
The foundation of Naturopathic medicine is based on the philosophy that the body has an innate, natural ability to heal itself. A naturopathic doctor’s job is to guide the patient through this process by tailoring care to the individual by focusing on self-care and active participation. Naturopathy is a unique field in healthcare that emphasizes disease prevention and the promotion of optimal health through natural therapeutics. A naturopathic doctor artfully employs the science and philosophy of diagnosing, treating, and aiding in the prevention of illnesses through diverse techniques, including modern and traditional methods based in science and empirical evidence.
How are Naturopathic Doctors Certified?
In the United States, the naturopathic medical profession’s infrastructure includes accredited educational institutions, professional licensing, national standards of practice, peer review, and a commitment to state-of-the-art scientific research. The Naturopathic Scope of Practice varies between states. Founded upon a holistic philosophy, naturopathic medicine combines safe and effective traditional therapies with the most current advances in modern medicine. It is appropriate for the management of a broad range of health conditions affecting people of all ages.
Naturopathic Education
The SCNM Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine degree program is a rigorous, 4-year medical program. It is equal in its demands to a conventional medical education, but it is greater to many in providing a fulfilling profession.
Medical Training Includes:
- Acupuncture & Traditional Chinese Medicine
- Botanical Medicine
- Environmental Medicine
- Homeopathic Medicine
- Mind-Body Medicine
- Minor Surgery
- Nutrition
- Hydrotherapy
- Pharmacotherapy
- Physical Medcine and Naturopathic Manipulative Therapy
The US Secretary of Education has charged the CNME (Council on Naturopathic Medical Education) with the accreditation of colleges offering doctorates in naturopathic medicine. The CNME has currently accredited seven naturopathic schools:
- Bastyr University – The Washington campus at Kenmore, and the California campus at San Diego.
- Boucher Institute of Naturopathic Medicine – New Westminster, BC, Canada
- Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine – North York, Ontario, Canada
- National College of Natural Medicine – Portland, Oregon
- National University of Health Sciences – Lombard, Illinois
- Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine & Health Sciences – Tempe, Arizona
- University of Bridgeport College of Naturopathic Medicine – Bridgeport, Connecticut