How much time would I get with the Naturopathic Doctor?
The first visit is 1-1.5 hours and follow ups are generally 30 or 45 minutes. In some cases you may need to get blood work or imaging done before arriving at a diagnosis. We take the time to listen to your concerns and your health goals. Your ND will create a health plan with you that works for you.
Is Naturopathic Medicine covered by insurance?
Many extended health coverage plans include naturopathic medicine. Check your plan and see what your benefits are.
How is a Naturopathic Doctor different from a Medical Doctor?
The biggest differences between naturopathic and conventional medicine are the philosophical approach and therapies used. Naturopathic doctors focus on treating the person not just the disease through non-invasive gentle therapies and natural interventions. We recognize that you are unique and that the factors affecting your health are too. We help patients remove the barriers that are preventing health in addition to treating the physical and emotional aspect to disease. Naturopaths are able to give you the time you need to meet with us, we take a full hour for the first consultation.
Would Dr. Erin Esau, ND prescribe pharmaceutical drugs?
No.
Are Naturopaths and Homeopaths the same?
No. Naturopathic doctors/ Naturopaths are trained in homeopathy and may use it as part of their practice but it is only one of many modalities they use. Naturopathic doctors also use nutrition, traditional Chinese medicine and acupuncture, do physical exams, read blood work/ lab results, perform spinal manipulations, diagnose medical conditions, prescribe herbs and supplements and more.
Homeopaths are trained only in homeopathy.
Is there a difference between the type of acupuncture provided between a Naturopathic Doctor and Chiropractor or Physiotherapist or Massage therapist?
Yes. Naturopathic Doctors are trained in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) which focuses on rebalancing the whole system as well as being used to help pain in joints or muscles. This training includes many exams, and years of study and practice and can be applied to the rebalancing of many ailments.
In most cases the type of acupuncture training a Chiropractor, Physio or Massage therapist has is limited only to muscle or joint pain and they are not typically trained in TCM diagnosis or treatment which enables this certification to be achieved much more quickly.
What type of conditions might prompt someone to make an appointment?
Common reasons to see a Naturopathic Doctor include but are not limited to:
- Infertility
- Fatigue
- IBS
- Digestive disturbances
- Mood concerns
- Hormonal concerns
- Painful periods
- Irregular periods
- Muscle or joint pain
- Menopause
- Insomnia
- Hypertension
- High cholesterol
- Blood sugar management
- Disease prevention
- Stress
- and many more…
Dr. Esau, Naturopathic Doctor 