What is a Naturopathic Doctor? is it an Actual "Real" MD?

What Is a Naturopathic Doctor? (And How to Find a Qualified One)

By Dr. Tanya O'Brien, ND & Dr. Hallie Armstrong, ND, 2 Naturopathic Moms

A Naturopathic Doctor (ND) is a medically trained healthcare provider who combines conventional medical science with natural therapies to find and treat the root cause of health concerns. NDs complete a four-year, accredited naturopathic medical program after an undergraduate degree, and are trained to diagnose, order lab tests, and create personalized treatment plans.

But with so many titles out there ("holistic," "integrative," "naturopath"), it's easy to get confused. Let's clear it up.

🎥 Watch: What Is a Naturopathic Doctor? (And Who Needs One)

In this video, Dr. Hallie Armstrong explains what naturopathic medicine is, how NDs are trained, and who can benefit from working with one.

Naturopathic, Holistic and Integrative: What's the Difference?

• Holistic describes an approach that looks at the whole person (body, mind and lifestyle). Many types of practitioners use it.
• Integrative means combining conventional medicine with complementary therapies.
• Naturopathic medicine is a distinct medical profession. Naturopathic Doctors are trained in both conventional medical sciences and natural therapies, and use a holistic, integrative approach.

In other words, NDs are holistic and integrative, but not every holistic or integrative practitioner is an ND.

How Are Naturopathic Doctors Trained?

A Naturopathic Doctor has completed:

• A bachelor's degree with pre-medical science courses
• A four-year, full-time accredited naturopathic medical program, such as the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine
• Hands-on supervised clinical training
• Standardized board examinations

Their training covers anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, pharmacology, diagnosis and lab medicine, plus clinical nutrition, botanical medicine and lifestyle counselling.

Licensing rules vary by province and state. In some places the word "naturopath" can be used by practitioners with much shorter training, so always ask about your practitioner's education.

What Can a Naturopathic Doctor Help With?

We most commonly help people with:

• Digestive issues: bloating, IBS, reflux, constipation
• Hormone imbalances: PMS, perimenopause, menopause, fertility
• Fatigue and burnout, especially when labs come back "normal"
• Stress, sleep and mood
• Weight concerns and metabolic health
• Prevention and whole-family wellness

NDs work alongside your family doctor, not instead of them.

What Happens at a Naturopathic Visit?

Your first visit is usually 60–90 minutes. Your ND will go through your full health history, symptoms, diet, stress, sleep and lifestyle, and review past lab results. You'll leave with a personalized plan that may include nutrition changes, supplements, botanical medicine, lab testing and lifestyle support.

How to Find a Qualified Naturopathic Doctor

Ask your practitioner:

1. Where did you train, and was it a four-year accredited program?
2. Did you pass the naturopathic board exams?
3. Are you licensed or registered where you practice?
4. Will my visits be covered by my health insurance?

Work With Us

In Newfoundland & Labrador? See Dr. Tanya O'Brien, ND in person in St. John's or online across NL.

In Michigan? See Dr. Hallie Armstrong, ND.

Not ready to book? Start with our free guide: Why Women Over 40 Feel Exhausted Even With Normal Labs

Newfoundland readers: to learn more about Naturopaths vs. Naturopathic Doctors in NL click HERE 

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a Naturopathic Doctor a real doctor?
NDs complete a four-year accredited naturopathic medical program and board exams. They are not medical doctors (MDs), but they are trained in medical sciences and diagnosis, and often work alongside MDs.

Do I need a referral to see a Naturopathic Doctor?
No. You can book directly.

Can I see a Naturopathic Doctor online?
Yes. Many NDs, including us, offer virtual appointments within the areas where they're licensed to practice.