What is Naturopathic Medicine?
Naturopathic Medicine is medicine that treats the underlying cause of disease; it is the art and science of supporting the natural healing processes of the patient through the removal of any obstacles to these processes. It is the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of physical, mental and emotional conditions; and it is the promotion of well-being using therapeutics that support or enhance a patient’s overall health.
In BC, naturopathic physicians (NDs) are licensed and trained as general practitioners in complementary medicine, providing a full range of diagnostic tests and therapies as described below.
What are the Educational Requirements of a Naturopathic Physician?
According to the British Columbia Naturopathic Association (BCNA):
“Naturopathic doctors (NDs) in BC receive a minimum of three years pre-medical training at university then complete four years post-graduate training at an accredited naturopathic medical school. NDs complete roughly 1500 hours of basic clinical sciences, 1900 hours of standard medical therapeutics (e.g., pharmacology, family medicine, internal medicine etc.) and extensive training in naturopathic treatments as described above.” Doctors complete board exams prior to receiving licensure. In addition, many NDs complete certification programs and exams in specific certifications such as acupuncture, bio-oxidative medicine, chelation and homeopathy.”
Dr. Olena graduated in 2014 from the Boucher Institute of Naturopathic Medicine, in New Westminster, BC. The Naturopathic Medicine Program is over 4400 hours of class and preceptor time which includes approximately 1200 hours of clinical experience.
In order to become licensed to practice in BC, an ND must successfully pass stringent North American Board exams (NPLEX) and specific regulatory Board exams in BC. Dr. Olena has met these requirements. She is also a member in good standing with:
CNPBC (College of Naturopathic Physicians in BC),
BCNA (British Columbia Naturopathic Association),
CAND (Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors),
CTCMA (College of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners and Acupuncturists),
ATCMA (BC Association of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture Practitioners)
ARIA-BC (Acupoint and Regeneration Injection International Association of BC)
Although she has all naturopathic modalities at her disposal, Dr. Olena has long-standing interest in Traditional Chinese Medicine ie. acupuncture, herbs, nutrition), Botanical Medicine, Energy Medicine (homeopathy, etc), Counselling, and enjoys working in the areas of chronic pain, autoimmune disorders/immune deficiencies, hormones, digestive health, end-of-life care and trauma.
Naturopathic Principles
First Do No Harm (Primum Non Nocere)
Naturopathic Doctors (NDs) will always choose therapies/modalities and remedies that are safe and effective. The goal is to improve the state of your health and minimize any harmful side effects.
Utilize the Healing Power of Nature (Vis Medicatrix Naturae)
The NDs role is to facilitate the process of healing using natural means, identify and assist in removal obstacles to good health. The goal is restoration of a healthy environment inside and out.
Identify and Treat the Cause (Tolle Causam)
A NDs primary goal is to determine and treat the underlying cause of your illness rather than simply managing or suppressing the symptoms.
Treat the Whole Person (Tolle Totum)
Visits to an NDs include a whole assessment including family history, environmental stresses, emotional health, physical health, lifestyle, nutritional status and more. An evaluation takes into account all facets of the entire person, and never just the symptoms.
Doctor as Teacher/Healer (Docere)
NDs help you in understanding both your illness and your road to recovery.
Practice Preventative Lifestyle (Prevention is the Best Cure)
At all times, NDs utilize therapies and remedies necessary with the focus of disease prevention and lifestyle improvement.
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Copyright 2023 Dr. Olena Gill, RAc., ND – Indigo Integrative Health Clinic