What's the difference between a naturopathic doctor and a homeopath?

There are many training programs and courses in homeopathy in both the US and abroad; however, no diploma or certificate from any school or program is recognized as a license to practice homeopathy in the US.  The majority of people utilizing homeopathy are "lay practitioners".  In states like California, there are health care freedom acts (SB 577) that allow anyone to give health advice, including the use of homeopathy. 

A licensed naturopathic doctor is trained as a primary care provider who address the underlying cause of disease through effective, individualized natural therapies that integrate the healing powers of body, mind and spirit.  N.D.'s can diagnose, treat and aid in the prevention of disease; perform physical and laboratory exams for diagnostic purposes; perform blood draws; use routes of administration including oral, auricular, ocular, IM, IV, rectal and vaginal; order laboratory tests and diagnostic imaging studies; and dispense, administer and order all non-prescription items including herbs, vitamins, minerals, amino acids, homeopathics, etc.  (For more info on N.D.'s in CA click here)

Can Naturopathic Medicine help me?

Although no doctor or system of medicine can help every individual or guarantee results, the majority of my patients have experienced significant improvements.  Results vary from patient to patient, and I have found that 70-90 percent of patients with chronic disease experience a significant improvement in their health by using homeopathy exclusively.  If I do not believe I can help you, I will disclose this at the beginning of the appointment and make referrals where appropriate.

                         Is Homeopathy right for me?

It is likely that your health can be improved through homeopathy, although it is important to remember that each individual's case is different.  There are few conditions homeopathy cannot treat.  This is more dependent on the individual rather than the diagnosis they are carrying.  There are complex diseases, which may call for additional forms of treatment.  I specialize in homeopathy and most patients come to me for natural healing.  I occasionally recommend conventional medicines, vitamins, minerals and essential fatty acids.  I sometimes request lab work or referral to a specialist for diagnostic work-up.    You may also purchase Homeopathy: Beyond Flat Earth Medicine for $11, 

  This book will answer most every question that you would probably ask of me.  The previous link will allow you to read the book online.  TOP OF PAGE

What can I expect from a visit for homeopathic care?

It is important to understand that homeopathy is highly individualized.  My job is to elicit as much information as possible (symptoms) about the person's physical, mental and emotional state, as well as their primary health concern(s).  The initial appointment is used to understand your overall state of health in order to prescribe an effective and individualized treatment.  This may take from 1.5 to 3 hours to complete.  Following the initial intake, a licensed naturopathic doctor will perform indicated physical examinations and may want to order additional lab exams to secure a medical diagnosis.  I prescribe a medicine after a methodical analysis of your case (which can be up to 1 week).  The medicines are very affordable:  priced around $10-$20.

The distinction between remedies for a given patient is often very subtle.  Some patients get well on only 1 homeopathic medicine while others will move through a series of indicated homeopathic medicines before they are completely well.  For those individuals with a long history of allopathic drug therapy, it may take considerably longer to recover as compared to young children who tend to have a pure health history and recover very quickly.  Improvements in your condition can be experienced in as quick as a couple of minutes for acute illness and typically within 3 weeks for chronic illnesses.

Do You Accept Insurance?

California insurance companies do not specifically cover naturopathic doctors.  I also do not participate in any insurance programs by choice.  You are welcome to submit your invoice to the insurance company for an attempt at reimbursement.  TOP OF PAGE