For 40 years, I have suffered from Ulcerative Colitis (UC). UC is an autoimmune disease that is sparked by the body's misguided belief that the large intestine (often referred to informally as the "colon") is a foreign object and the immune system attacks that part of the body to try to get rid of that object. It causes sometimes severe tearing of the colon, to the point that it could rupture, which is a life-threatening event. Since I discovered I had UC at age 22, I have been taking pills to eradicate or minimize the symptoms and the discomfort. Roughly once a year, my symptoms would get worse and the doctors who treat me simply raised the amount of medicine or asked me to take more invasive medicine to push the symptoms back. All we are doing, according to my doctors, is "managing the condition," for they have yet to find a cure. Recently, my symptoms became severe and the approaches I had taken in the past no longer seemed to work. Raising all sorts of concerns, the doctors told me that the next step (in order to avoid surgery to remove my colon) is to take some new drugs that, to the allopathic mind of my GI doctor, seemed promising. The drugs basically weaken the immune system so much so that it cannot attack my colon. The theory is, if the immune system is attacking myself, then simply weaken the immune system. Of course, the problem with this strategy is that I would be subjecting me to all kinds of other problems--significantly reduced ability to fight off colds, flus, other viruses, infections that won't go away, liver problems, high risk of getting Leukemia, etc. Instead of succumbing to this what seems like a Faustian bargain, I began to wonder if there were other ways of addressing my chronic illness. After exploring many alternatives, I came upon Dr. Tom Yarema. What he did was remarkably different than what I faced with my western trained UC doctors. He asked a ton of questions about my life, my lifestyle, my emotional state throughout my life, how I ate, how I slept, my romantic life, etc. In other words, he was deeply interested in seeing me as a whole person, and he was wonderfully curious. It's as if he was not buying the presumption that UC was incurable (that's what the western medical doctors told me), nor was he buying that we do not know the causes of UC (that's what the western medical doctors told me). He was treating me as a whole person and engaging me fully in the process. While it is too soon to tell the outcome for me, I am hopeful. I took the medicine he prescribed to kill the parasites, I severely changed my diet, and I got more active in inviting more love and community into my life. Six months later, as of this moment, I am symptom free and even better, there is no evidence of any colitis anywhere. At this moment, I sense I dodged a bullet, one that the Western medical world aimed directly at my belly. It is too soon to tell if I found a cure. Most importantly, what stands out is that for 40 years I put my life in doctors' hands. I had become a passive receiver of what I thought to be their greater knowledge. I'm not alone. Almost everyone does. We believe they have the answers to our ills, and we give decision making power up to them. But had I done so in this case could have proven fatal to me. Thankfully, I woke up to see the pattern and met Dr. Tom. read more

Dr. Tom has truly saved my life. Before I was referred to the Doctor, I was involved with traditional Doctors out of state . I was hospitalized in May with Supraventricular Tachycardia and subsequently had a surgical procedure called an ablation which the cardiologists recommended to stop the fast rate. Needless to say the results were awful. My heart developed more arrhythmia issues and the Tachycardia returned. I was short of breath and was in and out of the emergency room many times. I also developed a condition called Stress Induced Cardiomyopathy. I was put on drugs which had nasty side effects. The side effects included a chemical induced clinical depression and stomach issues -in addition to the unresolved cardiac issues. I was so weak, I could barely walk across the street. I had a phone consult with Dr. Tom in August of this year and went to California in September to have an in person consultation. Dr. Tom was able to help diagnose the real problem which involved the parasympathetic nervous system. My husband is an electrical engineer and he was very impressed with the exceptional diagnostic skill levels that this Doctor displayed as well as the attention to detail that Dr. Tom gave me. I have been able to get off of the medications and am using supplements, acupuncture and special exercises to help my nervous system recover. The depression is gone and my energy is starting to normalize. I am starting to see a real chance at life again! I still have phone sessions with Dr. Tom and he continues to guide me on my recovery. I am forever grateful for this man's expertise- as well as his kindness and empathy. Thank-You Dr. Tom! read more

