We’re excited to announce a new offering at our practice: genetic testing for mental health, now available as part of our integrative naturopathy and mental wellness care. This cutting-edge service allows us to bring greater precision to your treatment by understanding how your unique genetic makeup influences your mental health, medication response, and overall wellness.
What Is Genetic Testing for Mental Health?
Genetic testing for mental health, often referred to as pharmacogenomics or neurogenomic testing, analyzes specific genes that affect your brain chemistry and how your body processes medications. These tests typically use a simple cheek swab or saliva sample, and results are returned in a few weeks.
The goal? To give us insight into how your genes may influence your mood, behavior, and responses to medications or supplements, enabling us to personalize your care.
What Can This Testing Reveal?
Your results may shed light on:
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Medication metabolism: How well your body breaks down psychiatric medications like antidepressants, mood stabilizers, stimulants, and antipsychotics.
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Treatment resistance: Whether certain medications are less likely to be effective for you.
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Risk factors: Genetic predispositions that may be linked to conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, or PTSD.
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Supplement compatibility: How your body may respond to natural therapies and nutraceuticals (vitamins, amino acids, herbal compounds).
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Neurotransmitter function: Insight into serotonin, dopamine, GABA, and other pathways affecting mood and cognition.
Why Include It in Naturopathic & Mental Health Care?
As an integrative practice, we aim to treat the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. Genetic testing empowers us to:
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Reduce trial-and-error prescribing
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Identify safer, more effective natural supports
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Customize supplement plans based on your biochemistry
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Develop lifestyle strategies that align with your biological needs
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Support mental wellness with more confidence and clarity
By combining genetic insights with our holistic understanding of nutrition, environment, trauma, and lifestyle, we can offer a more personalized and empowering path to mental wellness.
Who Should Consider This Testing?
Genetic testing may be especially helpful for:
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Clients who’ve tried multiple medications with limited success
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Those experiencing side effects from psychiatric medications
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Individuals interested in avoiding pharmaceutical treatment, when possible
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People with a family history of mood or mental health disorders
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Anyone seeking a deeper understanding of their mental and emotional health
How Does It Work?
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Consultation: We begin with an assessment to determine if testing is right for you.
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Sample Collection: A non-invasive cheek swab is collected in-office or at home.
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Laboratory Analysis: Your sample is processed by a CLIA-certified lab specializing in mental health genetics.
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Review & Plan: Once we receive your results, we meet with you to interpret the findings and adjust your care plan accordingly.
Is It Covered by Insurance?
Some insurance plans may cover the cost of testing, especially if medication is involved. We can help you verify coverage or discuss affordable self-pay options.
