Testimony to Dr. Maki’s excellence, I sit down to write about Dr. Maki and am flooded with gratitude. She is a forward thinker, which excites me! She has met me on every level. Physically: thyroid, myer’s, bio-puncture, constipation, colds- Emotionally: my relationships spiritually this is the essence of our work together. She has been a guide, a counselor, a patient friend, a voice, a force, a perspective, a revelation, as I ached to grow. My health today is Magnificent!

-Rosy R.

I heard about Dr. Takashima through my acupuncturist, who is a patient. I was very impressed with my acupuncturist’s recommendation, and I have great respect for naturopathy. I’ve had persistent respiratory and digestive issues. I found Dr. Takashima to be incredibly patient, kind, compassionate, and insightful. She asked wonderful questions, was very positive and confident she could help me, and had an easy, warm, and natural presence that was great to experience. She also communicated with humility, and assurance. Dr. Takashima was extremely thorough, and never made me feel rushed or hurried. She acted like I was the only patient in her practice—she was so willing to go at my pace, never hurrying me through what I wanted or needed to tell her. She was always very astute in her understanding and analysis, and obviously informed not only broadly but with what was most current. Dr. Takashima also has extraordinary intuition to draw upon, and I was often amazed at how perceptive she was. I very much appreciated Dr. Takashima making use of conventional testing to support her diagnosis and protocols. I was able to see, concretely, some of the things which both she and I supposed, and I was reassured by what some of the tests indicated. Most of the changes I had to make were simple ones, like not eating a few things I enjoyed or hoped to enjoy, as well as trying to work on some emotional issues. I found Dr. Takashima to have a real depth of understanding of human emotions and conditioning, and all my talks with her have been extremely informative and inspiring. Dr. Takashima prescribed all of the above at different times, depending on what seemed to be indicated. She was familiar with some wonderful products, including orchid essences. Dr. Takashima always seems to remember where we last left off—I always feel like there is a great interest and caring in my well-being. I always learn something useful in speaking with her. I have improved since seeing Dr. Takashima, and continue to see her for maintenance purposes. I have had several issues that have been quite complicated, and generally speaking, I am better in all ways. I can’t attach a particular percentage to my improvement—I would say that I am greatly better than when I started seeing her, and have continued to be aware of and work with her insights. I will also say that every time I’ve seen her, without exception, I have felt better—she is a person of incredible integrity, insight, and great gifts. I feel blessed to have found her!

-Steve S.

I am pleased to recommend Dr. Maki Takashima and the Natural Holistic Wellness Center, of Monterey. We are fortunate to have a naturopathic doctor in our area, with medical training from Bastyr University. The University is highly recognized as one of the best schools, for training in naturopathic medicine.

At the time, my general health was compromised and I was seeking treatment for relief from migraine headaches, recurring sinus infections, a thyroid condition and high cholesterol. During our subsequent meetings, Dr. Takashima was able to council me on the types of food that while healthy and organic, were causing me harm. Where previously, I would eat large quantities of all fruits and vegetables, she limited certain items. She has taught me to eat foods that are right for my chemistry.

Dr. Takashima is very professional in her manner and explains the science behind her decisions for your care. The medical laboratories they utilize, send back results in easy to read formats, with recommendations for improvements. I was treated with both homeopathic and nutritional supplements, until we hit on the right combination to improve my condition.

Her diagnostic and treatment protocols seem to be working. My sinus infections have been eliminated. My migraines are less frequent and relief can be reached in most cases, with a combination of items. My thyroid medication is naturopathic and the tests show that it is optimal for my condition. All in all, I am quite pleased with the care I have received from Dr. Takashima and with full confidence I recommend her. The test results show, that she has been instrumental in the maintenance of my health.

-Joan G.

Dr. Maki's Medical expertise and gracious council have been invaluable to me in my ongoing quest for better health.

Starting five years ago, I have seen eight different doctors on the Monterey Peninsula because of thyroid and other related health problems. I spent those years on Synthroid, Levoxyl, anti-depressants, and a number of other prescriptions drugs. I gained 45 pounds in the process and was a basket case of profound and debilitating fatigue. Each time I went to yet another doctor with the hope of finally being helped that hope invariably turned to dust-again. I continued suffering from poor stamina, feeling cold, gaining weight, dry skin, hair loss, depression, only to be told that because the TSH or other lab results were within range, I was normal. Doctors reasoned I needed other medications to treat the "non-thyroid" symptoms, to eat less, exercise more or see a psychiatrist. I finally went to Dr. Takashima, through a coincidence because one of the other doctors was no longer available. Little did I know that this would turn my life around. In Dr. Takashima I met a doctor whose approach to health is one of care and compassion, backed up by an ocean of knowledge. She looks at – and understands! – The complete picture of a patient's health issues. After a very through intake, she is very systematic in addressing all issues surrounding them.

During my visits with Dr. Takashima, she listened actively and responded thoroughly to what I said; instead of simply telling me what prescription I needed we worked together to find the most appropriate treatment for me. I most appreciated that Dr. Takashima approaches all health issues in a holistic manner, treating the entire being versus just the symptoms. And invariably her approach is toward positive outcomes and regaining health. Dr. Takashima has one additional feature that is harder and harder to find these days. She does not rush her patients or even make them feel that she is too busy to give them the time they need. Dr. Takashima meets and exceeds the definition of a true doctor in every way.

-Erika K.

Symptoms including, exhaustion, weight gain, mood swings, stress, acne and being on an emotional roller coaster affect your life and more importantly your relationships with family, friends and co-workers. After suffering with these things for years, my sister suggested I make an appointment with Dr. Maki and see if my hormones were out of balance. After some testing Dr. Maki prescribed the hormones I needed. In just four weeks I noticed how much better I was feeling, my hair, nails and skin were so much improved along with my mood swings, anxiety and tearfulness. I have been using the bio-identical hormones for over a year now and couldn't be happier with the results. I now feel like I have my life back and I am feeling the way I know I should. If you are suffering with any of these symptoms, feeling unwell or just not like yourself call Dr. Maki for an appointment. You will be so happy you did.

-Deborah S.

Dr. Maki Takashima embodies the energy of a true healer. Her ability to respond to patients concerns, with insightful assessment of symptoms and utilization of a variety of healing modalities which facilitate the body to rejuvenate and heal naturally are in keeping with holistic medicine. She works with the patient in a co-creative approach and continually monitors ones progress. Her compassion and dedication are further attributes that have been observed during the times I have sought her care. Her treatments provide the body, mind and spirit to heal in harmony.

-Sharon D.

I initially sought Dr. Maki's help for menopause symptoms and after having had my hormone levels tested and being prescribed bio identical hormone replacement, my symptoms have entirely alleviated. Dr. Maki has also helped me with food and environmental allergies, and anxiety.

Aside from being on excellent physician, Dr. Maki is extremely intuitive. She is a true healer.

-Betsy H.