Seeing a Naturopathic Doctor in Victoria, BC: Your Complete Patient Guide

Thinking About Seeing a Naturopath in Victoria? Here’s What You Need to Know

By Dr. Meghan van Drimmelen, ND

If you’re thinking about seeing a naturopathic doctor (ND) here in Victoria, you may be wondering exactly what we do, how we can help, and whether naturopathic care is right for you. I want to walk you through what a naturopathic doctor does, how we work with your body, and what to expect from your first visit.

What Is a Naturopathic Doctor?

A naturopathic doctor (ND) is a regulated primary healthcare provider in British Columbia. We combine evidence-informed natural therapies with conventional medical knowledge to support your body’s natural ability to heal.

In BC, naturopathic doctors:

• Complete a four-year bachelor degree program, followed by a four-year accredited doctoral program

• Pass national board exams

• Are licensed and regulated by the College of Complementary Health Care Practitioners of BC (previously the College of Naturopathic Physicians of BC)

• Keep up to date with continuing education requirements

As a naturopathic doctor, I focus on understanding the root cause of your health concerns, not just treating symptoms. That means taking the time to see the full picture of your health — your lifestyle, your history, and your goals.

Who Can Benefit From Naturopathic Care in Victoria?

People see naturopathic doctors for all kinds of reasons. My practice focus includes the following areas:

• Hormonal & menstrual health (PMS/PMDD, PCOS, endometriosis, menstrual irregularities, perimenopause, menopause, thyroid disorders)

• Preconception, infertility, recurrent pregnancy loss and reproductive health

• Pregnancy and postpartum wellness

• Metabolic health concerns

• Preventative health screening and healthy aging

• Digestive issues (bloating, IBS, reflux, gut health)

• Fatigue, stress, and burnout

• Anxiety or mood concerns

• Skin conditions

• Children’s health

Many patients choose naturopathic care because they want more time with their provider, a holistic approach, and care that works alongside conventional medicine.

How I Work With Patients

Every person is unique, so I create individualized care plans. Depending on your needs, I may use:

• Clinical nutrition and lifestyle counselling

• Herbal and nutritional supplements

• Acupuncture

• IV nutrient therapy

• Lab testing (bloodwork, hormone panels, stool tests, etc.)

• Prescriptive medications

My goal is always to support your body’s natural ability to heal and give you tools to feel better — safely and sustainably.

What Happens at Your First Visit?

Your initial visit is usually longer than a typical doctor’s appointment. During our first session, I’ll:

• Take a thorough health history

• Ask about digestion, sleep, stress, hormones, and lifestyle

• Review any lab results or order tests if needed

• Talk with you about your health goals

• Create a care plan that feels realistic and supportive

Many patients say this is the first time they’ve felt truly heard by a healthcare provider — I want every patient to feel that way.

How Naturopathic Care Fits With Other Doctors

Naturopathic care is designed to complement conventional medicine, not replace it. Many patients work with both a family doctor and a naturopathic doctor for a balanced approach.

Is Naturopathic Medicine Safe and Regulated in BC?

Yes! BC has some of the strongest regulations for naturopathic medicine in Canada. Licensed NDs must:

• Maintain continuing education

• Follow professional standards

• Carry malpractice insurance

• Practice within a defined scope

When choosing a naturopath in Victoria, make sure your provider is licensed with the CCHPBC (previously the CNPBC) — this ensures you’re getting safe, evidence-informed care.

Is Naturopathic Care Right for You?

Naturopathic care may be a good fit if you:

• Want a holistic, preventative approach

• Have chronic symptoms without clear answers

• Are navigating hormonal, digestive, or fertility issues

• Want to feel heard and involved in your health decisions

Even if you’re unsure, an initial consultation can help you see whether naturopathic care feels like the right approach for your health journey.

Frequently Asked Questions About Naturopathic Care in Victoria

1. How long are naturopathic appointments in Victoria?

Your first visit with me usually lasts 60 minutes, depending on your health history and concerns. Follow-up appointments are generally 30–45 minutes.

2. What should I bring to my first naturopathic appointment?

Bringing the following helps me provide the best care:

• A list of current medications and supplements

• Recent lab results or imaging reports

• Your health goals and the concerns you want to address

If you don’t have lab work, that’s okay — I can order testing if needed.

3. Do naturopathic doctors in BC prescribe medication?

Yes, licensed NDs in British Columbia have prescriptive authority, with a few limitations. I may recommend prescription medications along side natural, evidence-informed therapies. We always make decisions together.

4. Are naturopathic treatments covered by insurance?

Many extended health plans cover naturopathic care, including consultations, acupuncture, and IV nutrient therapy. Coverage varies by provider, so it’s best to check your plan. ND visits are not covered under MSP, but extended health coverage can help offset costs.

6. Can naturopathic care help with fertility, hormones, or digestive health?

Absolutely! These are some of the areas I focus in. I work with patients to support hormone balance, improve fertility outcomes, manage digestive concerns, and optimize overall wellness.

7. Is naturopathic medicine safe?

Yes. Licensed naturopathic doctors in BC are regulated by the CCHPBC, which ensures professional and safety standards are met. I practice with evidence-informed methods and a collaborative approach.

8. Can I combine naturopathic care with my current medical treatment?

Definitely. Naturopathic care is designed to complement conventional medicine, not replace it. I often collaborate with family doctors, specialists, and other healthcare providers to ensure your care is safe, coordinated, and effective.

9. What conditions do you treat most often?

I frequently help patients with:

• Perimenopausal, menopausal and postmenopausal concerns

• Menstrual irregularities, PMS/PMDD, PCOS and endometriosis

• Preconception support, infertility, and recurrent pregnancy loss

• Pregnancy and postpartum wellness

• Digestive issues and gut health

• Chronic fatigue and stress management

• Anxiety, mood concerns, and mental wellness

• Healthy aging and metabolic health

• Children’s health and family wellness

  
  

Every care plan is personalized based on your unique health goals.

Final Thoughts

Naturopathic medicine is about seeing the full picture of your health and giving you tools to feel better naturally and safely. My goal is to support your body, guide you through complex health concerns, and empower you to take charge of your wellness.

If you’re curious about whether naturopathic care is right for you, I invite you to book an initial consultation — it’s the best way to see how we can work together for your health.