Frequently Asked Questions

Root Healing Wellness is a functional medicine and acupuncture practice located in Dunedin, Florida. Our team of licensed practitioners offers comprehensive consultations, advanced lab testing, acupuncture, herbal medicine, and telehealth visits across Florida.

We work with patients dealing with a range of concerns including thyroid conditions, autoimmune issues, hormonal imbalances, chronic fatigue, gut health concerns, and chronic pain. Meet our team →

Our office is located at 595 Main Street, Suite 201, Dunedin, FL 34698. We're conveniently located between Clearwater and Palm Harbor, with free parking available.

We serve patients from across Tampa Bay including Clearwater, Palm Harbor, Largo, Tarpon Springs, Safety Harbor, and Oldsmar. We also offer telehealth visits statewide in Florida.

Our team includes three licensed Doctors of Oriental Medicine and Acupuncture Physicians:

• Dr. Gene Healy, DOM, A.P. — 20+ years experience in functional medicine and autoimmune conditions
• Dr. Beverly Sorrells, DOM, MSOM, A.P. — Specializing in detoxification and metabolic health
• Dr. Shyler Neveaux, DOM, A.P. — Focus on women's health, hormones, and pain management

Learn more about our team →

Our office is open Monday through Friday with appointments available throughout the day. Saturday appointments are available by request. You can call us at (727) 437-8582 to inquire about specific times or contact us through our website.

Root Healing Wellness is proud to be affiliated with several reputable organizations:

• Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute
• University of South Florida — We've conducted research on Chemo-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy
• NCCAOM — National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine
• Florida Board of Acupuncture

Functional medicine is a patient-centered approach that focuses on identifying and addressing the underlying factors contributing to health concerns, rather than only managing symptoms. It uses comprehensive lab testing to evaluate factors like inflammation, nutrient status, gut health, hormone balance, and more.

Patients then receive personalized care plans that may include dietary changes, targeted supplementation, lifestyle modifications, and coordinated medical care.

Conventional medicine typically focuses on diagnosing and treating specific symptoms or diseases, often with medication or procedures. Functional medicine takes a broader view, examining how diet, environment, genetics, lifestyle, and stress all interact with your body's biology.

The two approaches can complement each other well, and many patients use both. Functional medicine doesn't replace your primary care doctor or specialists—it provides additional insight into the factors influencing your overall health.

Depending on your situation, we may recommend testing for:

• Comprehensive thyroid panels (TSH, Free T3, Free T4, Reverse T3, TPO and TgAb antibodies)
• Hormone testing (estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, cortisol)
• Nutrient and vitamin status
• Inflammation markers
• Gut health and microbiome testing
• Food sensitivity testing
• Heavy metals and environmental toxins

The specific labs recommended depend on your symptoms, history, and goals.

We work with patients dealing with a range of concerns including:

• Thyroid conditions (Hashimoto's, hypothyroidism, Graves', hyperthyroidism)
• Autoimmune conditions
• Chronic fatigue and low energy
• Hormonal imbalances (PMS, menopause, PCOS)
• Gut health concerns
• Weight management
• Chronic inflammation
• Brain fog and cognitive concerns

See all conditions →

A functional medicine plan is highly individualized based on your specific situation, lab results, and goals. Common components may include:

• Dietary recommendations
• Targeted nutritional supplementation
• Lifestyle modifications (sleep, stress, exercise)
• Detoxification protocols (when appropriate)
• Herbal medicine
• Coordinated care with your other healthcare providers
• Ongoing monitoring and adjustments

Timelines vary significantly based on each patient's situation. Some patients notice changes within several weeks, while others find that meaningful improvements take several months. Factors that influence timing include the complexity of your situation, how long you've been experiencing symptoms, and how consistently you follow your personalized plan.

Individual results vary, and we'll discuss realistic expectations for your specific situation during your discovery call and any follow-up visits.

Hashimoto's thyroiditis is an autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland, often leading to hypothyroidism over time. Common symptoms can include fatigue, weight changes, brain fog, cold sensitivity, hair thinning, and dry skin.

