Dr. Megan Lester, of Collaborative Natural Health Partners, is a gifted and holistic naturopathic physician who has had a tremendously positive impact on my gut health and my overall well-being. For 15 years I suffered with painful, life-impacting abdominal symptoms that traditional GI specialists and primary care physicians could not solve despite their concern and efforts. Lab tests they ordered always came back inconclusive and my diagnosis was determined to be IBS. Medications they prescribed did not help so after a while I stopped taking them. Thankfully a friend recommended Collaborative Health and they carefully matched me with Dr. Lester, who had strong expertise in gut health. I felt confident from our first appointment as she listened carefully to my history and symptoms and reassured me that the natural health pathway also included scientific testing (bloodwork, breath testing) that could validate what she suspected might be going on with me. Her suspicions proved to be correct and she mapped out the treatment options, allowing me to make the decision. She was consistently available to me throughout the treatment and has followed up. I am pain free, able to eat what and where I want and have more energy at age 65 than I have had in 20 years. I can't sing her praises loudly or strongly enough!
Patient
I am a patient of Dr Lester who is now treating me for SIBO. I spent many months looking for answers and going through many tests before I finally requested getting a breath test which was positive for SIBO. You would think that would have been a relief but instead it led me on a journey of research and discovering just how unaware the medical field is on this topic and how to treat. Becoming my own advocate I left my GI Dr in search of a new one. Thank God! I found Dr. Parikh who I saw did a podcast with Dr. Lester. He knew by having a conversation with me that I wanted a natural course of action. He recommended Collaborative Natural Health partners. I called Dr Lester's office and saw her within a week. I was in really bad shape and felt alone and scared. Well all that changed. She totally answered all my questions without me even asking. Within a few weeks I was feeling so much better. I am now on week 14 and phase two of my treatment. I am almost normal again. I can only say this was the best decision I made for myself.
Patient
When I was 15 years old, I started to have intense stomach pain. I had already suffered from migraines for years. I went to my PCM several times and he would say I was constipated, or "maybe remove dairy" or "try not eating bread and pasta". I kept food journals, managed daily stomach pain and migraines and was rushed to the ER on several occasions, and once by ambulance. After 2 colonoscopies and endoscopies, I was diagnosed with a gluten and dairy allergy, as well as, Collagenous Gastritis, which was so rare that the doctors had zero treatment plans that worked. I was given multiple prescriptions to "try" and see if any of them worked. None did. It had been 3 long years of being miserable, not being able to play sports in high school and having to cancel so many plans with friends and family because I was in pain.
My parents and I had heard about Dr. Lester and I talked to my parents about scheduling an appointment with her. They were not sure how seeing another doctor, in addition to the team of 6 doctors I already had, was going to help. Reluctantly, my mother called Collaborative Health Care and got me scheduled. I met with Dr. Lester and she asked me a ton of questions and nothing I said phased her..."3 years of constant pain, daily migraines, passing out from the pain, multiple ER visits..." When we were done talking, Dr. Lester said she thought I might have something called SIBO, Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth. She prescribed multiple supplements and suggested a breathing test. I literally felt a difference within 24 hours. I woke up after 2 days of supplements with zero migraines and no gut pain. After further testing and a 2 week shake regiment, my SIBO was completely gone! And I could finally eat pasta and gluten again. My life has forever changed since working with Dr. Lester. I am grateful for the time she took to really listen to me. Thank you, Dr. Lester, for helping me get my life back!Patient
I have now worked with providers from Collaborative Natural Health for over two years and the partnership has been very valuable for my patients. Their non-conventional approach to challenging GI conditions such as bacterial overgrowth has been crucial for me and my more refractory patients. They are easy to work with and understand the benefits of integrating traditional and non-traditional medicine.
Dr. Neil Parikh, CTGI
I have known and worked with Dr Young for the past 5 years. We have had the privilege of caring for numerous complex patients who have Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Inflammatory Bowel Disease, unexplained abdominal pain and weight issues. We frequently discuss our patients' needs and create unique approaches for each individual. Dr. Young's generous giving of time to each patient, in addition to her extensive knowledge is what makes her shine.
Our collaboration is a unique one, where the best of both worlds of Gastroenterology and Nutritional Support come together to help our patients.
Dr. Peter Buch, gastroenterologist
I would like to share my experience of being a patient of Dr. Lester. We have been working together since last October when I tested positive for SIBO. This is my second round of treatment for this as I was treated for SIBO in 2019. Dr. Lester is one of the most approachable doctors I have ever worked with. She is a fabulous listener and is responsive to the needs of each patient. I needed a lot of support during the elemental phase of treatment and she was there for me. She is very positive, patient and absolutely gave me the confidence and tools to successfully navigate the SIBO treatment plan. She is sensitive to the emotional aspects as well as the medical aspects of going through this treatment. I am successful with this treatment plan because of all her support. This SIBO journey has been life changing for me. That sounds dramatic but it's true. It has changed my relationship with food, eating, hunger and the way I look at myself and how I care for myself. Bottom line, I am so very grateful to be working with such a compassionate, knowledgeable and caring doctor.
