A naturopath or naturopathic doctor is a trained primary care provider. From ordering imaging and lab work to exploring emotional causes of physical ailments, naturopathic doctors treat the whole person and address the underlying causes of disease.

What to expect when working with a Naturopathic Doctor

While each visit to Heart Spring Health’s Portland clinic is as unique as the patient, it is common to have the first visit last between 60-120 minutes. This gives us a chance explore the underlying factors affecting your health.

Prior to your visit, we will send you paperwork to complete that includes a thorough health history. When we meet, we will review this together to better understand your concerns. Through physical exam and possibly lab work, your doctor will do a comprehensive analysis of your health that will help inform your personalized treatment plan.

Ultimately, the goal of this first visit is to understand your current health challenges, history and goals. You will leave with a clear picture of how we will work together to support you in your return to radiant health.

Training for a Naturopathic Doctor in Portland, Oregon

Naturopathic doctors complete a intensive four-year post graduate doctorate program. They are required to complete the same prerequisites required for any type of medical school and to study the same basic and clinical sciences a medical doctor studies, including pharmaceuticals. In addition, a naturopathic doctor studies healing through natural substances such as plants, minerals, water, foods and more. The nature-path teaches patients the path to natural health and healing. Learn more about training here.

The Principles of Naturopathic Medicine

Naturopathic medicine is a distinct form of primary health care. A naturopathic doctor is a primary health care provider whose diverse techniques include both modern and traditional methods of treatment. The principles of naturopathic medicine are part of what distinguishes the naturopathic approach to health care from the conventional approach and are based on objective observation of the nature of health and disease. The following principles are the foundation of naturopathic medical practice:

Heart-Springs_The-Seven-Principles-Of-Naturopathic-Medicine

 

 

 

The Healing Power of Nature Vis Medicatrix Naturae

First Do No Harm Primum Non Nocere

Find the Cause Tolle Causam

Treat the Whole Person

Prevention

Doctor as Teacher (Docere)

Wellness

 

 

 

In addition to these principles, Naturopathic doctors follow best treatment practices called the Therapeutic order. Our treatment plans are individualized to take into consideration not just the pathological process that might be present but also the person who is experiencing the symptoms.

Re-establish basis of health

Identify cause and remove the obstacles to cure

Stimulate healing processes

Support weakened or damaged systems/organs

Restore structural integrity

Address pathology

Palliative treatment

Learn more about naturopathic medicine here.

Naturopathic Doctors