Naturopathic doctors provide health care to people of all ages, focusing on the use of natural therapies to support and stimulate healing processes.
All licensed naturopaths complete a minimum of three years of university-level training, including pre-medical courses, then four years at an accredited naturopathic medical college. In naturopathic programs, naturopaths study the same basic medical and clinical sciences as other health care professionals, like medical doctors or registered nurses.
Naturopaths work holistically, looking at the whole person. That basically means naturopaths seek out the causes of what's ailing you by looking at the big picture: what's going on inside your body, outside of it, and how you live and eat. They then offer a range of natural treatments that may be based on lifestyle changes, herbal medicine, supplementation, and (most commonly) nutrition.
Digestive and gut health is a major facet of naturopathy, as are skin conditions, such as eczema, psoriasis and acne; menstrual problems; problems with energy levels and sleep; headaches and migraines; anti-ageing strategies and joint health; and mental health issues, such chronic stress, anxiety, and depression.
Registration with a governing body helps ensure that naturopaths have the knowledge, skill and judgment to carry out their role. As of July 1, 2015, all naturopaths practising in the province became regulated by the College of Naturopaths of Ontario.
ND, Naturopathic Doctor and Naturopath are protected titles. This means that only people who have demonstrated the education and qualification to practice can use the title. It’s important that you know who is delivering your care.