Naturopathic medicine: what to know

What the job involves, what changes the price, and what to ask a pro.

What naturopathic medicine is

Naturopathic medicine involves a provider who reviews your health history and suggests approaches such as nutrition, lifestyle changes and supplements, often alongside conventional care. Rules about who may use this title vary by state.

Signs you need it

  • You want a provider who looks at lifestyle and nutrition
  • You want to add complementary approaches to your care
  • You have questions about supplements and your doctor is not able to answer them
  • A friend recommended a provider
  • You want a longer visit to talk through your history

What the pro does

  • A detailed intake on your history, habits and goals
  • A discussion of options such as nutrition and lifestyle changes
  • A plan, which may include supplements
  • Follow-up visits to review how the plan is going
  • Coordination with your other providers if you wish

What changes the price

Every job is different, so we do not publish prices. These are the things that move the quote up or down.

  • Provider's training and license status
  • Length of the first visit
  • Follow-up visits
  • Tests recommended
  • Supplements recommended
  • Insurance coverage

What a written quote should spell out

  • Visit length and number of visits planned
  • What tests, if any, are recommended and who orders them
  • Cost of supplements as separate lines
  • Cancellation terms
  • Billing and insurance details

Questions to ask before you hire

  • What is your license or credential, and how can I verify it?
  • What is within your scope in this state?
  • Will you coordinate with my doctor?
  • What supplements do you recommend and why?
  • Could they interact with my medication?
  • What happens if I need conventional care?

Red flags

  • Telling you to stop medication or conventional care
  • Promising a cure
  • Selling supplements as the main part of the visit
  • Cannot say whether they are licensed
  • Pressure to buy large supplement packages

What you can do yourself

You can keep a food and sleep log and bring your supplement list to appointments. Talk with your doctor before starting any supplement, especially with health conditions or medication.

Licenses and permits

Rules for naturopathic providers vary widely by state, and in some states the title is licensed while in others it is not. Ask what license or credential the provider holds and check it with your state licensing board.

Naturopathic medicine questions

Is naturopathic medicine licensed?

It varies by state. Ask and check.

Can I use it with conventional care?

Many people do. Tell your doctor.

Are supplements safe?

Ask your doctor, since they can interact with medication.

Will insurance cover it?

Sometimes. Coverage depends on the provider's license and your plan, so ask both before booking.

About this guide

This national guide is written and checked by infinibell. Rules and conditions differ by place, so local pros are credited on guides for the cities they serve, not on national ones.

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