Healing Without Hurting: Treating ADHD, Apraxia, Autism Naturally
Author: Jennifer Giustra-Kozek, LPC
Published: 2015/01/19 - Updated: 2025/12/06
Publication Type: Literature / Review
Category Topic: Publications - Related Publications
Page Content: Synopsis - Introduction - Main - Insights, Updates
Synopsis: This book introduces evidence-based natural treatment approaches for ADHD, apraxia, and autism spectrum disorders through the lens of a licensed psychotherapist and parent who drew on over 15 years of clinical experience plus personal experience helping her own child. The author, Jennifer Giustra-Kozek, situates her work against mainstream medicine's reliance on medication by offering a comprehensive menu of non-pharmaceutical alternatives grounded in her professional practice and documented outcomes.
The material is useful because it addresses a genuine gap many families experience - the need for concrete, practical options beyond standard pharmaceutical interventions - and comes from someone with the dual credibility of clinical training and lived parental experience. Parents, educators, and healthcare practitioners seeking to understand less invasive approaches to these common neurodevelopmental conditions will find the systematic exploration of natural remedies and underlying causative factors directly applicable to their situations - Disabled World (DW).
Introduction
Natural Approaches to ADHD, Apraxia, Autism
Psychotherapist and mother Jennifer Giustra-Kozek, LPC, NCC, has released her first book, Healing Without Hurting: Treating ADHD, Apraxia and Autism Spectrum Disorders Naturally and Effectively without Harmful Medication in November 2014 (Changing Lives Press) to acclaimed praise.
"Pure excellence! If you are a family with a special needs child, this book will give you the answers you are looking for. A story of hope, a story of recovery - a story that should be shouted from the mountain tops. You can have your child back!" wrote Dr. Jared Skowron, best-selling author of 100 Natural Remedies for Your Child.
"This book should be a bible for parents and physicians alike," commented William Kelley Eidem, author of The Doctor Who Cures Cancer.
Dedicated 'In loving memory of the 26 beautiful lives lost on December 14, 2012 at Sandy Hook Elementary, and for all those who need love and healing!'
Main Content
Giustra-Kozek's book provides a methodical approach to understanding the underlying causes of mental disorders that plague so many young people, including Sandy Hook shooter Adam Lanza.
As a psychotherapist for Sandy Hook families and first responders she states:
"I know firsthand of the devastation and anguish these disorders bring to a person's life. I feel strongly that the wrong medical response to Adam Lanza's autism spectrum disorder may have contributed to this devastating tragedy."
In her book's introduction, Giustra-Kozek wrote:
"As a psychotherapist for 15 years treating, ADHD, anxiety, depression, and related disorders, I witnessed that most medical practitioner's focus on medication as the primary treatment option and I've also witnessed the many harmful effects."
She wrote that having worked for over a decade in the world of mainstream medicine she possesses a strong understanding of both its strengths and weaknesses.
"As a mom who fiercely loves my son, I explored all available options, eventually finding better solutions than any conventional specialist had ever offered."
Healing Without Hurting, provides effective natural treatments and solutions that work. Her son's notable improvements and her work as a therapist inspired her to educate other parents and to help shift current medical practices. Giustra-Kozek shares non-pharmaceutical 'tried and true' alternatives. In her introduction, Giustra-Kozek instructs:
"Everyone is different and requires individual care. So, rather than provide just one solution, I'll cover a full menu of natural treatment options that I discovered in my quest to help my son."
Her Facebook page, "Healing ADHD & Asperger's Without Hurting" has a large following from all over the world seeking support and help. She also joined the Sandy Hook Promise movement and the Holistic Moms Network working to inspire change in the community regarding mental illnesses. Additionally, her columns have been published in magazines that include Natural Mother Magazine, Wise Mom Magazine, Autism File Magazine, and Fearless Parent.
Insights, Analysis, and Developments
Editorial Note: While the advocacy for natural treatment alternatives reflects genuine concern for those struggling with developmental and behavioral disorders, readers should recognize that individual responses to treatment vary significantly, and what worked for one family may not prove equally effective for another. The value of this resource lies not in replacing professional medical guidance but in expanding the conversation around what treatment options exist, encouraging parents and practitioners to think more comprehensively about root causes and lifestyle factors alongside whatever interventions they ultimately choose - whether pharmaceutical, natural, or combined. A balanced approach that incorporates professional evaluation alongside individualized exploration of available options remains the most prudent path for families navigating these complex conditions - Disabled World (DW).Attribution/Source(s): This quality-reviewed publication was selected for publishing by the editors of Disabled World (DW) due to its relevance to the disability community. Originally authored by Jennifer Giustra-Kozek, LPC and published on 2015/01/19, this content may have been edited for style, clarity, or brevity.