Naturopathic medicine is based on centuries of empirical evidence combined with current research and conventional care. Naturopathic physicians focus on treating the whole body using non-toxic, safe therapies, diet and lifestyle evaluations, nutritional supplements, botanical preparations, hydrotherapy, bodywork and counseling. Naturopathic doctors are specialists in Natural Medicine and work as primary care providers in many states.
Naturopathic doctors focus on identifying and removing the cause of disease rather than just treating symptoms. This creates a truly individualized health care plan.
Naturopathic physicians often work collaboratively with MD’s and other health professionals in providing comprehensive quality health care. Dr Christensen graduated from a nationally-accredited medical school, Bastyr University, with a degree in Naturopathic Medicine.
Education
Licensed or registered naturopathic doctors have attended four-year post-graduate professional-level programs at accredited institutions. The naturopathic education includes the same basic sciences as those studied by allopathic physicians. Some member schools in the AANMC actually require more hours of basic and clinical science than many top allopathic medical schools.
During their first two years of study, the curriculum focuses on basic and clinical sciences, covering Biochemistry, Human Physiology, Histology, Anatomy, Macro- and Microbiology, Immunology, Human Pathology, Neuroscience, and Pharmacology.
For at least the final two years of their naturopathic medical program, students intern in clinical settings under the close supervision of licensed professionals. Students of naturopathic medicine use the Western medical sciences as a foundation on which to build a thorough knowledge of holistic, non-toxic therapies and develop skills in diagnosis, disease prevention and wellness optimization.
While earning their degree, doctors of naturopathic medicine learn virtually all the modalities of proven natural therapies such as Clinical Nutrition, Botanical Medicine, Homeopathy, Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine, Lifestyle Counseling, Massage, Physical Medicine, and Hydrotherapy.
Graduates from naturopathic medical schools must pass the comprehensive naturopathic physicians licensing examinations (NPLEX) to be registered in Colorado as Naturopathic Doctors starting January 2014.
Today’s naturopathic doctors artfully blend modern, cutting-edge diagnostic and therapeutic procedures with ancient and traditional methods. They offer the world a healing paradigm founded on a rational balance of tradition, science and respect for nature.
Original Post from http://www.aanmc.org/naturopathic-medicine/naturopathic-physicians-are-rigorously-trained.php
Naturopathic Doctors Oath
I dedicate myself to the service of humanity as a practitioner of the art and science of Naturopathic medicine.
I will honor my teachers and all who have preserved and developed this knowledge and dedicate myself to supporting the growth and evolution of Naturopathic medicine. I will endeavor to continually improve my abilities as a healer through study, reflection, and genuine concern for humanity. I will impart knowledge of the advanced healing arts to dedicated colleagues and students.
Through precept, lecture, and example, I will assist and encourage others to strengthen their health, reduce risks for disease, and preserve the health of our planet for ourselves, our families, and future generations.
According to my best ability and judgment, I will use methods of treatment which follow the principles of Naturopathic medicine:
First of all, to do no harm.
To act in cooperation with the Healing Power of Nature.
To address the fundamental causes of disease.
To heal the whole person through individualized treatment.
To teach the principles of healthy living and preventive medicine.
I will conduct my life and the practice of Naturopathic health care with vigilance, integrity, and freedom from prejudice. I will abstain from voluntary acts of injustice and corruption. I will keep confidential whatever I am privileged to witness, whether professionally or privately, that should not be divulged.
With my whole heart, before this gathering of witnesses, as a Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine, I pledge to remain true to this oath.
Adopted at the AANP (www.naturopathic.org) National Convention 1992.