Dr. Cathy Head
Our body is a collection of cells and organs, that make up systems (such as the immune system, gastrointestinal system, or cardiovascular system), and if one systems is not working then all our system are affected. I have always been interested in addressing problems from a systems perspective.
EDUCATION
Doctor of Nursing Practice: University of South Alabama
Master of Science in Nursing: UNC - Charlotte
Bachelor of Science in Nursing: Gardner - Webb University
Diploma in Nursing: Mercy School of Nursing
"Dr. Head is a Diplomat of the American Board of Obesity Medicine. She is certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center and licensed by the NC Board of Nursing and NC Board of Medicine. She is a member of the Obesity Medicine Association and the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners. Dr. Head became certified in T3 therapy in 2018.
Nurses Practitioners are registered nurses with an advanced degree and specialized clinical experience. They can diagnose, prescribe, and treat patients with acute and chronic illnesses. NP programs focus on health promotion, disease prevention, health education and counseling.
My thoughts
I have addressed weight loss and chronic disease management for 18 years. I initially addressed mostly weight issues, but this requires addressing the body as a group of systems that contribute to overall health, thus I focus on the body as a whole. I like the definition of health as, “the body’s ability to adapt and not succumb to a disease state.” Our body systems start to adapt the day we are born by regulating our temperature, blood pressure, glucose, and immune system. The continued burden on the body from stress, environmental toxins, pesticides, processed food, chronic acid blockers, coupled with possible genetic variations, can disrupt the normal body systems, and result in weight gain.
Our body is a collection of cells and organs, that make up systems (such as the immune system, gastrointestinal system, or cardiovascular system), and if one systems is not working then all our systems are affected. I have always been interested in addressing problems from a systems perspective. A systems analysis follows the “flow” of a business or activity, to determine where a weakness or risk occurs. Most chronic diseases are a “systems” issue and require a systems approach of identifying the cause of symptoms. Most chronic diseases have multiple symptoms and thus, there are often an overlap of body systems related to a disease state. Functional medicine is an approach to healing and supporting the body versus simply treating a symptom.
Every patient presents with a different medical history and requires an individual plan. The goal is to develop a plan specific for each person based on what the body imbalance may be. I take a very detailed history to determine what contributing factors need to be addressed to improve your health and/or optimize your weight. It is addressing imbalances in vitamins, hormones, sleep, nutrition, gut health, stress, and lifestyle that might be barriers to a better metabolism and healthy system. My philosophy is to create a comfortable environment to support you and include all aspects toward your wellness.