OMT involves the skilled application of manual techniques by a trained osteopathic physician to diagnose and treat physical and structural issues that may be affecting your health. These techniques include gentle manipulation of muscles, joints, and tissues to improve circulation, relieve tension, and restore optimal function. By correcting structural imbalances, OMT helps your body work more efficiently and supports the natural healing process.

OMT is not just about physical alignment; it’s a comprehensive approach that considers how the mind and body influence each other. Mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, and PTSD can often manifest as physical symptoms—such as tension, headaches, or chronic pain—and vice versa. OMT addresses this interconnectedness by treating both the physical and emotional aspects of your well-being.

OMT has been shown to provide relief and improvement in a variety of mental and physical health conditions. It can:

• Relieve Physical Symptoms: OMT helps alleviate pain and tension, including headaches, muscle stiffness, and back pain, which are often associated with mental health conditions like anxiety and depression.

• Improve Circulation and Flow: By enhancing the movement of blood, lymphatic fluid, and cerebrospinal fluid, OMT supports better overall function and healing.

• Reduce Stress and Promote Relaxation: Hands-on techniques used in OMT can calm the nervous system, decrease stress, and create a sense of relaxation and balance.

• Enhance Emotional Well-Being: Addressing physical discomfort through OMT can lead to improvements in mood, mental clarity, and overall emotional health.

• Support Holistic Healing: OMT complements other treatment modalities, such as psychotherapy, mindfulness, and medication management, providing a more comprehensive approach to mental health care.

Unlike conventional treatments that often focus solely on symptoms, OMT is grounded in the belief that your body has an innate ability to heal itself when properly supported. It’s a hands-on, personalized therapy that not only addresses immediate concerns but also works to prevent future issues by restoring the natural balance of your body’s systems.

As both a provider and patient of OMT, I’ve experienced its transformative benefits firsthand. I’ve also conducted research on the use of OMT in treating anxiety and depression, witnessing its profound impact on physical and emotional health. This evidence-based, integrative therapy offers a unique, non-invasive option for those seeking a holistic path to wellness.

Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT) is provided in person and can be integrated into your psychiatric care to support your mental and physical well-being. OMT is often combined with psychiatric services as part of a whole-person approach to wellness or to address physical symptoms commonly linked to anxiety, depression, and chronic stress. This may include:

• Relieving tension headaches and neck pain

• Reducing IBS discomfort and supporting the gut-brain connection

• Promoting balance in a dysregulated nervous system

• Increasing circulation and reducing inflammation through lymphatic and soft tissue work

During your OMT session, I may use a variety of hands-on techniques tailored to your unique needs and goals. These techniques are designed to promote healing, relieve tension, and restore balance to your body and mind. Some methods I may use include:

• Counterstrain (CS): This technique helps relax sore or tight spots in your body. I find the tender area and gently position you in a way that feels comfortable. Holding you in this cozy position helps your body release tension and pain.

• Cranial Treatment (CR): This is a gentle technique where I softly place my hands on your head to feel how everything is moving inside. It helps calm your body, relieve tension, and bring balance, especially if you have headaches or feel stressed.

• Myofascial Release/Soft Tissue Techniques (MFR): This technique helps loosen up tight muscles. It’s like a gentle stretch or massage that helps your body move more easily and reduces pain. I use my hands to stretch or press on your muscles to help them relax.

• Muscle Energy: This technique is teamwork! I ask you to push or move a part of your body against my gentle resistance. It’s like a mini workout for your muscles, helping them become stronger and more flexible.

• High Velocity/Low Amplitude (HVLA): This technique helps “unstick” joints that feel tight or stuck. I use a quick but gentle push to help your joints move better. You might hear a little pop, but it doesn’t hurt—it’s like cracking your knuckles!

• Lymphatic Pump: This technique helps your body clear out waste and boosts your immune system. I gently press or rock different parts of your body to help move the fluid (called lymph) that keeps you healthy and feeling better.

What to Expect:

An OMT session is tailored to your specific needs and concerns. After discussing your symptoms and goals, I’ll use gentle techniques to assess and treat areas of dysfunction in your body. You’ll remain comfortable throughout the session, and the treatment is suitable for patients of all ages. OMT sessions can be integrated into your overall treatment plan, complementing psychotherapy, lifestyle changes, or medication.

• Many patients experience immediate relief, feeling less tense and more aligned after their first session.

• OMT is cumulative, meaning each session builds on the last. While some concerns improve quickly, chronic issues may require multiple sessions for lasting results.

• Over time, OMT can help reduce pain, improve mobility, promote better sleep, and support emotional well-being as part of your integrative mental health care.

OMT offers a unique, holistic approach to mental and physical health care. Whether you’re seeking relief from chronic pain, struggling with stress, or looking for additional tools to support your mental health, OMT can help you feel more balanced, resilient, and empowered on your journey to healing.

I look forward to helping you feel better in both body and mind through OMT.

Preparing for Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT):

Before Your Session:

• Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing to allow ease of movement.

• Hydrate well and avoid heavy meals just before your appointment.

• Bring any relevant medical records or notes that may support your treatment.

• Inform me of any past surgeries or injuries, as these may influence your care.

• Let me know if you are currently suspected of or undergoing treatment for cancer, as this may affect the approach to your session.

During Your Session:

• Expect gentle, hands-on techniques applied to your muscles, joints, and tissues.

• Techniques may include soft tissue work, myofascial release, cranial adjustments, or lymphatic drainage.

• Share any discomfort or sensations you experience during the session—open communication is key to your comfort and care.

After Your Session:

• Drink plenty of water to help your body flush out toxins released during the treatment.

• You may feel mild soreness or fatigue, similar to what you’d feel after a workout—this is normal and should ease within 24-48 hours.