Dr. Michael Rak, ND

CO-FOUNDER | COMPLEX CHRONIC ILLNESS SPECIALIST

Dr. Rak provides care to patients in Seattle at The Health Collective’s clinic and telehealth services throughout Washington.

Naturopath Dr Michael Rak stands in front of greenery while wearing a blue shirt while smiling

About Dr. Michael Rak

I’m Dr. Michael Rak (he/him), co-owner of The Health Collective and a licensed naturopathic physician providing care for individuals with complex chronic illnesses in Washington.

Many patients find their way to me after a challenging diagnosis, when other providers haven’t been able to offer clear answers, or through a referral from a trusted friend.

Some patients come seeking help interpreting the extensive lab work they’ve accumulated from multiple providers. Others appreciate my research background and academic training. Still others value my openness to the many ways of knowing and understanding the human experience of health.

My goal is not simply to treat symptoms, but to help patients understand the deeper patterns within their health and support the body’s natural capacity for healing.

My Clinical Philosophy

I view many chronic illnesses as being rooted in inflammation. Rather than seeing inflammation purely as a problem to suppress, I understand it as part of the body’s effort to engage in healing.

From this perspective, inflammation is something to be understood and supported so that the underlying triggers can be identified and resolved. My work balances this understanding with a strong foundation in functional nutrition and biochemistry, using targeted nutrients to help restore vitality in depleted tissues.

In many clinics, a similar approach may involve expensive procedures or remedies. I work hard to balance the effectiveness of treatment with a price that is as sustainable as possible for patients.

My goal is to help patients understand the mechanisms driving their illness while supporting the body in moving toward greater resilience and regulation.

With the goal of providing truly holistic care, I have developed deep expertise in physical medicine techniques that support the function and regulation of the nervous system. Because the nervous system plays such a central role in healing, improving its efficacy and regulation can profoundly affect many chronic conditions.

This work has made a significant difference for patients living with chronic pain conditions, including fibromyalgia and conditions associated with hypermobility.

My approach integrates a wide range of therapeutic techniques depending on the needs of the individual patient. My work spans a spectrum from the subtleties of craniosacral technique and visceral manipulation to higher force interventions like osseous manipulation and trigger point therapy.

Rather than applying rigid protocols, I focus on finding the therapeutic approach that best fits the individual sitting in front of me.

doorway into doctor's office. There is a window in the background overlooking seattle's mountains. two chairs are both positioned in front of exam table and facing a desk. The room is bright with natural light.

My Care Model

Mind-Body Integration

I recognize that past experiences can shape both physical health and emotional wellbeing. Experiences that weigh on the psyche can diminish vitality and affect the body’s ability to heal.

For this reason, I incorporate elements of somatic experiencing-type inquiry alongside craniosacral-style bodywork, helping patients explore patterns held within the nervous system and body. This work supports patients in moving beyond limitations that may keep them from engaging with their life or body in a more substantial way.

Through this integration of physical, biochemical, and psycho-spiritual care, my goal is to create a therapeutic environment where patients feel like they can access their healing potential while providing knowing support as they walk their path of personal evolution.

Clinical Experience & Research Background

Throughout my life, I have been deeply interested in science and medicine. I am a scientist, a scholar, and a healer. My research background spans fields from chemistry to molecular biology at some of the finest institutions. While my formal medical training began at Bastyr University, my education continues through countless seminars, conferences, and ongoing study. My passion lies in the interplay between the mind and body through the function of the nervous system. This work informs techniques that range from intricate genetic analysis and injection therapies to subtle manipulation approaches. I love a challenge.

I attended the Lyman Briggs School, a science-based residential college, integrated into Michigan State University. During this time, I conducted extensive research in synthetic chemistry, including two internships with Pfizer Pharmaceuticals. These experiences provided valuable experience that prompted my exploration of Naturopathic philosophy.

After graduating, I moved to Seattle to expand my study of chemistry into the field of renewable energy at the University of Washington, where I completed my Master’s degree before beginning my medical education at Bastyr University.

I continued my scientific endeavors in Graduate School at the University of Washington studying medicinal chemistry as well as doing research work in the synthesis of catalytic systems to be used in renewable energy. Here I received a Master's degree before embarking on my medical career with the ND program at Bastyr University.

In my clinical practice, I have developed expertise in chronic infectious illness as it relates to rheumatic complaints, illness caused by exposure to mold and water-damaged buildings, autoimmune disorders, and neuroinflammatory illness. Through this work, I have developed skills in the utilization of many tools and techniques that support the body's ability to overcome the obstacles that hold us back from living the lives that we know are available to us. Let's see what you are capable of!

WA License #: NT60692045
CA License #: ND1399

Who I Serve

I enjoy working with patients who:

  • are experiencing chronic or complex symptoms

  • want a more integrative, whole-body approach

  • are open to ongoing care and adjustment

  • value clear communication and partnership in care

Areas of Focus

What Keeps Me Joyful

Outside of clinical care, I enjoy teaching students, lecturing at conferences, and supporting the continued growth of the profession of Naturopathic Medicine.

I find my own medicine in the outdoors, exploring nature, skiing in the mountains, and spending time with my family. Supporting and raising my children remains one of the most meaningful parts of my life.

Man and young girl taking a selfie inside a snow-covered ski lift or gondola, both in ski gear, smiling
A man and a young boy on a bed, both smiling and laughing. The man has short brown hair and is wearing a dark green shirt, while the boy has blonde hair and is wearing a green t-shirt.
A man in snow gear climbing a snowy mountain slope with an ice axe, wearing crampons, sunglasses, a backpack, and holding skis on his back, under a clear blue sky.

WORK WITH DR. RAK • WORK WITH DR. RAK • WORK WITH DR. RAK • WORK WITH DR. RAK • WORK WITH DR. RAK • WORK WITH DR. RAK • WORK WITH DR. RAK

WORK WITH DR. RAK • WORK WITH DR. RAK

Get Started With Dr. Rak

If you’re looking for a physician who approaches healthcare as a collaborative partnership, someone who is willing to explore complex health questions with curiosity, rigor, and care, I invite you to connect.

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doorway into doctor's office. There is a window in the background overlooking seattle's mountains. two chairs are both positioned in front of exam table and facing a desk. The room is bright with natural light.