What Does a Naturopath Do?
Naturopathy is an alternative approach to health care that integrates time-tested traditional remedies with evidence-based modern practices, including herbal medicine.
As holistic health practitioners, naturopaths specialise in natural therapies to promote overall well-being and address a wide range of health concerns. They consider the whole person to identify the root causes of health issues and support the body’s inherent healing abilities.
Leah’s Qualifications
Leah is a licensed and qualified naturopath with a Bachelor of Health Science majoring in Naturopathy. Her comprehensive university training included:
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Anatomy, physiology, and bioscience
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Evidence-based research practices
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Biochemistry and pathophysiology
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Clinical diagnosis and pharmacology (understanding interactions between medications and herbs)
This solid academic foundation allows Leah to deliver safe, effective, and personalised care.
What Does a Naturopath do in a Consultation?
During your first consultation with Leah, you can expect a warm, supportive, and judgment-free environment where your story truly matters. She takes the time to explore your full health history, current symptoms, lifestyle habits, emotional wellbeing, and any past treatments or diagnoses.
Leah believes that healing begins with understanding the whole person, not just the symptoms, so this session is your opportunity to share everything that may be impacting your health. Whether you’re dealing with fatigue, gut issues, hormonal imbalances, autoimmune symptoms, or simply want to feel better in your body, this hour-long consultation sets the foundation for a truly personalised approach.
From there, Leah develops a realistic and practical treatment plan tailored specifically to your needs and lifestyle. This plan might include nutritional guidance, herbal medicine, lifestyle adjustments, supplement recommendations, and strategies to support your emotional
well-being. Rather than overwhelm you with rigid rules or quick fixes, Leah works collaboratively to create small, achievable steps that support long-term health. By the end of your first visit, you’ll leave feeling heard, empowered, and clear about your next steps toward feeling better.
Naturopaths like Leah use a variety of tec
hniques to assess and support health, such as:
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Herbal medicine: Using plant-based remedies to address specific health concerns.
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Nutritional counselling: Offering dietary advice tailored to individual needs.
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Iridology: Examining the iris to gain insights into overall health.
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Blood tests and other assessments: Utilising diagnostics to confirm findings and guide treatment plans.
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The Six Core Principles of Naturopathy
1. The Healing Power of Nature
Nature possesses an incredible ability to regenerate and maintain balance. Similarly, our bodies have an innate capacity to heal when supported by:
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Fresh air, sunlight, and exercise
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Clean diets and fresh water
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Relaxation and restorative sleep
Leah’s role as a naturopath is to encourage healthy habits and provide supplements or herbal tonics that support the body’s natural healing processes, helping prevent and address disease.
2. Identify and Treat the Cause
Rather than merely addressing symptoms, naturopaths aim to uncover the underlying causes of health issues. For instance, if you have high blood pressure, Leah will investigate:
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Dietary or lifestyle factors
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Possible underlying health conditions
This comprehensive approach aims to reverse the condition when possible, rather than relying solely on symptom management.
3. Treat the Whole Person
Healing isn’t just about resolving a single symptom. Naturopathy involves understanding and addressing the entire individual. This is why Leah dedicates an hour to the initial consultation, gathering detailed information about your current health, medical history, and lifestyle. She also collaborates with your doctor and utilises diagnostic tools to create a well-rounded plan.
4. Do No Harm
Safety is paramount in naturopathic care. Leah’s deep understanding of diseases, medications, and herbal remedies ensures her recommendations avoid harmful interactions. As a registered member of the Australian Traditional Medicine Society (ATMS), Leah adheres to the highest industry standards and stays updated with the latest research.
5. Doctor as Teacher
Education is a key component of naturopathy. Leah takes the time to explain:
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Why are certain changes or supplements needed
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What causes health issues, and how to address them
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How your body responds to imbalances and the steps to restore harmony
This empowers you to take charge of your health with confidence.
6. Prevention
Maintaining peak health can prevent many chronic conditions. Did you know some of the leading causes of death in Australia, such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers, are preventable with diet and lifestyle changes? By focusing on prevention, naturopathy supports long-term wellness and vitality.
Naturopathy is about more than just addressing symptoms; it’s a partnership in achieving better health and understanding your body’s needs. With Leah’s guidance, you’ll be supported on your journey toward vibrant, holistic well-being.