My Process

The Process to Work With a Naturopath

I often get asked about the process of working with me as a naturopath.  Other people may operate differently, but here’s how it usually goes with me:

1. Book either a 15-minute complimentary consultation OR book an initial visit.
   • If you book a free consultation, I can tell you in general terms how I can help with your issue. I can give you a general sense of how I can help, but I can’t give you any specific advice.  To advise you, you’ll then need to book a full initial visit with me.
   • If you schedule an initial 75-minute visit, we’ll go through your current concerns in detail, also we’ll review your past medical history. I’ll do a quick screening physical exam (nothing invasive, your clothes stay on).  Then we’ll discuss what you should do, why you should do it, and how long it will take.  We’ll discuss if there are any lab tests that would be helpful and how to go about getting them.  Also, I will give you some questionnaires to fill in and bring back for your second visit.
2. Second 45-minute visit: Normally we meet again 3-6 weeks after your initial visit to review how you are doing, what you are feeling, and go over your questionnaires, diet diary, any new blood work or ultrasound reports.  We’ll adjust your treatment if needed and forge a plan going forward to help you reach your health goals.
3. Subsequent visits:  If you require visits after your second visit, they are usually shorter (30 minutes) and spaced further apart than your first and second visits.  These visits are typically 2-3 months apart.  Subsequent visits are to check in, answer questions that may have arisen, deal with new issues, and revise or update your treatment plan. I like to maintain an ongoing relationship because there is new research published every single day and new products as well.  Keeping your treatment plan up-to-date and at its most effective is the best way to maintain your health.  The exception to the visit frequency is if we are doing acupuncture.  Acupuncture treatments are typically done in a series.  The treatments will usually be one week apart for 4-6 weeks. After the initial visit, these are billed as 30-minute follow-up visits.

Important Things to Know About Working with a Naturopath

1. Insurance plans or employee benefits (not OHIP) will usually cover the cost of your visits with me.  They may also cover the cost of lab testing.  If you have a health spending account they may also cover the cost of supplements that I recommend for you.
2. I do not “overprescribe” either visits or supplements.  In fact, I make every effort to minimize and prioritize supplementation.
3. If you have any of your health records such as blood work results or ultrasound reports, it is always valuable to bring them with you.  If you are working with a fertility clinic, it also helps to bring their records.  To obtain test results from your medical providers you will need a release of records form.  There is a form you can download here.  You can fill in your details, your doctor’s details and sign it, then email it to Maria@ForcesofNature.ca.  Then I’ll sign it and we’ll take care of faxing it to your doctor(s).  They’ll then fax your results to us.
4. I cannot tell you which tests you need before your initial visit.  As with any other medical advice, I cannot legally tell you what to do before I have seen you and done a full first assessment.
5. Please either bring any medications or supplements that you are taking or bring a list of the manufacturers and products.
6. It’s a collaborative process.  I’m happy to discuss your ideas, your research into your condition, and your experiences.
7. I can work together with any medications or other treatments that you may currently be on.
8. I aim to make recommendations that have some supporting science.  You’ll see such research on each of my Conditions pages.

Dr. Pamela has practiced as a naturopathic doctor in Toronto since 1999. She has received numerous “Best Naturopath in Toronto” awards. She is registered with the College of Naturopaths of Ontario.

Dr. Pamela Frank uses a natural treatment approach that may include acupuncture, herbal medicine, nutrition, diet, vitamins, supplements, and other natural remedies to restore balance and provide long-term resolution to almost any health problem.