What is naturopathy?

Naturopathy is a complementary approach to health that looks at the whole person rather than one symptom at a time. A naturopath considers things like nutrition, digestion, sleep, stress and daily routines, and may also talk through herbal and dietary support.

Because it is complementary care, it is not a replacement for medical diagnosis or treatment. Think of it as extra time, attention and practical guidance that sits alongside what your doctor does.

What happens in a first naturopath consult?

Every naturopath works a little differently, but a first appointment usually follows a similar shape.

1. 1Your story. We talk through what brought you in, how long it has been going on and what you would like to change.
2. 2Your health history. Past conditions, medications, supplements and anything your doctor has already told you.
3. 3Your daily life. Food, digestion, sleep, stress, movement and energy, because small patterns often explain a lot.
4. 4Your options. Each step is explained in plain language so you understand what is being suggested and why.
5. 5Your plan. You leave with a few clear, realistic next steps and a sense of what a follow-up could cover.

What should I bring to my naturopathy appointment?

You do not need to prepare much, but a little groundwork makes the time go further.

• Your medicationsA list of prescriptions, supplements and herbal products you take.
• Recent test resultsAny blood tests or reports your GP has given you.
• A few days of notesWhat you eat, how you sleep and how you feel through the day.
• Your questionsWrite them down so nothing gets forgotten in the moment.

What can a naturopath support you with?

People see naturopaths for many reasons. These are the areas Reese focuses on in clinic.

• Gut healthDigestion, bloating and food reactions.
• Nervous system and stressFeeling wired, frazzled or run down.
• SleepUnderstanding what may be getting in the way of rest.
• Menopause and perimenopauseGuidance through hormonal change.
• Life transitionsExtra support through big seasons of change.
• Joint health and inflammationLifestyle and nutrition factors worth looking at.

A naturopath supports you with lifestyle, nutrition and herbal guidance. They do not diagnose or replace the care of your doctor.

Is a student naturopath a good option?

A student naturopath is someone in the final stretch of their training who sees clients as part of clinical placement. Reese is in her final term of clinic through Endeavour College of Natural Health, seeing clients at the Gold Coast Endeavour Clinic.

That means you get dedicated time with someone who is motivated, thorough and still building her practice, at a price that makes it easy to start. It also means she is not yet a fully qualified naturopath, and for complex or urgent health concerns your GP should always be your first stop.

How much does a naturopath cost?

Naturopath fees in private practice vary widely, and an initial consultation can cost considerably more than $30. Student clinic consults are priced lower because they are part of clinical training.

With Reese, a consult is $30 whether you come in person or book telehealth. Whether any part of the fee can be claimed through private health insurance depends on your fund and level of cover, so check with your provider before you book.

Should I choose telehealth or an in-person naturopath appointment?

Both work well for a first consult, because so much of it is conversation. Telehealth suits you if you are busy, live outside the Gold Coast, or simply prefer talking from home. It is available Australia-wide, including Brisbane, Logan and Northern NSW. In-person appointments are held at the Endeavour Clinic on the Gold Coast.

How do I choose a naturopath in Australia?

Naturopaths in Australia are not registered through AHPRA, the national body that regulates doctors, nurses and pharmacists. Instead, standards are set by professional associations and a voluntary register, so it pays to do a little checking.

• Ask about qualificationsFind out what they have studied and where.
• Look for membershipCheck whether they belong to a recognised professional association.
• Watch the claimsBe wary of anyone who promises cures or tells you to stop your medication.
• Expect clear explanationsA good practitioner explains every step and welcomes your questions.

When should I see my GP first?

See your doctor before, or instead of, a naturopath if you have new, severe or worrying symptoms, or anything that came on suddenly. Naturopathy is a good fit once serious causes have been looked at, or alongside the care you already have. If you take prescription medication, tell both your GP and your naturopath about everything you are taking.