In this episode, Executive Director Nathalie Sloane speaks with Dr. Alison Bested, one of our leading physicians at the Institute for Neuro-Immune Medicine. They sit down and discuss the importance of validating patients' experiences, especially for those with chronic, debilitating illnesses like myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME/CFS), fibromyalgia, and post-COVID syndrome.  They also highlight the unique collaborative environment at the Institute for Neuro-Immune Medicine. The Institute is where a wealth of clinical experience and cutting-edge research converge to offer the best patient care and develop new treatments for complex diseases. Our clinical researchers work tirelessly to unravel the facts about ME/CFS and find the best treatments suitable for each patient’s needs. Listen in to learn how this collective approach is revolutionizing care for chronic illness sufferers. Key Points: 00:00 Introduction 02:43 Initial patient assessment and goals in treatment 07:48 Understanding chronic fatigue syndrome at the cellular level 14:29 Introduction to chemical sensitivities: a case study 16:53 Cognitive behavioral therapy and hypnotherapy in patient care 18:25 Self-care strategies for patients with chronic illness 21:51 How INIM pioneers in cutting-edge treatments 24:22 INIM’s patient relationship and research integration 26:10 Patient success stories and the importance of energy management 31:35 Cognitive behavioral strategies for maintaining positivity. Dr. Alison Bested, an esteemed leader in integrative medicine, chairs the Department at Nova Southeastern University and shapes future doctors as an Associate Professor. A Diplomate of Integrative Medicine with a 26-year track record, she specializes in treating complex conditions like ME/CFS and fibromyalgia. Her innovative use of telemedicine has supported patients far beyond her base in Toronto. With fellowships in multiple medical disciplines and authorship of key resources in her field, Dr. Bested's vision is to elevate NSU as a premier center for treatment and research, while educating the public on chronic medical conditions through various media. —------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Thank you for tuning in to the Hope and Help For Fatigue and Chronic Illness Podcast. Sign up today for our newsletter. ? https://nova.us4.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=419072c88a85f355f15ab1257&id=5e03a4de7d Enjoy our show? Please leave us a 5-star review on the following platforms so we can bring hope and help to others Apple Podcasts:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hope-and-help-for-fatigue-chronic-illness/id1724900423 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/154isuc02GnkPEPlWfdXMT This podcast is brought to you by the Institute for Neuro-Immune Medicine. Learn more about us here. Website: https://www.nova.edu/nim/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/InstituteForNeuroImmuneMedicine Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/NSU_INIM/ Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/NSU_INIM TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nsu_inim Your support goes a long way toward the advancement of clinical research. Donate here. ? https://www.nova.edu/nim/donations.html