A naturopath can help you get the support you need to feel well again.   I want to share three tips to make sure you have a positive experience.  If you live on the Mornington Peninsula and you’re looking for a naturopath, please read on.

My Three Tips

Step 1.  Choose a Naturopath who has a University Degree in Natural Medicine

Find a naturoapth who has completed a university degree in natural medicine.    Your naturopath should have either a Bachelor of Naturopathy, a Bachelor of Health Science (Naturopathy), or a Master’s Degree in Herbal Medicine.

Naturopathy is an unregistered profession in Australia.   This means anyone can claim the title “Naturopath” even if they have undertaken no formal training or study.  This is risky business for you, the patient.  Make sure the naturopath you choose is qualified to give advice.

Step 2. Choose a Naturopath who Specialises

Look for a naturopath with a unique set of skills.   Someone who has a qualification and clinical experience in the specific condition you need help with.  You are looking for an expert who has specialised knowledge.

For example, if you have PMS or PMDD (a very debilitating form of PMS)  look for a naturopath who specialises in the treatment of hormonal imbalances.  Many medical practitioners are knowledgeable in  endocrinology but have no knowledge of the natural approach to treatment.  Some naturopaths are knowledgeable in herbal medicine but have limited  experience in the treatment of hormonal imbalances. You want to find a practitioner who specialises in both natural medicine and PMS or PMDD.

Your naturopath should have a minimum of 5 years experience. Only then can you be certain they have successfully treated enough people to give them the clinical skills to help you.  Ask if you could speak with other patients who have completed treatment with the naturopath.  Or maybe she/he has a copy of patient videos or written letters/emails that successful patients have provided to share their story.

Step 3. Choose a Naturopath who is a member of a Professional Association

The naturopath you choose must be a member of a professional association. This will allow you to claim a rebate through your private health fund. This rebate will provide financial assistance to complete a course of treatment.  In order to maintain association membership, naturopaths must participate in continuing professional education. This means they will be on top of the latest research as it is released.

Naturopaths with association membership also hold a certificate of Therapeutic Goods Act (TGA) exemption.  This registers them to prescribe clinical formulations of natural medicines. These practitioners will also have product indemnity insurance, professional indemnity insurance and public liability insurance. In the unfortunate event you have an adverse reaction to treatment, insurance claims are possible. Insurance companies will only provide coverage for naturopaths  who have reached the level of competency in their profession that means they are very low risk for adverse events.

And Finally…

Just remember a naturopath cannot cure you. Practitioners can work with you and guide you in the best direction.   Your naturopath will be able to customise your treatment which will give you the best chance of seeing results as quickly as possible.

But a practitioner cannot do the work for you.   Only you can make the decision that you want to get better.   You’re the person who can absorb the guidance your naturopath provides.  Only you can choose to take action and implement changes to your behaviour.   You can be brave enough to acknowledge that how you are living your life currently is not working. There must be a better way.  Only you can ask for the help you need.

What your practitioner can do is cheer you along and support you in the changes you are attempting to make.  Naturopaths can bridge the gap between current research and the best way to apply this new information to heal your body. Research evolves continuously which is fantastic. But as an individual, new research is impossible to stay on top of.  Find a naturopath who specialises in the area of health you need assistance with and who is abreast of the latest research.  The right practitioner will be able to help you achieve balance in your life based on their clinical experience.  They will have experience applying the latest research with many other patients whom they have already successfully treated.

Mornington Peninsula Naturopath

I’ve had a thriving Mornington Peninsula naturopathy practise for the last 9 years.  Prior to this, I practised in Melbourne, Frankston and interstate.  I have worked as a naturopath for over 17 years, specialising in natural healthcare for women.   I’d be happy to help you reach your goals!  Call me on (03) 5986 5170  or email info@balancehormones.com.au and I’d love to answer any questions you may have.  Best of luck in your search for the right naturopath for you!