New to naturopathic medicine?

Many of my patients come to naturopathic medicine after feeling frustrated with conventional care—or simply knowing there has to be a more thoughtful way to approach their health. If you’re new to this type of care, here’s what to know:

Naturopathic doctors (NDs) are medically trained professionals who blend modern science with natural therapies to treat the whole person. We focus on identifying the root causes of illness, rather than just suppressing symptoms, and use individualized, evidence-based tools to support long-term healing.

What sets naturopathic medicine apart?

  • Longer visits that give you time to be heard and understood

  • Root-cause thinking that looks at how systems in the body are connected

  • Personalized care plans that fit your lifestyle and goals

  • Therapies that support healing, not just symptom relief

Yes, we’re real doctors.

Licensed naturopathic doctors complete a rigorous four-year, doctoral-level medical program at an accredited naturopathic medical school. Our training includes biomedical sciences (like anatomy, physiology, pathology, and pharmacology), clinical diagnostics, and evidence-based integrative therapies including nutrition, botanical medicine, physical medicine, and lifestyle counseling.

After graduation, many of us complete residencies and advanced training in specific areas of focus—just like I did. We are licensed or regulated in many states, including California, where I maintain active licensure and ongoing continuing education.

Still have questions?

That’s great! I’m happy to explain what to expect, and help you decide if this approach is right for you. My goal is always to partner with you in a way that feels respectful, transparent, and empowering.

Anatomical diagrams of the human body focusing on muscles and the male genito-urinary system, with text background.

FAQs

  • Treatment plans vary, but may include personalized nutrition, targeted supplements, botanical medicine, lifestyle therapy, mind-body approaches, and when appropriate, prescription medications. Everything is tailored to your body, your goals, and your capacity.

  • In California, I practice under the supervision of a licensed MD, which allows me to prescribe certain medications when appropriate. This includes hormones, thyroid medications, and select pharmaceuticals. In Kentucky, Ohio, and other states where naturopathic medicine is not regulated, I do not prescribe medications and practice in a wellness consulting capacity.

  • There’s overlap—both focus on root-cause healing and personalized care. However, naturopathic medicine is a distinct licensed medical profession with its own philosophy, education, and therapeutic tools. NDs are trained as primary care providers and also receive in-depth education in natural therapies that many functional medicine practitioners are not formally trained to use.

  • At this time, I do not accept insurance. Naturopathic medicine is often not covered by health insurance, particularly in states where it is not yet licensed or regulated. I operate as a direct-pay practice, which allows me to provide more personalized, unhurried care without the limitations of insurance networks.

  • Yes—and in fact, I require patients living in unregulated states to maintain a relationship with a licensed primary care provider (PCP). My work is designed to complement your existing care and support a more comprehensive, whole-person approach to your health.

  • Yes. I can order conventional labs and often go further by offering specialty testing for hormones, gut health, nutritional status, inflammation, toxins, and more. If you already have recent labs, I’m happy to review and incorporate them into our work together.