Dr. Lauren Polm, DOM — Root & Branch Medicine

Dr. Lauren Polm, DOM, AP

Lauren is a Doctor of Oriental Medicine, Acupuncture Physician, and Primary Care Provider licensed in Florida. She completed her medical education at East West College of Natural Medicine, receiving her Master of Science in Oriental Medicine and Bachelor of Professional Health Sciences degrees. Lauren was trained in the philosophy, theory, and clinical application of Traditional Chinese Medicine, including the modalities of Acupuncture, Herbal Medicine, Cupping, Moxibustion, Gua Sha, Tui Na, and Chinese Dietary Therapy. Her medical studies also heavily focused on Western anatomy, physiology, diagnosis, physical and orthopedic exams, interpretation of lab testing, and clinical nutrition. Lauren holds her first Bachelor's degree in Psychology from the University of South Florida.

Within her 5-year academic program of 3,000 hours, she completed various clinical rotations. At the East West Clinic she saw a diverse group of patients for various chronic conditions, pain, side effects of pharmaceutical medication, hormonal imbalances, gastrointestinal disorders, cardiovascular disease, allergies, neurological disorders, and infections. At New College of Florida's Counseling & Wellness Center she primarily treated psycho-emotional disorders, autoimmune diseases, gynecological disorders, sports injuries, metabolic syndromes, and sleep disorders. Lauren was mentored by and completed her longest clinical externship at The Caporale Center of Natural Health where she practiced integrative medicine with a focus on fertility and gynecology. There she not only grew her clinical skills in the area of reproductive medicine but also in anti-aging, autoimmune diseases, and the management of complex chronic diseases.

Inspired to deepen her understanding, Lauren traveled to China for an intensive-study internship at Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine. There she participated in clinical rotations at the teaching hospital, attended lectures by senior doctors, and was invited to study with a renowned doctor in his private clinic. In China she observed treatments for a plethora of conditions including gynecological and fertility disorders, skin diseases, digestive concerns, stroke and other neurological rehabilitation, and intellectual disabilities and growth delays in children. Studying and practicing with a wide range of doctors has allowed her access to a variety of cases, styles of treatment, and mentors.

Lauren has special interest in reproductive, autoimmune, gastrointestinal, and psycho-emotional conditions. She believes that a comprehensive and individualized approach is the cornerstone to optimal treatment. Lauren values the therapeutic relationship with her patients and strives to empower them with education for self-care and prevention of disease. She acknowledges that body, mind, and spirit are a connected whole and assists each patient to regain balance for healing and longevity.

Lauren also studies Taoist Tai Chi, is an avid reader and cook, and enjoys spending free time with her rescue dog.