Alone, we can do so little; together, we can do so much. - Helen Keller
Every journey, no matter how long, begins with a single step. - Anonymous
How Do I Know When I'm Ready To Get To Work With Dr. Alexander?
Here are a few indications that you are ready to work with Dr. Alexander. You:
- are ready to work towards real change in your life;
- have a complex/chronic mental or physical condition;
- are willing to participate in group learning environment;
- have a Family Doctor or Primary Care Nurse Practitioner who can coordinate your care, respond to crises and refer you for our services;
- are willing to use integrative modalities and techniques that may need to be practiced daily to be effective;
- are able to commit to a weekly group in Oakville, Ontario;
- are able and willing to commit to our group guidelines and office policies; and,
- are ready to learn how to live with more ease in the world.
I'm Ready! How Do I Start?
Please feel free to contact Dr. Alexander's office to book an OHIP-covered introduction & intake appointment.
Please also have your Primary Care provider download, complete and fax a referral form along with any relevant consultations or reports.
A Group? I'm Not So Sure About That . . .
Does being in a group make you nervous? Me, too!
However . . . they are a good place to heal and learn alongside others who are also struggling with medical conditions or issues that are similar to your's. Many times, illness, pain and distress isolate us from others when we need healthy & supportive connection most.
Dr. Alexander has facilitated groups for many years and can help you find a way to and feel OK and, hopefully, even enjoy being in a mind-body medicine group setting. Please know that, in Dr. Alexander's groups:
- you don't have to talk or share any personal details if you don't want to;
- you will not be put in a position where you feel burdened by the issues or stories of others in the group;
- you don't have to sit still & you get to move around and do what you need to make yourself comfortable in the group space;
- you can bring anything you need to make yourself comfortable (as long as it doesn't make someone else uncomfortable);
- you can use the variety of pillows, cushions, mats and chairs in the office to maximize your comfort;
- you can trust that Dr. Alexander will help you and others in the group to maintain healthy boundaries to encourage the safety of people in the group; and,
- you can expect to enjoy the process and actually look forward to your weekly meeting.
Click here for more information on Dr. Alexander's group guidelines.
What Should I Expect?
Your first consultation appointment will be 20-30 minutes in length.
If you decide to join one of Dr. Alexander's Mind-Body Medicine group courses, you will be advised of your group's start date. A fully refundable deposit will be required to secure your spot in the group.
Groups will meet weekly for 8-10 weeks, for approximately 3 hours at a time.
At the beginning, middle and end of each group, you will have a one-on-one appointment with Dr. Alexander to touch base and to ensure that your getting the most out of your experience.
What Should I Bring To My First Appointment?
Please ensure that you have filled out our assessment forms prior to your appointment. Please also bring:
- a complete list of all of your vitamins, supplements and/or medical foods; and,
- copies of any relevant consultations from your medical file with your Primary Care MD.
Fees
Please note that OHIP covers Dr. Alexander's Pain Management and Mental Health group services.
Methods Of Payment
Course deposit payments can be made via cash or cheque only at this time.