Naturopathic medicine is different from mainstream Western medicine. While licensed naturopathic doctors receive similar medical training as MDs, we utilize a different health philosophy and differ in both our treatment tools and approach.

Naturopathic medicine is a system of care that blends conventional science with the wisdom of the natural world. Licensed naturopathic doctors (NDs) are trained in conventional medicine’s core sciences and diagnostics, but receive extensive additional training in nutritional medicine, botanical (herbal) medicine, homeopathy, physical medicine, and more.  Licensed naturopathic doctors attend four year accredited medical schools and are trained as primary care providers.

Naturopathic doctors are the original functional medicine doctors. Adopting a patient-centered approach, we’re interested in the integration of all the body’s systems and the “why” behind a presenting illness. NDs employ a treatment approach that stimulates the body’s own ability to heal, with the ultimate goal of finding and treating the underlying cause of your symptoms. 

The principles of naturopathic medicine are founded on a philosophy of prevention and patient partnership.

First Do No Harm: This principle of ancient Greek physician Hippocrates (c 460 – 370 BC) remains within the oath all medical doctors take today, including licensed naturopathic doctors. Naturopathic medicine utilizes methods that minimize the risk of harmful side effects, avoid suppression of the body , and involve the least forceful approaches possible.

Healing Power of Nature: Naturopathic medicine recognizes that the body, when given the right tools, has the natural ability to heal and move towards a state of wellness. Naturopathic doctors   help identify and remove obstacles to healing and recovery, along with facilitating this self-healing process.

Treat the Underlying Cause: The original root-cause approach, naturopathic medicine seeks to find and remove the underlying causes of illness rather than just suppress the symptoms.  One can spend a lot of time and money chasing symptoms. Real resolution lies in addressing the cause.

Doctor as Teacher: The word “doctor” originates from the Latin word “docere” which literally translates as “teacher.”  A physician’s job is to educate and empower patients within the realm of healthcare.  Naturopathic doctors spend time to educate their patients and encourage self-responsibility.

Treat the Whole Person: You are not merely your physical body. Truly holistic treatment should honor mental, emotional, social, environmental, and spiritual aspects of being. Naturopathic medicine takes these aspects into account, in addition to physiology.

Prevention: True preventative medicine is more than watching to catch a disease early; it is keeping you in sufficient health to avoid the disease in the first place.  Licensed naturopathic doctors emphasize the prevention of disease by assessing risk factors, heredity and susceptibility to disease, and by making appropriate interventions in partnership with their patients to prevent illness. 

In the U.S, there are currently 23 states, as well as Washington, D.C, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, that license or regulate naturopathic medicine.  To be licensed by a state or jurisdiction that requires licensing, one must:

1. Graduate from a four-year, professional-level program at an accredited naturopathic medical school that is recognized by the United States Department of Education. There are only SIX accredited naturopathic medical schools in North America. You can find a list of them here. Online correspondence school ND programs are not accredited and these programs do not qualify individuals for licensure. 
2. Take and pass the two-part Naturopathic Physicians Licensing Exam (NPLEX), which covers basic sciences, diagnostic and therapeutic subjects, and clinical sciences.
3. Pass jurisprudence examinations and meet other state/provincial requirements for regulated professions including background checks and continuing education.

The Commonwealth of Virginia does not at this time license, regulate, or otherwise recognize naturopathic medicine doctors. Naturopathic doctors in this state may or may not be licensed elsewhere, and may or may not have graduated from an accredited in-residence medical school with clinical education and hands-on patient experience. Licensure protects the patient/consumer, as well as defines a clear scope of practice for the doctor. Want your licensed naturopath to be able to serve as your physician? Consider signing up here to offer your support in ongoing  grassroots efforts toward legislation.  Passing laws to license and regulate naturopathic doctors in VA broadens care options for patients, as well as ensures that patients are cared for by qualifying providers.

Dr. Ries is a licensed naturopathic doctor and holds an active license in the state of OR. For VA clients, she serves in the role of health consultant. Please note that due to lack of licensure and regulation, naturopathic doctors are unable to practice primary care or general medicine within the Commonwealth of Virginia.