Content Disclaimer
Last Updated: 11/12/25
Agreement to Terms
Introduction
Please read this Content Disclaimer carefully before using this Website.
The Website and its Content are owned by The Buddha's Medicine LLC / Dr. Matt Van Auken, MD, MPH, ABOIM, DipABLM, E-RYT, YACEP ("Company," "we," or "us"). The term "you" refers to the user or viewer of www.thebuddhasmedicine.com ("Website").
We reserve the right to change this Content Disclaimer at any time without notice. By using the Website and its Content, you agree to the terms as they appear, whether or not you have read them. If you do not agree with this Content Disclaimer, please do not use our Website or its Content.
By viewing this Website or anything made available on or through this Website, including but not limited to programs, products, services, opt-in gifts, videos, audios, webinars, blog posts, e-newsletters, social media, patient resources, educational materials, and/or other communication (collectively referred to as "Content"), you are agreeing to accept all parts of this Disclaimer.
1. For Educational and Informational Purposes Only
General Information Purpose
The information provided on or through this Website is for educational and informational purposes only and solely as a self-help tool for your own use.
All Content, including:
Blog posts and articles
Videos and audio content
Social media posts
Newsletter materials
Educational resources
Patient resources and handouts
Program descriptions
Service descriptions
is intended to provide general information about health, wellness, Ayurvedic medicine, integrative medicine, mental health, and related topics. This Content reflects our providers' professional knowledge and therapeutic philosophies but is not tailored to any individual's specific medical needs or personal circumstances.
Not a Substitute for Professional Care
Content on this Website does NOT create a patient-provider or therapeutic relationship. Viewing, reading, or interacting with Content does not establish any professional healthcare relationship with Dr. Matt Van Auken or Jamie Van Auken.
A professional healthcare relationship is established only through:
Completion of intake forms and medical/mental health history
An initial consultation or evaluation with one of our providers
Mutual agreement to proceed with care
Formal informed consent processes
2. Not Medical, Mental Health, or Religious Advice
Comprehensive Medical and Mental Health Disclaimer
IMPORTANT: The information provided in or through this Website pertaining to your health, wellness, exercise, relationships, business/career choices, finances, or any other aspect of your life is NOT intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment provided by:
Your own physician, Medical Practitioner, or Healthcare Provider
Your own therapist, counselor, or Mental Health Practitioner
Licensed dietician or nutritionist
Any other licensed or registered health care professional
What You Must Do
Always seek the advice of your own Medical Practitioner and/or Mental Health Practitioner regarding:
Any questions or concerns about your specific health
Any medications, herbs, or supplements you are currently taking
Before implementing any recommendations or suggestions from this Website
Any changes to your treatment plan or medications
DO NOT:
Disregard medical advice or delay seeking medical advice because of information you have read on this Website
Stop or start taking any medications without speaking to your own Medical Practitioner or Mental Health Practitioner
Use this Website to self-diagnose or self-treat any medical or mental health condition
Assume that general health information applies to your specific situation
DO:
Contact your own Medical Practitioner or Mental Health Practitioner promptly if you have or suspect that you have a medical or mental health problem
Call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room for medical or mental health emergencies
Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 if you are experiencing a mental health crisis
Text HOME to 741741 for the Crisis Text Line
FDA and Regulatory Disclaimer
The information contained on this Website has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.
Products, supplements, or treatments mentioned on this Website are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Any health-related information is for educational purposes only and should not replace consultation with qualified healthcare professionals.