I've been seeing Dr. Yarema for the past eight years for various health issues (including Lyme disease, severe mold sensitivity and ligament tears). Regular M.D.'s often don't understand the complexities of treating someone with chronic illness. I've had a couple of situations where going to the emergency room was not helpful. Fortunately Dr. Tom has a background in emergency medicine, which he combines with his training in functional medicine, Western medicine, Ayurvedic healing and Chinese Medicine. He was able to stabilize my body in those two emergency situations I referred to. I really appreciate his wealth of knowledge--he's able to think "out of the box," which is crucial for someone dealing with a chronic illness. My father has also been helped tremendously by Dr. Tom. My dad no longer has atherosclerosis due to the German tinctures he was given by Dr. Yarema. My dad was not able to take the statins that his doctor at Kaiser had put him on. The statins were reacting with another med and he was ending up in the ER with severe tachycardia. Dr. Tom was able to get my dad off the statins, and the German tinctures used got his cholesterol where it needed to be. Dr. Yarema is continuing to see patients in person, if they choose, during the Covid 19 crisis. His Zoom lectures have been a real asset--he sifts through the current worldwide research, lets us know what he thinks we should be paying attention to, without political spin, and he answers our questions at the end. read more

I am five years into what has been a life changing and at times incredibly intense journey with Crohn's, an autoimmune disease affecting the digestive system. I came to Dr. Tom on the suggestion from another doctor for ozone treatments, what I have been receiving in addition to ozone is what I consider the most insightful, compassionate and astute health care anywhere. I arrived at Dr. Yarema's door already in pretty good condition--inflammation under control and asymptomatic disease state, but with the wake of half of a decade of damage. With the ozone treatments--modified and measured by Dr. Tom's extensive experience and rapid assimilation of a complicated history--and within just a couple of weeks started to feel a level of resiliency I forgot was even possible. I've even come to realize my current "good health" has been little more than putting an extraordinary amount of energy into keeping my head above water. There is little doubt in my mind that had I had the level of care provided by Dr. Yarema five years ago, I would have avoided a lot of pain, procedures and even near death experiences. In fact, the severity of my condition was what moved me to Santa Cruz, as my health team in Oregon felt like they couldn't help me and I needed to get into someplace like Stanford or UCSF (which I did). The future of healthcare is more personal, with an understanding of science, technology and ancient health modalities. Dr. Tom Yarema is all of that and more. read more

As a 53 year old, I came to Dr. Yarema in 2015 after having a bone density exam following a broken ankle. The test scores for my femoral neck bones were -2.5; this was determined to be osteoporosis. My regular doctor told me: "These are not normal scores for woman of your age. If you were 10 years older, I would put you on medication." She referred me to an endocrinologist. Rather than take her guidance, I contacted Dr. Yarema, who was known to me as a masterful practitioner with skill sets encompassing traditional and alternative protocols. After carefully considering my overall health, he prescribed a regimen of high quality vitamins, minerals, and bio-identicals, tailored to me. Rather than default to medical solutions, he supported me in the possibility that I could strengthen my bones, despite the word from my other doctor that "this is not possible." For the last two years I have followed his protocol, and regularly weight trained with Pilates and TRX. Just today I received the test results: my femoral neck bone results are -1.8. This is a radical improvement to my scores (10%!), and, while I still have lower bone density than a young adult, I no longer have osteoporosis. Dr. Yarema gave me the hope that I could heal through nutrition and exercise. He was right! I recommend him to others who are being directed to Biphosponate medications and suffering their side effects when there may be a more natural option. read more

Dr. Tom's breadth of understanding, mastery at weaving conventional and holistic medicine, his compassion, ability to listen deeply with obvious respect, and his extraordinary brilliance and insight at connecting-the-dots of seemingly unrelated symptoms---these qualities alone would make him an exceptional doctor. But couple those with the fact that he makes you feel like you are the most important person in the world, that you're a team, and that he is dedicated to helping you regain and/or maintain optimal health---at that point you realize your healing has already begun. After sudden emergency surgery, I was physically and psychologically shattered. Conventional medicine consisted of ongoing tests, scans, myriad doctor appointments, specialists who isolated my symptoms and referred me to additional specialists, all fraught with fear-inducing dire warnings in which I was a specimen identified by a number---my birthdate---rather than my name. Dr. Tom, in contrast, was interested in every nuance of who I am and every avenue that could offer a solution to what I was experiencing. He is an exemplar of holistic treatment at its finest. The reason I am alive, happy, and an active participant in my life today is because of him. Treatment and follow-through are a personal commitment and in-depth experience. Dr. Tom will not give up on you, nor should you give up on yourself. You're worth the commitment. read more

