What Happens at a Healing Center?

A healing center is a facility where patients are treated for various medical conditions or emotional trauma, primarily through natural or holistic practices. Physicians treating patients at a healing center generally do not rely on traditional methods. Patients who receive treatment at a healing center may be offered alternative medicine, such as organic supplements or herbal remedies. Counseling may also be offered at a healing center. Before treatment begins, physicians and counselors will typically document the patient's medical history.

Healing centers are often referred to as complementary health centers, and most facilities offer treatment from a healing practitioner. Many healing centers focus on patients with emotional issues, such as depression and eating disorders. Chemical dependency and personality disorders are often treated at a healing center as well. Each patient will typically receive individual attention and treatment designated to help his unique situation. There may also be group therapy counseling sessions in some cases.

At some healing centers, acupuncture or massage therapy may be prescribed for a patient's physical rehabilitation and well being. This approach will often replace the use of medications that can often cause side effects for many patients. Psychotherapy may also be prescribed for some patients at a healing center.

Most patients who receive treatment a healing center will be inpatients, rather than receive out patient treatment. This is not always the case, however, and some patients do best by scheduling sessions several times a week. For patients who reside at a healing center during their treatment, a typical day may begin with spiritual meditation.

Meditation or yoga sessions are common at many healing centers. As part of the healing treatment, fasting for a day may also be recommended for some individuals. Some patients at an alternative healing center may be encouraged to not communicate with others for an entire day as they focus on self awareness.

Patients who receive psychiatric evaluation at a healing facility may require treatment by a psychiatrist or psychologist. Most healing centers have a full staff of doctors for each patient's needs. Other patients with medical conditions and illnesses will typically be seen by a medical practitioner or doctor of alternative medicine.

Before being accepted at a healing or complementary health center, a patient will typically be required to take an assessment. This assessment may be done by telephone or in person. The patient will generally complete a lengthy form or questionnaire.