The naturopathic principles outline the basic approach to medicine that is taken by a naturopath.
How is naturopath different than your regular doctor?
The relationship between the doctor and the patient is not always talked about, but this relationship can be part of your healing experience.
A Naturopathic Doctor is a great primary care resource for those who want to follow a healing path including natural remedies or those who want to augment their current care. You may be surprised to learn about the approach and training that is required to be a Naturopathic Doctor.
In North America, the accredited schools of naturopathic medicine provide a four year degree leading to the N.D. (Naturopathic Doctor) designation. Essentially, naturopathic students are trained in all basic (biochemistry, anatomy, physiology etc) and clinical sciences, (lab diagnosis, physical diagnosis, cardiology, gynecology etc.) in addition to naturopathic philosophy, naturopathic manipulation and physiotherapy techniques, herbal medicine, homeopathy, and nutritional medicine. The programs generally involve at least two years of clinical training that runs concurrently with the academic program.
The scope of practice for a qualified Naturopathic Doctor varies with provincial and state regulations. Generally speaking, those jurisdictions with licensing laws have a similar scope to a family physician.
In order to practice as a qualified Naturopathic Doctor in a regulated area, graduates must pass Board Examinations administered through NABNE.
BE AWARE that there are also mail-
When you choose your practitioner, make sure that you feel comfortable with their qualifications, whatever they are, and if you feel the need to ask questions, do so.
CANADA
In Canada, there are two accredited schools of naturopathic medicine:
Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine, located in Toronto, Ontario.
Boucher Institute of Naturopathic Medicine, located in New Westminster, British Columbia
Professional associations include:
Canadian Association of Naturopathic Physicians
Association of Naturopathic Physicians of British Columbia
Association of Naturopathic Doctors of Alberta
Ontario Association of Naturopathic Doctors
UNITED STATES
In the United States, there are four accredited schools of naturopathic medicine:
National College of Naturopathic Medicine, located in Portland, Oregon.
Bastyr University, located in Seattle, Washington.
Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine, located in Tempe, Arizona.
Bridgeport University, located in Bridgeport , Connecticut
Professional associations include:
American Association of Naturopathic Physicians
Revised 10Feb07
Last Updated 10Feb07
Naturopathic Doctors use standard physical exams & standard lab tests but also use several more cutting edge technologies, lab tests and physical assessments.
