Have you ever wondered what goes on during a naturopathic appointment? You’re not the only one. Just the other day, someone said to me something along the lines of: “I know you’re an ND and you help people improve their health naturally, but what do you actually DO during your ND visits?”
Well, for starters, I spend a good amount of time with my clients. I take time to get to know each client and understand what is contributing to their health issues. I work with people’s concerns that might be similar to yours…helping them to improve digestion, sleep better, manage a chronic illness, or just the inevitable stresses of life.
I listen… a lot. Not just to hear about someone’s physical symptoms, but also to what’s going on for each person in their life and how it is affecting them – the good and the difficult. I also listen for and ask questions to get an idea of what sort of naturopathic approach would best suit each person (some want to do as much as possible with food and therapeutic teas whole others prefer the convenience of supplements).
I answer questions. Lots of them… about how our bodies work, about what I think is causing someone’s health issues, about what foods are likely best and how to incorporate them easily. Sometimes I even get asked what I eat for breakfast! (and I love being asked questions – it helps me know we are talking about things that are important to each person). When there is a question I don’t know the answer to, I do my best to find the answers.
I do physical examinations, assessments and check-ups. I analyze bloodwork results – even when the results are in normal ranges, there are often indications worth our attention. (there’s more about that here http://nadia-nd.com/lab-testing/). I sometimes order specialized lab tests to get more information about digestive system or hormones.
If indicated, I administer gentle abdominal massage techniques.
In my office clients learn to listen to their bodies, to understand how our bodies work so advice makes sense. I provide science based information to address confusion created by fads and pop remedies. Using diagnosis, personal information, feedback, and achievable steps, we work together to reclaim good health. I empower clients to manage food and lifestyle with some encouragement, support and accountability. Even small changes can make a big difference over time!
In short, I work with clients to restore their health naturally, step by step, so they can feel their best and have lasting health. I recommend a combination of Naturopathic therapies that are best suited to each individual, which may include: nutrition, botanical medicine, homeopathy, acupuncture (which I can do with a gentle laser light instead of needles), stress management, breathing techniques and hands-on bodywork.
I invite you! Whether you have a specific medical condition, generally don’t feel as well as you used to, or would like to take more of a proactive approach towards a healthier and happier life, I am here to help.