Diagnosis typically involves testing for TPO and TgAb thyroid antibodies along with standard thyroid hormone tests. Learn more about our thyroid care approach →

TSH is just one marker of thyroid function. A comprehensive thyroid evaluation also considers Free T3, Free T4, Reverse T3, and thyroid antibodies (TPO and TgAb). These additional markers can provide a more complete picture of thyroid health.

Other factors like gut health, nutrient status, inflammation, and stress can also influence how you feel even when TSH appears within range. A discovery call is a good way to discuss your situation and whether a more comprehensive evaluation might be appropriate.

A comprehensive thyroid panel typically includes:

• TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone)
• Free T4 (Free Thyroxine)
• Free T3 (Free Triiodothyronine)
• Reverse T3
• TPO antibodies (Thyroid Peroxidase)
• TgAb antibodies (Thyroglobulin)

Many conventional providers only test TSH, sometimes with T4. The additional markers can provide important context about how your thyroid is functioning.

Many patients with Hashimoto's find value in a functional medicine approach because it considers factors beyond just thyroid hormone levels. We typically look at gut health, nutrient status, food sensitivities, inflammation, and stress—all of which can influence autoimmune activity.

Outcomes vary by individual, and we work alongside your other healthcare providers including any prescribing physicians. A discovery call is the best way to discuss your specific situation.

No. We never advise patients to stop their thyroid medication without their prescribing physician's guidance. Our functional medicine approach can work alongside your existing medication, focusing on factors like gut health, nutrient status, and inflammation.

Any medication-related decisions should always be coordinated with your prescribing doctor.

Common symptoms associated with hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) can include:

• Persistent fatigue and low energy
• Unexplained weight gain
• Cold sensitivity, especially hands and feet
• Hair thinning or loss
• Dry skin and brittle nails
• Brain fog and difficulty concentrating
• Constipation
• Depression or low mood
• Slow heart rate
• Heavy or irregular periods (in women)

If you're experiencing several of these symptoms, a comprehensive thyroid evaluation may be helpful.

Graves' disease is an autoimmune condition that causes hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid). Common symptoms include rapid heartbeat, weight loss, anxiety, tremors, heat sensitivity, and sleep difficulties.

Like Hashimoto's, it involves the immune system attacking the thyroid—but it causes the thyroid to become overactive rather than underactive. A functional medicine approach considers immune system factors, inflammation, and other contributors.

Traditional Chinese Medicine describes acupuncture as restoring the flow of Qi (vital energy) through meridian pathways in the body. Modern research has documented physiological effects including increased blood flow, release of endorphins and neurotransmitters, modulation of the nervous system, and immune system activity.

Acupuncture is used as part of an integrative approach for a range of conditions including pain management, stress, and various health concerns.

Most people find acupuncture surprisingly relaxing. Many patients report feeling refreshed afterward, and some even fall asleep during the session.

Acupuncture needles are extremely thin—much finer than the needles used for injections or blood draws. You may feel various sensations during a session (a slight pressure, warmth, or tingling), and your acupuncturist will discuss them with you to ensure you're comfortable.

Acupuncture is used as part of an integrative approach for a range of concerns including:

• Chronic and acute pain (back, neck, joint, headaches)
• Stress and anxiety
• Sleep concerns
• Digestive issues
• Hormonal balance
• Fertility support
• Recovery from injury
• Chemotherapy-related symptoms

Individual responses vary, and we discuss expectations during your initial visit.

This varies significantly based on your specific situation. Acute concerns may resolve in a smaller number of visits, while chronic conditions often benefit from a longer course of care.

Most patients move through phases of care:

• Acute care: Visits clustered close together to address current symptoms
• Corrective care: Spacing visits out as symptoms improve
• Wellness care: Periodic maintenance visits

Your acupuncturist will discuss a recommended plan based on your situation.