Healthcare Services vs. Website Content
Distinction Between Content and Clinical Services:
Website Content: Educational information available to the public; does not create a healthcare relationship
Clinical Services: Personalized medical or mental health care provided through formal intake, consultation, and ongoing treatment at The Buddha's Medicine
To receive actual healthcare services from Dr. Matt Van Auken or Jamie Van Auken, you must:
Schedule an appointment through our practice
Complete intake paperwork
Undergo clinical assessment
Establish a formal patient-provider or therapeutic relationship
3. Provider-Specific Information
Dr. Matt Van Auken, MD, MPH, ABOIM, DipABLM, E-RYT, YACEP - Medical Services
Scope of Practice:
Board-certified physician in family medicine, integrative medicine, and lifestyle medicine, licensed in multiple states across the United States
Specializes in Ayurvedic medicine, integrative medicine, and lifestyle medicine
Provides services to patients nationwide (where licensed) through in-person and telehealth appointments
Content Applicability:
Medical and health-related content created by Dr. Matt applies to general audiences
Ayurvedic principles, integrative medicine approaches, and lifestyle recommendations shared are educational
Specific treatment recommendations are made only through formal clinical consultations
Dr. Matt's practice is subject to medical practice laws in each state where he provides services
Ayurvedic and Integrative Medicine Approach:
Content may discuss Ayurvedic concepts, constitutional types (doshas), dietary recommendations, lifestyle practices, and herbal approaches
These represent ancient healing traditions combined with modern integrative medicine
Ayurvedic recommendations should be considered in consultation with your healthcare providers
Individual results vary based on constitution, commitment, health status, and many other factors
Jamie Van Auken, MA, Registered Marriage and Family Therapist Associate, E-RYT 500 - Mental Health Therapy Services
Scope of Practice:
Registered Marriage and Family Therapist Associate
Licensed exclusively in Oregon and Washington
Provides mental health therapy services only to residents of Oregon and Washington
Practices under clinical supervision as required by state law
Content Applicability:
Mental health and therapy-related content created by Jamie is for educational purposes only
Information about nervous system regulation, trauma, neurodiversity, relationships, and therapeutic approaches is general education
Specific therapeutic interventions are provided only through formal therapy relationships
Jamie's practice is subject to Oregon and Washington mental health practice laws
Therapeutic Approaches:
Content may discuss therapeutic modalities including EFT, IFS, EMDR, polyvagal theory, and nervous system regulation
These represent Jamie's professional training and therapeutic philosophy
Therapeutic approaches are adapted to each individual's needs in clinical practice
What works for one person may not work for another
4. Not Legal or Financial Advice
We are not attorneys, accountants, or financial advisors, nor are we holding ourselves out to be.
The information contained in this Website is NOT intended to be a substitute for legal or financial advice that can be provided by your own attorney, accountant, and/or financial advisor.
Although care has been taken in preparing information provided to you, always seek financial and/or legal counsel relating to your specific circumstances as needed for any and all questions and concerns you have regarding your legal and/or financial situation.
You agree that information provided on or through our Website is not legal or financial advice.
Areas where you should consult appropriate professionals include but are not limited to:
Tax implications of health-related expenses
Insurance coverage and claims
Estate planning and healthcare directives
Business decisions related to health or wellness
Legal rights regarding healthcare
5. Personal Responsibility
Your Responsibility for Information Use
You aim to accurately represent information provided to us on or through our Website. You recognize that content shared on or through our Website is purely informational and/or educational and is not meant to replace:
Your own judgment
Professional medical or mental health advice made directly to you
Your healthcare providers' recommendations
You agree to use your own judgment and due diligence before implementing any idea, suggestion, or recommendation from this Website to your life, family, business, or in any other manner.
You accept full responsibility for the consequences of:
Your use, non-use, or misuse of any information provided on or through this Website
Any actions or decisions you make based on Website content
Any implementation of suggestions or recommendations from this Website
You acknowledge that you are participating voluntarily in using our Website and that you are solely and personally responsible for your choices, actions, and results, now and in the future, regardless of what you have read or learned on or through this Website.
6. No Guarantees
Health and Wellness Outcomes
This Website is designed to provide you with information and/or education to support your health and wellness goals, but your success depends primarily on:
Your own effort, motivation, commitment, and follow-through
Your individual health status and constitution
Your adherence to recommendations from your healthcare providers
Numerous factors unique to you and your circumstances
We cannot predict and we do not guarantee that you will attain any particular result using the tools and information provided on or through this Website.
