Naturopathic medicine focuses on supporting the body's own healing capabilities. A naturopathic physician will examine the connections between behaviour, environment and mindset to find patterns and determine the root of a person's health issues. It uses a blend of traditional therapies, philosophies and modern healthcare approaches to bring people back into balance and empower them to achieve their health goals. The treatment approach in naturopathic medicine is based on our six principles as well as what is known as "the therapeutic order". Based on these guiding principles, a naturopathic physician will strive to choose the most effective and least invasive course of treatment.
Education: Naturopathic doctors must complete four years of undergraduate study before being accepted to an independently accredited naturopathic college. A doctorate of naturopathic medicine takes four to six years to complete. At the end of their study, the student must pass rigorous licensing exams as well as board exams specific to the scope of practice in their province before they can practice as a fully licensed naturopathic doctor.