HAWK'S NATURAL HEALTH CONSULTATIONS

Diane Hawk, ND, PhD received her Doctorate in Naturopathic Medicine in July 2005

from Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine in Tempe, AZ. She holds a Ph.D. in pathology from Georgetown University, DC and an M.S. in microbiology and immunology from Hahnemann University, Philadelphia, PA. Before becoming a naturopath, Diane was an immunologist with over 20 years of experience in the biomedical field. She worked with contractors for the National Cancer Institute

and the National Institutes of Health evaluating clinical trials for cancer vaccines and cytokines and evaluating patients with a variety of immunologic defects. Diane first became interested in the field of natural medicine ten years ago when she injured her back in a bicycling accident. The muscle relaxants and pain killers that her doctor prescribed did little to alleviate her pain. The side effects made it difficult for her to concentrate at work. So she tried acupuncture, chiropractic adjustments, stretching exercises and herbal supplements. These treatments alleviated her muscle spasms and reduced her pain. Due to this experience, she became interested in learning more about natural treatments and herbs.

The naturopathic medicine program is a four year program accredited by the Council on Naturopathic Medical Education, recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education. Most of the first two years is spent studying the basic sciences like anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, pathology, and microbiology. The third and fourth year of training is spent learning more about the diagnosis and treatment of a vast array of diseases. Also, during the last two years, students gain clinical experience under the guidance of licensed NDs, MDs, DOs, and, DCs. Treatment modalities taught include: herbs, acupuncture, nutrition, manipulation, hydrotherapy, homeopathy, and mind-body medicine.