If you have identified any contraindications from this blog that could apply to you, don’t worry – gathering the right information is the first step towards making informed decisions about your treatment. 

First, it’s recommended that you speak with your primary healthcare team and set up a free 20-minute consultation with Temenos staff. Be upfront with all information so your providers can make the most informed decision— while certain contraindications could make KAP harmful to the patient, others can be mitigated for a safe KAP experience. For example, medications like MAOIs can be managed by working with your care team to gradually reduce medication use under clinical supervision. Never do this by yourself, only under the supervision of medical staff.

If your care team agrees, the next step is a thorough evaluation by a Temenos medical professional who can assess the full spectrum of your mental and physical health profile, ensuring that it is a safe and effective service. 

Final Considerations

Your safety is our top priority. KAP is always administered in a controlled environment, with experienced medical professionals monitoring you closely during and immediately after treatment. If you live in the North Bay Area and beyond, email [email protected] to set up a complimentary 20-minute consultation with our Sonoma County providers to see if KAP may offer a safe and effective treatment for you.

Temenos Center’s Psychedelic and Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy is available at their location in Petaluma and at Hill Park Integrative Medical Center in Sebastopol.

Citations

Wang, M. (2022, May 9). Interactions between ketamine and prescription antidepressants. Translational Psychedelic Research Program. https://psychedelics.ucsf.edu/blog/interactions-between-ketamine-and-prescription-antidepressants

American Psychiatric Nurses Association. (2023, August). Ketamine infusion therapy treatment considerations. https://www.apna.org/ketamine-infusion-therapy/ 

 

Can You Use Your HSA Account for KAP? Insights and Options for Funding Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy

This post has been shared by our colleagues at Temenos Center, offering Psychedelic and Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy in Petaluma and at Hill Park Integrative Medical Center in Sebastopol.

The integration of psychedelic therapies like ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) into mental health treatment offers new hope for individuals seeking relief from persistent mental health challenges. Using an HSA to fund KAP can make this treatment more accessible, providing a financial strategy to support your journey. Whether through HSAs, FSAs, or out-of-pocket payments, the goal remains to make transformative therapies like KAP accessible to those in need.

The Flexibility of HSAs

Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) are designed to provide individuals with a tax-advantaged method to save for medical expenses. This includes a variety of treatments and therapies not typically covered by traditional health insurance. Given their flexibility, HSAs may cover the costs of KAP, which is increasingly recognized for its efficacy in addressing conditions like depression, anxiety, and chronic pain.

Ketamine Treatment: A Qualified Medical Expense?

Ketamine’s use in treating severe mental health conditions has grown significantly despite its classification as an “experimental” therapy by most insurance companies. However, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), which oversees HSA regulations, allows these funds to be used for qualifying medical expenses. Since KAP is administered for diagnosable conditions under the care of licensed healthcare professionals, it generally qualifies as a reimbursable expense under HSAs. Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) also offer similar tax-advantaged benefits for medical expenses and may be used for KAP treatments.

Navigating HSA Use for KAP

  • Verify with Your HSA Administrator: Some HSAs only cover medically necessary treatments, while others offer more flexible coverage. Before proceeding with KAP and expecting coverage through your HSA, confirm the eligibility of such treatments with your HSA provider. 
  • Reimbursement: Pay out-of-pocket and seek reimbursement from your HSA by submitting the necessary receipts and documentation.
  • Maintain Records: Request records of all treatments, receipts, and communications related to your KAP and HSA expenditures. This documentation may be necessary for reimbursement and compliance with tax regulations.

The Path Forward

By harnessing the financial tools available, such as HSAs, individuals seeking KAP can more effectively navigate the costs associated with this promising therapy. Consult with your HSA administrator and healthcare provider to ensure your treatment aligns with your financial planning and healthcare needs.

Temenos Center’s Psychedelic and Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy is available at their location in Petaluma and at Hill Park Integrative Medical Center in Sebastopol.

