A minimum of 3 years medical courses in university is the prerequisite to admission to a naturopathic college. Naturopaths must have completed a 4-year post-graduate program consisting of medical and clinical sciences; naturopathic principles and therapies; diagnostic medicine; and at least 1-year clinical experience while supervised by licensed naturopaths. After graduation, NDs must pass rigorous board exams to be licensed to practice as Naturopathic Doctors (or Doctors of Naturopathic Medicine).
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Naturopathic treatment can seem expensive because it is not covered by OHIP, but since NDs emphasize long-term health and prevention, you will notice you will fall ill less often, may require less prescription medications (which can still be pricey), and feel more energetic for life.
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Your first visit will be one and a half hour long and will include a thorough discussion of your medical history and health concerns, as well as a physical examination. The first visit is essentially an information-gathering session. A second visit is usually scheduled one week after the initial visit to discuss the complete treatment program. This allows the doctor to thoroughly assess the case and to give it the special attention that it requires, in order to allow for a more accurate and personalized prescription to help facilitate your healing process. Follow-up visits are booked as necessary in order to assess your progress and to make changes as needed.
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Naturopathic doctors are trained in pharmacology to detect interactions between drugs and herbs, drugs and nutritional supplements, as well as between herbs and nutrients. NDs can help reduce side effects from medications, and in some cases, help you safely lower your dose.
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People of all ages suffering from both acute and chronic health conditions can benefit from naturopathic care.

Some of the conditions that respond well to naturopathic medicine include:

Chronic illnesses

• Asthma and allergies
• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome/Fibromyalgia
• Arthritis
• Hypertension, Atherosclerosis, Hypercholesterolemia and other cardiovascular problems
• Digestive disturbances: Constipation, Diarrhea, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Crohn's, Ulcerative Colitis
• Skin conditions: Acne, Eczema, Psoriasis
• Immune dysfunctions
• Endocrine disorders: Hypo/hyperthyroid, adrenal fatigue

Acute conditions

• Colds, coughs, flu
• Ear and throat infections
• Headaches/migraines
• Recovery from injury or trauma

Women's Health Concerns

• Menopause/perimenopause
• Pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS)
• Menstrual problems (dysmenorrhea, amenorrhea, menorrhagia, etc.)
• Fibrocystic breast disease
• Infertility
• Pregnancy health: prenatal and post-natal as well
• Endometriosis, uterine fibroids

Children’s Health

• Skin: children’s eczema, acne
• Digestive: constipation, bloating, diarrhea
• Ear and sinus infections
• Allergies
• Sleeping difficulties
• Children’s attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

Other

• Anxiety, depression
• Stress
• Insomnia
• Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• Hyperactivity
• Smoking cessation
• Weight management

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A Naturopathic Doctor uses homeopathy as one of the therapies that may be integrated into the total treatment plan, according to your case. A homeopathic practitioner uses only homeopathy. NDs are the only health-care professionals who are examined in homeopathy for licensing purposes.
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Yes, many extended health care insurance plans offer partial or full coverage for naturopathic visits. To determine if you have coverage under naturopathic medicine, please contact your health insurance company or refer to the policy handbook.
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