My Process to Help You

The Process to Work With a Naturopath

I often get asked about the process of working with me as a naturopath.  Other people may operate differently, but here’s how it usually goes with me:

1. Book either a 15-minute complimentary consultation OR book an initial visit.
   • I can tell you how I can help with your issue in general terms in a free consultation. I can’t give you any specific advice.  To give any advice, you’ll then need to book a full initial visit with me.
   • If you schedule an initial 75-minute visit, we’ll go through your current concerns in detail and review your past medical history, family history, medications, supplements, and any lab tests you provide. If appropriate, I’ll do a quick complaint-related physical exam (nothing invasive; your clothes stay on).  Then we’ll discuss what you should do, why you should do it, and how long it will take.  We’ll discuss if any lab tests would be helpful and how to get them.  Also, I will give you some questionnaires to fill in and bring back for your second visit.
2. Second 45-minute visit: Normally, we meet again 4-6 weeks after your initial visit to review how you are doing and feeling, review your questionnaires, diet diary, and any new blood work, lab tests, or ultrasound reports, adjust your treatment if needed, and forge a plan to help you reach your health goals going forward.
3. Subsequent visits:  If you require visits after your second visit, they are usually shorter (30 minutes) and spaced further apart than your first and second visits.  These visits are typically 2-6 months apart.  Subsequent visits are to check in, answer questions that may have arisen, deal with new issues, and revise or update your treatment plan. I like to maintain an ongoing relationship because new research is published daily, and new products are also developed.  Keeping your treatment plan up-to-date and at its most effective is the best way to maintain your health.  The exception to the visit frequency is if we are doing acupuncture.  Acupuncture treatments are typically done in a series.  The treatments will usually be one week apart for 4-6 weeks. After the initial visit, these are billed as 30-minute follow-up visits.

Essential Things to Know About Working with a Naturopath

1. Insurance plans or employee benefits (not OHIP) will usually cover the cost of your visits with me. They may also cover the cost of lab testing. If you have a health spending account, they may also cover the cost of supplements that I recommend.
2. I do not “overprescribe” either visits or supplements.  I make every effort to minimize and prioritize supplementation. One to four supplements may be recommended for you.
3. If you have any health records, such as blood work results or ultrasound reports, it is always valuable to bring them.  If you are working with a fertility clinic, it also helps to get their records.  You will need a release of records form to obtain test results from your medical providers and have them sent directly to me.  There is a form you can download here.  You can fill in your and your doctor’s details and sign it, then email it to Maria@ForcesofNature.ca.  Then, we’ll fax it to your doctor(s).  They’ll then fax your results to us.
4. I cannot tell you which tests you need before your initial visit.  As with any other medical advice, I cannot legally tell you what to do before I see you and do a full first assessment.
5. Please bring any medications or supplements you are taking or a list of manufacturers and products.
6. It’s a collaborative process.  I’m happy to discuss your ideas and research your condition and experiences.
7. I can work with any medications or other treatments you may currently be on.
8. I aim to make recommendations based on some supporting science. You’ll find such research on each of my Conditions pages.

Can Naturopathic Medicine Help You?

Almost always, the answer to this question is YES! Investigating thoroughly to understand the root cause of any health condition and then addressing that cause through diet, lifestyle, vitamins, minerals, herbs and other natural supplements can improve anyone’s health.

Dr. Pamela has practiced as a naturopathic doctor in Toronto since 1999. She has received numerous “Best Naturopath in Toronto” awards. She is registered with the College of Naturopaths of Ontario.

Dr. Pamela Frank uses a natural treatment approach that may include acupuncture, herbal medicine, nutrition, diet, vitamins, supplements, and other natural remedies to restore balance and provide long-term resolution to almost any health problem.