“When a colleague asked me why I chose to leave my previous endeavors to assume the responsibility of Medical Director at Sierra Tucson, the first reason I gave was buttressed by my experience thus far, and it is the best reason of which I can conceive; If a member of my family needed help, really needed help, my utmost confidence would be in the team of professionals at this wonderful place.” – Dr. Michael V. Genovese, M.D., J.D., Medical Director – Sierra Tucson
Comprehensive medicine, the hallmark of care we render to multidimensional patients, truly sets Sierra Tucson apart. That care is predicated upon the following five principles:
The Relationship
We see the relationship between the healthcare provider and the patient of paramount importance. Characterized by dialogue, we do not see the provider’s role as one of a dictator – unilaterally directing a course of action; instead we see the patient as a part of a collaboration that enhances their role in treatment planning and successful outcome.
The Individual & Whole Person
Treatment at Sierra Tucson addresses the individual person and the whole person. First, each individual brings unique considerations to bear: genetics; comorbidities; socioeconomics; varying degrees of family support; capacity for compliance; life experience; and more. These variables must all be factored into a well-reasoned approach in order to optimize the patient’s health. Second, the person must be viewed as a whole, a system in or out of balance. Gone are the days of the Cartesian mind/body duality. We don’t simply treat a patient’s depression, instead we seek to understand and address all contributory factors. Is there an underlying medical etiology? Is there undue stress at work or at home? What is the nature of the person’s diet, exercise, and sleep habits? All must be considered.
The Evidence
The hallmark of care at Sierra Tucson is our continual pursuit of being at the cutting edge of treatment innovations, combined with our belief that comprehensive medicine should be informed by evidence. Scientific validity supports not only the quality of care rendered by the provider, but also the trust of the patient in the care he or she is receiving. A strong evidence base therefore strengthens the relationship between provider and patient, which is the essential foundation of integrative medicine.
The Therapeutic Approaches & Disciplines
Comprehensive medicine, as practiced at Sierra Tucson, makes use of all appropriate therapeutic approaches and disciplines to optimize health and healing. In properly addressing the needs of our patients we marshal the resources of myriad disciplines because the complexity of our patients demands it. Generally, patients at Sierra Tucson have a multitude of presenting issues: addiction; depression; eating disorders; trauma; chronic pain; and medical illness, all exacerbated by a litany of stressors. We endeavor to address all of these issues in concert to restore a patient to health and harmony. From the acute patient requiring care within Sierra Tucson’s Behavioral Health Inpatient Unit, to the patient immersed in the residential milieu, any given individual will require the contribution of a psychiatrist, primary psychotherapist, naturopathic physician, acupuncturist, psychiatrist, dietician, physical therapist, family therapist, psychologist, primary care provider, EMDR therapist, personal trainer and several nurses and professionals trained in mindfulness, Somatic Experiencing® Therapy, equine therapy, and more. We care for complex, treatment resistant patients at Sierra Tucson and the depth of the treatment team reflects the needs of our patients.
The Physical, Emotional, Cultural and Spiritual Aspects
Integrative medicine addresses physical, emotional, cultural, and spiritual aspects of life. We need to respect and honor all of that which the patient brings to treatment.
At Sierra Tucson, we strive to offer the best care for each of the patients we have the privilege to treat. As a leader in the community, people look to Sierra Tucson when they have failed to achieve success elsewhere. My experience of the staff at Sierra Tucson conjures descriptors such as dedicated, creative, intelligent, courageous, spirited, and empathetic. There is an inspiring spirit at the heart of Sierra Tucson, a palpable energy that sustains and enriches the therapeutic environment.
Our Comprehensive Residential Treatment Programs
With extensive training and over 30 years of experience, Sierra Tucson maintains a high standard of excellence in the clinical treatment programs that we offer for men and women, aged 18 and older, who are struggling with addiction concerns, depression, eating disorders, trauma, and chronic pain. By utilizing a multidisciplinary approach, we help you learn how to successfully manage symptoms, overcome challenges, and develop the skills needed to manage your disease and return to your family, friends, and a productive lifestyle.