Naturopathic doctors (NDs) are trained medical providers who emphasize personalized and preventive care. NDs heal the whole person—body and mind—by targeting the root causes of illness with natural therapies like nutrition, herbal remedies, and lifestyle guidance. By blending modern science with more traditional practices, NDs offer an integrative approach to health care.
What does a naturopathic doctor do?
Licensed NDs are often primary care providers, handling everything from diagnosis to treatment. With expertise in areas like pediatrics, endocrinology, and gastroenterology, they can treat a wide range of conditions. They regularly order labs, prescribe medications (in many states), and refer patients for specialized treatment when needed.
NDs follow six core principles, offering comprehensive visits that go beyond the basics. These longer appointments include physical exams, diagnostic assessments, and functional medicine testing.
Naturopathic doctors and medical doctors: how are they different?
Naturopathic doctors and medical doctors (MDs) both graduate from accredited medical schools and work in various healthcare settings, such as family clinics, hospitals, and integrative medical centers. NDs focus on primary prevention, whole-health care, and reducing medication reliance, while MDs primarily diagnose and resolve symptoms with conventional treatments (like pharmaceuticals or surgery).
Naturopathic doctors and MDs work together
When NDs and MDs team up in a clinical setting, it’s known as integrative care—and it’s all about combining the best of both worlds. They work together to create personalized, preventive strategies focused on long-term health, including lifestyle education, nutrition, stress management, and routine screenings. By blending natural and conventional medicine, NDs and MDs offer whole-health care that looks at the big picture—physical, mental, emotional, and lifestyle factors. Using lab tests, imaging, and physical exams, they collaboratively diagnose conditions and create treatment plans that may include anything from natural therapies and lifestyle changes to pharmaceuticals or conventional procedures, all tailored to a patient’s unique needs and preferences.
Education and training
Naturopathic medical education combines a four-year academic curriculum with clinical experience and ongoing learning to maintain their license. NDs are trained to provide comprehensive services, including preventive care, diagnosing and treating acute and chronic conditions, managing medications, ordering diagnostic tests, and coordinating care with other health practitioners.
Not all “naturopaths” are naturopathic doctors, and understanding the difference is worthwhile when looking for naturopathic care. Although the terms sound similar, education and training can vary considerably.
Benefits of consulting a naturopathic doctor
Naturopathic doctors focus on treating the whole person and provide sustainable strategies for maintaining lifelong good health. They deliver comprehensive, individualized care that enhances patients’ quality of life and overall well-being.
A key principle of naturopathic medicine is “doctor as teacher,” where NDs empower people through health education. By fostering a deeper understanding of prevention and treatment options, NDs help their patients actively participate in their own health journeys and make informed decisions. Personalized treatment plans are developed together and tailored to individual needs and goals.
Is naturopathic medicine pseudoscience?
Absolutely not! Naturopathic medicine combines modern medical science with effective traditional healing practices. Natural therapies like nutrition, herbal medicine, and acupuncture have a growing base of scientific evidence showing their effectiveness in treating various health conditions. NDs prioritize proven prevention strategies and lifestyle modifications. Although they emphasize natural treatments, NDs also collaborate with conventional medicine, using peer-reviewed research to inform their treatment approaches.
Do naturopathic doctors believe in medicine?
Of course! Although naturopathic doctors prefer natural, noninvasive, and cost-effective treatments, they are also trained in conventional medicine. Many NDs can prescribe medication when necessary but seek to minimize reliance on pharmaceutical treatments for chronic conditions. They are also specially qualified to facilitate safe deprescribing through personalized counseling and collaborative decision-making.
Find a qualified naturopathic doctor
A bit of research can go a long way in helping you find a qualified naturopathic doctor. Here are some tips to guide you in choosing the right ND for your health needs:
- Verify credentials and education: Ensure the ND has graduated from an accredited naturopathic medical school and holds the necessary credentials. Look for certifications or memberships with reputable organizations, such as the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians (AANP) or the Washington Association of Naturopathic Physicians. Keep in mind that while some practitioners may call themselves “naturopaths,” not all are licensed NDs, so it’s important to verify their qualifications.
- Check licensure and regulation: Consult your state’s regulatory board to ensure the ND is licensed to practice. Some NDs practice in states that don’t license or regulate naturopathic doctors by maintaining an active license from a state that does.
- Evaluate experience and specialization: Ask about the ND’s experience with conditions similar to yours and any special training or focus areas.
- Read reviews and seek recommendations: Look for positive reviews and testimonials. Consider asking for recommendations from friends, family, or other healthcare providers.
- Insurance and payment options: Make sure the ND accepts your insurance plan or offers alternative payment options, like sliding scale fees or tiered payment plans.
- Trust your instincts: Choose an ND who makes you feel comfortable and confident. Don’t hesitate to seek a second opinion if needed.
You can search for a naturopathic doctor by name, location, or specialty using the FindanND database.
