Naturopathic medicine emphasizes prevention and the self-healing process through the use of natural therapies. Naturopathic Doctors blend centuries-old knowledge and a philosophy that nature is the most effective healer with current research on health and human systems.
Naturopathic diagnosis focuses on identifying the underlying causes of disease, while naturopathic therapies are supported by research drawn from peer-reviewed journals from many disciplines, including naturopathic medicine, conventional medicine, European complementary medicine, clinical nutrition, phytotherapy, homeopathy, psychology and spirituality.
The therapeutic modalities used in Naturopathic medicine (including Physical Manipulation, Body Work Therapies, Clinical Nutrition, Botanical Medicine, Homeopathy, Hydrotherapy, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and Acupuncture) integrate conventional, scientific and empirical methodology with the ancient laws of nature. The underpinnings of Naturopathic Medical practice are in seven principles:
- First Do No Harm - primum non nocere
- The Healing Power of Nature - vis medicatrix naturae
- Discover and Treat the Cause, Not Just the Effect - tolle causam
- Treat the Whole Person - tolle totum
- The Physician is a Teacher - docere
- Prevention is the best "cure" - praevenire
- Address the constitutional health or miasm of the individual
Educated in all of the same basic sciences as a Medical Doctor (MD), a Naturopathic Doctor uses the Western medical sciences as a foundation for diagnosis and treatment. On July 1st, 2015, the Naturopathy Act 2007 was proclaimed and Naturopathic Doctors became regulated under the Regulated Health Professions Act. Naturopathic Doctors are regulated by the College of Naturopaths of Ontario (CONO), an arm’s length body of the government of Ontario with an independent Registrar and Council. CONO’s main responsibility is to regulate the profession of Naturopathic Medicine in the public interest.
Naturopathic Doctors practicing in Ontario have completed a minimum of seven years of post-secondary education and rigorous entry-to-practice exams, prior to registration as a Naturopathic Doctor in Ontario. Education includes a minimum of three years of undergraduate coursework, and a four-year, accredited, Naturopathic Medical education. Graduates must pass two sets of provincial licensing board exams and are required to maintain their competency throughout their career by completing at least 70 hours of accredited continuing medical education courses every three years, in order to keep their current registration in good order.
Naturopathic Doctors study holistic approaches to therapy with a strong emphasis on disease prevention and promoting wellness. In addition to a standard medical curriculum, Naturopathic Doctors are trained in Clinical Nutrition, Homeopathic Medicine, Botanical Medicine, psychology, Physical Medicine and Counseling.
Medically Trained. Naturally Focused.
Dr. Krista Loughead, ND
Naturopathic Doctor