Because naturopathic psychotherapists are mental health providers and not medical doctors, referrals are often made. For example, when medically-based evaluations and treatment may be needed, a naturopathic psychotherapist will refer to traditional naturopaths, medical doctors, and psychiatrists. Other recommendations to practitioners such as acupuncturists and chiropractors made be made, but the naturopathic psychotherapist tends to refer that such recommendations are made by a traditional naturopath.

This can be an important distinguishing line in naturopathy, in that those trained in psychology address psychiatric, emotional, and relationship problems, whereas naturopaths trained in medicine treat medical problems. In the treatment of medical conditions, naturopathic medicine is used to treat conditions like diabetes and hypertension. In the area of mental health, naturopathic psychotherapy has been used for conditions like depression, anxiety, insomnia, and ADHD.

Principles of Naturopathic Psychotherapy

Naturopathic psychotherapy is based on the same tenets as traditional naturopathic medicine. Naturopathic ideology focuses on naturally-occurring and minimally-invasive methods, trusting to the "healing power of nature." Prevention through stress reduction and a healthy diet and lifestyle is emphasized. The philosophy of naturopathic practice is self-described by six core values:

1. First, do no harm; provide the most effective health care available with the least risk to patients at all times.
2. Recognize, respect and promote the self-healing power of nature inherent in each individual human being.
3. Identify and remove the causes of illness, rather than eliminate or suppress symptoms.
4. Educate and inspire rational hope and encourage self-responsibility for health.
5. Treat each person by considering all individual health factors and influences.
6. Emphasize the condition of health to promote well-being and to prevent diseases for the individual, each community and our world.

The Client's Needs Come First

One of the general criticisms of natural-health practitioners is that they do not believe in the standard care commonly used in Western medicine, most notably pharmaceutical drugs. This is a misnomer in that each practitioner has his or her own personal and professional philosophy. In naturopathic psychotherapy, howvwer, the therapist believes that medication is as viable an option as any other. The client comes first and treatment plans are designed as a team effort between therapist and client.

References
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