Frequently Asked Questions
01.
What is functional health?
Functional health is a personalized, whole-person approach that focuses on identifying and addressing the underlying factors that may be contributing to chronic symptoms. Rather than looking at symptoms in isolation, we consider how nutrition, lifestyle, stress, sleep, movement, environmental exposures, and other aspects of health work together to support overall wellness.
02.
How is functional health different from conventional medicine?
Conventional medicine is essential for diagnosing and treating acute illnesses, emergencies, and many chronic medical conditions. Functional health complements traditional healthcare by taking a deeper look at lifestyle, nutrition, and other factors that may influence overall well-being.
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Our focus is on understanding the bigger picture and creating personalized wellness strategies that support your health alongside your existing medical care.
03.
What can I expect during my first appointment?
Your initial consultation is a comprehensive 90-minute appointment where we'll discuss your health history, current symptoms, nutrition, lifestyle habits, stress levels, sleep, medical history, medications, supplements, previous testing, and health goals.
This appointment allows me to understand your unique story so we can develop a personalized wellness plan tailored specifically to you.
04.
What health concerns do you commonly work with?
I commonly support clients seeking guidance for:
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Hormone health and menstrual wellness
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Digestive concerns and gut health
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Chronic inflammation
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Fatigue and low energy
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Stress and nervous system regulation
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Sustainable weight management
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Nutrition optimization
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Overall wellness and prevention
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If you're unsure whether I'm the right fit, I'd love to discuss your goals during a complimentary discovery call.
05.
Do you diagnose or treat medical conditions?
No.
As a Registered Nurse, I practice within my nursing scope and do not diagnose, prescribe medications, or treat medical conditions. My role is to provide education, coaching, wellness recommendations, nutrition guidance, and lifestyle support designed to complement your existing medical care.
06.
Will I need laboratory testing?
Not everyone does.
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If you've had recent laboratory work completed, we'll review those results together. Depending on your health history and goals, additional laboratory or functional wellness testing may be recommended when appropriate.
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Any testing recommendations will be discussed with you before moving forward.
07.
Can I use lab work from my doctor?
Absolutely.
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In many cases, recent laboratory results provide valuable information and help us avoid unnecessary repeat testing.
08.
Do you work with my physician or other healthcare providers?
Yes.
With your permission, I'm happy to collaborate with your healthcare team to ensure your wellness plan complements your existing care and supports continuity between providers.
09.
Do you prescribe supplements?
No.
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Supplement recommendations are individualized and only made when appropriate. Supplements are intended to complement, not replace, a nutrient-dense diet and healthy lifestyle.
10.
Will I have to follow a restrictive diet?
No.
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I believe nutrition should be sustainable, realistic, and enjoyable. Every nutrition plan is personalized to your preferences, lifestyle, goals, cultural background, and health needs. My goal is to help you build healthy habits that you can maintain long-term, not to place you on an overly restrictive diet.
11.
How long does it take to see results?
Every person's health journey is different.
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Factors such as your health history, current lifestyle, consistency, stress levels, sleep, and individual goals all influence progress. Some clients notice positive changes within a few weeks, while others require more time to build sustainable habits and support long-term wellness.
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Our focus is on lasting progress rather than quick fixes.
12.
Is this program virtual?
Yes.
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All appointments are conducted securely through Zoom, allowing you to receive personalized functional health coaching from the comfort of your home.
13.
Do you accept insurance?
No.
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Altra Vita Studio is a private-pay practice and does not bill insurance. This allows me to spend more time with each client and provide personalized, comprehensive care without the limitations often associated with insurance reimbursement.
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Depending on your insurance plan, certain laboratory tests ordered through your healthcare provider may be eligible for insurance coverage.
14.
Can I use my HSA or FSA?
Depending on your individual plan, some services may be eligible for reimbursement through a Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA). I recommend contacting your plan administrator to verify your specific benefits.
15.
How do I know if we're a good fit?
That's exactly why I offer a complimentary discovery call.
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During this call, we'll discuss your health concerns, goals, and what you're looking for in a practitioner. You'll have the opportunity to ask questions, learn about my approach, and decide whether my program feels like the right fit for you.
There is absolutely no pressure or obligation to move forward.
16.
What happens after I book my discovery call?
Once your appointment is scheduled, you'll receive a confirmation email with instructions for your virtual meeting. During our call, we'll discuss your health history, current concerns, goals, and determine whether my concierge wellness program is the best fit for your needs. If we decide to work together, I'll guide you through the next steps and onboarding process.
17.
Why don't you list your pricing on your website?
Every client comes to me with a unique health history, goals, and level of support they're looking for. I prefer to first understand your concerns and determine whether we're a good fit before discussing program options. During your complimentary discovery call, I'll walk you through my concierge wellness program, answer your questions, and explain the investment so you can make an informed decision.
18.
Why should I choose Altra Vita Studio?
Because your health deserves more than a rushed appointment.
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At Altra Vita Studio, you'll receive personalized, one-on-one support from a Registered Nurse who takes the time to understand your complete health story. My goal isn't simply to provide recommendations. It's to educate, empower, and partner with you as you build sustainable habits that support long-term wellness. You'll never be treated like just another appointment on the schedule.
19.
Still have questions?
I'd love to help. Schedule a complimentary discovery call, and we'll discuss your goals, answer your questions, and determine whether we're the right fit to work together.