Frequently Asked Questions

What can I expect on my Naturopathic appointment?

The initial Naturopathic consultation lasts 11/2 to 2 hours and includes an in-depth history of all aspects of the patient's health including a physical exam. This allows the doctor to assess the underlying cause of the presenting condition and develop a treatment plan to correct the imbalance. Specific laboratory tests may also be performed for a deeper understanding into the cause of various conditions. Follow-up visits typically last 30-60 minutes depending on the needs of the patient and the treatment protocol prescribed.

What conditions can be treated?

Virtually any condition can be treated with Naturopathic Medicine. Since each patient is thoroughly assessed and an individualized treatment protocol is prescribed according to the root cause of their illness, any condition regardless of their diagnosis can be successfully treated with Naturopathic Medicine.

Does it work?

Absolutely. As with any treatment, compliance is the key factor. As long as the patient follows the prescribed treatment plan of dietary changes and nutritional or herbal supplementation, the treatment will work.

Once I see a Naturopathic doctor, how long do I have to go for?

After the initial visit, a few follow-up visits may be necessary to assure the patient is responding to the treatment. Once the condition has improved, Naturopathic visits can scheduled on an 'as needed basis'. Acupuncture treatments do require regular visits in order to create a lasting change.

How long does it take before I notice any changes?

Changes should be noticed within a few days to a few weeks, depending on the severity of the condition and compliance of the patient.

How are Naturopaths Trained?

In addition to traditional medical courses, Naturopaths also receive intense training in Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine, Homeopathy, Clinical Nutrition, Botanical (Herbal) Medicine, Hydrotherapy, Counseling, Spinal Manipulation and Soft tissue Manipulation, as well as 1500 hours of supervised clinical experience.

Does my health plan cover Naturopathic visits?

Many extended health care plans cover Naturopathic visits typically up to a $500.00 maximum. University and College health plans also offer coverage for Naturopathic visits as well. In addition, the cost of Naturopathic services and medicines may be claimed on your yearly income tax.

Is it safe for infants and pregnant women?

Yes, people of all ages and conditions can be safely treated with Naturopathic Medicine including infants, pregnant women, and the elderly. Naturopaths are trained in prescribing the therapeutic dose of any nutritional or herbal supplement, as well as any contraindications associated with them.

What is the difference between naturopathy and homeopathy?

The difference between Naturopathy and Homeopathy is that Homeopathy is only one of the therapies that Naturopathic Medicine offers in its integrative treatment approach. Homeopathy is based on the principle of 'Like Cures Like', which means that the symptom of a disease is cured by using a medicine that produces the same symptoms in a healthy person. Homeopathic remedies consist of a diluted form of a plant, mineral or animal substance which allows the body to react against the disease and bring about a state of health. Naturopathy uses a variety of natural substances to allow the body to heal itself. In doing so it integrates homeopathy, nutrition, acupuncture, counseling, herbal medicine, and spinal manipulation into the treatment protocol.

Is Naturopathic Medicine regulated?

Yes, Naturopathic Medicine is provincially regulated. In Ontario, Naturopathic Medicine is regulated by the Board of Directors of Drugless Therapy Naturopathy (BDDT-N). A qualified Naturopathic Doctor must have graduated from an accredited School of Naturopathic Medicine, successfully completed licensing exams and be licenced by a regulatory board.