You accept and understand that:
Results differ for each individual
Each individual's results depend on their unique background, dedication, desire, motivation, actions, health status, and numerous other factors
There are no guarantees as to specific outcomes or results you can expect from using information from this Website
Health improvements require individualized care from qualified healthcare professionals
Treatment and Therapy Outcomes
For Medical Services:
Individual responses to Ayurvedic and integrative medicine approaches vary significantly
Outcomes depend on commitment to lifestyle and dietary recommendations, individual constitution, current health status, and other factors
Some conditions may require conventional medical interventions in addition to or instead of integrative approaches
For Mental Health Services:
Therapy outcomes vary significantly among individuals
Progress depends on active participation, commitment to the therapeutic process, life circumstances, and many other factors
Some individuals may require different approaches or levels of care than what we provide
Mental health improvement is a process that takes time and varies for each person
7. Earnings Disclaimer
There can be no assurance as to any particular financial outcome based on the use of our Website. Any earnings or income statements or examples shown through our Website are only estimates of what might be possible now or in the future.
You agree that information shared through this Website is not responsible for:
Your earnings or the success or failure of your personal or business decisions
The increase or decrease of your finances or income level
Any other result of any kind that you may have as a result of information and/or education presented to you on or through our Website
You are solely responsible for your financial results.
8. Testimonials and Patient/Client Experiences
Real World Experiences
We share real world experiences, testimonials, and insights about other people's experiences on or through this Website for purposes of illustration only.
The testimonials, examples, and photos used:
Are of actual patients/clients and results they personally achieved, OR
Are comments from individuals who can speak to our character and/or the quality of our work
Have been modified or amalgamated to protect patient/client confidentiality where necessary
Important Understanding:
Testimonials are not intended to represent or guarantee that current or future patients/clients will achieve the same or similar results
These testimonials represent what is possible for illustrative purposes only
Individual results vary significantly based on numerous factors
Past results are not predictive of future outcomes
No Typical Results
There is no "typical" patient/client experience or result. Each individual's experience is unique and depends on:
Their specific health conditions or mental health concerns
Their commitment and adherence to treatment recommendations
Their individual constitution, circumstances, and life factors
The complexity of their situation
And many other variables that can be difficult to discern
9. Assumption of Risk
General Risks
As with all situations, there are sometimes unknown individual risks and circumstances that can arise during use of content provided on or through this Website that cannot be foreseen and that can influence or reduce results.
You understand that any mention of any suggestion or recommendation on or through this Website is to be taken at your own risk, recognizing that there is a rare chance that illness, injury, or even death could result.
You agree to fully assume all risks associated with:
Implementing any information from this Website for your own use
Making health or wellness decisions based on Website content
Using self-help tools or educational materials
Any actions taken as a result of Website information
Healthcare-Specific Risks
For Health and Medical Information:
Dietary or lifestyle changes may not be appropriate for all individuals
Some recommendations may interact with medications or medical conditions
Herbal supplements can have side effects or interactions with medications
Physical practices or exercises may carry risk of injury if performed incorrectly
For Mental Health Information:
Some therapeutic content may be emotionally activating
Self-help mental health tools are not substitutes for professional therapy
Crisis situations require immediate professional intervention, not Website resources
Always consult qualified healthcare professionals before implementing any health-related information from this Website.
10. Limitation of Liability
By using this Website, you agree to absolve us of any liability or loss that you or any other person may incur from use of the information or content provided on or through this Website, and programs, products, services, or materials that you request or receive through or on this Website.
You agree that we will not be liable to you, or to any other individual, company, or entity, for any type of damages, including:
Direct, indirect, special, incidental, equitable, or consequential loss or damages
Any damages for use of or reliance on the content provided on or through this Website
You agree that we do not assume liability for:
Accidents, delays, injuries, harm, loss, damage, death, lost profits
Personal or business interruptions
Misapplication of information
Physical or mental disease, condition, or issue
Any other type of loss or damage due to any act or default by us or anyone acting as our employee, agent, consultant, affiliate, joint venture partner, member, manager, shareholder, director, staff or team member, or anyone otherwise affiliated with our business
This limitation applies to anyone engaged in any manner to deliver content on or through this Website.
