A. The Doctorate degree for naturopathic doctors is a four-year program that trains individuals to be holistic primary care physicians. The degree for Classical Chinese medicine is also a four-year program. The total for both training endeavors is over 8,000 hours of lecture, laboratory and clinical hours.

A. While both ND's and MD's train for four years in medical school, ND's take an oath to practice medicine in alignment with specific principles of healing.

The Healing Power of Nature-- Every body has an innate ability to heal itself (vital force or Qi, pronounced chi, the energy of the body) and will naturally return to a state of health if obstacles to the healing process are identified and removed.

Treat the Whole Person-- Just as looking at one puzzle piece does not reveal the picture of a puzzle, so the body cannot be understood by focusing on one area or one symptom. All aspects of health and disease involve an interaction of physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, genetic and environmental factors. An imbalance in one factor will affect the others; therefore, all factors must be addressed.

Identify and Treat the Cause-- Symptoms are the body's attempt to heal itself and are merely an expression of an imbalance within the body. By taking the time to discover the cause of disturbance in the body and treat the root, symptoms will usually resolve.

First Do No Harm-- With safe, non-invasive therapies, the body can return to a state of health -- its natural healing process is not suppressed and there are no harmful side effects.

The Physician as Teacher-- The original meaning of the word 'doctor' (docere) was 'to teach'. The patient, as an empowered individual, is to be respected and educated in order to develop a healing practice, unique unto him/herself.

Prevention-- Rather than fighting disease, the ultimate goal of naturopathic medicine is to create a strong foundation of health.

A. Homeopathy, developed in Germany in the 1700's, is one therapy that a naturopathic physician may use in a treatment protocol. The underlying principle is the law that "Like cures like". Medicinal agents are diluted to an energetic imprint, stimulating the body's natural force and igniting the healing process.

A. Naturopathic physicians are trained to be primary care physicians and, as such, are equipped to diagnose and treat acute to chronic conditions, including cardiovascular, pulmonary, endocrine, allergies, neurological, depression and anxiety. A Healing Practice specializes in women's health, fertility, pregnancy and post-partum wellness.

A. Appointments last 60-90 minutes. A complete history will be taken; laboratory testing may be ordered/reviewed, a physical exam, followed by acupuncture and/or bodywork. After your treatment, a treatment plan will be discussed. If you have previous lab work, please bring it to your visit.

A. Yes, we are open to working with your present physician. With your care in mind, if necessary, we may refer you to other healthcare professionals or specialists.

A. In the state of Oregon, naturopathic physicians can prescribe some medications that are derived from natural substances, including many antibiotics, hormone replacement therapy and thyroid hormones. In many cases we may choose to use alternative methods if possible and, when needed, we will use hormones that are bio-identical to the body.

A. We do accept insurance, depending on your policy; if your insurance does cover naturopathy or acupuncture, we are happy to submit your claims.

A. We accept cash, check, Visa and MasterCard.

A. There exists energy, or Qi (pronounced chi), originating in the organs and flowing through the body in channels, or meridians. When there is an abundance of Qi flowing smoothly through the channels, a person feels healthy. If there is not enough Qi, or the energy is not able flow smoothly through the pathways, symptoms appear. Acupuncture uses tiny, sterile needles to stimulate points on the channels to either tonify the Qi or remove blockages in the pathways to create a harmonious flow of energy and a return to health.

A. Many people do not even feel the insertion of the needle and, the sensation differs at each point. Most people find acupuncture to be deeply relaxing; you will just have to feel it for yourself.

A. Like naturopathy, classical Chinese medicine is a complete health care system. From acute to chronic conditions, acupuncture supports the body to return to a state health. Every system of the body can be addressed with acupuncture including: musculo-skeletal issues such as pain or arthritis; hormonal issues including PMS, infertility, menopause and thyroid disorders; nervous system issues, such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, and insomnia; cardiovascular diseases including high blood pressure or cholesterol; gastrointestinal issues such as IBS and allergies; problems with the skin, infections and asthma.

A. Typically, patients start with 60-minute weekly appointment(s), and then either every two weeks or once a month. When optimal health has been reached, patients typically come is for tune-ups, as needed.

A. Many insurance companies do cover acupuncture. If your policy does cover acupuncture, we would be happy to submit your claims directly.