About Naturopathic Medicine

Naturopathic medicine is a system of medicine dedicated to identifying and addressing the root cause of symptoms, leveraging a collection of modalities used in service to the healing power within. Naturopathic Doctors are guided by six principles:

1) The Healing Power of nature (Vis Medicatrix Naturae)

Naturopathic doctors believe that there is a powerful ability to heal within each individual. We work to remove the obstacles that may be interfering with health, and support the body’s natural ability to heal.

2) Treat the cause (Tolle Causum)

Naturopathic doctors seek to identify and treat the underlying cause of health imbalances, rather than merely treating or suppressing symptoms. It is through this path that we’re able to work with our clients to uncover long-term, sustainable health.

3) Prevention (Previnir)

Naturopathic doctors support clients in taking proactive measures in disease prevention. We work with our clients in identifying unique risk factors and susceptibility to disease and apply appropriate interventions for the improvement of risk and susceptibility.

4) Doctor as teacher (Docere)

Naturopathic doctors educate their clients to give them a full toolbox from which to build health. We encourage and empower healing through self-responsibility.

5) Treat the whole person (Tolle Totum)

Naturopathic doctors believe that health is not just physical. We engage the mental, emotional and spiritual aspects of health to facilitate true holistic healing.

6) First, Do no harm (Primum Non Nocere)

Above all, safety is top priority. Naturopathic doctors avoid causing harm by using methods that minimize risk of side effects. We use lowest force and intervention for treatment and avoid suppressing symptoms whenever possible.

Naturopathic Training

Naturopathic Doctors (ND or NMD) have graduated from accredited naturopathic medical schools, which are accredited by the Council on Naturopathic Medical Education (CNME) and recognized by the Department of Education. There are currently just five Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine programs in the U.S. and Canada. Naturopathic Doctors are trained to use both natural and conventional therapies and in some states, are considered primary care physicians.

The study of naturopathic medicine is made up of 2 major pieces

Part A (years 1 & 2 basic sciences)

Anatomy & Physiology
Embryology
Histology
Biochemistry
Pathology
Immunology
Microbiology
Neuroscience

Part B (years 3 & 4 clinical training)

Clinical & Laboratory Diagnosis
Diagnostic Imaging
Lifestyle Counseling
Clinical Nutrition
Botanical Medicine
Homeopathy
Physical Medicine
Pharmacology
Minor Surgery

Specialized sciences including: endocrinology, gastroenterology, cardiology, dermatology, urology, men’s & women’s health, rheumatology, pediatrics, and gerontology

Curriculum at Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine also includes training in Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture.

Upon successfully completing this course of study, naturopathic doctors sit for the Naturopathic Physicians Licensing Examination (NPLEX). After passing the NPLEX exam, NDs are eligible to apply for a license in any state that currently has naturopathic licensing laws and must maintain appropriate continuing education credits, which are governed by the state in which they are licensed or registered.