Frequently asked questions about Naturopathic care in Ontario

A naturopathic doctor is a regulated health professional in Ontario, registered with the College of Naturopaths of Ontario (CONO). NDs complete a four-year graduate-level program after a bachelor's degree (mine: Honours BSc, University of Toronto, then Doctor of Naturopathy, CCNM). NDs are trained to diagnose, treat, and help prevent disease using natural therapies, and are required to complete continuing education annually.

I take a deep history, order and interpret functional lab testing (blood, hormones, GI, micronutrients), and build personalized treatment plans using clinical nutrition, targeted supplementation, botanical (herbal) medicine, and lifestyle counselling. The goal is always to address the root cause of how you're feeling, not just manage the symptoms.

Yes — when practised that way. My protocols draw on peer-reviewed research, current clinical guidelines, and validated functional testing. I don't use modalities that lack evidence, and I don't promise cures. If something doesn't have research behind it, I'll tell you that and we'll discuss alternatives.

No. Naturopathic care complements conventional medicine. However, for some patients in Toronto who do not have a Family Doctor, Naturopathic Doctors act as primary care physicians for many people across the country.

No. Naturopathic care is not covered by OHIP. However, most extended health benefits plans in Ontario (Manulife, Sun Life, Canada Life, Green Shield, Equitable Life, GreatWest Life, etc.) cover naturopathic visits. I provide receipts you can submit to your insurer.

Visit fees are listed on my booking page. The free 15-minute discovery call is complimentary. Lab testing and supplements are billed separately and paid out of pocket; I'll always tell you the cost before ordering anything.

The discovery call is 15 minutes. Comprehensive first visits are 60–90 minutes. Follow-up visits are typically 30–45 minutes.

No. You don't need a referral from your family doctor to book a naturopathic visit in Ontario.

In person at Insight Naturopathic Clinic, 45 Wicksteed Ave., Unit 260, Toronto, ON M4G 4H9 (Leaside). Virtually anywhere in Ontario.

For the work I do — history, lab review, protocol building, follow-up — yes. The only modality that requires in-person visits is acupuncture. Many of my patients in Vaughan and across Ontario see me exclusively online.

We'll talk through what's going on, what you've already tried, and decide together whether naturopathic care is the right fit for you. There's no commitment and no pressure to book.

Any recent lab work (last 12–24 months if available), a list of current supplements and medications with doses, and any prior diagnoses or imaging reports. Don't worry if you don't have all of it — we can order what we need.

Most patients begin to notice improvement within 4–8 weeks. Deeper, longer-standing concerns — hormonal, autoimmune, chronic gut issues — typically take 3–6 months of consistent work. Naturopathic Medicine is not a quick fix, but it is a long lasting one.

Yes. I have a particular focus on pediatric eczema, allergies, ADHD, and autism spectrum support. Pediatric visits are gentle, evidence-informed, and always involve the parents at every step.

Adults: perimenopause, PCOS, Hashimoto's and hypothyroidism, IBS, SIBO, food sensitivities, fertility and preconception, postpartum recovery, burnout, anxiety, sleep concerns, and healthy aging. Children: eczema, allergies, recurrent infections, ADHD support, and autism spectrum support.

Yes — this is one of the most common reasons patients book with me. Standard reference ranges are wide, and "normal" is not the same as "optimal." Functional lab interpretation looks at where you sit within the range, plus markers your MD may not have ordered.

The fastest way is to book a free 15-minute discovery call. You can also reach me at info@drarrigond.com.

Reach out. We can talk on the discovery call about what's been working, what hasn't, and whether I'm the right fit.