We are naturopathic physicians specializing in integrative cancer care/naturopathic oncology in the Puget Sound region, including Seattle, Everett, and Olympia.
From prevention to palliation, the physicians at Seattle Integrative Oncology work with patients at all stages of health and disease. Our extensive knowledge on current treatment and supportive options allow our patients to make educated and individualized decisions regarding their condition and care.
Today, Seattle Integrative Oncology is Providence’s exclusive regional partner in the field of naturopathic oncology. We offer the only hospital-based integrative cancer treatment program and the only naturopathic oncology residency in the state.
Initial visits typically last approximately 60 minutes, allowing time for thoughtful discussion to take place and custom treatment plans to be designed. Family and loved ones are welcome and may be involved in each visit to the degree that each patient wishes. Our ultimate goal is to empower his patients and to facilitate maximum wellness.
Integrative Oncology … is not alternative medicine
Rather, integrative oncology combines both time-tested and scientifically-based complementary medicine therapies with conventional or standard cancer treatment methods including surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, hormonal and biological therapies. At Seattle Integrative Oncology, we not only bring you expert naturopathic cancer care, but we also strive to provide a comprehensive and holistic approach that is seamlessly integrated with every aspect of your health care.
Depending on each patient’s individual needs and desires, our approach combines the following goals:
- Improve general health and optimize wellness
- Strengthen and support the various organ systems, including the immune system, during and after conventional oncology treatment
- Prevent and manage adverse effects or symptoms experienced during treatment
- Incorporate a targeted nutritional and supplement plan based on demonstrated anti-cancer effects
- Address those factors that may contribute to tumor cell development and activity, such as inflammation, oxidative stress, poor glucose/insulin control and immune dysfunction
- When possible, provide strategies that may aid in delivery and efficacy of conventional treatments, including radiation and chemotherapy
Although many oncologists may not discuss integrative care with their patients, the majority of Americans with cancer are using some form or another of what might be considered ‘complementary and alternative medicine’. There are thousands of ‘natural’ products recommended as ‘good for cancer’; however, they are of varying degrees of purity and potency. It is therefore critical that you use the guidance of a well-trained and experienced natural medicine expert to ensure your safety and maximize the efficacy of your treatment.
Chad D. Aschtgen, ND, FABNO
Dr. Aschtgen is a board-certified expert in the field of naturopathic oncology. He has helped thousands of patients since receiving his Doctorate of Naturopathic Medicine from Bastyr University. He opened Seattle Integrative Oncology in 2008 and has built it into the region’s premier naturopathic oncology clinic operating from three locations – Seattle, Everett, and Olympia.
Dr. Aschtgen is a frequent lecturer and writer on the topic of naturopathic oncology. He has spoken at events hosted by The American Cancer Society, Seattle Cancer Care Alliance (SCCA), Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, the Puget Sound Oncology Nursing Society, Bastyr University, Gilda’s Club and Group Health. He was a co-investigator of a study sponsored by the National Institute of Health (NIH) on outcomes of breast cancer patients who received integrative oncology treatments.
Appointed by Governor Jay Inslee and the Department of Health, Dr. Aschtgen works on shaping Washington state policies that promote the delivery of quality healthcare to state residents as the chair of the Washington State Board of Naturopathy. He is also on the Board of Examiners for the American Board of Naturopathic Oncology and a member of several professional organizations.
Dr. Aschtgen works closely with patients and their oncologists using vitamins, herbal medicines, mineral therapies, and nutrition to create custom plans that increase the efficacy of treatment, manage symptoms, and help patients reach their optimal health. Whether newly diagnosed, in active treatment, or a long-term survivor, those facing the difficulties of cancer have a great resource in Dr. Aschtgen.
Erica J. Joseph, ND, LAc, FABNO
Dr. Joseph received her Doctorate in Naturopathic Medicine, master’s in acupuncture, and bachelor’s degree in psychology and biology from Bastyr University. She is a board-certified naturopathic oncologist and a graduate of the two-year Seattle Integrative Oncology residency program. She regularly teaches classes on a variety of cancer-related topics like nutrition, supplements, managing side-effects of treatment, prevention, and other issues that concern cancer patients and survivors.
While Dr. Joseph specializes in all aspects of naturopathic oncology, she is also a licensed acupuncturist and uses treatments to manage side-effects such as nausea, fatigue, hot flashes, and neuropathy. Dr. Joseph sees patients in both locations – Everett and Olympia – and is one of the few local practitioners to offer naturopathic oncology consultations and acupuncture treatments in the same visit.
Dr. Joseph listens carefully to each patient and takes their diagnosis, treatment plans, health history, genetic history, current symptoms, and all aspects of their health into account. She uses vitamins, herbal supplements, medicines, acupuncture, and other therapies to craft custom treatment plans. She empowers her clients to speak up and take an active role in their healthcare and she places a high value on their opinions and the relationships they form.
She is a peer reviewer for the Journal of Alternative and Complimentary Medicine and a member of several professional organizations including: Oncology Association of Naturopathic Physicians, the Society for Integrative Oncology, American Society of Clinical Oncology, the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians, and the Washington Association of Naturopathic Physicians.
Services offered by our doctors include:
Education about your specific disease and current treatment options
Nutritional analysis and extensive diet counseling
Physical activity and exercise counseling
Laboratory testing to assess numerous health and disease parameters; ranging from thyroid studies, vitamin D levels and sugar/insulin balance to comprehensive digestive and nutritional assessments
Botanical and nutrient therapies
Comprehensive and coordinated naturopathic care to minimize adverse effects and maximize efficacy of standard therapies, including:
- Before and after surgery
- Before, during, and after chemotherapy
- During and after radiation
Customized, detailed and dynamic treatment plans
Communication and collaboration with all physicians involved in your care
Referral to local resources for emotional and spiritual support
Referral to further services as appropriate, including medical and radiation oncology as necessary
Long-term survivorship care and wellness support
Chad D. Aschtgen, ND, FABNO
[email protected]
Erica Joseph, ND, LAc, FABNO
[email protected]
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