Frequently Asked Questions
General Questions
What makes naturopathic medicine different from conventional medicine?
Naturopathic medicine takes a holistic and preventative approach, focusing on treating the root causes of illness rather than just managing symptoms. We use natural, non-invasive therapies such as herbal medicine, nutrition, lifestyle counseling, and targeted supplementation to support the body’s natural healing ability. Unlike conventional medicine, which often relies on pharmaceuticals and surgery, naturopathic care emphasizes education and empowerment, helping you take an active role in your health. We consider physical, mental, and emotional factors when guiding you toward lasting vitality and balance.
What is the credentialing process for your profession?
Our Naturopathic Doctors (NDs) complete a rigorous 4–5 year doctoral program at an accredited naturopathic medical school. They must also pass the Naturopathic Physicians Licensing Exam (NPLEX), which covers a wide range of topics, from biomedical sciences to diagnostic techniques and treatment modalities. This extensive training ensures we’re well-equipped to provide safe and effective care.
About Treatment
How long will treatment take?
The Discovery Phase typically spans 3–4 weeks. The Transformation Phase varies based on individual needs, generally requiring 6–12 visits over 6–15 months. During the Growth Phase, we offer a membership option with access to our resource library and discounts on biannual check-ins to maintain your optimal health.
What lifestyle changes will be required?
Our recommendations are tailored to your unique needs and goals. These often include dietary adjustments, movement and mindfulness practices, and supplements or botanical formulas to support your body’s optimal function. Together, we’ll create a plan that fits into your lifestyle and helps you achieve lasting wellness.
Are there any unwanted side effects?
The most common side effects are positive: increased energy, better sleep, and relief from symptoms. Occasionally, mild reactions may occur during the healing process, but they’re typically short-lived and manageable. Our ultimate goal is to guide you safely through the healing journey to lasting wellness.
What conditions do you treat most frequently?
We specialize in managing complex digestive and hormonal imbalances, including IBS, SIBO, GERD, thyroid issues, PMS, PCOS, menopause, and related concerns like fatigue, anxiety, depression, and sleep disorders. Our root-cause approach helps address these challenges for long-lasting results.
Who achieves the best results with your approach?
Our most successful clients are committed to their health journey. They’re proactive, compliant, and open to specialized testing to uncover root causes. Active participation and dedication to their personalized health plan are key to achieving transformative results.
Testing and Diagnostics
What types of tests might be ordered to identify the root cause of my health issues?
We use both conventional and functional tests to get a comprehensive view of your health:
- Digestive health tests: SIBO/IMO breath tests and GI MAP stool panels.
- Hormone panels: DUTCH Plus for adrenal and hormone insights.
- Specialized tests: Lyme disease, mycotoxins, food allergies, heavy metals, and more.
We’ll tailor testing to your specific needs to ensure effective and targeted care.
Are these tests covered by most insurance plans?
Conventional lab tests through Quest Diagnostics, LabCorp, or Yale are often covered by insurance. Functional tests, such as GI MAP or DUTCH panels, are typically not covered, but may be eligible for HSA or FSA reimbursement. We recommend confirming with your insurance provider.
Collaboration and Accessibility
Can naturopathic doctors prescribe medications if needed?
In Connecticut, naturopathic doctors are not authorized to prescribe medications. However, we collaborate with a network of skilled prescribers, including APRNs, to ensure seamless access to appropriate treatments when medications are needed.
Can I see a naturopathic doctor alongside my current medical treatments?
Absolutely! We encourage clients to maintain a relationship with their primary care physician (PCP-MD) for comprehensive care. Our team often works alongside other healthcare providers, including acupuncturists, psychotherapists, and conventional specialists, to deliver well-rounded support.
Do you consult with people outside of Connecticut?
Yes, we offer virtual consultations to clients worldwide. These are considered health consultations rather than a doctor-patient relationship due to licensing restrictions. Our virtual clients can expect the same level of support and remarkable results as in-state clients do.
Insurance and Payment
What insurance companies do you work with?
We accept Aetna and Cigna and bill these companies directly. For other insurance plans, we’re considered out-of-network. If your plan offers out-of-network benefits, we can provide a superbill to help you submit for potential reimbursement.
ARE THERE ANY UNWANTED SIDE EFFECTS?
The most common side effects are positive ones—like increased energy, improved sleep, and relief from symptoms. Occasionally, mild reactions may occur, but they’re typically short-lived and manageable. Our ultimate goal is to guide you safely through the healing process, helping you achieve lasting wellness.
WHAT IS THE CREDENTIALING PROCESS FOR YOUR PROFESSION?
Our Naturopathic Doctors (NDs) have completed a rigorous 4-5 year doctoral program a tan accredited naturopathic medical school. Following their education, they must pass the Naturopathic Physicians Licensing Exam (NPLEX), which covers a broad range of topics from biomedical sciences to diagnostic techniques and treatment modalities.
