Naturopathic medicine is a system of healthcare that works complementarily with conventional medicine. It places a strong emphasis on disease prevention and health optimization.
Naturopathic Doctors (NDs) take a whole-person approach to care: rather than focusing solely on symptoms, NDs consider the interconnected physical, mental, emotional, and social factors that influence health. By spending time getting to know their patients, NDs aim to identify and address the root causes of health concerns, not just manage surface-level symptoms.
Central to naturopathic medicine is the understanding that the body has an inherent capacity to heal when properly supported. We also prioritize patient education, empowering individuals with the knowledge and tools they need to actively participate in their own health and wellness.
Naturopathic Doctors do not replace or compete with Medical Doctors. Instead, our skill sets are designed to complement one another, and optimal care is often achieved when practitioners work collaboratively. We are trained to ensure that any recommendations made are safe, appropriate, and supportive alongside existing medical care.
Naturopathic Doctors are extensively trained in areas including clinical nutrition, Traditional Chinese Medicine acupuncture, herbal medicine, health psychology, and physical medicine. In addition to these therapeutic modalities, NDs perform physical examinations, order laboratory testing (such as blood work and stool testing), and provide personalized lifestyle recommendations to optimize health outcomes.
To become licensed, NDs complete a rigorous four-year postgraduate medical program at an accredited naturopathic medical school. This training includes thousands of hours in biomedical and clinical sciences—such as anatomy, physiology, and biochemistry—as well as naturopathic therapeutics like botanical medicine. In Ontario, Naturopathic Doctors are regulated health professionals governed by the College of Naturopaths of Ontario, and are supported by the Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors and the Ontario Association of Naturopathic Doctors.
The therapeutic relationship between an ND and their patient is a vital part of the healing process. For this reason, it’s important to find a naturopathic doctor you feel comfortable with, someone whose approach, values, and style resonate with you.
