A “naturopathic doctor” is educated in all of the same basic sciences as an M.D. but also studies natural therapeutics with a strong emphasis on disease prevention and optimizing wellness. In addition to a standard medical curriculum, the naturopathic doctor is required to complete four years of training in natural therapeutics: clinical nutrition, homeopathic medicine, botanical medicine, psychology, and counseling. A licensed N.D. belongs to a regulatory body that oversees standards of practice, complaints and discipline. Naturopathic doctor’s must carry malpractice insurance, maintain continuing education, and practice ethically and professionally.
FAQ
What can Naturopathic Medicine do for me?
Naturopathic medicine can optimize anyone’s health. It may not be possible to cure every ailment but, by following a naturopathic maintenance program, you will live a longer and healthier life as well as help prevent chronic diseases from robbing you of your health.
Is It Safe To Combine My Medication From My Medical Doctor With Naturopathic Medicines?
For the most part it is quite safe, but it is important to let your all your health care providers know of all medications and natural health products that you are taking.
What Is Our Naturopathic Doctor’s Education Background?
Both Gemma Waldron ND and Vicky Rizothanassis ND graduated from the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine in 2008.
Is Naturopathic Medicine Regulated In Quebec?
No but there is a provincial and national association that the Naturopathic Doctor’s are a part of. To be a part of these associations, one must have passed North American licensing exams and Board exams in a regulated province in order to practice legally and to ensure safety to those seeking their guidance.
Will A Naturopathic Doctor Work With My Own GP?
Yes, naturopathic medicine is complementary to the practice of traditional medicine. It is optimal if you have the best of both worlds.
What Is The Difference Between A “Naturopathic Doctor” And A “Naturopath”?
A licensed “naturopathic doctor” attends a four-year graduate level naturopathic medical school after a minimum of 3 years of an undergraduate degree program. After graduating from this accredited school, the candidate must pass rigorous professional board exams to obtain the license to practice in his or her state or province.
The term “naturopath” has been around for over 100 years and the words “naturopathic physician/doctor” and “naturopath” have frequently been used interchangeably. It is a term often used by the general public and the medical profession to inaccurately refer to what more accurately is a naturopathic physician. The term “naturopath” has been applied to non-medically trained natural health providers from correspondence/long distance education programs, short term naturopathy schools, and grandfathered in practitioners of varied backgrounds. Typically, “naturopaths” practice in unlicensed, unregulated jurisdictions and do not have the same training or privileges as those of a “naturopathic doctor”. The public has generally not been aware of the differences between the two groups, even though large differences exist. In Canada, only “naturopathic doctors” are licensed, regulated and able to practice legally in the provinces that acknowledge naturopathic medicine. The province of Quebec still has no regulation but our provincial association is working hard to regulate the profession for the safety of the public.