Question 1

How are Naturopathic Doctors trained?

Answer

Naturopathic Doctors are required to complete a minimum of 3 years of pre-medical training at a university, followed by 4 years of post-graduate training at an accredited Naturopathic Medical school. Prior to completion of training, Naturopathic Medical students must complete written and practical licensing exams in order to obtain licensure in BC. In order to maintain your license as a Naturopathic Doctor in BC, you are required to complete continuing education credits each year.

Question 2

Are my visits covered by health insurance?

Answer

Currently, Naturopathic Doctor visits are not covered under the Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC, other than a small portion if you have premium assistance status. However, most extended benefit plans cover services provided by Naturopathic Doctors. More insurance plans are providing a ‘health spending account’ where all of your benefits could theoretically be directed to Naturopathic services, in which case 100% of your fees would be covered. Check with your extended benefit plan to see what your plan covers.

Question 3

Is there tax on visits and services provided by a Naturopathic Doctor?

Answer

Visits with your Naturopathic Doctor are tax exempt, while treatment recommendations including natural health products are not tax exempt. In BC, Naturopathic Doctor fees can be applied to medical tax credits.

Question 4

Can Naturopathic Doctors prescribe pharmaceuticals?

Answer

Yes, there is a prescribing course and examination that Naturopathic Doctors are required to complete prior to being able to prescribe pharmaceuticals. Dr. Stephanie has completed the requirements to prescribe pharmaceuticals in BC.

Question 5

What should I expect in my first visit with Dr. Stephanie?

Answer

Initial visits are 90 minutes in length. During this visit, there will be a thorough investigation into your current and past medical history. Any necessary diagnostic testing will be ordered at this visit and there will be ample opportunity to answer any questions you may have. You will leave this visit with a treatment plan and follow-up visits vary from 30 to 60 minutes in length depending on the complexity of your case.

Question 6

How long will we work together?

Answer

It depends! After our initial appointment, I usually see people for a 60 minute follow-up, 4-6 weeks later. From there, shorter appointments are usually scheduled depending on the complexity of your case and what we are working on. I have some patients that I see more frequently (every 1-2 months) and others where we are following up every 6 months.

Question 7

How much does working with Dr. Stephanie cost?

Answer

Your health is an investment, and I believe that when people feel well, they can be more productive, happier and experience life to the fullest. In addition to the financial cost of care, you are making a commitment to yourself. Many of my patients are accustomed to a lifestyle of prioritizing others (e.g., family, work) and are not used to putting themselves first. Often my patients note that they are happy they made this investment in their health, because they got the answers they were looking for. Extended healthcare benefits may cover a portion of the visit fee: Initial visit - 90 minutes: $250.00 Follow-up extended 60 minutes: $180.00 Follow-up extended 45 minutes: $145.00 Follow-up regular 30 minutes: $100.00 Brief check-in 15 minutes: $60.00 Other treatments such as testing, supplements, injections vary depending on what is prescribed.

Question 8

Am I going to have to take A LOT of supplements?

Answer

My approach is not supplement-heavy. I communicate to patients why they are prescribed a specific supplement, and it is for a specific amount of time. Wherever possible, the supplements I recommend are supported by medical research, and all my treatment plans are individualized to your unique needs.

Question 9

Do I have to stop seeing my Family Doctor?

Answer

NO! Please don't do that. I encourage patients to develop a health care team, and prefer collaborative care amongst the team. I recommend all patients maintain a relationship with their family doctor and specialists.

Question 10

Do you offer virtual appointments?

Answer

Yes! Currently offering virtual, phone and in-person appointments. When scheduling your appointment, specify what type of appointment you would prefer.

I realized early on in my career that there was something missing from women's mental health care.

Medication and/or therapy were the only options.

I do things differently by taking a whole-body approach to depression & anxiety.

I guide women who are struggling with:

1 in 4 women in Canada are taking an antidepressant.

I utilize a whole-body approach to enhance your mood and energy.

Hi,

I'm Dr. Stephanie.

Frequently Asked Questions