What is Naturopathic Medicine? Naturopathic Medicine is a comprehensive approach to health care. Naturopathic Doctors (NDs) are specialists in natural medicine and preventative health care, integrating scientific knowledge with traditional healing wisdom. An ND’s role is to assist patients in maximizing the body’s ability to heal stimulating and supporting this ability. Naturopathic treatment addresses the root causes of illness, rather than treating or suppressing symptoms. The patient is seen as a whole person with physical, mental and emotional dimensions that are each taken into account when developing a treatment plan. NDs educate their patients and emphasize the role the patient plays in attaining and maintaining their health. Common Conditions Treated Conditions That Are Often Addressed with Naturopathic Medicine: Weight Loss Depression Arthritis Migraines Allergies Asthma Insomnia PMS Osteoporosis Colds and Flu Menopausal Symptoms Anxiety Digestive Complaints Urinary Complaints Preventative Healthcare and Lifestyle Counseling What Treatments can I expect? Clinical Nutrition Clinical Nutrition examines the relationship between diet and health and is a vital part of naturopathic treatment. Special diets may be recommended and treatment may include nutritional supplements such as vitamins and minerals. Homeopathy Homeopathy is a system of healing which uses dilute and specially prepared doses of natural substances to stimulate the natural healing ability of the body. Botanical Medicine The use of plants for healing is the foundation of modern pharmacology. While the highly refined, specific drugs used today typically address only one symptom, the use of botanical medicine allows for many symptoms to be addressed simultaneously, without losing the nutritional benefits we derive from plants. Acupuncture and Asian Medicine Based on balancing the flow of energy through the body, utilizing acupuncture and Eastern herbs. These treatments are often used in the treatment of chronic health conditions as well as for pain. Lifestyle Counseling We make health choices everyday (physical, emotional, nutritional and environmental) that affect our overall wellbeing. These are explored and the patient is educated about making wise, effective lifestyle choices. What to Expect from Your Visits Generally, the initial visit will be 1.5 hours in length. This time will be spent gathering an in depth medical and family history, and compiling data on nutritional intake, stress levels, lifestyle, etc. The goal of an ND is to understand the patient and all factors affecting their health. After the initial appointment, a treatment plan is developed by the doctor to address the patient’s concerns. At the next visit, this plan is discussed and finalized with input from the patient. Follow-up appointments are 45 minutes to one hour in length and range from weekly to once every 6 months depending on the needs of the patient. Naturopathic services are covered under many private extended health care plans. Check with your employer for your level of coverage. About Heather Morrison B.Sc. ND Heather Morrison holds a Bachelor of Science Degree from McMaster University and a Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine from the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine (CCNM). She gained clinical experience while interning at the college’s onsite clinic and at the Anishnawbe Native Health Centre in Toronto. While in school, Heather completed CCNM’s Homeopathic Specialty Clinic and was awarded the Homeopathic Medicine award upon graduation. After graduating, Heather traveled to East Africa to treat patients and teach students at the Abha Light Natural Medicine Clinic in Nairobi, Kenya. Since returning to Canada, Heather has opened and established her own clinical practice and she encourages patients of all ages with any type of health concern to visit her office. Heather is currently on maternity leave. About Cara MacMullin B.Sc. ND Cara MacMullin graduated from Dalhousie University in Halifax, Nova Scotia with a Bachelor of Science advanced major in biology. From here, Cara went on to complete the Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine program at the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine. In addition to this 4 year Naturopathic program, Cara has also been certified in Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture. She has extensive clinical experience gained while interning in Toronto at both the Robert Shadd Naturopathic Clinic and the Sherbourne Health Center. Following an eclectic approach to patient care, Cara utilizes all of the modalities of naturopathic medicine in treatment. Contact Us Any questions? Contact Cara MacMullin directly at nd@solidgroundwellness.com or 416-593-0602.