USA

Drugless Functional Medicine is defined as returning normal, expected functionality back to the human organism by reestablishing natural human biochemistry. We do not attempt to circumvent or ‘bypass’ natural chemistry with a pharmaceutical approach, but rather reintroduce those chemicals (nutrients) that are missing or lacking, while removing those things that obstruct natural biochemical pathways.”

Since 2002, Dr Michael Joseph has worked with 1000s of patients with health concerns like obesity, diabetes, heart disease, interstitial cystitis, irritable bowel syndrome, skin problems, anxiety, depression, cancer, eye health, emotional eating, and food allergies. Dr Joseph has a dynamic skill set that covers all of the aspects of nutrition, from food preparation to emotional eating to supplementation and beyond. He understands “Bio-Chemical Individuality”, which means that everyone is biologically unique with unique, individual nutritional needs. He focuses a great deal on nutrient deficiencies and gut flora integrity, using his vast knowledge of human nutritional biochemistry to aid patients in healing their bodies by using the right nutrients in the right amounts at the right times. He is skilled at digestive repair and understands the benefit and use of probiotic repopulation therapy for common GI conditions, including Candida overgrowth and chronic constipation.

Dr Michael Joseph is an authority on food allergies and intolerance and he recognizes the impact that food allergies have on each person’s health. He is an expert in the transition to a non-allergic lifestyle and allergy-free cooking. He also has a deep understanding of both men’s and women’s health, and works exceptionally well with each to achieve their health goals.

Dr Michael merges Functional, Orthomolecular, and Natural Medicine concepts to create a comprehensive, drugless approach that is rivalled by few in the health care world. By re-establishing natural, normal human biochemistry, he is able to help patients reach peak health without the use of drugs. His Deficiency-based medicine methodology is a new take on the tried-and-true Orthomolecular Medicine methods of the likes of Pauling, Hoffer, and Klenner.

At my practice, I focus on patient-centered care that uncovers and addresses the root causes of health issues, with a commitment to holistic healing beyond symptom suppression. My expertise is guided by continuing education in the study of mold, Lyme disease, and other chronic inflammatory conditions, which are often overlooked in traditional medicine. I work with patients facing complex symptoms—chronic fatigue, insomnia, brain fog, and more—many of whom have been dismissed by conventional specialists. In our foundational 90-minute assessment, I review lab results, health histories, and results from diagnostic tools like the PNOĒ Breath Analysis and GlycoCheck to gain a full picture of each patient’s health. For those focused on brain health, I also offer the BrainSpan® test, which evaluates key nutritional and cognitive metrics. At the end of the visit, patients receive a tailored functional lab report with personalized recommendations for diet, supplements, exercise, and mindset, helping them regain control over their health.



Dr. Julia Ward is a compassionate and pioneering physician with over a decade of expertise in functional medicine, offering a holistic, patient-centered approach to health and wellness. After earning her medical degree from the University of Southern California and serving in the U.S. Navy, where she practiced general, urgent, and emergency medicine both domestically and abroad, she faced personal health challenges that led her to functional medicine. Frustrated by the limitations of conventional care, Dr. Ward embraced a root-cause approach, completing a fellowship with the American Board of Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine in 2016. She has since dedicated her career to empowering patients with knowledge, promoting sustainable lifestyle changes, and integrating cutting-edge science into her practice to address physical and environmental factors impacting health. A devoted wife and mother of five, Dr. Ward combines her passion for medicine with a steadfast commitment to improving lives through transformative care.

New Leaf Wellness PLLC provides virtually accessible functional medical care to residents and visitors of Washington state.