Frequently Asked Questions

General Questions

A Naturopathic Doctor (ND) is a licensed healthcare professional who has completed a four-year postgraduate program in Naturopathic Medicine and successfully passed comprehensive theoretical and practical board examinations. Their training combines conventional and traditional medical approaches, all grounded in evidence-based practice.

NDs are equipped to treat a wide range of conditions while also emphasizing prevention and long-term wellness. Although knowledgeable about pharmaceuticals, their care primarily focuses on nutrition and diet, lifestyle changes, targeted supplementation, acupuncture, botanical medicine, physical therapies, counselling, and homeopathy.

An ND or Doula offers compassionate care by listening closely to your concerns and creating a personalized treatment plan designed just for you. During each visit, your practitioner takes the time to explain your health conditions, review the benefits and drawbacks of possible treatments, and answer your questions with clarity. These sessions allow for open conversations and meaningful connections, giving you the chance to express yourself, seek guidance, and better understand your health journey.

Therapies may include:

  • Physical therapies: massage, cupping, and other hands-on approaches

  • Relaxation methods: guided breathing, visualization, affirmations, meditation, hydrotherapy, aromatherapy

  • Acupressure and acupuncture

  • Herbal medicine with appropriate supplementation

  • Lifestyle strategies: nutrition guidance, exercise planning, and healthy habit adjustments

For naturopathic services and/or doula services, please contact us through our website contact form page or via email at serene.healthclinic@gmail.com.

We look forward to hearing from you!

Naturopathy is included in most extended health care benefit plans, making it possible to claim these services. The level of coverage varies depending on each person’s insurance policy. Both Doula care and Naturopathic visits are eligible for reimbursement under many insurance plans.

Deciding when to work with a doula is a personal choice for each family. Whether you begin in the first, second, or third trimester, every stage is a suitable time to welcome a doula’s support. That said, many families choose to start their journey with a Doula during the second trimester.

Having a Doula by your side means continuous support and a familiar presence throughout your journey. Families often value the clear explanations of medical terms and procedures, guidance on their rights, practical tools, and hands-on assistance during labour and birth. Doulas are also able to provide care and comfort for both planned and unexpected C-sections.

Research shows that women supported by a Doula experience shorter labours and hospital stays, require fewer medical interventions, have lower cesarean rates, and go through birth with less trauma.

Yes, we provide personalized consultations and testing tailored to each client’s individual needs. By partnering with trusted companies such as Lifelabs, Rocky Mountain Analytical, and In Common Laboratories, we offer advanced testing along with evidence-based natural treatments to support you in achieving optimal health.

Yes, naturopathic expenses may be eligible for tax deductions in Toronto. Through the Medical Expense Tax Credit, you can include qualified medical costs—such as naturopathic services—on your tax return. Be sure to keep all receipts and seek advice from a tax professional for detailed guidance.

Postpartum doulas play a vital role in supporting new parents after birth. They offer guidance in newborn care, assist with breastfeeding, provide emotional reassurance, and connect families with helpful resources for both infant care and maternal health. Their focus is on easing the transition into postpartum life and helping families adjust confidently to parenthood.

Yes, in Canada, some naturopathic supplements may qualify as tax-deductible medical expenses if prescribed or recommended by a licensed Naturopathic Doctor. Be sure to keep your receipts and check with a tax professional to confirm that you meet the eligibility requirements.

A postpartum naturopathic doula offers meaningful support for breastfeeding by guiding proper latching, helping overcome common challenges, and educating mothers about their nutritional needs. They also foster a supportive, nurturing environment that strengthens parent–infant bonding and builds confidence in new parents.

Naturopathic services are not covered under OHIP (Ontario Health Insurance Plan). However, many private health insurance plans do provide coverage for visits with a naturopathic doctor. To understand what’s included, it’s recommended to review your policy or confirm directly with your insurance provider.

Many private health insurance plans include coverage for naturopathic services. The extent of coverage depends on your specific policy, so it’s important to confirm with your provider to understand what is covered and any applicable limits.

Yes, Naturopathic Doctors are able to refer patients to other healthcare professionals when appropriate. However, referrals to medical specialists must come from a Medical Doctor. NDs collaborate closely with other practitioners to provide well-rounded, coordinated care that is tailored to your individual needs.

Yes, Naturopathic Doctors are qualified to diagnose a wide range of health conditions. Their approach involves a comprehensive evaluation that may include an in-depth review of your health history, a physical examination, and laboratory testing when necessary.

Naturopathic Doctors have limited authority when it comes to prescribing pharmaceuticals. They are able to prescribe certain natural health products and, in some provinces, specific medications. For conventional prescriptions, however, patients are typically referred to a medical doctor.

Yes, Naturopathic Doctors are able to order a wide range of laboratory tests—such as blood work, functional testing, and other diagnostic procedures—to better evaluate your health and support informed treatment decisions.

To connect with a birth doula at Serene Clinic, begin by booking a complimentary consultation. During this meeting, you’ll have the opportunity to share your needs and preferences, allowing our team to pair you with a Naturopathic Doula who best matches your birth plan and vision for childbirth.

For naturopathic services and/or doula services, please contact us through our website contact form page or via email at serene.healthclinic@gmail.com.

We look forward to hearing from you!