11. Indemnification and Release of Claims
You hereby fully and completely hold harmless, indemnify, and release us and any of our:
Employees, agents, consultants, affiliates
Joint venture partners, members, managers, shareholders, directors
Staff or team members
Healthcare providers (Dr. Matt Van Auken, Jamie Van Auken, and any future providers and team members)
Anyone otherwise affiliated with our business
From any and all:
Causes of action, allegations, suits, claims, damages, or demands whatsoever
In law or equity
That may arise in the past, present, or future
That is in any way related to the content or information provided on or through this Website
12. No Warranties
We make no warranties related to the performance or operation of our Website.
We make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, as to:
The information, content, materials, programs, products, or services included on or through this Website
The accuracy, completeness, or currency of information
The suitability of information for any particular purpose
To the fullest extent permissible by applicable law, we disclaim all warranties, including:
Express or implied warranties
Implied warranties of merchantability
Fitness for a particular purpose
Non-infringement
Any warranties arising from course of dealing or usage of trade
13. Errors and Omissions
Evolving Information
Although every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of information shared on or through this Website, the information may inadvertently contain inaccuracies or typographical errors.
You agree that we are not responsible for:
The views, opinions, or accuracy of facts referenced on or through this Website
Views or accuracy of information from any other individual or company affiliated with our business
Errors, omissions, or outdated information
Constantly Evolving Fields
Because scientific, medical, technological, and therapeutic practices are constantly evolving, you agree that:
We are not responsible for the accuracy of Website content over time
Information may become outdated as research and practices evolve
What is considered best practice today may change in the future
We are not responsible for any errors or omissions that may occur
Medical and mental health research continuously evolves. Information that is accurate today may be updated or revised as new research emerges. We are under no obligation to update previously published content, though we may choose to do so periodically.
14. No Endorsement
Third-Party Information
References or links on or through this Website to the information, opinions, advice, programs, products, or services of any other individual, business, or entity does NOT constitute our formal endorsement.
We are merely sharing information for your own self-help and educational purposes.
We are not responsible for:
Website content, blogs, e-mails, videos, social media
Programs, products, and/or services of any other person, business, or entity
Any linked or referenced content on or through this Website
Conversely, should our Website link appear in any other individual's, business's, or entity's website, program, product, or services, it does NOT constitute our formal endorsement of them, their business, or their website.
Research and Resources
When we reference research studies, books, articles, or other resources:
We are providing educational information only
You should evaluate the quality and applicability of sources yourself
Not all research applies to all individuals
Correlation does not equal causation
Research findings may be preliminary or controversial
15. Affiliates and Partnerships
Transparency About Relationships
From time to time, we may promote, affiliate with, or partner with other individuals or businesses whose programs, products, and services align with ours and our mission.
In the spirit of transparency, you understand and agree that:
There may be instances when we promote, market, share, or sell programs, products, or services for other partners
In exchange, we may receive financial compensation or other rewards
We are highly selective and only promote partners whose programs, products, and/or services we respect
Important Understanding:
Any such promotion or marketing does NOT serve as any form of endorsement whatsoever
You are still required to use your own judgment and due diligence
You must determine that any such program, product, or service is appropriate for you, your family, and/or your business
You are assuming all risks
You agree that we are not liable in any way for any program, product, or service that we may promote, market, share, or sell on or through this Website
Examples of Affiliate Relationships
We may have affiliate relationships with:
Supplement or product companies
Educational programs or courses
Books or resources we recommend
Technology platforms or software we use
Other healthcare or wellness practitioners
16. State-Specific Information
Multi-State Medical Practice (Dr. Matt Van Auken)
Dr. Matt Van Auken is licensed to practice medicine in multiple states across the United States. Content related to his medical practice:
May discuss medical conditions, treatments, and approaches applicable across various states
Is subject to medical practice laws and standards in each state where he is licensed
Should be considered general educational information unless you are an established patient receiving individualized care
If you are considering becoming a patient of Dr. Matt Van Auken, services will be provided in accordance with the laws and regulations of:
The state where you are physically located when receiving services
The state where Dr. Matt is licensed to practice
Oregon and Washington Mental Health Services (Jamie Van Auken)
Jamie Van Auken is licensed as a Registered Marriage and Family Therapist Associate exclusively in Oregon and Washington. Content related to her therapy practice:
May discuss mental health, therapy approaches, and wellness concepts
Is subject to Oregon and Washington mental health practice laws
Is for educational purposes only unless you are an established therapy client
Clinical services are ONLY available to Oregon and Washington residents
Oregon and Washington Specific Mandatory Reporting:
Mental health therapy content may reference professional obligations including:
Oregon: Mandatory reporting of suspected child abuse/neglect, vulnerable adult abuse, and imminent danger to self/others
Washington: Mandatory reporting requirements including 48-hour reporting for child abuse to DCYF, immediate reporting of vulnerable adult abuse to DSHS, and imminent danger situations
These legal obligations are explained fully during the therapy intake process and in our Privacy Policy.
