What is a Naturopathic Doctor?

Naturopathic doctors are primary care doctors trained in medical diagnosis and treatment who follow five unique principles (see below) to address the cause of illness. The educational and clinical training of naturopathic doctors are similar to that of a medical or osteopathic doctor. In addition, naturopathic doctors also have extensive training in natural therapies including: botanical medicine, homeopathy, hydrotherapy, clinical nutrition, mind/body medicine and physical medicine.

When possible, naturopathic doctors choose natural therapies which have few, if any, harmful side effects.

Naturopathic doctors who graduate from an accredited school receive a N.D. degree- Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine.

Specialties & additional degrees can be obtained in:

• Homeopathy – Homeopathy Certificate
• Natural Childbirth/Midwifery - Obstetrics Certificate from American College of Naturopathic Obstetrics (ACNO)
• Traditional or Classical Chinese Medicine - Master of Oriental Medicine

How does naturopathic medicine differ from conventional medicine?

The profession of naturopathic medicine is unique because it’s philosophy. We differ from conventional medical doctors in that our practice us guided by the following principles:

Use the Healing Power of Nature

The body has the ability to maintain and restore health. Healing occurs as a result of the revival of our “vital force” - qi, prana, spirit.

Treat the Cause

The simplest and wisest practice of medicine is to treat and remove the cause of illness rather than merely suppressing the symptoms.

First, Do No Harm

Naturopathic doctors prefer natural therapies that are less invasive and thus synergistic with the body’s healing process.

Doctor as Teacher

Naturopathic doctors educate their patients and encourage self-responsibility to achieve a state of good health.

Treat the Whole Person

Naturopathic doctors explore physical, mental, emotional, environmental, genetic and spiritual factors when treating a patient.

Emphasize Preventive Medicine

Naturopathic doctors strive to identify the factors that make one susceptible to illness and work toward preventing that illness.