HOLISTIC HEALING SERVICES

Very early in our history, we quickly learned that the availability of drug detoxification and treatment programs was limited. Given the fact that increasing numbers of our participants were requesting referrals to these programs, we came to the realization that we had to find ways to provide "treatment on demand", in order to meet their immediate need for drug management and detox.

We began providing Five Point Ear Acupuncture for detox and stress management in 1993. The model that we used was the similar to the one at Lincoln Hospital in the Bronx. In fact, the staff who developed our program were trained at Lincoln Hospital's world-renowned Detox Acupuncture Training Program.

In 1994, Raquel Algarin, LPN and Reiki Master, began offering Reiki. Reiki is an ancient hands-on healing technique that enhances an individual's ability to heal themselves and to reduce or manage their stress. To date, over 300 participants, volunteers and staff in the agency have been trained and certified in at least First Level Reiki practice. It is also a part of our Peer Education Program curriculum. Recently, Ms. Algarin has begun offering Thai Massage on a limited basis. Thai Massage combines acupressure, passive yoga and and gentle massage. Reiki and Thai Massage are available to members of our Vital Services Program for individuals who are living with HIV or AIDS.

Bi-weekly Holistic Health Workshops are scheduled on Friday afternoons in order to familiarize our participants and volunteers with the various alternative health options that exist.

In the past few years, we have welcomed practitioners who have volunteered their time to offer Yoga classes, Chiropractic treatment, meditation classes and Shiatsu Massage for our participants. Given our limited resources, we welcome anyone willing to offer this kind of support. Our participants are usually unable to access these options and the work and results have been very rewarding.

Please contact Raquel Algarin, Harm Reduction Services Director, for further information or to volunteer your services.