How To Choose Between A Naturopathic Doctor and An Integrative Doctor

Have you heard a friend mention their naturopath? Or has someone mentioned working with an integrative doctor? What’s the difference? Aren’t they basically the same?

Not quite.

While both approaches focus on whole-person care and prioritize wellness beyond just treating symptoms, they come from different educational backgrounds and may use different tools.

Understanding the difference between the two can help you choose who will provide you with the right support for your situation.

 

What is a Naturopathic Doctor (ND)?

A naturopathic doctor is trained in natural medicine and takes a holistic approach to healing.

They are focused on identifying and treating the root cause of illness, not just managing symptoms. NDs believe in the body’s natural ability to heal and often begin treatment with the least invasive methods possible.

Naturopathic doctors complete four years of graduate-level study at an accredited naturopathic medical school. Their training includes nutrition, herbal medicine, homeopathy, physical medicine, counseling, and some conventional diagnostics like lab testing and pharmacology. In states or provinces where naturopathic medicine is regulated, NDs must pass licensing exams and complete continuing education.

Treatment with a naturopathic doctor might include dietary changes, botanical supplements, acupuncture, or stress-reducing practices like breathwork.

The goal is always to support the body’s ability to heal itself, while empowering patients to take an active role in their wellness journey.

What is an Integrative Doctor?

Integrative doctors are conventionally trained MDs (Medical Doctors) or DOs (Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine) who choose to expand beyond standard medicine.

They still use traditional diagnostics and treatments, like prescriptions, lab work, and imaging, but they also bring in complementary practices such as nutrition counseling, acupuncture, and mindfulness.

Many integrative physicians pursue additional certification in integrative or functional medicine. These programs explore how different systems in the body interact and how nutrition, environment, and stress impact health over time.

Integrative medicine doesn’t replace conventional care, it adds to it. These doctors are often helpful for patients dealing with chronic illnesses, autoimmune conditions, or unexplained symptoms that haven’t responded well to traditional approaches alone.

So, What’s the Difference?

Naturopathic and integrative doctors can seem very similar, they both look at the whole person’s overall health and wellness, not just a diagnosis.

But there are a few primary distinctions:

• Training: Naturopathic doctors attend naturopathic medical schools; integrative doctors begin with a conventional medical degree (MD or DO).
• Treatment style: NDs lean more heavily on natural therapies and may avoid pharmaceuticals unless absolutely necessary. Integrative doctors are more likely to combine prescriptions with complementary therapies.
• Licensing and scope: Depending on where you live, NDs may have limited prescribing rights or insurance coverage. Integrative MDs or DOs typically have full prescribing privileges and wider access within hospital systems.
• Philosophy: NDs often prioritize natural interventions first, while integrative MDs aim for a blend of natural and conventional treatments that are backed by research.

Which One Is Right for You?

Choosing the right kind of care comes down to your needs, preferences, and values.

If you’re looking for a provider who will explore natural therapies first and help you avoid medication when possible, a naturopathic doctor may be a great fit.

If you want someone who can offer conventional care but also takes nutrition, lifestyle, and emotional wellbeing seriously, an integrative doctor might be the way to go.

The most important thing is that you find a provider who you trust. You want to find someone who listens to your concerns, takes the time to understand your history, and comes alongside you to create a care plan that makes sense for your situation.

You don’t have to choose between natural and conventional medicine. Both naturopathic and integrative doctors offer thoughtful, patient-centered care rooted in the idea that healing happens when we look at the whole person.

 

References: 

-        American Association of Naturopathic Physicians, https://naturopathic.org/page/WhatisaNaturopathicDoctor

Nationals Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/complementary-alternative-or-integrative-health-whats-in-a-name