Functional Medicine Doctor in Portland, OR

At Urban Wellness Group, we embrace the principles of functional medicine—a patient-centered, science-based approach that seeks to identify and address the root causes of illness, rather than simply managing symptoms. Our practice recognizes that each individual is unique, and we view the body as an interconnected system where genetics, lifestyle, environment, and personal history all play integral roles in overall health.
 
Unlike conventional medicine, which often follows standardized treatments and protocols to manage specific diagnoses, our functional medicine practitioners invest time in understanding the whole person. We take a deep dive into your health story, exploring factors such as nutrition, physical activity, stress levels, sleep quality, and environmental exposures. Through advanced laboratory testing, we can uncover subtle imbalances or dysfunctions that may be missed by traditional approaches.
 
We integrate the best of modern medicine with a holistic, personalized strategy. While conventional medicine excels in acute care, emergencies, and surgical interventions, our focus is on prevention, optimal wellness, and long-term vitality. By treating the underlying causes of disease, we empower our patients to actively participate in their own health journey and achieve lasting well-being.

Functional medicine is particularly effective for complex or chronic health concerns that affect multiple body systems. We commonly work with patients facing autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. Our integrative strategies are also beneficial for individuals with chronic digestive issues, including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and food sensitivities. By utilizing advanced diagnostic tools and a comprehensive assessment of your lifestyle, nutrition, and environment, we create a personalized care plan to address your unique needs.
 
Metabolic disorders—like type 2 diabetes, obesity, and metabolic syndrome—are also a focus. Through our functional medicine approach, we help patients understand and manage these conditions by targeting underlying imbalances and promoting sustainable lifestyle changes.
 
Hormonal health is another area we emphasize. Whether you’re experiencing thyroid disorders, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or the symptoms associated with menopause or andropause, our team provides individualized solutions that restore balance and vitality.
 
We also see many patients with chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, and persistent pain. By identifying potential triggers such as nutrient deficiencies, inflammation, or stress, we’re able to recommend integrative therapies that support long-term relief and improved quality of life.

At Urban Wellness Group, our functional medicine practitioners approach patient assessment with a comprehensive and integrative mindset, focused on uncovering the underlying causes of health concerns rather than simply managing symptoms. From your very first visit, you’ll experience our commitment to truly personalized care—we begin with an in-depth conversation that goes far beyond your current symptoms. We take the time to understand your detailed medical history, lifestyle habits, nutrition, exercise routines, sleep quality, environmental exposures, stress levels, and emotional well-being. We also explore your family medical background and significant life events that could be impacting your health today.
 
To complement this thorough interview, our team utilizes specialized questionnaires and assessment tools that help map your unique health timeline. This process allows us to identify patterns, triggers, and potential root causes of your condition. When appropriate, we may recommend laboratory testing—including both standard blood work and advanced assessments such as comprehensive stool analysis, detailed hormonal panels, micronutrient evaluations, and screenings for food sensitivities or chronic infections. These insights help us understand how your digestive, endocrine, immune, and detoxification systems are functioning and interacting.
 
With all of this information, we carefully interpret the data to identify imbalances, deficiencies, or dysfunctions that may be contributing to your health challenges. This holistic assessment forms the foundation for your personalized care plan, which may include tailored dietary and lifestyle modifications, targeted nutritional support, stress management strategies, and, when necessary, referrals to other healthcare specialists. Throughout your journey, we emphasize collaboration, education, and empowerment—ensuring you have the tools and support needed to achieve and maintain long-term health and wellness.

Our functional medicine practitioners take a personalized, root-cause approach for every patient. This begins with a thorough assessment of your medical history, comprehensive laboratory testing, and the development of a tailored treatment plan that fits your lifestyle and health goals.
 
Many of our patients begin to notice improvements in areas such as energy levels, sleep quality, or pain reduction within a few weeks of starting their program—especially when key lifestyle factors like nutrition, stress, and sleep hygiene are addressed. However, for chronic conditions or symptoms that have developed over many years, the healing process can take longer, sometimes several months. We focus on gradual, sustainable progress, with regular check-ins and adjustments to your plan as your body responds and heals.
 
Your active participation is essential for achieving the best outcomes. Consistency with recommended dietary modifications, supplements, exercise, and stress management practices will help you get the most from your functional medicine experience. We encourage open communication, regular follow-up appointments, and patience, as restoring balance and wellness is a process rather than a quick fix. While some individuals may see early improvements, most of our patients can expect to experience meaningful changes over three to six months.

At Urban Wellness Group, Dr. Zabell blends modern medical insight with a whole-body perspective to help patients achieve optimal health. By identifying how factors like sleep, hormones, and environment affect well-being, Dr. Zabell provides targeted solutions that restore balance and vitality from within.
 
Our team is committed to supporting you every step of the way, continually refining your care plan to help you achieve your long-term health and wellness goals. For more information, contact us or book an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 4900 SE Division St, Portland, OR 97206. We serve patients from Portland OR, Milwaukie OR, Happy Valley OR, Oak Grove OR, Lake Oswego OR, Beaverton OR, Tigard OR, and surrounding areas.