Both are primary care providers. Naturopathic doctors do not prescribe antibiotics or medications that treat acute concerns that require immediate attention. Otherwise naturopathic doctors treat the same conditions as your family medical doctor, treatment can be an alternative or in many causes integrative. Integrative means a patient will be using conventional and naturopathic treatment together to reach their health goals.

Undergraduate Degree
To be a candidate for Naturopathic Medical School applicants must complete a three or four year degree with the prerequisites required by the college. Upon identification of candidates with an appropriate grade point average and other assets specified on the application students enter a four-year degree program in Naturopathic Medicine.

Naturopathic Degree
This four year degree includes extensive medical training in biochemistry, anatomy, physiology, diagnostic testing and assessments, treatment options in botanical medicine, nutrition and nutritional supplementation, counseling, lifestyle modifications, hydrotherapy, pharmacology and pharmacokinetics.  The fourth year includes an internship where students see patients under the supervision of licensed Naturopathic Doctors.

Licensing process
Upon completion of the degree in good standing, students are eligible to write the required licensing exams. This involved a board examination testing practical skills, two written examinations, one jurisprudence exam. On successful completion applicants must then apply for a license number and move through a thorough process with the Naturopathic licensing body in the regulated province they wish to practice in.

Yes! Naturopathic Doctors in Ontario are licensed to order laboratory testing within the scope determined by the regulatory body, College of Naturopathic Doctors of Ontario.

Laboratory assessments are not covered under OHIP and therefore patients are required to pay for the ordered testing agreed upon with their Naturopathic Doctor.

Yes, to an extent. In Ontario Naturopathic Medicine is regulated, therefore to have a license allowing for the in scope pharmaceuticals Licensed Naturopathic Doctors must complete an extra course in addition to schooling education of prescribing pharmaceuticals designed by a pharmacist and medical doctors. With completion, eligibility to write an extensive prescribing exam containing written and oral sections is obtained. If successful said Naturopathic Doctors has prescribing rights for pharmaceuticals within scope.

At this time it includes bio-identical hormones, desiccated thyroid and the ability to compound personalized prescriptions.

First do no harm
With a sole intention to help and not harm as a Naturopathic Doctor it requires some pivotal traits. These includes letting go of ego, listening intently to patients, harboring no judgment and asking questions

Root cause
See FAQ below

Doctor as teacher
I spend as much time as possible ensuring patients have asked and I have answered all questions. In addition I explain why each treatment aspect is being prescribed, what is being monitored, how long until you can expect results and an understanding of how treatment will progress in the future.   

Honor the healing power of nature
Our bodies are complex. They are designed to keep us going. Often times the journey we take directly impacts the bodies ability to keep the status quo. As naturopathic doctors our goal is the help you restore that in your body, on your terms.

In Naturopathic Medicine we recognize that there is always a cause of a presenting symptoms picture.  We learn how to take symptoms and understand the physiology behind them. This way we can work backwards from symptoms and your health history and story to determine the root cause. We then treat root cause.

Family history: often time’s patients are concerned for their health based off their family history of disease. We work together using the evidence to understand their true risk and create a treatment plan to reduce risk. Common concerns include:

• Breast cancer
• Ulcerative colitis
• Cardiovascular disease
• High cholesterol

Seasonal or recurrent concerns; Often times patients are treated and their concern returns, we consider this recurrent. Finding root cause it the most effective method of preventing the concern from recurring in the future. Common concerns treated include

• Recurrent infections: yeast, urinary tract infections, upper respiratory tract infections
• Seasonal allergies or histamine symptoms

Absolutely! You don’t need to wait until you feel your worst, or try a list of other options before booking an appointment. That is the beautiful flow of what us Naturopathic Doctors do and something I take pride in, we are integrative! That means you can see an acupuncturist, osteopath, medical specialist, family medical doctor or whichever health care professional is a part of your health team while you see a Naturopathic Doctor!  Whether your goal lies in optimization, prevention or treatment I am equipped with the tools to be an integral part of your health team.

Every company varies what they offer. I would suggest calling prior to your first visit if you are unsure.

Concern often lies with patients if laboratory assessments are covered, the insurance company must be contacted for the information.

Direct billing is not currently offered.

​Recent lab work
Dynacare and life labs have online portals where your previous lab work can be accessed. Please bring a print out on your first visit.
This includes any past genetic testing that yourself or another health care provider may have ordered

Medication & Natural Health Products
This includes name of medication/brand of natural health product as well a current dose you are taking

Intake form
Upon booking your initial visit, an intake form will be emailed to you. Please do your best to fill it out and submit it prior to your appointment.

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An overview of my services can be explored here.