What is Naturopathy?
What to Expect from a consult.
Naturopathy is a health-focused, patient-centred approach. It focuses on addressing the root causes of illness rather than just treating symptoms, and aims to support the body’s natural ability to heal.
Principles of Naturopathy
Adhere to the healing laws of nature
Do no harm
Identify and treat the underlying causes
Treat the whole person- body, mind and spirit
Educate and Empower
Prevention
Here is what a typical consult might involve:
1. Comprehensive Health Assessment
Your first consult usually involves an in-depth discussion of your health history, current concerns, and lifestyle. Expect questions about:
Symptoms and medical history
Diet and nutrition
Exercise habits
Sleep patterns
Stress levels and emotional health
Family health history
Environmental and social factors
This holistic assessment helps me understand your overall health and identify potential underlying issues.We look together at the systems and organs in your body with an eye to what needs support. We might regenerate and rebalance using specific herbs, nutrition, diet and lifestyle. For example:
strengthening your immune system
reducing inflammation
nourishing the nervous system and adrenals
supporting release of toxins
addressing digestion including elimination
2. Diagnostic Testing (if needed)
I may recommend tests to gather more information about your health, or you may already have some test results for me to look at. These could include:
Blood tests (e.g., for nutrient deficiencies or hormonal imbalances)
Stool analysis (to assess gut health)
Food sensitivity or allergy testing
Hormonal panels
Functional medicine tests (e.g., for adrenal function, microbiome health)
We always work within your budget, and your regular GP may be happy to run some tests for you, which may not cost you anything. Or we may not need any testing.
3. Individualised Treatment Plan
I will create a personalised plan tailored to your needs, often combining several approaches. This might include:
Nutrition advice: Recommendations for a nutrient-dense diet, elimination of trigger foods, or targeted supplementation.
Herbal medicine: I have a herbal dispensary and may suggest a customised blend for you, or I may recommend other herbal products or teas.
Lifestyle guidance: Tips for improving sleep, stress management, exercise, and other habits.
Supplementation: Vitamins, minerals, probiotics, or other supplements based on your unique requirements.
Detoxification: Support for liver health or toxin elimination if needed.
Other therapies: I may recommend you see other allied health practitioners such as a chiropractor, a masseuse, or even your GP.
Mind-body practices: Techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, or breathing exercises to address emotional and mental health.
4. Education and Empowerment
A key part of naturopathic care is education. I aim to empower and inspire you to take an active role in your health by understanding your body and the reasons behind my recommendations.
5. Follow-Up Care
Health is an ongoing journey. We will likely schedule follow-up visits to monitor your progress, adjust your treatment plan, and ensure you’re on the right track.
NOTE: Please understand that I am NOT a medical practitioner, and what I share is non-medical natural health advice (Complementary Medicine), and it should not be substituted for specialist medical advice. If in doubt, always consult a medical practitioner first.