"How do I become a client?"
The best way to get started is to fill out the client application form to schedule a free 15 minute call. The free consult is required for longer programs (ie. 6 weeks, 3 month and 5 month programs) so we can make sure it's a good fit and you know exactly what you're in for!
If you're looking for something more specific or à la carte, check out our service menu and feel free to choose what best fits your needs. You'll notice that all the packages include some sort of testing (mineral, fatty acid or GI testing) and that is because getting data on your body is essential to discovering what it needs, aiding your success.
If however, testing is not in your wheelhouse, there is an option for a standalone new client consultation.
"What kind of testing do you do?"
The standard test package for programs is Hair Tissue Mineral Testing, Fatty Acid Testing and GI Map Testing (stool).
Based on the client's individual needs we will sometimes add some of the following: Organic Acid Test (OAT), Dutch Hormone Test, and select blood labs (ie. iron, zinc, copper, vitamin A, whole blood histamine, etc).
The standard test package is included in package pricing, but packages will vary if additional testing is added or excluded.
"I see you're in Seattle. Do you work with clients outside of the US?"
Yes — Catherine has worked with hundreds of clients from all over the world (13 countries and counting!) through remote consultation and testing by mail. If you are from outside the US and interested in a specific package, please reach out to inquire about international shipping and lab fees prior to checkout.
"Do you provide detailed meal plans about what I should eat?"
No — a detailed meal plan would be a huge disservice to your success, because it would be all about Catherine (and what she likes). Meal plans don't work long-term anyways; instead you get direction on what to eat so you can make choices that suit you AND set you up for long-term success.
"Do you take insurance?"
No — Nutritional Therapy is not covered by any insurance plan.
"Do you treat X condition?"
No — a Nutritional Therapist does not diagnose, treat or cure any condition. Instead, we support the body's natural desire for health by providing all the raw materials (ie. nutrients) need for success. You're more likely to feel better when the deck is stacked in your favor!
“How much hair is needed for hair analysis?”
Only about one full teaspoon or 125 milligrams of fresh hair growth is needed for hair analysis, an amount that can easily be collected from the crown and/or nape area of your scalp without being obvious. A scale is provided in the test kit to ensure the correct amount in collected. The newest hair growth (1-1.5 inches) is needed to show what is going on in your body most recently, as hair cut from the ends would show what was happening in your body several years ago (depending on hair length). Here's a little peek at how much hair it looks like:
“I color my hair, can I still do hair analysis?”
Yes — but because permed, dyed, bleached, or chemically treated can contaminate your results, it is best to collect the new virgin growth between hair colorings for the most accurate results. So, if you get your hair colored every 6 weeks, collect the new growth (closest to the root) right before you get your next coloring. If you need to delay your hair test because of hair coloring, that’s okay too!
"What will I find out from hair analysis?"
You can view a sample report here. Hair Analysis tests for the following minerals:
- calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, copper, zinc, phosphorus, iron, manganese, chromium, selenium, cobalt, germanium, molybdenum, sulfur, uranium, arsenic, beryllium, mercury, cadmium, lead, aluminum, barium, bismuth, rubidium, lithium, nickel, platinum, thallium, vanadium, strontium, tin, titanium, tungsten, and zirconium
It also tests for the following toxic elements:
- uranium, arsenic, beryllium, mercury, cadmium, lead, and aluminum
You can view a sample report right here to learn more:
“How does the hair analysis process work?”
Within a week of your purchase (domestic, within the US), you’ll receive your test kit in the mail and detailed instructions on how to prepare your hair as well as how to gather the sample. Then mail your hair sample to the lab using the enclosed envelope, and the results are typically ready within 1-2 weeks, so we can schedule a call to go over your results at that time. After our call together, I send over a customized mineral balancing plan for you to put into practice right away.
“Can I use hair from another part of my body — ie. pubic hair, facial hair, armpit hair?”
Yes — but because hair on other parts of the body grows differently — slower and there is a longer dormant phase, the results are not guaranteed to give you the most recent data on your body. To combat this, I recommend doing a clean shave, and then letting the hair (pubic, facial, armpit) grow for about 6-8 weeks so we know your sample includes fresh hair growth.
Typically, hair is collected from where you would wear a half-ponytail:
Have another question not answered here?
Reach out to get your questions answered.