I have watched my grandfathers be pumped full of drugs, many of which may be hurting more than they are helping. Unfortunately our medical system in the US, especially facilities that are government run, have been bought out by pharmaceutical companies. Doctors in the US are no longer treating causes, they are treating symptoms so that patients will keep coming back. (If you dont believe me watch Escape Fire - a documentary on the VA). 

Because of this, I strive to one day provide holistic psychological medical care to the brave men and women suffering from PTSD. In order to accomplish this goal I need to leave Gustavus with a well rounded education that has provided me insight into topics such as alternative medicine, mindfulness based therapy, and other cultural alternatives to western medicine. This program in Costa Rica is the only program I have been able to find that would allow me the opportunity to do so. Not only will it help me to better understand how to treat my clients some day, it also will provide me the opportunity to learn more about myself and provide me insight into the larger issue of drug dependence. 

According to The United Nations, Costa Rica ranks in first place in Latin America for the development of curative and preventative diseases, and the World Health Organization has Costa Rica ranked much higher for health services than the US. Additionally, medical costs in Costa Rica are much lower. The program I would be attending offers the opportunity to visit several medical facilities giving me insight into how to lower the costs of the treatment I would one day provide as well. Over 120 prescription drugs sold worldwide today are derived directly from rain forest plants, many found in Costa Rica. Also, Costa Rica is excelling when it comes to alternative holistic approach which goes far beyond the Mind-Body connection, like yoga, and is becoming a preferred place for wellness according to the Tico Times.