Frequently Asked Questions
What is Naturopathic Medicine?
Naturopathic medicine is a form of healthcare built on a patient-centred approach that emphasizes prevention, treatment, and optimal health through the use of natural therapies that support the body’s own ability to heal. We aim to treat the underlying conditions and root cause of disease using a wide variety of evidence-based therapies. Naturopathic medicine is unique in that it treats the whole person by considering the multitude of factors that contribute to one's health. Naturopathic doctors take extra time with their patients and they provide highly individualized care.
How are Naturopathic Doctors trained?
Naturopathic doctors obtain comprehensive training involving a minimum of three years of pre-medical university education, in addition to four years of full-time study at one of six accredited naturopathic medical schools in North America. The program incorporates over 4,500 hours of classroom training in basic medical science courses, clinical sciences and Naturopathic therapies, as well as 1500 hours of supervised clinical experience. Upon successful completion of the program, graduates receive the designation Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine (ND). Following the completion of their program, NDs must successfully complete the Naturopathic Physicians Licensing Examinations (NPLEX) in order to qualify for registration.
In New Brunswick, Naturopathic Medicine is not a regulated profession. As a result, there are numerous practitioners who use the title 'ND' without meeting the proper qualifications. Please be sure that you are working with a member of the New Brunswick Association of Naturopathic Doctors (NBAND) to ensure safe, effective and professional advice.
What kinds of conditions can be treated by Naturopathic Medicine?
We treat a wide variety of concerns including but not limited to:
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Digestive concerns; bloating, IBS, IBD, SIBO (small intestine bacterial overgrowth)
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Food sensitivities
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Skin conditions: eczema, psoriasis, acne
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PMS & PMDD
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PCOS
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Endometriosis
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Menopause
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Depression
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Anxiety
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Insomnia
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Allergies
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Fatigue and low energy
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Infertility
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Pre & Postnatal care
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Arthritis
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Fibromyalgia
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Acid reflux / heartburn
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Weight management
What can I expect when I visit a Naturopathic Doctor?
An initial visit with your ND is 60-75 minutes long. The goal of Naturopathic Medicine is to provide individualized care; therefore your ND must spend time getting to know you. This visit allows for a detailed understanding of your current and past health history, concerns, goals and any relevant physical examination. Please remember to have the intake form completed and ready at your first visit. If possible, please bring any current medical records with you (blood work or other test results). Subsequent visits are scheduled to monitor progress and re-evaluate the treatment plan, as necessary.
Is Naturopathic Medicine covered by health insurance?
Most private/extended healthcare plans cover at least a portion of Naturopathic services. Check with your provider. Direct billing is available.