Westbrook isn’t just home to great neighbors—it's also the perfect place to find fascinating people doing meaningful work. Case in point? Meet Dr. Richard Huntoon, a long-time health professional whose journey from aspiring heart surgeon to passionate holistic healer may just change the way you think about health.

For over 35 years, Dr. Huntoon has worked in chiropractic and alternative medicine, helping people not just manage their health issues, but truly understand and overcome them. “Most people think I only help with back pain,” he laughs, “but the truth is, I focus on the 'why' behind your health concerns—whether it's diabetes, autoimmune issues, or even cancer.” His practice, Advanced Alternative Medicine Center, digs deep into the root causes of health challenges. And his motto is clear: You’re not meant to be sick.

Unlike the typical healthcare experience of rushed visits and lifelong prescriptions, Dr. Huntoon takes a radically different path. He’s not interested in simply treating symptoms. “We're proactive, not reactive. I work with people to understand what’s causing their problems—because when you find the cause, you can eliminate the issue altogether.”

That approach has built him a loyal patient base, not just here in Pooler, but also in New York, where he still maintains a second office. With over three decades in practice and two marketing teams supporting his mission (one for over 25 years!), Dr. Huntoon is as committed as ever to empowering people to take back control of their health.

Originally from New York’s Hudson Valley, Richard and his wife Maria made Westbrook their home after building their dream house in 2020. “This is our forever home,” he shares. “We love the peace and community here. It’s everything we hoped for.”

Maria, by the way, is also a local entrepreneur and runs MGH Canine Consulting Services, where she helps dogs (and their humans) live better lives. Their family includes Sheeba, their energetic and opinionated Shiba Inu, who may have more neighborhood friends than the humans do. “Sheeba has her own social calendar,” Richard jokes. “Maria’s dedication to her canine health is impressive—and a perfect complement to my work with people.”

Dr. Huntoon's path to healing others actually started with his own injury. Back in 1987, while preparing for medical school, he suffered a back injury. His dad suggested visiting a local kinesiologist. “In one 50-minute visit, everything changed,” he says. He realized he wanted to help people avoid chronic illness, not manage it after the fact. That epiphany led him to chiropractic school, and eventually to the work he loves today. “I haven’t been sick in over 35 years,” he proudly states. “Helping people reclaim their health and joy—there’s nothing better.”

“If you’re stuck in the cycle of medications, tests, and no answers,” Dr. Huntoon says, “don’t wait for things to get worse. Let’s figure it out together.” His consultations focus on helping people take ownership of their health, and he extends a warm welcome to anyone ready to explore a new path.

So next time you're out walking your dog or at a neighborhood event, keep an eye out for Richard, Maria, and Sheeba. And if you're looking for someone to help you get back on track—body, mind, and spirit—you might just have the perfect guide living right next door.