I must make a confession: I bristle sometimes at the word “holistic”.
A word that has been co-opted by the health and wellness industry and sometimes by people who wish only to look down their nose at others. The modern idea of holism is inaccessible for many: pricey, and not covered by insurance. So, for that reason, my holistic journey is one that I have strayed in and out of for many years, unsure of how set myself apart.
As a health care provider, I believe in Western medicine. I have seen UTIs turn into kidney infections leading people down very dark and painful illnesses. I have seen birthing people develop dangerous eclamptic seizures, and only Ativan will save them, and so will the magnesium drip they must have, and so will the blood pressure medication they will take to get them through the acute phase of their illness.
But I am also a midwife, trained in the ancient arts of herbology and homeopathic medicine. I will, in one breath, remind you to take your antidepressant and to not forget your red raspberry leaf tea. When your iron is low, I will recommend liquid iron and alfalfa supplements. Give you Arnica for sore muscles and swelling.
After several years of practice as a midwife, and now as a public health professional as well, my mission is to provide what I view as the most comprehensive holistic care to those in our community who have been deprived of it based on their social determinants of health. For those who have been denied the privilege and opportunity to move freely though our health care system, without the worry of oppression and discrimination, my mission is to give them mental health care, social service assistance, and education in the same place and by the same dedicated professionals who are providing their health care.
That is holistic care to me, individualized and sensitive to an individual’s needs and ability to access it based on their personal and social situation. And I believe that it is unethical as a health care provider to give anything less to my clients.
Erin Martin
Certified Nurse Midwife; Doctor of Nursing Practice
Available for consultation for professionals, networking and, mentorship.
Providing advice and education for all.
COMING SOON: Look for Solace Health and Social Outreach Center.
419-308-6977
emarten@solacehealth.org