Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe/possible to see you at the same time as taking pharmaceuticals or seeing my normal doctor?
Yes, completely. As I am trained as a functional medicine practitioner and naturopath I needed to study pharmacological interactions with nutrition and herbal medicine so you are in good hands. I am trained in assessing potential safety issues with medications and ensuring you are prescribed the safest protocol.
What is a naturopathic doctor and how is naturopathic medicine different from conventional medicine?
Naturopathic medicine is a distinct primary care system that blends modern science with traditional, natural therapies and emphasises prevention, root-cause assessment, and whole-person care, whereas conventional medicine typically focuses on disease management and pharmaceuticals/surgery when indicated. You can learn more here
What education and training do naturopaths in Australia receive?
Licensed NDs complete an accredited four-year naturopathic medicine degree with biomedical sciences, clinical training, and natural therapeutics; although practicing naturopaths in Australia vary a lot so be sure to ask your practitioner for their qualifications. Due to changes in associations and traditional training, some “grandfathering” occurred for practitioners who graduated prior to qualification changes.
Are naturopaths the same as homeopaths?
No. Homeopathy is one tool within naturopathic medicine; a homeopath typically uses only homeopathic remedies, while NDs may use multiple modalities including nutrition, homeopathy, botanicals, lifestyle, and mind-body approaches. I use all modalities for each patient to maximise the holistic approach.
Is naturopathic medicine scientific and evidence-based?
Naturopathic care integrates current scientific knowledge with traditional practices; many therapies (e.g., clinical nutrition and botanical medicine) have supportive evidence, and NDs are trained to appraise research and practice safely. I base my prescriptions on the most recent evidence I can find while also setting a foundation of traditional methods.
Do you work alongside my primary care doctor or specialists?
Yes. I collaborate in integrated care models to complement conventional treatments and coordinate safely across provider as long as your team or practitioner is willing to have an open dialogue with me. Most often it involves exchanging emails or results facilitated by you, the patient.
What conditions do you help with your consults?
Due to my extensive experience and length of time practicing with patients, I address acute and chronic concerns across a large range ages, including digestive, hormonal, metabolic, mental health, immune, and musculoskeletal issues, using a whole-person approach.
Patients often see me for complex cases where they have not had success with other practitioners.
What can I expect at my first visit?
I see patients in the first consult for 60 minutes or longer because longer visits focused on detailed history, lifestyle, nutrition, environment, and goals; potential labs and individualised plans. This ensures we create a solid foundation of understanding to give us the best possible start to helping you right. Follow-ups adjust the plan over time and are usually around 30 minutes.
Do you offer lab testing and functional assessments?
Yes I use conventional labs plus targeted functional tests to explore your bodies root causes (e.g., nutrient status, inflammation, microbiome health), guided by clinical judgment and patient goals.
Is naturopathic care safe?
When practiced by registered, professionally trained NDs, safety records are strong; plans are tailored for life stages including pregnancy, pediatrics, and older adults, with attention to interactions and contraindications. Always check your practitioner is registered, experienced and qualified.
Ready to take control of your health naturally? Book your appointment now and let’s get started to helping you.