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What to Expect at Your First Naturopathic Appointment

graphic of what to expect during a Toronto Naturopath first appointment or visit

Your first visit is designed to be thorough, thoughtful, and personalized. Below is a step-by-step overview to clarify what to expect before, during, and after your first appointment with Naturopathic Doctor Pamela Frank.


What to Expect: Before Your First Visit

1. Book Your Initial Appointment

Once your 75-minute initial visit is scheduled, you will be provided with access to our secure online intake form.

2. Submit Your Laboratory Results

If you have them, please email any recent (within the past year) laboratory results to Maria at [email protected] prior to your visit. Providing these in advance allows for a more productive and focused appointment.

3. Complete the Online Intake Form

picture of flowers and tea on a naturopathic doctor in Toronto's desk for a first naturopathic doctor appointment and what to expect

The detailed intake form should be completed at least 24 hours before your visit. This form collects comprehensive information, including:

  • Current medical concerns
  • Past medical history
  • Family medical history
  • Prescription medications
  • Vitamins, minerals, and herbal supplements
  • Lifestyle factors

Completing this form in advance ensures that your appointment time is spent reviewing and refining information rather than gathering basic information.


What to Bring to Your Naturopath Appointment

You do not need to bring anything to your appointment.

  • Lab results should be emailed in advance, if possible.
  • Medications and supplements are entered into your intake form.

If anything changes between submitting your form and your appointment, simply mention it during your visit.


What to Expect During Your First Visit (75 Minutes)

Your initial visit lasts approximately 75 minutes and includes a comprehensive review of your intake information, with time to explore additional details.

What We Will Discuss

We will review your current concerns in depth, including:

  • Energy levels
  • Appetite and thirst
  • Digestion and bowel habits
  • Sleep quality
  • Stress levels
  • Exercise habits
  • Alcohol use
  • Smoking or recreational drug use
  • Caffeine intake
  • Current prescription medications
  • Supplements
  • What you typically eat in a day

We will also review:

  • Blood pressure history
  • Any known heart, lung, kidney, or liver concerns
  • Eye, ear, nose, and throat history
  • Lymph node issues
  • Family medical history

This comprehensive review helps identify patterns, contributing factors, and areas requiring further investigation.


What to Expect After Your First Naturopathic Visit

At the end of your appointment:

Laboratory Testing (If Agreed Upon)

If both you and Dr. Frank agree that further testing would be helpful, lab requisitions will be provided by Maria. Testing is always discussed collaboratively and is never assumed or automatic.

What to Expect: Follow-Up Plan

You will leave every appointment with:

  • A personalized treatment plan
  • Dietary and lifestyle guidance
  • Supplement recommendations (if appropriate)
  • A clear follow-up timeline

Follow-Up Schedule

  • Second Visit (4–6 weeks later): 45–60 minutes
  • Subsequent Visits: Every 2–6 months, depending on your needs

Follow-up frequency is individualized based on your condition and goals.


Investment Breakdown

  • Initial Visit (75 minutes): $260
  • Second Visit (4–6 weeks later): $160
  • Subsequent Visits (2–6 months apart): $100

Laboratory Costs

  • Vary depending on the test and laboratory
  • Often covered under employee benefits (medical/lab/diagnostic testing categories)

Supplement Costs

  • Depend on your condition and recommendations
  • Typically range from approximately $5 per month to $100 per month
  • Supplements may be purchased from any retail outlet
  • There is no obligation to purchase supplements through Dr. Frank

Naturopath Insurance Coverage

  • Visit fees are usually covered under employee health benefit plans that include naturopathic services.
  • Some laboratory testing may also be covered under extended health benefits.

We recommend checking your individual plan for details.


Our Philosophy

Your first appointment is designed to be collaborative, respectful, and informative. The goal is not simply to manage symptoms, but to understand the full context of your health so we can create a personalized plan that supports meaningful and lasting change.

If you have questions about what to expect before or after your appointment, Maria is always happy to assist you. You can call our AI assistant Jenny, and she’ll get a message to Maria right away or email Maria directly at [email protected].

Want to download this guide to read it offline or share with someone else? Here is the beautiful PDF new patient guide:

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Dr. Pamela Frank, BSc(Hons), ND

Dr. Pamela Frank, BSc(Hons), ND

Dr. Pamela, a highly accomplished naturopathic doctor, pursued her education on a full scholarship and consistently made it onto the Dean's Honour Roll. Since 1999, she has been practicing as a naturopathic doctor and has received multiple awards for being the "Best Naturopath in Toronto." Dr. Pamela has a particular interest in assisting individuals with hormone-related concerns, such as PCOS, endometriosis, acne, hair loss, weight management, thyroid issues, and fertility. Other areas of interest include digestive issues, chronic, complex illness, and autoimmune disorders. Residing in Midtown Toronto with her family and lovable dog, Dolly, Dr. Pamela leads a fulfilling life outside work. You might catch her in the karate dojo, guiding a Scout Group, practicing yoga, camping, or immersing herself in various other pursuits that fulfill her adventurous spirit.