Anyone use a Naturopath?

[Northcoast]

I've been looking into the idea of seeing a Naturopath to help deal with my anxiety, mild depression and Menopausal issues.  Unfortunately, Naturopath's are not licensed in my state so aren't covered by insurance.  But I'm still curious to learn more about this type of healing.  Anyone use a Naturopath?  What is the best way to find a Naturopath?  How long do you go to see them?   Since it's not covered by insurance, I don't want to start something that my finances won't allow me to finish.  I've also wondered if I should instead search out a psychologist.  Do Naturopath's work with psychologists, or would they refer me to one if they deem it appropriate?  Any feeedback would be appreciated.  

[Northcoast]

Well, I had my first appointment with my naturopath this week.  I really liked her.  I took in my latest blood work report and every supplement I'm taking and we went through them together.  She listened to my history of anxiety, depression and five months of vaginal/urinary tract infections.  She advised me to get exercise every day for at least 30 minutes.  And to take 4,000 iu of Vitamin D3 each day and fish oil since I eat no fish..  She also recommends more veggies in my diet.  And since I'm on a statin drug for cholesterol, she recommends CoQ10 supplements.  She was very caring and sympathetic as I cried a bit.  She wants me to take 5-HTP for my depression.   She said this will be a 3 month process since it takes a while for the supplements to work. And she wants me to get a full thyroid panel run in a few months.  She also encouraged me to get back to my hobby of walking dogs at the local dog shelter.  Do something I love!  She gave me hope and I enjoyed our time together.  She said she will order the supplements she thinks I need and I just need to pick them up.  And it was only $150 for almost two hours, not including the cost of the supplements, of course.   Then yesterday, I got results from another GYN appointment that I have the vaginal infection back again.  I emailed my Naturopath and she replied within a few hours with her recommendations.  So, I feel she is there for me in person and via email.  I think it was a good decision to consult with her.  

[SassyLassie]

Hello Northcoast~Her prices are similar to the one I see sometime in Seattle, probably a little lower than mine, actually.

You are very right in seeing one, she will be able to tell you just what supplements you do or do not need, and in the long run, that will save you money. They are really good listeners, they usually write down all you say and your answers to questions they ask you, then they go over all that and that is when they determine what plan of action to take, what tests to run, and what nutritional supplements, etc are needed. I always enjoy me visits.

Let us know how you like her and how it goes.

[Northcoast]

I made an appointment with a naturopath in July.  She was previously a family practice physician in another state but moved back "home" and naturopaths aren't licensed here. But sounds like she has a lot of experience and I've heard some positive things about her.  And I spoke to her on the phone for 20 minutes.  Looking forward to the visit.  It will be all out of pocket - $175 for 90 minute appt.  But I figure that's the same as a couple of massages and wasted money on supplements I don't need to take.  I'm hoping she will listen to my history and advise me on what type of supplements she thinks I should be on and other ways to get my life into balance.  Then there are follow up visits which are $75.  But I shouldn't need many of those.  I just figure that I've gone to so many vitamin & natural food stores and am getting so much advice about what supplements I should be taking, etc.  that I want to sit down with an expert and get a game plan.  Hope I enjoy this experience!

[SassyLassie]

Well, yes, some are very "spendy" the one I see on occasion in Seattle is, but, the one I see on a more regular basis for my acupuncture and such, is very reasonable and sure is fair in regards to fees. I really like that.

[margypops]

I was going to go to one till she told me what she charged per hour ...but hey its California   want to spend your savings if you've any left ..

[SassyLassie]

I have been seeing them for many years and for me, they have been very good. The state I live in has a terrific school for them called "Bastyr College" it is a four year college just for the Naturopathic program, then, if they want to specialize in other areas, such as acupuncture, they go longer. It is an awesome place, and any Naturopath that has gone there and graduated, usually is top notch. So, if you are looking for one, check out the school and if it is this one, they will probably be very good.  Oh, I go to one that teaches there, she really is sharp.  

I see another one too that is closer to where I live, she went to that college and she is very good. She just graduated a few years ago, but, she is learning, she also does acupuncture. She does accept insurance. A lot of them do now as the insurance companies are realizing there are a lot of folks who want to go the "natural" way.

If your area has a doctor that practices alternative medicine, that would be a great way to go. Again, I used to see one of those, but, I just don't like going all the way to Seattle. He was great however and has written articles in many health journals.

My only other advice would be to do a "google search" check for ones in your area, and if you find any, check out the school, what they specialize in, and fee if it is shown.

Hope this helps and good luck in your search.

[allmymarbles]

I have an MD who practices alternative medicine. Your insurance will cover an MD. Mine has solved many of our family health problems. In alternative medicine, the doctor looks at the cause of the symptoms, instead of giving palliative treatment for the symptoms.

[peggy64]

I have used an ND. It is hard to find a reputable one, in my findings. But when you do, they are very costly.

I have just done my own research and went from there. Don't know your issues, if that would work for you or not. It is all a lot of hit and miss anyways, IMHO.

best to you....