Patient
As a general gastroenterologist at CTGI, I have diagnosed small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) in many patients. Unfortunately, the cost of conventional antibiotic therapy has been prohibitive for some patients. Other patients have refractory or recurrent SIBO which has been so challenging to treat. I routinely refer my most severe SIBO patients to Dr. Megan Lester at Collaborative Natural Health Partners for naturopathic treatment. Time and time again I have been told by patients that Dr. Lester has changed their quality of life immensely. Dr. Lester is truly a SIBO expert. She is extremely knowledgeable and her approach has very complementary to traditional treatment. The time that Dr. Lester spends reviewing dietary changes with the patients and also on brainstorming an alternate approach when a treatment has not been working optimally is a true sign of her dedication to helping our patients recover from SIBO. She is always readily available for patient questions. Her expertise is now being recognized by patients who travel from various states to see her.
Dr. Maria Jonson, CTGI
I feel so fortunate to have found Collaborative Natural Health Partners! As I enter my 50s, I'm facing new health challenges and developmental changes, and Amy Smith-Basset and Dr Kate Zachau have been instrumental in helping me navigate this new life phase in a healthy, balanced way. At office visits, I feel heard, not rushed, and I love that the staff includes naturopaths and other allied professionals. The front office staff is friendly, organized and respectful and I appreciate the convenience of picking up the supplements I use directly from them. CNHP is truly the holistic care center I always hoped to find.
I'm also delighted as an area provider to suggest CNHP to our counseling clients at Beehive Counseling & Wellness. We only refer to providers we feel reflect our values - who provide compassionate care for the whole person and their circumstances, rather than seeing patients as a collection of body systems or symptoms. Clients we've referred have been very happy with their care, and as providers we truly appreciate that CNHP lives up to the "collaborative" promise in the name.
I highly recommend CNHP to anyone looking for holistic medical care. And I'm looking forward to and grateful for a continued personal and professional relationship with Collaborative Natural Health Partners!
Rebecca
At Collaborative Natural Health Partners, I feel listened to and respected. Before finding CNHP, I left several doctors’ offices feeling frustrated and discouraged. In the last 2.5 years of being a patient at CNHP, I have found the office staff and the medical team to be both friendly and knowledgeable. I also appreciate being offered a choice between a prescription or a natural supplement, with opinions on which one would help the most.
Stephanie
Amazing! Knowledgeable! Personable! Dr. Lauren Young is a leader in health, who has always given me the best quality of care! She has guided me in blending naturopathic medicine and conventional medicine into my life so that I am healthier, better educated, and more empowered with my body and wellness.
My daughter, initially went to Dr. Young about eight years ago. I was so impressed with the thorough exam given to her which included extensive lab work, an evaluation of general health concerns, followed up by an individual treatment plan created especially for her, that I was now convinced integrative medicine and Dr. Young were perfect for me, as well.
Lori
Collaborative Natural Health Partners has provided me with the best care for myself holistically than any other doctor's office I have gone to. I have a primary care physician Dr. Zachau and a Naturopathic doctor, Dr. Pasternak working together as a team to provide me with the best health plan for my body individually. After many years of struggling with skin issues Dr. Pasternak was the first to have me look at the health of my gut and diet. She also recommended simple supplements and suggestions to try which were all natural. After 6 years of needing prescription steroids I was able to get off all medications and treat the problem at the core. They are so incredibly helpful and kind in making sure their patients are comfortable with their suggestions. I would highly recommend this office to anyone looking for a new practice.
Sam
I am so grateful for finding Collaborative Natural Health Partners. After my second child was born, I became very sick and as it wasn’t birth related, I sought out help from CNHP. I wanted a place that would listen to me, treat naturally if possible, but also take things very seriously and help me find solutions. Because I had a newborn, I didn’t want to just be handed drugs and go through invasive testing. Collaborative Natural Health Partners met my expectations and also went above and beyond.
I always felt as though I was listened to and respected. They seemed to spend as much time with me as I needed. The best- and the only thing that made this possible for me- was that they welcomed both of my small children into their offices too, and were patient, respectful and caring towards them as well. Had they not been able to come with me, I wouldn’t not have been able to get help. It is greatly appreciated.
Three years later, I have now seen three doctors at the practice and every single one has been absolutely amazing. I recommend them to all of my friends and acquaintances who are looking for care. Thank you so much!
Kari
I am a lifelong supporter of CNHP for my family, my clients and myself! The physicians sit down with me and have an actual conversation about my health. I feel comfortable asking questions and love the whole person approach. They offer compassion and human connection, which is often missing from healthcare.
Lori
I haven’t felt this good since my early 20’s!