Dr. Tom has been the first and only one doctor that has really helped my son get better. He has been a blessing for my whole family. I have gone to several doctors in California including Standford and none of them could truly figure out my son's problem. Always receiving hopeless answers such as being a simple virus or bacteria when I knew it was something else. Just at the age of 18 months, having several asthma flare ups very often, back pain and frequent high fevers. By the age of 3 he got treated for the first herpes outbreak getting flare ups every 2 weeks accompanied with high fevers, diarrhea and severe vomiting. Then diagnosed with a blatocystis hominis infection. Several visits to the ER, and no answers at all. Years treating him with steroids, ibuprofen, acethaminophen, acyclovir, antibiotics, getting blood drawn and more. None of them giving good results leading to more problems. Tired and overwhelmed a miracle occured, I met Dr. Tom. My boy is now 4 years old and after just 3 months of treatment with him his health is the best it could be. No more nasty medicine and chemicals damaging my sons body. Just like another patient of his said; he's not just a physician he's a mentor, teacher, educator and so much more. Thank you Dr. Tom!!! Now you are, and always will be our number one doctor. read more

I've been seeing Dr. Yarema for about a 2 months now for my gastroparesis (mobility disorder of the stomach). All other doctors kept telling me that it's idiopathic in nature and pushed pills without success. I was giving up hope and heard about Dr. Tom from a family friend who went through the Get Your Body Back program and loved it. I've had 3 appointments over the phone and he's done more for me in those appointments than anyone else has for the past 3 years. I've been feel remarkably better already. He takes the time to listen to all my needs and can even put what I'm feeling into words better than I can. I appreciate that he speaks to me in a manner that I understand but is also very professional. He explains how one thing can affect the rest of your body and works very hard to get you feeling better! We've recently had a "breakthrough" with the finding of some of my lab work and I have even more confidence in Dr. Tom, which I didn't know would be possible! I can't wait to see what "normal" feels like! read more

How can one describe the perfect doctor? In my case, it can be accomplished in 2 words: Tom Yarema. He has been treating me and my complicated case since November, 2018, and I can truly state that because of his expertise, in-depth knowledge of MANY modalities, along with his patience, compassion, and sincerity in genuinely caring about you as a person, I am still here, and doing better and better with each visit. I'm the kind of person/patient who asks a gazillion questions, each of which Dr. Tom takes in stride. Plus: it is so encouraging to me when an unusual medical issue arises to see Dr. Tom get all excited about it! He loves to learn, and is constantly immersing himself in educating his already- impressive knowledge of medicine with the very latest medical and scientific discoveries. It is my belief that with Dr. Tom, you will learn how to best approach whatever medical issues you are facing, and with the best possible outcomes. I am deeply grateful to this extraordinary doctor! LB, Santa Cruz County read more

I recently lost my husband, and tested positive for Covid. I notified my local physician for treatment and was disappointed when instructed to go to urgent care or the ER. Within five days, I was experiencing all the known symptoms and feeling helpless and very alone. An old friend referred me to her brothers doctor, Dr. Tom. The following Monday, I had my first conference call with the doctor. We discussed a detailed treatment plan including two prescriptions known to fight the virus as well as a specific diet, dosages of vitamin C, D3, Zinc, natural nasal spray and herbal drops shipped to my door the next day. I followed Dr. Toms instructions of the nasal treatment, etc and was relieved to find my symptoms improved within four days as the Doctor had stated. His follow up has been timely and again...he offered a full wellness treatment plan! He took away the fear of the virus and I'm forever grateful for his traditional and natural treatment methods allowing me to regain my health today! L. B. read more

Dr Tom is a highly intelligent-qualified doctor/healer in the true essence of the word- one who practices empathy and awareness when you desperately feel alone in your suffering. I echo the sentiments many people have expressed in regards to the quality care, accurate diagnosis- empowering model of disease management rather than fear-based model. His treatment is therapeutic-involves, first and foremost intentional listening, careful and focused interrogation of the disease/disorder, symptoms that are affecting you as an individual specifically based on your body constitution- medical history.He specializes in various diagnostic measures and modalities of healing including Ayurveda,Chinese medicine, Blood work and imaging. He invests and includes integrative methods that work in collaboration with the latest technological advances in medicine. I highly recommend giving yourself a chance to be healed by Dr Tom. read more

