Weight Loss Support

Any conversation about body composition should start with a clear idea of your goals.

Do you want to lose weight to fit into your clothes better, or to improve your blood test results?

This gives me an idea of how much weight would be be appropriate, and how best to measure your progress. (It's not all about the scale!)

Everyone knows the best ways to lose weight are with diet and exercise.

But do you know which type of diet would be best for you? This can really vary, depending on your body composition, other medical conditions, and personal history.

Similarly, exercise strategies are most effective when they take into account your age, current level of physical activity, any past or current injuries, and long-term health goals.

Your provider should create a plan that is as unique as you are.

Multiple different medical conditions can cause weight gain, including poor thyroid function, insulin resistance, PCOS, and GI issues, to name just a few.

Rather than guess and start expensive or unwarranted (and ineffective) treatments, I prefer to use lab tests to inform the best course of treatment.

These are often covered by insurance and may include blood testing, specialized urine tests, or saliva.

After reviewing goals, medical history, and lab tests, I may prescribe targeted supplements.

They may be herbs to support stress management or blood sugar balance, or nutrients to fill in the gaps for nutrient deficiencies.

These are always tailored to the individual, and I don't have a standard package or "one-size-fits-all" plan.

Supplements are offered through Fullscript, which is a trusted source, and I pass along steep discounts for my patients, with no obligation to purchase.

As a Naturopathic Doctor, I enjoy working with a large toolbox of treatment options.

Usually, my patients have good success with weight loss when we optimize their nutrition, fitness, stress management skills, and fill in the gaps with appropriate supplementation. But sometimes, we need a bigger hammer, and I'm comfortable utilizing medications in carefully prescribed doses that support my patients' goals. 

Ultimately, this is the patient's decision, and I offer research-backed and clinically relevant education free from judgement or dogma.

I like to coach my patients through the process, and respond quickly to changing needs. If the plan we choose isn't working, I'm available to answer questions and troubleshoot. 

Yes! We are able to accept HSA/FSA cards.

"Naturopathic medicine is a distinct primary health care profession, emphasizing prevention, treatment, and optimal health through the use of therapeutic methods and substances that encourage individuals’ inherent self-healing process. The practice of naturopathic medicine includes modern and traditional, scientific, and empirical methods."

-American Association of Naturopathic Physicians (naturopathic.org)

Naturopathic Medicine was officially founded in 1901 in the US by a German MD named Dr. Benedict Lust. But the roots actually go back thousands of years, and span many cultures and traditions. Doctors routinely used ancient herbs, hydrotherapy and physiotherapy, psychology and nutrition interventions to treat patients.

At the turn of the 20th century, medicine had advanced rapidly with the invention of surgery and medications, and some doctors wanted to preserve the more natural healing techniques that stimulated what they called the patient's own "vital force" to overcome and prevent disease.

Currently, 23 states, plus the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands are either licensed for the practice of naturopathic medicine, or have laws regulating the practice. The American Association of Naturopathic Physicians diligently works every year to expand our ability to serve more communities nationwide.

Where ND's are licensed, we must graduate from an accredited, 4-year naturopathic medical program and pass medical science and clinical postdoctoral board exams. We must fulfill continuing education requirements, and we're subject to the scope of practice as defined by the state in which we're licensed and practice.

For example, in Washington state, ND's can prescribe medications, order lab testing and imaging, administer IV infusions and serve as a primary care physician. ND's in other states have varying scope of practice.

Dr. Ghajar is comfortable working with patients in perimenopause and menopause who may benefit from hormone replacement therapy (HRT). During your visit, Dr. Ghajar will review your family and past medical history, your symptoms, and all available options for treatment, which may include HRT. She may also require certain lab tests to ensure your safety.

Note: Dr. Ghajar is only licensed in the state of Washington, and is not able to prescribe any medications (including HRT) to anyone residing out of state.

At this time, Dr. Ghajar is only working with patients and clients who are experiencing symptoms related to perimenopause and menopause. She does not work as a primary care doctor.

Dr. Ghajar dives deep into nutrition, fitness, sleep, mindset and stress management. Those factors of course influence your health as a whole person. 

A current relationship with a knowledgeable primary care physician who can address other concerns, including acute illnesses, is highly recommended for every patient and client working with any practitioner or program through Firebrand Wellness. Dr. Ghajar has several recommendations available upon request.

Firebrand Wellness is a fully cash practice, and Dr. Alisha Ghajar is not contracted with insurance providers, meaning she is considered "out of network", and does not submit insurance claims. A superbill will be provided for your reimbursement purposes. We recommend checking with your insurance company to determine reimbursement coverage for out of network naturopathic care.

Payment is due in full at the time of service, and a credit card is required to schedule.

HSA cards are accepted.

Current rates:

• New patients (75-90 minutes): $295
• Returning patients (45-60 minutes): $245
• Returning patients (15-30 minutes): $125

Dr. Ghajar requires 24 hours notice to cancel for established patients, and 48 hours for new patient appointments.

Half the cost of the scheduled visit will be charged for cancellations with less than 24 hours notice. The full fee is charged if no notice is received.

Dr. Ghajar is licensed in the state of Washington. She is legally only able to treat patients who are also located in Washington. Similarly, medication prescriptions (including HRT) are only available to those who reside in the state of Washington.

Coaching services are available for those who wish to consult with Dr. Ghajar and who live out of state. In this case, she acts as a health coach, and is not able to diagnose or treat any condition, interpret lab testing results, or prescribe any medications. 

At this time, Dr. Ghajar is only available via Telehealth. She utilizes the HIPAA-compliant Zoom feature through Elation, her EHR (Electronic Health Record). 

Our HIPAA Notice can be found here