Naturopathic doctors (N.D.'s) are primary care practitioners, practising family medicine and address almost all conditions that you would see your medical doctor for. These can range from chronic fatigue, depression, emotional issues, childhood illnesses, degenerative conditions such as arthritis, asthma, heart, immune system, digestive and bowel conditions.

We must emphasize however that N.D.'s are trained to look at the whole person not just at the condition itself, which is what sets the profession apart from other health practitioners. In assessing the patient we review the chief concerns of the patient as well as their energy, sleep, body temperature, digestion and the mental emotional spheres. We also ask the patient for recent blood work or tests if already completed or recommend that further assessment may be necessary.

As a Naturopathic Doctor, I focus on finding the underlying cause(s) of disease. We have the potential to offer complimentary therapy whatever disease state the patient may be in.

Anna Bunda B.A. (Psych.) N.D. is a graduate of CCNM and is practising in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. She can be reached at the Optihealth Centre located at 2249 Carling Ave, Suite 320, (phone) 829-7100 and at The Integral Health Clinic, 445 Cumberland Str., Suite 200 (phone 241-0005). For more information visit www.optihealthcentre.com. and www.naturopathy4u.com Naturopathic doctor consultations are covered by most work related health insurance plans and are tax deductible.