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Your First Visit

If you have never been to a naturopath and would like to know what to expect this is for you.

Firstly, let me dispel a common and extremely misguided myth that anyone dealing in traditional medicines is a “Quack”. This is not true. The complementary medicine field is vast and filled with many qualified researchers and practitioners.

Now that’s out of the way, let’s get to it:

Part 1: Filling in Paperwork

For a first time 90 minute visit, you can expect to fill out a questionnaire regarding your general health and the reason for your visit. The more information you provide, the better equipped your practitioner is to deal with you as a whole person. This means less pill popping for you.

Part 2: Case History

After consulting the questionnaire, the practitioner will then go through your history. This will include your primary concern and associated symptoms. Often they will take your family history, dietary history, and lifestyle history. A review of all the body systems may also be undertaken to ensure nothing is missed.

Part 3: Physical Exam

Now for the practical part. After all this talking, the practitioner will then go through some diagnostic procedures. Depending on what they are qualified in, this may include analysis of height, weight, blood pressure, urinary tests, heavy metal tests, iridology, kinesiology, or live blood analysis.

Part 4: Treatment Options

After getting this information, it is then collated with earlier notes to form a complete picture of how your body is functioning. From here, the practitioner may then recommend dietary and lifestyle suggestions in addition to supplements. These supplements may include nutrients, herbs, vitamins, minerals, Bach Flowers, Bush Flowers, teas, or homeopathic remedies that may be suitable for you.

Please note how I said “First Time Visit”. Naturopaths are rather like that old tortoise – slow, steady, and methodic. It may be a couple of weeks until your next check up appointment. This is usually shorter and is a progress review.  Please be open and honest – if you haven’t been able to follow the protocol, just let your naturopath know.

And that is, more or less, how a naturopath operates. You should be aware that NO naturopath will ever tell you to stop taking your medication. This is dangerous and against all codes of practice. I strongly encourage all patients to inform their doctors of what supplements they are taking as interactions can and do occur.