I usually post on Wednesdays but since it’s the beginning of the 6th annual Naturopathic Medicine Week I thought I’d post this early. This week is a time to showcase the benefits of naturopathic medicine so I wanted to share a few reasons why you might want to see a naturopathic doctor if you haven’t already.
You want more time with the doctor - Many patients comment that they don’t get enough time with their doctor. Visits are too short, they don’t feel heard, or they don’t feel like their concerns are being addressed. Naturopathic doctors take more time per visit from from 30 - 90 minutes depending on the practitioner. This time is so useful to get to know you as a whole person, understand what you are experiencing and discuss what your health goals are.
You want to be treated as a whole person and not just your illness - One of the principles of naturopathic medicine is to “treat the whole person.” Because visits take more time, naturopathic doctors have the opportunity to get a better picture of who you are and what your life is like. We understand that other factors such as stress, diet, sleep, family, and work all affect your wellbeing and we take those details into consideration when forming an individualized treatment plan.
You’re wondering if there’s anything else you can do for your health - In addition to training in naturopathic therapies, NDs are also trained in conventional care. It doesn’t have to be a choice between conventional and naturopathic care; we can work alongside each other. If you’ve been seeing a conventional doctor and are wondering if there’s anything else out there for you, you may want to seek naturopathic care as well. Naturopathic therapy doesn’t just treat symptoms, it addresses the root cause of illness because if the cause is addressed, the symptoms will resolve on their own.
You want to take an active role in your health - The word “doctor” comes from the Latin word “docere” meaning “teacher” and this is the foundation of the naturopathic principle of “doctor as teacher.” This principle comes into play with each visit because when there is more time per visit there is also more time for discussion between you and your doctor. When you’re well informed about your care you’re more likely to be fully invested and to get the results you’re looking for. You aren’t just a bystander in your healthcare; you’re an active participant and that can be empowering.
These are just a few reasons for seeing a naturopathic doctor. What were your reasons for seeing an ND? If you haven’t been to one feel free to ask me any questions you have about naturopathic medicine!
If you would like to learn more visit the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians website here .
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In Health,
Dr. Jamie
This website is not intended for the purpose of providing medical advice. All information, content, and material of this website is for informational purposes only and are not intended to serve as a substitute for the consultation, diagnosis, and/or medical treatment of a qualified physician or healthcare provider.