J.L. (36 years old)
Today I feel worlds better, my symptoms are being kept in check, and I feel like I have my life back. I have Dr. Fasullo to thank for helping me get here. Every time I visit Dr. Fasullo, he is always willing to answer whatever questions I have and spend however much time it takes to do so. I never feel rushed. He is always friendly, compassionate, and demonstrates true concern for my health and wellbeing.
R.L. Patient
I found Dr. Fasullo after a long and painful saga in the conventional medical system that resulted in an unnecessary invasive treatment. My first appointment with Dr. Fasullo lasted over two hours, during which we worked together to understand my problem in the context of my entire body, my lifestyle, and my emotional well-being. In consultation with my conventional doctor, we chose a course of treatment that combined conventional and alternative therapies, with wonderful results. My problem has disappeared, and I have been empowered to become an active participant in my own healing.
S.M. Patient
One of Dr. Fasullo’s most refreshing qualities is his compassion and true concern. I cannot tell you how many times he has called me to check on me over the past months. He even came to visit me in the hospital when I had emergency surgery. He did this, unasked, after his work day and even brought me some tinctures to help me upon my release. I have never had a doctor show so much concern and for these reasons (and more) I can highly recommend him.
N.G. Patient
Dr. Fasullo is very patient and takes time to inform, teach and answer my questions about diet and the lifestyle changes I need to make. His demeanor is so refreshing and exactly what I need to feel better, not only physically, but emotionally. He never, ever pressured me or made me feel inferior. He is a patient doctor who truly, truly cares about health and healing. In the end he has given me the tools I need to take charge of my own health! I will be forever thankful.
S.M. Patient
I am working with Dr. Fasullo to normalize my glucose levels and body chemistry through diet. After testing and determining the dietary changes needed to help control diabetes and lose weight, he made recommendations that have completely changed my way of thinking about food. Instead of “going on a diet,” I know that the way I am eating now is the way I will eat for the rest of my life. I don’t feel deprived, my weight is steadily decreasing, I have more energy, and eating this way just makes sense. Also, my blood glucose readings are near normal with very little insulin. I am so pleased with my results that I would recommend him without reservation.
B.B. Patient
Dr. Fasullo is so friendly and easy going, my daughters feel completely at ease with him in a way that they have never been with previous doctors. The level of care and attentiveness we have received has far exceeded my expectations, and the wholehearted devotion of their practice towards healing has been evident in our every encounter.
S.T. Patient
Best naturopaths I have been too. They really take the time to understand your issues and do research into your problems. Would highly recommend to anyone seeking answers and health instead of pills.
Joe Patient
There is not enough paper to put down how wonderful Dr. Young and her staff are. I have never experienced such extraordinary care and concern. Best Doc in the world!!
Holly B. Patient
She really listens. She really knows her craft. She really knows me!
Jan B. Patient
[The doctor] incorporates being a professional with being your own personal cheerleader as they guide you towards good health and healing.
Jen Patient
My doctor treats our whole family with compassion and attention. [They] took the time to find the cause of my disease.
Brook Patient
They didn’t just give me pills, they gave me answers.
Sarah Patient
I brought my daughter to see Dr. Burkman for relief of allergies. Our doctor recommended Dr. Burkman as a naturopath instead of an allergist. Dr. Burkman is incredibly kind as a human being. We connected to Ashley right away. She was very thorough, and explained the reasoning for the remedies recommended. I especially liked how she spoke to my daughter, the patient, instead of me, the mom!
Debra
I made an appointment with Dr. Burkman because I was tired of getting yearly bronchitis with trips to the emergency room. I have been a patient for 2 years now and have not had any episodes of bronchitis in that time. I feel better. Dr. Burkman has taught me how my body works with foods I eat and the supplements I take. I am more aware that my health and well being begins from within. I have recommended Dr. Burkman to anyone who is interested in a healthy natural lifestyle.
Marie Patient
I know there are some that will read this and think there is no help for you. I felt the same way. Keep looking for doctor’s that will listen and if they don’t or they make you uncomfortable- keep looking. You are not alone! Start by giving Collaborative Natural Health Partners a try. It was the beginning of a new path for me.
Laurie Patient
Dr. Young took the time to listen to me, asked me many questions, personalized my treatment plan and together we set goals for improving my health. Today, I feel better than I have in a very long time! Through her care and guidance, I have made great strides in improving my health. I have lost 25 pounds! I have more energy and I feel “alive” again! She has truly changed my life!
Beth Patient
Dr. Young is an outstanding naturopathic physician, extremely well educated and very personable. She is someone who is dedicated to helping people improve and achieve overall wellness. It is very rare that you find a physician like Dr. Young, who genuinely cares about your total well being and is focused on improving overall health, not just treating a specific condition or symptom.
Beth Patient
Dr. Young, thank you for getting me to such a healthy place… the combination of dietary changes and supplements has done wonders for me. I appreciate and admire your profession and kind attention.
Eric Former Patient