What lifestyle changes will be required?
Our recommendations are personalized to meet your unique needs. This often includes tailored dietary suggestions, incorporating movement and mindfulness practices, and possibly introducing supplements or botanical formulas to support your body’s optimal function. Together, we’ll create a plan that aligns with your health goals and fits into your life.
WHO ACHIEVES THE BEST RESULTS WITH YOUR APPROACH?
Our most successful clients are those who are fully committed to their health journey. They are proactive, compliant, and open to investing in specialized testing to uncover the root causes of their health issues. Success in our treatments is significantly influenced by the client’s active participation and commitment to the prescribed health regimen.
WHAT CONDITIONS DO YOU TREA T MOST FREQUENTLY?
Our clinic specializes in addressing complex digestive and hormonal imbalances that often find limited relief through conventional medical approaches. Common conditions we successfully manage include IBS/IBD, SIBO/SIFO/IMO, intestinal parasites, candida, GERD, bloating and gas, bowel irregularities, and associated discomfort and pain. We also have extensive experience with hormonal issues such as Thyroid disorders, PMS/PMDD, PCOS, menopause symptoms, as well as related concerns like fatigue, anxiety, depression, and sleep disorders.
What makes naturopathic medicine different from conventional medicine ?Naturopathic medicine takes a holistic and preventative approach, focusing on treating the root causes of illness rather than just managing symptoms. We use natural, non-invasive therapies such as herbal medicine, nutrition, lifestyle counseling, and targeted supplementation to support the body’s natural healing ability. Unlike conventional medicine, which often relies heavily on pharmaceuticals and surgical interventions, naturopathic care emphasizes patient education and empowerment, helping you take an active role in your health. We also tailor treatments to your unique needs, addressing physical, mental, and emotional factors that influence overall well-being. By considering all aspects of your health, we aim to guide you toward lasting vitality and balance.
Can I see a naturopathic doctor alongside my current medical treatments ?Absolutely ! We encourage you to maintain a relationship with your primary care physician(PCP-MD) for comprehensive care. Collaboration is key, especially since naturopathic doctors in Connecticut, while trained in pharmaceutical management, do not currently have prescribing rights.
At Good Medicine, we believe in a team-based approach and often work closely with other healthcare professionals to ensure you receive well-rounded support. In addition to your PCP, your healthcare team might include an acupuncturist, psychotherapist, massage therapist, or conventional specialist. Our growing referral network is here to help you build the perfect team for your health journey.
DO YOU CONSULT WITH PEOPLE OUTSIDE OF THE STATE OF CONNECTICUT?
Yes, we offer virtual consultations to clients worldwide, applying the same principles and methods outlined in this e-book. While these services are not classified as a doctor-patient relationship outside of Connecticut due to licensing restrictions, they are considered health consultations. Our out-of-state clients can expect to achieve remarkable health transformations through our guidance.
What insurance companies do you work with, and what if you are considered an out - of - network provider?
We accept Aetna and Cigna and will bill these companies directly. For other insurance plans, we are considered an out-of-network provider. If your plan offers out-of-network benefits, we can provide a detailed superbill with the necessary codes for you to submit to your insurer. Many of our clients receive reimbursement for a portion of their visit costs, but we encourage you to contact your insurance provider to confirm your specific coverage and benefits.
What types of tests might be ordered to identify the root cause of my health issues?
We often begin with conventional testing, which may involve reviewing past lab results or requesting records before placing new orders. Our preferred lab is Quest Diagnostics, though we also work with LabCorp and Yale as needed. In addition to conventional testing, we partner with specialized functional lab companies to provide advanced diagnostic options. These may include:
- Digestive health testing: SIBO/IMO breath tests and comprehensive stool panels(e.g., GI MAP).
- Hormone panels: Such as the DUTCH Plus for in-depth hormone and adrenal insights.
- Other specialized tests: Lyme disease, mycotoxins, food allergies, environmental toxins, heavy metals, and more.
This thorough approach ensures we get a clear picture of your health and can tailor your care to address the root causes effectively.
Are these tests covered by most insurance plans?
Conventional lab tests ordered through Quest Diagnostics, LabCorp, or Yale are often covered by insurance, depending on your plan. However, specialized functional lab tests, such as GI MAP, DUTCH hormone panels, or mycotoxin testing, are typically not covered by insurance.
We recommend checking with your insurance provider to confirm coverage for conventional tests and understanding your out-of-pocket costs for functional testing. If needed, we can help provide documentation for Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) or Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs), which may be used to cover these tests.
Can naturopathic doctors prescribe medications if needed?
Naturopathic doctors in Connecticut are not authorized to prescribe medications at this time. However, we collaborate with a network of skilled prescribers, including APRNs, to ensure our clients have access to appropriate treatments when medications are recommended. This team-based approach allows us to provide seamless and comprehensive care tailored to your needs.
