Naturopathic Medicine
What to Expect
Naturopathic medicine is where modern scientific knowledge and natural forms of medicine come together to target the direct cause of illness to help you feel your best. Each individualized treatment plan draws from a variety of modalities based on the patient’s needs. Naturopathic treatment plans are also designed to work collaboratively alongside any current medical prescriptions.
Your initial naturopathic visit is 45-60 minutes in length. During this visit a detailed health history will be taken, we will discuss your current health concerns, your health goals and conduct any relevant physical examinations. Lab testing may be recommended as a tool in assessment and diagnosis, depending on the case. We will also discuss your current medication/supplement list and go over any lab testing you may have had previously done and may have brought to your appointment. Based on the information gathered during your initial assessment and personalized research I conduct outside of the visit, a comprehensive individualized treatment plan is developed and implemented during your first follow up visit.
Follow-up visits vary in length depending on the case, and are used to implement appropriate naturopathic treatment modalities, monitor progress, and re-assess the treatment plan.
Services Offered
- Botanical Medicine
- Nutraceutical Supplementation
- Nutritional and Dietary Counselling
- Traditional Chinese Medicine
- Acupuncture
Conditions Treated
Naturopathic doctors are trained as primary health practitioners, and can treat a variety of different concerns. Some common conditions seen in practice are:
- Digestive concerns
- Stress and Burnout
- Low Energy and Fatigue
- Sleep disturbances
- Headaches
- Skin related issues
- Thyroid Support
- PMS & Periods
- Perimenopause & Menopause
- Reproductive health and fertility
- General health maintenance and optimization
- Disease prevention
Frequently Asked Questions
What training does a Naturopathic Doctor (ND) have?
An ND has obtained a University degree (with pre-medical sciences course requirements) and has received a Doctor of Naturopathy degree from an accredited college. This encompasses a full-time 4 year program, with a one year internship of 1200 hours of supervised clinical experience. That amounts to 8 years of post-secondary education. In order to practice, NDs have completed two sets of standardized North American exams and provincial examinations. To maintain their license, NDs must complete yearly Continuing Education courses.
Are naturopathic doctors covered under OHIP?
Visits with Naturopathic Doctors are NOT currently covered under OHIP. However, naturopathic services are included in the majority of extended health care plans. Be sure to check if you have coverage with your insurance provider.
Can Naturopathic Doctors Order Lab Tests?
YES! Naturopathic Doctors can order a variety of testing, including bloodwork and many comprehensive tests. NDs LOVE analyzing testing and making sure that your levels are optimal. Functional testing gives us important and unique insight into what is going on in your body, allowing us to tailor your treatment plan to meet your specific needs. It also allows us to track your progress as you start to implement changes on the road to optimal wellness.
Some of the most common testing includes the following:
- General bloodwork (customized to patient depending on health concerns)
- Thyroid Function Panel
- Fertility Hormone Testing
- Food Sensitivity Testing
- Comprehensive Gut Analysis
- SIBO Testing
NOTE: Bloodwork and lab testing is not covered under OHIP and therefore is an additional charge. Some extended health insurance plans cover the cost of bloodwork and lab testing so be sure to inquire with your insurance company about this. The cost of testing depends on what is ordered and will be discussed during your appointment.
Are naturopathic doctors regulated?
YES! Naturopathic Doctors are both nationally and provincially regulated and undergo both national and provincial board exams to make sure we hold the utmost standards of care. If you ever want to double check a Naturopathic Doctor’s credentials, check out the College of Naturopaths of Ontario at collegeofnaturopaths.on.ca
Do I need a referral to see a Naturopathic Doctor?
No. Other health care providers may recommend the services of an ND, but a formal referral is not required.
Next Steps
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