If you’ve ever searched “functional medicine doctor near me” or “integrative medicine doctor who takes a holistic approach,” you’re likely looking for more than just quick fixes and prescriptions. You want a provider who listens, looks at the root causes of health issues, and helps you stay well—not just treat symptoms.
Here’s how to find a functional medicine doctor that fits your needs—and the key questions to ask before you book that first appointment.
A functional medicine doctor focuses on whole-body health, root cause resolution, and personalized care. They often use advanced testing and natural therapies (like nutrition, supplements, and lifestyle changes) to help prevent and treat chronic conditions.
An integrative medicine doctor does something similar, sometimes blending holistic practices with conventional medical treatments. You’ll see overlap between the two terms, so don’t worry too much about the label—what matters is their approach.
Start with a basic Google search for:
These types of practitioners focus on whole-body health, root cause analysis, and natural or low-intervention therapies. The main difference is often just in the language or training background. Don’t get too hung up on the label—focus on the philosophy and fit.
Make a list of the ones you’re going to reach out to and then move on to Step 2.
Once you’ve narrowed down your list, it’s time to ask the right questions. These will help you understand how the doctor practices, how much it will cost, and whether they’re a good fit for your long-term health goals.
Not all holistic doctors are the same. Some may focus on gut health, others on hormones, autoimmune conditions, or preventive care. Since you’re looking for a doctor to help you stay well, not just treat illness, ask: “Do you specialize in any particular conditions or health areas?”
This helps you understand their background—and whether they’re a match for your long-term wellness goals.
Many functional medicine doctors don’t take insurance. Some are entirely cash-based, and others operate on a membership or subscription model. Be direct and ask:
Knowing the financial commitment upfront saves time and frustration.
Testing is often a big part of functional medicine—but it can vary widely by provider. To get a better sense of how they approach diagnostics, ask:
These questions give insight into how comprehensive and proactive their approach is.
Even if the provider doesn’t take insurance for appointments, some lab tests might be covered. Ask:
They may not be able to give you exact figures (since it depends on your plan), but experienced offices can often give you a ballpark idea.
Want a sense of how holistic their approach really is? Ask what other services they offer in-office. Some functional doctors also provide:
This gives insight into how they support long-term wellness—not just fix problems.
[Shameless plug: Needle & Glow can supplement their services to provide you with a holistic health & wellness program. For instance, we offer acupuncture, biofeedback (a.k.a. Food sensitivity testing), and wellness coaching (including nutritional coaching).]
Last but definitely not least: trust your gut.
You’re not looking for someone to hand you a prescription and rush you out the door. You want a provider who takes their time, listens to you, and works with you. If something feels off, don’t overthink it—move on. A good fit will feel collaborative, not transactional.
If you’re healthy and simply want a doctor who can help you stay that way, your ideal provider will:
You don’t need to wait until something’s wrong to find a doctor who gets it.
Finding the right functional or integrative medicine doctor is a bit like dating. Ask good questions, know what you’re looking for, and don’t be afraid to move on if something doesn’t feel right. When you find the right one, it can make a huge difference—not just in how you feel, but in how you live.
