stress, anxiety/depression, insomnia

A natural and holistic approach to anxiety, depression and insomnia

This trio affects some of us daily and others at various points in our lives.  While there is no magic pill that will completely erase stress, anxiety/depression or insomnia, acupuncture, Ayurveda and holistic therapies offer a plethora of safe, natural treatments and tools to handle these conditions.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, 16. 2 million adults experienced a major depressive disorder in 2017. This statistic is only what has been reported. Pharmaceuticals are the typical line of treatment with a host of unwanted side effects. Acupuncture and herbs along with dietary and lifestyle changes offer safe and effective alternatives.

  • Acupuncture alone can profoundly relax the nervous system, while increasing the flow of energy (Qi) in the body and balance the internal organs at the root of these conditions (often Liver, Heart, Kidney, Spleen). Most patients feel better after their first acupuncture treatment and the benefits become sustained from regular acupuncture treatments.
  • Herbs from Traditional Chinese Medicine can deeply nourish and balance these organs and help to smooth the flow of Qi, calm the mind and settle the heart.
  • Western herbs (most notably adaptogens) help our bodies adapt to non-specific stress so we can handle stressful situations better, become more resilient and help to calm our bodies and minds so we sleep better at night.
  • Nutraceuticals can help fill in nutrient gaps affecting mental health. All patients receive discounts on high quality supplements through our fullscript on store.
  • Dietary changes can improve sleep quality, lessen anxiety and reduce insomnia. Restructuring ones meals and making sure certain nutrients and qualities of food are present also positively impacts these conditions.
  • Lifestyle changes are wonderful and empowering tools that are done at home and in between appointments. A recent study revealed that 30 minutes of aerobic exercise is equivalent to a standard dose of antidepressant medication.
  • Yoga therapy is another tool to practice at home to  lessen the intensity of anxiety and depression, reduce stress and induce sound sleep.

Dr. Margo uses an integrative approach to get to the root cause of these imbalances. She gives a personalized treatment plan developed for your unique self and concerns.

“I have been thrilled with my experience with Margo. She has taken such wonderful care of me! I always leave her office feeling tranquil with less anxiety and overwhelm from living as a busy mom and health care professional. I am so glad I found her!” -C.L.

FAQ – A Natural and Holistic Approach to Anxiety, Depression & Insomnia

1. What does a holistic approach to mental health involve?

A holistic approach views mental health through a whole-person lens—addressing mind, body, emotions, and environment. Instead of only managing symptoms, we work to uncover and support root causes like nutrient imbalances, chronic stress, hormonal shifts, poor sleep hygiene, emotional trauma, and nervous system dysregulation. Modalities may include:

  • Nutrition and supplements

  • Herbal medicine

  • Nervous system support

  • Breathwork, movement, and mindfulness

  • Lifestyle coaching

  • Emotional and cognitive support

  • Acupuncture in person and acupressure virtually

2. Can natural approaches really help with anxiety and depression?

Yes, research supports the effectiveness of integrative strategies. Many people experience measurable relief when combining lifestyle interventions with targeted nutrition, herbs, and mind-body practices—especially when these approaches are personalized and sustained over time. These methods can:

  • Support neurotransmitter balance (e.g., serotonin, GABA)

  • Lower inflammation and oxidative stress

  • Regulate blood sugar and energy

  • Improve sleep and circadian rhythm

  • Reduce cortisol and sympathetic overdrive

3. What kinds of symptoms do you help with?

We support those experiencing:

  • Anxiety: racing thoughts, nervousness, panic attacks, tension

  • Depression: low mood, apathy, fatigue, hopelessness

  • Insomnia: difficulty falling or staying asleep, restless sleep, waking too early

  • Related issues: brain fog, low energy, irritability, digestive issues, hormonal imbalances

4. What holistic tools are used?

Here’s what may be included in a personalized plan:

🌿 Nutritional Support

  • Blood sugar stabilization (to reduce mood swings & anxiety)

  • Anti-inflammatory foods to support brain health

  • Nutrients like magnesium, B-vitamins, omega-3s, iron, and vitamin D

🌱 Herbal Remedies

  • Adaptogens (ashwagandha, rhodiola) for stress resilience

  • Nervines (lemon balm, passionflower) for anxiety and sleep

  • Mood-balancing herbs (St. John’s Wort, saffron—used cautiously)

🧠 Mind-Body Therapies

  • Breathwork and somatic techniques to calm the nervous system

  • Meditation and visualization

  • Yoga, walking, or gentle movement

🔄 Lifestyle Coaching

  • Daily rhythm and routine structuring

  • Digital detox practices for overstimulation

  • Emotional release tools (journaling, expressive arts)

5. Do I have to stop my medication to work with you?

Absolutely not. Holistic support is meant to complement—not replace—your current medical or psychological care. We collaborate respectfully with your healthcare providers and always consider herb-drug interactions when recommending natural supplements.

6. How long before I feel better?

Most people notice subtle improvements within 1–3 weeks, such as:

  • More stable energy and fewer mood dips

  • Calmer evenings or better-quality sleep

  • Increased resilience to stressors
    Sustainable emotional and nervous system healing typically evolves over 3–6 months, especially when root causes are addressed consistently.

7. Is this approach suitable for long-term mental health maintenance?

Yes. Many patients continue using aspects of their personalized plan (like morning routines, herbal teas, or mindfulness tools) as a sustainable lifestyle for mental wellness—even after major symptoms improve.

8. Is this a replacement for therapy?

No. We recommend therapy or counseling as part of your healing team. However, if you’re feeling stuck or want to enhance therapy outcomes, holistic work can support the physical and lifestyle foundations that affect mental health (such as sleep, blood sugar, and inflammation).

9. Can insomnia be resolved naturally?

Often, yes. We explore and address:

  • Sleep hygiene and bedtime routine

  • Melatonin rhythm imbalances (blue light, irregular meals, or shift work)

  • Nervous system overactivation (sympathetic dominance)

  • Caffeine, alcohol, and late-night blood sugar crashes

  • Emotional patterns interfering with rest (like bedtime anxiety)
    Gentle herbal and nutritional support (e.g., magnesium, passionflower, L-theanine, chamomile) can restore sleep quality over time.

10. Do I need a diagnosis to get started?

No formal diagnosis is required. If you’re struggling with low mood, stress, or poor sleep, you’re welcome to begin. If you’ve already been diagnosed with anxiety, depression, or a sleep disorder, we can tailor your plan accordingly.

11. Are your sessions offered virtually?

Yes, we offer virtual consultations, coaching, and support worldwide. All plans are delivered online, and you’ll have access to digital tools, handouts, and personalized recommendations after each session.

12. How do I get started?

  1. Book a free consultation to explore your symptoms, history, and goals

  2. Complete an intake form to give us a whole-person view of your lifestyle, diet, sleep, and stress

  3. Receive your customized plan including nutrition, herbal support, and emotional wellness tools

  4. Stay supported with follow-up sessions, resources, and accountability

👉 Start today by booking your  free 15 minute chat or email us with your questions to see if we can help.