Side By Side Homeopathy

Who are we?

     Side by Side Homeopathy is a group of professional homeopaths dedicated to providing homeopathic treatment to socially and economically marginalized people in the downtown east side of Vancouver and associated treatment centers. Side by Side is incorporated as a non-profit society in British Columbia.

What is Homeopathy?

     Homeopathy is a 200 year old system of medicine using natural remedies to stimulate the body's self-healing powers. It is a holistic medicine which treats the symptoms of the body and mind as a totality. Homeopaths recognise that symptoms of ill-health are expressions of disharmony within the whole person, and that the whole person needs treatment, not just the isolated symptoms of a particular illness.

History of Side by Side

     Side by Side Homeopathy began in February of 2009 and Non Profit status was granted in Oct of 2009 .  It was initially inspired by a few homeopaths who felt motivated to help those struggling with substance misuse issues specifically in the Downtown East Side of Vancouver. The homeopaths combined their desire to help with their knowledge that homeopathy could be an effective healing modality with much to offer in this situation. Side by Side Homeopathy was created and currently there are over 20 individuals volunteering in the organization

     The first site where Side by Side initiated the project was Onsite detox and later the project was expanded to include Ranier Hotel and the Life Skills Centre. Currently homeopaths are visiting these sites once a week for  3 hour sessions. On a typical visit, the homeopaths will meet with 3-4 patients – 1-2 new patients as well as several follow-ups with patients that are currently being treated.   

Results so far:

     Since our inception we have received  many positive reports from clients and staff following treatment. Clients have experienced amelioration of symptoms that had not improved with conventional treatment such as  nausea, digestive complaints, chronic physical pain from old injuries, sleeplessness, mental confusion, anxiety, panic attacks and nightmares. Although some patients are only seen once, or relapse and are lost to follow up, even from these patients we have received feedback that they have appreciated the experience of the homeopathic interview in which they have been able to express freely and often come to a deeper understanding and awareness of themselves.

Testimonial from a client:

I use homeopathy, they are wonderful.  The practitioner first asked me so many questions, for almost one and a half hours including my dreams, spiritual beliefs, etc.  I was surprised, no MD would take the time to dig deeply into "who" I am at the deepest level...If the British royal family uses them, it is good enough for me.

CB, Life Skills Centre, October, 2010

Our offer of services includes

• Professional services commitment
• Volunteer time serving clients and patients
• Education in first aid homeopathy for staff and organizations
• Remedy kits

Non-Profit Organization

     Side by Side Homeopathy is incorporated as a society. The aim is to establish an office in the DTES where clients can be followed over the long term after they leave Onsite and Rainier. It would also include a space to house the Side by Side Pharmacy. The non-profit status would eventually allow the homeopaths to receive an honorarium for their time, as so far all the work has been volunteer.

Would YOU like to help?

Homeopaths, students of homeopathy, anyone interested in helping the Downtown East Side...