Before your visit:

• Arrive 15 minutes early for your first appointment to complete intake forms
• Eat a meal or snack within a couple of hours before your appointment
• Wear loose-fitting clothing, especially comfortable pants that come above the knee

After your visit:

• Avoid intense physical activity, alcohol, or caffeine for 4 hours
• Stay hydrated
• Note any changes in how you feel for your next visit

We use Chinese herbs and dietary supplements from companies that maintain high-quality standards, including FDA and GMP compliance. Recommendations are based on your individual situation and may complement other aspects of your care.

Like acupuncture, herbs work best when taken consistently at the recommended dose. You're always free to purchase your herbs and supplements wherever you choose.

Yes. All discovery calls are conducted via secure HIPAA-compliant telehealth. For ongoing care, we offer telehealth visits statewide across Florida.

We can order labs at a LabCorp or Quest location near you, and supplements can be shipped directly to your door.

Available via telehealth (statewide Florida):

• Discovery calls
• Comprehensive consultations
• Functional medicine evaluations
• Lab review and care plan discussions
• Follow-up visits
• Herbal consultations

Requires in-person visit (Dunedin office):

• Acupuncture treatments
• Physical examinations (when needed)
• Certain hands-on therapies

Our telehealth platform is HIPAA-compliant and works on any phone, tablet, or computer with a camera and microphone. Before your appointment, we'll send you a secure link to join the video visit. No special software is required—just click the link at your appointment time.

If you have any technical concerns, our team is happy to help you get set up before your visit.

Our practitioners are licensed in Florida, and ongoing telehealth care is currently available to Florida residents. If you're located outside Florida and interested in working with us, please reach out and we'll let you know what's possible.

Our $47 discovery call is a 30-minute telehealth conversation with our team. It's an opportunity to:

• Share your symptoms and health history
• Discuss what you've already tried
• Learn about our functional medicine approach
• Determine if we might be a good fit for your situation
• Discuss what next steps would look like

There's no commitment to ongoing care. It's simply a chance for both of us to determine if working together makes sense.

We are a cash-based practice for functional medicine consultations, which allows us to spend more time with each patient.

Many patients use HSA or FSA funds for our services. We can provide a superbill that you may submit to your insurance for possible out-of-network reimbursement.

Acupuncture services may be covered by some insurance plans. We're happy to check your benefits.

Care plans are individualized based on your specific situation and goals, so costs vary. During your discovery call and any follow-up conversations, we'll discuss what your specific plan might look like and what the investment would be.

We can also discuss payment options, including HSA/FSA use and what's covered by superbill submission for out-of-network insurance reimbursement.

We understand that healthcare is an investment. We can discuss payment options that work for your situation during your discovery call. Many patients use HSA/FSA funds, which allows them to use pre-tax dollars for our services.

Patients come to us with a variety of concerns. Common areas include:

• Thyroid conditions: Hashimoto's, hypothyroidism, Graves' disease, hyperthyroidism, thyroid nodules
• Autoimmune: Lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, Sjögren's, psoriasis
• Digestive issues: IBS, Crohn's, ulcerative colitis, bloating, acid reflux
• Hormonal concerns: PMS, PCOS, menopause, fertility
• Chronic conditions: Fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, Lyme disease, fibromyalgia
• Metabolic concerns: Pre-diabetes, type 2 diabetes, weight management
• Pain conditions: Chronic back pain, neck pain, joint pain, migraines, nerve pain

See all conditions we work with →

Many of our patients come to us after trying multiple approaches. Functional medicine takes a comprehensive view and considers factors that may not have been explored in previous evaluations—such as comprehensive lab testing, gut health, food sensitivities, inflammation markers, and nutrient status.

A discovery call is a good way to share your story, talk through what you've tried, and discuss whether our approach might be helpful in your situation.

Yes. Root Healing Wellness is affiliated with Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute, and we've conducted research with the University of South Florida on chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy.

We use acupuncture and other supportive approaches to help patients manage symptoms during and after cancer treatment. We always work in coordination with your oncology team.

Weight concerns often involve multiple underlying factors—including thyroid function, insulin sensitivity, hormones, gut health, inflammation, and stress. A functional medicine approach considers all of these factors rather than focusing on weight alone.

By identifying and addressing underlying contributors, many patients find a more sustainable path forward. Individual results vary.