Frequently Asked Questions

What is Naturopathic Medicine?

Just like a general practice MD, Naturopaths are board-certified and licensed primary care physicians trained to treat all aspects of family care, from pediatrics to geriatrics. Unlike a general practice MD, Naturopathic practice blends centuries-old natural, non-toxic therapies with the latest advances in science and technology. Naturopathic medicine employs a philosophy that:

• treats the whole person; body, mind, and spirit

• utilizes the healing power of nature

• searches for the underlying cause of disease

• believes prevention is the best cure

• starts with the least invasive therapies first

• educates and empowers patients to achieve and sustain optimal health

How are you different from other naturopaths?

While Naturopathic training is incredible, most Naturopaths are general practitioners and do not specialize. Early in my career, I saw the impact of anti-aging protocols and understood how complex and confusing the field is. Regular Naturopaths aren’t equipped to deal with the more complicated issues of aging. They don’t know how to really look at the numbers and assess hormone profiles to optimize vitality, efficacy, and safety. But these numbers give trained specialists access to a whole other layer of health. These more sophisticated tests and available protocols prevent things like cancer and other hormone-related diseases but take a great deal of training and understanding to even use. So I have spent an incredible amount of time and energy honing my expertise in this field. I have advanced training in hormone balancing and am board certification in anti-aging.

Why don't you take insurance?

Insurance companies don’t understand what we do. They want to pay for something once it’s broken. At Waterfront Wellness, we seek to prevent disease and bring our patients to incredible levels of health. So our protocols optimize your health. You don’t have to be sick to get better; unfortunately, insurance companies just don’t see it that way.

Are hormones safe?

Many doctors say there are no studies about the safety of bio-identical hormone therapy, but there are. In fact, there is the overwhelming scientific research proving the use of bio-identical hormones. But there is a difference between no data and not reading the data. And most doctors don’t know how to read the data. Bio-identical hormones are absolutely safe, but they have to be monitored. They are safe if the patient is evaluated and monitored and the doses are customized. In fact, not only do they not cause cancer but can actually prevent it. This is why it is so important to see a doctor who is truly an expert in hormone therapy.

How much will my treatment cost?

This depends on what you need and what you are seeking. Usually, 2-3 visits with us are all it takes, plus the cost of lab testing. This isn’t an ongoing thing. The patient assessment is so comprehensive and the tests so targeted that you will find our approach to addressing the underlying cause is much more cost-effective than typical medical approaches that just treat symptoms.

Why doesn't my MD know about...?

They are focused on a different model of medicine. They are looking for something specific to one organ or system rather than the interconnected relationship of the whole body. They are trained in school to treat disease. Naturopathic medicine treats the person and treats for wellness. This allows us to address disease but also to treat the core, not the symptoms. For example: treating diabetes by just giving insulin is not treating it; it is a band-aid. A Naturopath will actually improve the core health of the patient, thereby eliminating the need for insulin at.

What training do Naturopathic Doctors have?

Licensure requires 4-5 years of rigorous post-graduate didactic and clinical training at an accredited naturopathic medical school, with the successful passage of state and national board examinations. Naturopaths are held accountable to the same standards of diagnosis and liability as mainstream physicians and must complete yearly continuing education.

What tests and treatments do Naturopath offer?

Naturopathic Physicians perform a wide variety of diagnostic tests, including physical exams, laboratory testing, x-rays/imaging, gynecological exams, nutritional and dietary assessments, metabolic analysis, and allergy testing. Trained in a wide variety of therapies, Dr. Cooper will customize a treatment plan for you, collaborating and referring to specialists when appropriate. Treatments include therapeutic nutrition, botanical medicine, physical medicine, nutriceuticals (vitamins/supplements), prescription medications when indicated, lifestyle counseling, and homeopathy.

What Should I Expect During My First Visit?

Please contact the office to gain a link to our patient portal to fill out your comprehensive patient intake form. Expect to list current medications and supplements, including brand names and doses, on your intake form. If you cannot print out the new patient form, please arrive at least 40 minutes before your appointment to fill out the paperwork. Your first visit will last approximately one hour, and return visits last about 30 minutes. Due to the time reserved for each appointment, please call at least 24 hours in advance to cancel an appointment. A $110 fee will be charged for no-shows or late cancellations unless due to a true emergency.

A complete review of your intake form, including your past medical history, family medical history, medications, diet, lifestyle, labs, etc., will be done, as well as a physical exam and blood work if appropriate. You will have a customized treatment plan based on the information gathered. Follow-up visits are imperative to monitor progress and response to treatments.

What Conditions Can Naturopathic Medicine Treat?

As primary care physicians, N.D.'s can treat the full spectrum of medical conditions. Some of the common conditions treated include:

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