17. Cultural and Diversity Considerations
Inclusive Approach
While we strive to provide content that is culturally sensitive, inclusive, and applicable to diverse audiences, we acknowledge that:
Our perspective is shaped by our own cultural backgrounds and experiences
Content may not fully reflect all cultural contexts and lived experiences
Health and wellness approaches may need adaptation for different cultural contexts
Individuals are encouraged to seek providers whose backgrounds, approaches, and cultural competencies align with their needs
Neurodiversity-Affirming Perspective
Much of our mental health content, particularly from Jamie Van Auken, is informed by a neurodiversity-affirming perspective. This approach:
Celebrates neurological differences as natural variations of human experience
Differs from traditional pathology-focused frameworks
May not resonate with all individuals or therapeutic approaches
Is one of many valid perspectives in mental health care
Individuals should choose therapeutic approaches and healthcare philosophies that align with their values, needs, and goals.
18. Professional Licensure and Credentials
Verification of Credentials
You may verify the professional credentials and licensure status of our providers:
Dr. Matt Van Auken, MD, MPH, ABOIM, DipABLM, E-RYT, YACEP:
Medical licenses can be verified through state medical boards where he practices
Board certifications: American Board of Integrative Medicine (ABOIM), American Board of Lifestyle Medicine (DipABLM)
Jamie Van Auken, MA, Registered Marriage and Family Therapist Associate, E-RYT 500:
Oregon license verification: Oregon Board of Licensed Professional Counselors and Therapists
Washington license verification: Washington State Department of Health
Supervised by Dr. Lana Kim (T123) & Lori Henry (T2067).
Professional Standards
Our providers adhere to professional ethical standards:
Dr. Matt: American Medical Association (AMA) Code of Medical Ethics
Jamie: American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT) Code of Ethics
Content and services are provided in accordance with these professional standards.
19. Emergency Situations
This Website is NOT for Emergencies
Content on this Website should never be used for emergency situations.
In case of medical or mental health emergency:
Call 911 immediately
Go to your nearest emergency room
Call 988 for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
Text HOME to 741741 for the Crisis Text Line
Do NOT:
Use contact forms, email, or SMS messaging for emergencies
Wait for a response from our Website or staff in emergency situations
Delay emergency care to search for information on our Website
20. Updates and Changes
We reserve the right to update, modify, or change this Content Disclaimer at any time without notice.
Changes become effective immediately upon posting to our Website.
We encourage you to review this Content Disclaimer periodically for any updates. The "Last Updated" date at the top of this page indicates when this Disclaimer was last revised.
21. Severability
If any provision of this Content Disclaimer is found to be invalid, illegal, or unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall continue in full force and effect. The invalid provision shall be replaced with a valid provision that most closely approximates the intent of the original.
22. Entire Agreement
This Content Disclaimer, together with our Privacy Policy and Terms & Conditions, constitutes the entire agreement between you and The Buddha's Medicine regarding use of our Website content.
23. Contact Us
If you have any questions about this Content Disclaimer, please contact us:
The Buddha's Medicine
3310 SE Oak St
Portland, OR 97214
Email: Contact
Website: www.thebuddhasmedicine.com
Acknowledgment: By using this Website and its Content, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to this Content Disclaimer in its entirety. You understand that Website content is educational and not a substitute for professional healthcare services.