I've been Dr. Yarema's patient for over 8 years and I have so many compliments for him. He uses alternative medicine methods as well as traditional medicine. I've had several treatments done like acupuncture and others. He also knows so much about food and the effects it has on each part of your body that there's always some natural way to find relief. I really love and appreciate that he always takes his time with each patient. You will never feel like you're being rushed out of there like in other doctors' offices. He listens to everything and takes his time with so many suggestions. He also has a great array of supplements that are really good quality and are not contaminated like some that you find at the store. For all those reasons and more, I would totally recommend him to anyone looking for a physician that knows and uses different types of medicine. Thank you Dr. Yarema! read more

Dr Tom is an wonderful example of what a doctor should be. He is exceptionally educated and thorough. He spent 4 hours talking to me and going over all of the ailments I have been experiencing for the past 5+ years which in my experience is completely unheard of. I've seen 28 doctors in the past two years alone. I had been diagnosed with different chronic illnesses and all they wanted to do was put me on opiates and send me on my way. Not Dr Tom, this man is hands down the best doctor I have ever met. There is quite literally a night and day difference compared to how I felt when I walked into his office less than a month ago and how I feel today. I strongly encourage you to seek his help because is knowledge is invaluable. Let him save you like he saved me. read more

Dr. Tom is the most skilled practitioner I have ever known. His training is difficult to match anywhere. His success with patients is remarkable. I have utilized his talents for: acupuncture, lymphatic work, metabolic - Get Your Body Back Program, live blood analysis, IV blood cleansing, vitamin and supplementation, ozone treatment, blood pressure management, and so much more. I have released 80 pounds in his care so far and I enjoy living a much healthier life. It feels so good to know that I have him as my doctor, and his support, in case I face health issues and as I age. Dr. Tom Yarema shows his patients incredible care and concern and knows how to help. Make the commitment to your health and he will show you how to get there. read more

I came to see Dr Yarema after seven Sanford doctors couldn't figure out what was wrong with me or how to treat my medical condition. Dr. Yarema spent time listening to me, evaluating my symptoms, and analyzing my test result to accurately diagnose me. He also came up with a conventional and naturalistic long term health plan that has given me quality of life and finally propelled me into healing after years of pain and suffering. I don't know where I'd be without his intellect and ingenuity. I highly recommend seeing Dr Yarema but especially for those with rare or misdiagnosed medical conditions. Stop suffering and get a second opinion from Dr Yarema. Sometimes it takes the unconventional to treat the unconventional. read more

DR. Tom is like an old fashioned physician in that he really takes his time, and listens to you. He is the kind of Doctor you can partner with to find the best options for treatment whether they be within the medical model or the alternative perspective. I have always looked for the alternative methods first, because Tom is trained in Traditional Chinese Medicine as well as Ayurveda he is great in providing a range of treatment plans. He and his staff are kind, considerate, compassionate and respectful. For me these qualities are why I highly recommend him. I don't understand the previous 2 star review from a patient that has a successful weight loss program. I found him thoughtful, serious, and entirely helpful... read more

When describing my symptoms, Dr. Yarema took everything into consideration without dismissing my concerns. he paid close attention to my physical exam not just doing a quick checkpoint but makes potential connections between all systems while still zeroing in on areas of concern. you get time to visit about how your symptoms are affecting you and he has many approaches to helping you and that may include prescribed medications. Dr. Yarema is knowledgeable beyond what I've ever experienced in a Doctor about how remedies and medications may be of help and interact. I highly recommend Dr. Yarema to everyone and especially to anyone who has had trouble getting the help they need in the past read more

Well, he did it again. Dr. Tom saved my life in 2000. He saved me from going into the hospital with walking pneumonia back then. He also helped me restore balance to my hormones. And, now, 17 years later, he has restored my flatline cortisol levels to normal, and has built my immunities back up to healthy. I can now return to work, after taking a year off and following his instructions for healing and restoration. He is a brilliant MD that takes the whole person into view and walks with you on the path to health. Thank you, Dr.Tom. My husband and friends have noticed a difference in me, too. I am grateful for your help. read more

Dr Tom is a member of the National Association of Functional Medicine. Although he is trained in Chinese Medicine, Sports Medicine and Alternative Medicine, the most important thing is he is a Functional Medicine Doctor. This means he treats you according to the causes of your illness not by masking your symptoms. Moreover he helps you maintain superior health habits and practices so you are less likely to ever get sick again after he helps you get well. He really helps you beef up your immune system. Highly recommend his Zoom Series where he meets with patients for an hour once a week. read more