Paresh H. Shelat, ND, L.Ac
We welcome practitioner Paresh Shelat to the Pohala Clinic team. Dr. Shelat works as a naturopathic primary care physician and licensed acupuncturist with a focus on whole body health. We asked him to tell us more about his medicine philosophy, his education and his treatment and management goals as a health care professional.
“Your Body, Your Choice”
When I first meet a person, I want to understand the stories and experiences that have led them to where they are today. Establishing and creating a rapport that allows the person to feel comfortable in my office leads to change and optimal health. It’s about the relationship I have with the people who have come to me for help. I truly believe in the idea of your body, your choice. I help people see their available options and we work together to make a choice that creates health and well being.
A Western and Eastern Approach
I believe it is essential to have an understanding of both paradigms, sometimes the terms naturopath and allopath (a western approach to medicine) are used to describe the differences. I work with patients to make informed decisions about how they want to dictate the outcomes of their health- this often involves both eastern and western practices. There are times where the western standard of care is necessary and when the deviation from the standard of care can be safely completed under proper supervision.
Naturopath and Acupuncture Education
I started off working in massage therapy. This opened up the path of discovery to the intricate world of medicine (both allopathic and naturopathy). Graduating with a certificate in massage therapy led me to Johnson State College where I earned my B.Sc degree in Wellness & Alternative Medicine. From here, I was able to attend the National University of Natural Medicine where I completed a dual degree program in both Naturopathy and Chinese Medicine. (Doctor of Naturopathy, Masters of Acupuncture). Upon completion graduation from NUNM, I finished a three-year residency in 2017.
I enjoy working with patients who are motivated and open to the possibility of achieving optimal health. Unfortunately, there is no magical protocol or technique that will work for everyone. With that said, the patients’ ability to have patience and an understanding that finding the root cause may take time is crucial. This leads to a collaboration that creates health and well being.
Please call Pohala Clinic to book an appointment with Dr. Shelat.
