1. What type of clients do you work with?
We work best with clients who take responsibility for their own health and realize there is no magic pill for optimum health. We share our knowledge and experience with our clients, taking care to guide and support their individual biochemial needs as well as their diet and lifestyle choices. We also help families plan healthier meals and snacks and how and where to shop for ingredients – all within their budget and busy lifestyle!
2. Do you take insurance?
If you have supplemental health benefits for Alternative Therapies (i.e. chiropractic, massage, naturopathy), our fees may be covered. Please check with your benefits plan and with us prior to your appointment for confirmation. If you do not have this type of additional coverage, it is usually not covered by general benefit plans.
3. How are your services different than other weight loss or health programs?
“We make health fun” – some people laugh or smile when they hear this and that is exactly what we want! Losing weight and becoming healthier should be fun. When you enjoy life, that is how you truly become healthier and keep the weight off. We don’t hand out strict meal plans (with calorie counts, portion sizes or pre-packaged foods). We teach you about the healing power of whole foods, how to shop, prepare/eat these real foods and how to rely less on processed, fast foods. Along the way, we work with you on creating new habits, by offering common sense, practical strategies and techniques that you can work into your life, bit-by-bit, day-by-day.
4. What does Holistic mean?
The holistic approach means we look at all aspects of your life - body, mind and spirit – the whole picture. This includes your nutrition, excercise, activities, hobbies, relationships, sleep, stress etc. All of these factors play a part in your whole health. We work with clients to balance all the areas of their life through this holistic approach to wellness.
5. Are you currently taking clients?
We work with a limited number of clients due to the supportive nature of our practice. Often we have a waiting list. Please call or email us to inquire. We make every effort to meet with clients as soon as possible. We love what we do.
6. How long does it take to start seeing results?
This depends on the client. Each person is biochemically unique. We do not claim that everyone will lose 10 pounds in a week or gain more energy overnight. Results vary depending on individual characteristics, effort and belief patterns (yes, your thoughts are very powerful).
“Thoughts are sending out that magnetic signal that is drawing the parallel back to you.” ~ Dr. Joe Vitale
Most of our clients get results they seek and other benefits they did not expect, such as more energy and overall happiness.
7. Will I have to eat certain foods, follow a special diet plan, count calories or measure portions?
No. This is not what we do. We educate clients by weeding through the myths and confusion of what healthy foods really are. We empower clients to discover what foods they like and which foods are having a negative impact on their health. We believe in the 80/20 approach to optimum health, which means we help clients strive for the healthiest choices 80 percent of the time and allow for other less healthier options 20 percent of the time. This guideline helps the majority of clients make positive, healthy changes over time that lead to long term lifestyle changes and releases the need or desire to ever follow a “diet” again. We want clients to enjoy life, to aim for progress, not perfection. Keep in mind, if clients have a diagnosed disease, a more specific approach may be necessary and will be discussed thoroughly at our first appointment.
8. What should I expect from your program/services?
We care about our clients and work to create the best program tailored to meet your specific needs. We use our knowledge, skills, resources and experience to offer a common-sense, practical, supportive approach to improving your health. Whatever your goals are: weight loss, increased energy, less stress, healthier family meals… - we work together for you to reach your goal(s). Follow the recommendations, put forth your best effort, focus on the positive thoughts and you will be sure to reach your goals.
9. Are your fees competivite?
Yes. We offer services that fit most every client’s budget. There are some nutritionists, health coaches or dieticians who charge much more or much less. We pride ourselves on providing outstanding services, resources and information and believe you get what you pay for. In light of the current economy we have kept our fees reasonable and have not raised our rates in the past year. Please check our Praise section under About Us for testimonials about our services.
10. Am I a good candiate for one of your programs?
We would love to work with you if you are ready to take charge of your health and are not looking for a “magic pill” or a “quick fix”. If you are looking to create lasting healthy lifestyle changes, open to the holistic approach and willing to take responsibility for your own successes and challenges, then you would be an ideal client. We empower, inspire and motivate our clients, but ultimately your health is in your hands.
11. Who will I work with?
Most clients meet with me (Sam Rafoss) directly. However, there may be times that I suggest a referral to a colleague, (i.e. naturopath, allergist) or another holistic nutritionist if my client roster is full. I am committed to delivering excellence for all of my clients and together we determine the best program to meet your needs. If at any time I believe there is a need to see a different practitioner, I will discuss it openly and honestly with you. I only refer clients to other RHN’s or health practioners that I trust and know without a doubt will take excellent care of you!
