WHAT TO EXPECT IN A NATUROPATH APPOINTMENT
A COMPASSIONATE, WHOLE-PERSON APPROACH
May 8th, 2025
If you’ve ever considered booking a naturopathic consultation but weren’t sure what to expect, you’re not alone. Naturopathy is often misunderstood, but when done right, it's a gentle, personalised approach to health that takes the whole person into account. In this article I’ll share what a typical appointment looks like, the underlying philosophy behind naturopathy, and how I personally approach consults as a practitioner.
The Naturopathic Philosophy
There are 6 philosophical principles that guide all naturopathic treatment:
1. First Do No Harm
Minimising harm wherever possible by using remedies and recommendations that reduce the risk of harmful side effects and applying ' the least amount of force or intervention necessary to diagnose illness and restore health'.
2. The Healing Power of Nature
The recognition that your body has the innate ability to heal itself to a certain extent. Naturopaths provide support to encourage your body’s natural healing processes and remove obstacles that could get in the way.
3. Identify and Treat the Cause
Rather than merely treating symptoms, naturopaths aim to identify and treat the underlying causes of symptoms to prevent recurrence.
4. Treat the Whole Person
The World Health Organisation defines health as "a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity". Naturopathy recognises that illness can be influenced by a combination of physical, emotional, environmental, social, and spiritual factors and that each person has a unique set of needs and characteristics that will influence the treatment plan provided.
5. Prevention is Better than Cure
Emphasising prevention of illness by looking at risk factors and lifestyle.
6. Doctor as Teacher
Providing education about your body, how it works, and how changes can help you feel your best, inspiring you to take responsibility for your own health journey.
Your First Appointment: A Holistic Deep Dive
Your first appointment will last 60-90 minutes and will be all about getting to know you. We’ll cover your diet, lifestyle, stress levels, sleep, and any other factors that might be contributing to your health concerns. I ask a lot of questions because I want to get a complete picture of what’s going on in your life.
I’ll also conduct physical assessments - such as checking your blood pressure, heart rate, tongue and nails- to gain more insight. This thorough approach can help to provide understanding about what might be sustaining your symptoms and where to begin addressing them.
Personalised Treatment Plans
After gathering all the relevant information, I like to spend some time over a few hours or days carefully creating a personalised treatment plan. Treatment usually includes:
· Herbal Remedies: (tinctures, teas, creams) to address issues like stress, digestive function, or sleep
· Nutritional Supplements: to support your immune system, support energy, or replenish deficiencies
· Dietary Changes: such as increasing fibre for digestion
· Lifestyle Changes: adding more movement, increasing sun exposure
In my personal approach, I believe in small, sustainable baby step changes that can be incorporated into your life easily, helping you build momentum without feeling overwhelmed.
“I wasn’t sure where to go for help with my health issues. I had tried a few different things and nothing seemed to really sort out what was going on. Jess has such a caring and compassionate approach that you feel comfortable straight away, it felt like we had known each other for years already. She was thorough in getting down to what was really going on and the core problem causing my issues. Jess was clear on what plan we were setting and how we were going to achieve the goals we were trying to achieve, and I’m so happy, as I have seen great improvements in myself, better than I have ever been. I would highly recommend Jess to anyone who is looking to understand how Naturopathy can support their health and wellbeing.”
A Unique Approach to Treatment
Every naturopath brings their own unique approach to treatment, shaped by their passions, interests, and style. Even if two people come in with the same condition, their treatment plans will likely differ, as I always take into account your specific needs, personal preferences, and factors like your time constraints and stress levels. I love creating individualised treatment plans that align with your goals, helping you feel confident and excited to achieve them. I don’t believe in perfectionism or rigid protocols—instead, I take a calm, gentle approach, gradually weaving healthy habits into your daily routine, one small step at a time.
Why Choose Naturopathy?
If you’re looking for an approach that sees you as a whole person - addressing not just your symptoms but the root causes of your health issues, naturopathy may be exactly what you need. Together, we’ll create a treatment plan that fits your unique needs, at a pace that feels right for you.
“I highly recommend the Marigold Mender! I’ve had 2 appointments so far and found she’s really thorough and I feel comfortable discussing my health concerns and goals with her, and we worked together to come up with a plan to address my concerns that was realistic and easy for me to follow! And I’ve found my herbal blend she created had already helped support me on my health journey!! So very grateful for your support!”
IF YOU'D LIKE TO BOOK AN APPOINTMENT WITH JESS OR ONE OF OUR QUALIFIED NATUROPATHS AROUND BRISBANE, IPSWICH & THE GOLD COAST - GET IN TOUCH!
Article By Jess Cook “The Marigold Mender” | MO Naturopath Clayfield
Jess is a naturopath and founder of The Marigold Mender. She takes a warm, non-judgmental approach, helping those who feel overwhelmed by rigid health advice.
By creating personalised, baby-step treatment plans, she helps clients feel confident in their health journey.
Jess believes true healing happens when care is flexible, intuitive, and meets you with understanding and compassion, exactly where you’re at.