About Naturopathic Medicine

Naturopathic Medicine is a comprehensive medical discipline that incorporates both conventional and adjunctive approaches to support a patient’s overall wellness. Naturopathic Doctors (NDs) utilize modern diagnostic and therapeutic approaches while drawing from a holistic philosophical framework to guide their medical decision-making process. NDs exemplify the medical tenant of do no harm, by prioritizing minimally invasive therapies where possible. Naturopathic Medicine recognizes the inherent healing power of nature and seeks to harness this to support optimal healing. NDs strive to identify and treat the cause of a patient’s medical condition, rather than only address the presenting symptoms. They work with patients to treat the whole person, recognizing the interplay between body, mind, spirit and social context. NDs focus on the prevention of disease, seeking to support their patient’s overall wellness, rather than simply treating illness. NDs empower their patients to move toward wellness by providing targeted health education, employing the principle of physician as teacher.

Naturopathic Doctors are trained as primary care physicians at professionally accredited naturopathic medical colleges. They receive training in the diagnosis and treatment commonly presenting medical conditions using an evidence-based approach. NDs are trained in the use of conventional treatment modalities such as pharmacology and minor surgery, while also drawing from a rich array of holistic modalities including nutrition, lifestyle coaching, botanical medicine, nutraceutical prescriptions, homeopathy, hydrotherapy, body work and mindfulness approaches. NDs must complete two extensive licensing examinations to qualify for state licensure.