Hollistic wellness practice opens: Seacoast health news
Natural Health expert opens Portsmouth practice
PORTSMOUTH — People looking for new ways to improve their health may find the answers at a new Portsmouth practice focusing on holistic wellness through nutrition counseling. Dr. Michael Blackman has opened Complementary Applied Nutrition at 27 Albany St., in Portsmouth, N.H. The practice focuses on creating customized diet and supplement programs designed to target individual patient needs. Dr. Blackman sees patients of all ages and backgrounds, with many patients seeking help for fatigue, weight gain, inflammation, depression/anxiety, insomnia, hormone issues, immune support, skin conditions, digestive problems and other concerns.
Dr. Blackman was previously based in Dover, N.H. where he had a thriving chiropractic practice for more than 20 years. During his time there, he also provided nutrition counseling. After seeing the benefits to his patients, he decided to specialize in the functional medicine aspect, and moved to Portsmouth where he could more easily see clients from Maine, New Hampshire and Massachusetts.
“Complementary Applied Nutrition offers natural health solutions that are science-based,” says Dr. Blackman. “We begin with a detailed personal consultation, a physical exam and several diagnostic tests. After getting the information we need, and talking with patients about their concerns and goals, we create a customized plan. Over the next several weeks and months, we meet regularly with patients to assess their progress and personalize their program needs.”
As part of his diagnostics, Dr. Blackman offers Nutrition Response Testing, which is a non-invasive system of analyzing the body in order to determine the underlying causes of ill health. When these are corrected through safe, natural, nutritional means, the body can repair itself and more optimal health can be maintained.
Dr. Blackman notes that among his most frequent patients are working women with children who are plagued by fatigue and may or may not be battling hormone problems as well. He notes that adjustments in diet can make a big difference in energy levels. He also sees many seniors who are looking to maintain good health or are maybe facing digestive or energy issues. Young people have also sought consultations as many are looking to find the best way to retain good health as they age.
Since the practice opened, clients have been streaming in, causing Dr. Blackman to already double his staff. “I think this type of practice is filling a need with many people who have been unable to get answers through other forms of treatment,” he says. “They also like the fact that we are with them for however long it takes to get results. We don’t just give you a pill and send you home; we begin a relationship with you, have regular assessments and help you achieve a healthier life.”
Dr. Blackman is passionate about his field and excited to help more people discover how nutritional assessment can improve health. “I have been in this specialty for a long time and have amassed a huge body of knowledge,” he says. “I’m eager to share this with those in need as I know it can be the answer to many health issues.”
For more information about Complementary Applied Nutrition, call 603-703-3643 or visit the website at www.canutritionnh.com.
Tom Raffio presented with the 2022 annual Erik Cogswell Memorial Award by Seacoast Mental Health Center
CONCORD — Northeast Delta Dental President and CEO Tom Raffio received the 2022 Erik Cogswell Memorial Award from Seacoast Mental Health Center, Inc. on Thursday, Nov. 10. Tom was recognized for his leadership and advocacy of high quality, accessible mental healthcare. The annual award was established in collaboration with Karin and Ed Cogswell in memory of their son Erik who died by suicide in November 1999. They have since worked with SMHC to educate, support, and provide resources to people living with and recovering from bipolar disorder.
Last spring, legislative leaders from both parties voted for legislation to provide first-ever dental benefits for as many as 88,000 adult Medicaid recipients and Governor Sununu signed the legislation on July 7, 2022. Tom Raffio, along with other advocates, has been lobbying for the benefits for over two decades.
“Tom has devoted much of his professional career and personal life to investing in the greater community with a focus on the importance of mental health,” said Patty Driscoll, Vice President of Clinical Operations for Adult Services at Seacoast Mental Health Center. “Through his leadership and advocacy, positive changes have resulted across the state of N.H. to increase access to and the quality of mental health services. Most recently, he was instrumental in the passing of legislation, directly affecting the Medicaid population – a population that benefits greatly from the services provided by our Center.“
“Recognizing the significant impact access to routine dental care can have on individuals living with mental and behavioral health issues, I am so grateful that our 25 years of educating and advocating paid off,” explained Tom.
Since 2009, SMHC has presented this award annually to recognize an individual for their outstanding contributions to improving the lives of individuals living with and recovering from bipolar disorder and other mental illnesses.
This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: Hollistic wellness practice opens: Seacoast health news
