The Wellness ND

Is naturopathic medicine a regulated profession?

Yes. In Ontario, naturopathic doctors must complete an accredited naturopathic medical degree, fulfil internship requirements, successfully pass licensing exams, and be in good standing with the College of Naturopaths of Ontario (the regulatory oversight body).

 

Is naturopathic medicine covered by insurance?

While naturopathic medicine is not covered by the provincial health plan (OHIP), most private insurers offer some coverage. If you have extended medical benefits from your employer, there's a good chance you have naturopathic coverage.

 

What can I expect during the visits?

The inital visit is typically 60-90 minutes. You will be required to fill out an intake form, and sign informed consent and privacy policy documents. The visit will be spent getting to know you and the health concerns you have in detail. We will look at your diet, lifestyle habits, stress levels, and review your body systems. There may be a physical exam performed, depending on the complaint, and blood work may be required. Your initial treatment plan will be given to you at this point.

 

Follow up visits are usually 30 minutes. These visits are meant to assess your progress with the treatment plan, and make adjustments where necessary. The frequency depends on the health concern and progress rate. Acupuncture protocols require weekly treatments for several weeks.

 

Remember, the visits are about you - you are always free to ask as many questions as you want, to be as involved in your own healthcare as possible.

 

Do I need to prepare for the first visit?

If you haven't filled out the forms in advance, please arrive 20 minutes early to do so. 

If you have, or can request, copies of your most recent blood work and/or imaging results, they can be very helpful for the visit.

If you are taking natural supplements, you may bring them in with you for assessment.

 

How much does it cost?

Please contact the office or email Dr. Henderson for an up-to-date fee schedule. 

 

Are virtual or phone consults available?

Yes. For those who are out of town, so long as they are in Ontario, consultations can be arranged via Jane App, Zoom, or by phone. Initial visits are best done in person for a proper assessment of your health when possible.

 

What sort of therapies are used?

Naturopathic medicine has at its disposal many therapeutic tools. Nutrition is one of the biggest, along with lifestyle counseling for stress management. Herbal medicine and nutrient supplementation is standard, frequently combined with traditional Chinese acupuncture for a multi-dimensional approach.

 

Blood tests can be ordered for diagnosis and tracking purposes, such as IgG food sensitivity testing, hormone testing, as well as most standard blood work. 

 

Can I still see my medical doctor, and take medication?

Yes, absolutely. Naturopathy works well as complimentary and adjuctive care to conventional medicine. Dr. Henderson encourages her patients to continue seeing their family doctors and specialists for well-rounded care. 

 

Any possible interactions between natural therapies and medications are screened for, and you will not be forced to stop your medication. Many patients however end up coming off certain medications after undergoing naturopathic treatment with their medical doctor's supervision because they don't need them anymore.

 

How long before I see results?

Natural therapies vary in how quickly they work. Very broadly speaking, chronic health concerns take a bit longer to respond to natural therapies than to phramaceuticals. Medication by nature is very potent and tends to act faster, but with a higher potential for side effects. Natural therapies such as herbs, supplements, and nutritional support take longer but are generally much safer. Don't look for over-night results; there are no magic bullets. Rather, expect 2-6 weeks before you notice significant changes, maybe up to 3 months, such as for menstrual concerns.

 

Are results guaranteed?

No. While Dr. Henderson always offers the best therapies available to her for each patient, there can be no guarantees or promises as to the kinds of results you may or may not experience. Every patient is competely unique, and while most people find benefit, not all do - that is true for any type of medicine.  

 

Do I have to buy supplements from Dr. Henderson's office or Fullscript page?

No. You are not obliged to purchase any recommended products from the office or the Fullscript online dispensary page; you are free to purchase them from any retailer of your choice. Note that Dr. Henderson cannot sell or recommend supplements to those who are not her clients. 

 

What is facial rejuvenation acupuncture and how does it work?

Facial rejuvenation acupucture is a traditional Chinese practice of inserting very fine, sterile needles into specific areas of the facial skin. The needles promote better blood and lymphatic circulation and stimulate collagen production. With a consecutive set of 10-12 weekly sessions, patients can expect to see better colouring and a reduction in dark spots, puffiness, fine lines, and scars. It is the perfect compromise between extensive facial regiments and and risky injections.