How Naturopathic Medicine Can Support Behavioral Threat Assessment and Management (BTAM)

Behavioral Threat Assessment and Management (BTAM) frameworks are designed to identify, assess, and manage individuals who may pose a risk of harm to themselves or others. While traditionally focused on behavioral and psychological factors, an emerging area of innovation lies in integrating whole-person health approaches—including naturopathic medicine—into the broader continuum of care.

At a time where multidisciplinary collaboration has become central to behavioral health and threat prevention, many communities are beginning to understand how naturopathic doctors (NDs) can play a valuable complementary role. Their training in holistic, preventive, and lifestyle-based care aligns closely with the proactive, management-oriented principles of BTAM.

1. Addressing Root Causes of Behavioral Risk

Naturopathic doctors focus on the “whole person,” identifying underlying biological and lifestyle factors that may influence behavioral health. Elements such as chronic sleep deprivation, nutritional deficiencies, hormone imbalances, and gut-brain axis dysfunctions can contribute to stress, mood instability, and impaired decision-making. By recognizing and addressing these root causes, naturopathic care supports behavioral stability and resilience.

2. Providing Early Intervention and Preventive Care

Within the BTAM continuum, early identification and management are key to preventing escalation. NDs can offer early intervention through comprehensive wellness assessments, stress reduction strategies, and natural therapies that promote emotional regulation. Their emphasis on prevention helps reduce the likelihood that minor behavioral concerns evolve into threat-level situations requiring intensive intervention.

3. Supporting Ongoing Management and Collaboration

BTAM is not solely about assessment, it’s about management over time. This involves consistent follow-up, wellness planning, and coordinated care. Naturopathic doctors are well-positioned to provide long-term, integrative support that complements the work of mental and behavioral health professionals. They can coordinate care, refer patients to conventional providers when needed, and maintain communication across disciplines to ensure continuity.

4. Expanding the Continuum of Care

By incorporating naturopathic medicine into a county’s behavioral health system, the community can broaden its spectrum of care options. This inclusion fosters a more comprehensive and inclusive approach, one that acknowledges the complex interplay between physical health, emotional wellness, and behavior. A diverse provider network can improve outcomes, reduce fragmentation, and enhance overall community well-being.

The Bottom Line

Naturopathic medicine offers a promising complement to existing Behavioral Threat Assessment and Management models. By integrating whole-person care, early intervention, and ongoing wellness strategies, naturopathic doctors can help strengthen the behavioral health ecosystem, supporting both prevention and long-term management.

-Author: Jordan Garza, Founder of Lifeline Strategies

Lifeline Strategies specializes in community health, resilience, and evidence-based approaches to improving public safety and well-being.