DEFINITION
What is ReCODE Support Group?
The ReCODE Support Group — formally called the ReCODE: Renewing Mind & Body Support Group — is a weekly virtual gathering for people in the early stages of Alzheimer's disease and their caregivers. It is grounded in the ReCODE Protocol™, developed by Dr. Dale Bredesen, which explores genetic factors, lifestyle elements, toxin exposures, and nutritional and hormone deficiencies as part of a comprehensive approach to reversing early Alzheimer's and preventing cognitive decline.
The group is open to anyone in the early stages of Alzheimer's and their family members or caregivers — whether or not you are currently enrolled in the ReCODE program at GWCIM. It offers a rare combination of peer support, expert guidance, and practical tools, all in a warm and welcoming online setting.
INDICATIONS
What conditions does it help with?
ADVANTAGE
Why ReCODE Support Group at GWCIM?
GWCIM is one of the leading integrative medicine centers offering the ReCODE Protocol™ in the Washington, DC area. Our support group brings together the expertise of our full ReCODE team — including physicians, nutritionists, mental health providers, and hormone specialists — as periodic guest contributors, so members have access to a breadth of knowledge rarely found in a single support setting.
Unlike general Alzheimer's support groups, this group is specifically focused on the integrative and functional medicine approach to cognitive decline. Members stay current on the latest scientific discoveries and treatment insights while building connections with others navigating the same journey.
APPROACH
What to Expect
- Weekly Virtual Sessions: Every Tuesday, 5:30–6:30 pm. Online and accessible from anywhere.
- Expert Facilitation: Led by Dr. Sally Novak, DOM, LAc, LICSW, with periodic guest providers from the GWCIM team.
- Education and Discussion: Each session includes up-to-date information on Alzheimer's treatments and integrative approaches, paired with open group discussion.
- Experiential Activities: Practical tools and activities to help you cope with the challenges of Alzheimer's — not just information, but skills you can use.
- Community: A caring group of peers — patients and caregivers — who understand what you're going through.
You Are Not Alone
Community matters in healing. This group provides a consistent, caring space where members support each other week after week.
Science Meets Compassion
We bring the latest evidence on cognitive decline and Alzheimer's treatment to the group, delivered with warmth and accessibility.
Whole-Person Focus
Topics span the full spectrum of integrative care — nutrition, mindfulness, communication, and more — reflecting the ReCODE approach to whole-person health.
Open to All
Whether you're a patient at GWCIM or not, whether you're newly diagnosed or a longtime caregiver, this group welcomes you where you are.
EXPERTISE
Recommended Providers
COMMUNITY
Ongoing Groups Schedule
ReCODE Support Group
5:30pm- 6:30pm
Cost: $100 /month membership
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What to expect as a patient
The group meets every Tuesday from 5:30–6:30 pm via virtual session, facilitated by Dr. Sally Novak, DOM, LAc, LICSW. Dr. Novak brings a unique blend of integrative psychotherapy, acupuncture, and mind-body medicine to her facilitation, creating a space that is both clinically informed and deeply human.
Each session weaves together education, discussion, and experiential activities. Members engage with the latest research on Alzheimer's treatment, explore practical coping strategies, and share their own experiences in a safe, supportive environment. Periodic guest appearances by other GWCIM providers bring additional depth on topics like nutrition, hormones, and mold toxicity.
FAQ
Common Questions
No. The group is open to anyone in the early stages of Alzheimer's and their caregivers, regardless of whether you are enrolled in the ReCODE program at GWCIM.
EDUCATION