What is Naturopathic Medicine?

Dr. Amy Neuzil   FAQs

Naturopathic doctors (NDs) are the natural version of conventional doctors (MDs), and we have the same education and licensing requirements (although we are licensed by a different organization). Naturopaths use the same patient examinations and lab tests to measure patient progress, but we treat patients very differently. Naturopaths look at the body as a dynamic whole – no one system works without all the other systems – and so we treat each person as a whole. This means that all treatments are designed uniquely for you, there is no one-size-fits-all in medicine, and we work to find the treatments that are best for you based on your symptoms, your lifestyle and your level of commitment to wellness. This approach is extremely successful for both chronic conditions (like diabetes or fibromyalgia) and acute illnesses (like a cold or flu). Naturopaths also work with your conventional doctors or specialists to make sure you are getting the best care possible and that all of your medications and treatments work well together.

Legally, the practice of naturopathic medicine is different from state to state. In States where naturopathic physicians are licensed as primary care physicians, NDs are able to diagnose, and treat using natural methods, pharmaceutical prescriptions, minor surgery and injectables. In states like Texas, without any laws regarding the regulation or licensure of Naturopaths, NDs may still be seen for consultation regarding health and disease, but we are not able to serve as primary care and we cannot write prescriptions. In unlicensed states it is especially important to make sure your ND is fully educated and qualified for your safety as a patient.

A complete list of qualified Naturopaths, as well as more information, can be found on the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians website at www.naturopathic.org/.

Dr. Amy Neuzil received her doctorate from Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine. She currently holds an active and current Arizona license, and maintains a busy practice in Austin, Texas. She is working with the Texas Association of Naturopathic Physicians to develop legislation for proper licensure for Naturopathic Doctors in Texas.

For more information visit 'Frequently Asked Questions'