Sources

Internal Revenue Service. (2024, February 23). Frequently asked questions about medical expenses related to nutrition, wellness, and general health. IRS. Retrieved from https://www.irs.gov/individuals/frequently-asked-questions-about-medical-expenses-related-to-nutrition-wellness-and-general-health

Welcome Meghan Kemnec, ND to Hill Park Integrative Medical Center

We are very excited to announce a new addition to our medical team, Dr. Meghan Kemnec, ND.

Dr. Meghan Kemnec is a naturopathic doctor, functional medicine expert, and pediatrician. She is passionate about improving the health of the entire family, knowing that the wellness of our children begins with our health before conception. She teaches you how to take charge of your health with lifestyle changes and a blend of both natural and conventional therapies.

Dr. Kemnec specializes in pediatrics and women’s health from preconception to menopause. Her clinical interests include balancing hormones, immune health, digestive disorders, and endocrine disorders including diabetes and hypothyroidism, as well as respiratory health. She is trained in IV nutrient therapy, Perineural Injection Therapy, and PRP.

Dr. Kemnec holds a Doctorate in Naturopathic Medicine (ND) from Bastyr University and a BS from the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, MD. After graduating with her ND, Dr. Kemnec completed a competitive family practice residency at the Bastyr Center for Natural Health in Seattle, WA. She is also a Diplomate of the American College of Lifestyle Medicine.

When she is not at practice, she enjoys spending time hiking and at the ocean with her family.

Please contact our staff at 707-861-7300 or [email protected] to schedule an in person or telemedicine appointment or book an appointment through the website.

Embracing Transformation: The Important Role of Psychedelic Integration Therapy

This post has been shared by our colleagues at Temenos Center, offering Psychedelic and Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy in Petaluma and at Hill Park Integrative Medical Center in Sebastopol.

This blog post is intended for informational purposes only and does not endorse the illegal use of psychedelics.

In the evolving landscape of mental health treatment, psychedelic therapy has become a beacon of new hope, offering innovative pathways for healing a variety of mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, chronic pain, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and addiction. At the heart of harnessing the full potential of these psychedelic treatments lies the critical process of integration—a journey that Temenos Center is passionately committed to guiding every individual through. 

The Essence of Integration

Integration is the deliberate process of weaving psychedelic experiences into the fabric of daily life, ensuring insights and transformations are not fleeting but become catalysts for lasting change. Psychedelic integration therapy is about making sense of and working through the material that surfaced during psychedelic states, a view that is foundational to our approach at Temenos.

Why Integration Matters

Following a psychedelic session, integration becomes the bridge between experience and actionable change. At Temenos, we emphasize the critical importance of these follow-up sessions. They serve not just as debriefings but as opportunities to translate and anchor the teachings from the psychedelic realm into tangible, life-enhancing practices. Whether insights relate to past trauma or offer new perspectives on personal beliefs and behaviors, our integration therapy provides a compass for navigating the aftermath of psychedelic journeys.

The Temenos Approach to Integration

Drawing on the nuanced perspectives of various psychedelics, our therapists offer tailored support, recognizing the individuality of each journey. Our ethos emphasizes the importance of integration in achieving therapeutic goals, helping individuals navigate the complexities of their experiences with professional guidance. Incorporating intentional neuroplasticity skills is a key component of integration at Temenos, which can support the durability of the effects of the psychedelic experience.

While Temenos does not endorse the illegal use of psychedelics, we recognize the reality that individuals who engage with these substances, under any circumstances, may require support. Our approach is one of understanding, not judgment, offering professional guidance to help patients navigate the complexities of integration.

Psychedelic integration therapy is more than a post-experience requirement; it’s a vital part of the journey toward holistic healing and personal growth. By fostering a deeper connection between the psychedelic experience and daily life, integration therapy ensures that the doorways opened by these profound encounters lead to lasting, meaningful change.

At Temenos Center, we’re dedicated to supporting you through this transformative process. We offer expert guidance to help you weave the insights from your psychedelic experiences into the fabric of your life. Visit our website or contact us to schedule a consultation to explore how integration therapy can benefit you.

Temenos Center’s Psychedelic and Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy is available at their location in Petaluma and at Hill Park Integrative Medical Center in Sebastopol.

Works Cited: