Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Naturopathy?
Naturopathy is an alternative medicine modality focused on uncovering the underlying cause of a particular illness or health concern, rather than just treating the symptoms. Naturopathy is based on the theory that the body holds an innate ability to heal itself nurtured through diet modification, lifestyle changes and nutritional & herbal supplementation. Naturopathy is founded on 6 principles:
- Primum non nocere - First do no harm
- Vis medicatrix naturae - The healing power of nature
- Tolle causam - Identify and treat the cause
- Docere - Doctor as teacher
- Tolle totum - Treat the whole person
- Praevenic - Prevention is best.
Is Naturopathy Backed By Science?
Yes. There is a growing emergence of high quality scientific studies on many of the herbal medicines and nutrients used by Naturopaths. These can be found on Pubmed and in several peer-reviewed medical journals such as the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine. Melissa will always draw on scientific evidence when working with her clients.
What is Herbal Medicine?
Herbal Medicine is the use of plants for their therapeutic value. Plants have been used for medicinal purposes throughout human history, many of which have clinical trials supporting these uses. Melissa uses concentrated TGA approved liquid extracts uniquely blended together for an individual patient based on their requirements.
What Qualifications Does Melissa Hold?
Melissa holds a Bachelor of Health Science majoring in Naturopathy. She also holds a Post Graduate Certificate in Advanced Naturopathic medicine. In addiiton Melissa is a member of the Australian Natural Therapists Association (ANTA) who are one of Australia's largest professional associations that has uniform registration requirements for practitioners of traditional, complementary medicine and natural therapies. ATNA ensure quality assurance and public safety by ensuring pracititoners maintain the highest qualification and ethical standards. Melissa is also a member of the Naturopaths & Herbalists Association of Australia (NHAA) who are dedicated to promoting and protecting the practice of Naturopathy and Western Herbal Medicine and the highest professional and ethical standards.
Why See A Naturopath?
Most of us strive for optimal health and wellbeing. However there is a sea of noise in the health industry. It's easy to get confused and overwhelmed with what nutrition plan or supplement is right for you. A Naturopath is an expertly trained practitioner who can take the confusion out of the equation and help you achieve your specific health goals. Whether that be to prevent disease, assist with the management of disease or illness or simply understand the root cause of your particular symptoms.
What Conditions Can Naturopathy Help With?
Naturopathy can be used to assist many health conditions, with some practitioners specialising in certain niche areas. Some of the most commonly treated conditions a Naturopath sees are:
- Digestive health and food intolerances
- Hormonal imbalances
- Weight management
- Cardiovascular health
- Adrenal fatigue
- Anxiety and depression
- Thyroid conditions
- Autoimmune disorders
These are just a selection of the areas Naturopathy can assist, however there is a wide range of conditions not listed above that are commonly treated by Naturopaths. Please get in touch to see if we can help you.
Why Choose Melissa?
Melissa is a caring and compasionate degree qualified pracitioner with over 8 years experience in the industry. She has an in depth knowledge in nutrition and herbal medicine, and while she sees all manner of conditions, she has a particular interest in the areas of hormones. In particular thyroid health.
Melissa uses a thorough naturopathic case taking which covers sleep evaluation, phsyco social environment and comprehensive nutrition analysis. Melissa draws on traditional knowledge, scientific evdence and functional testing to ensure the best outcomes for her clients.
Melissa believes in knowledge as power and instills her clients with the knowledge and tools to help support their own health long term. This can be seen in her comprehensive care plans and continued support.
What Testing Does Melissa Recommend And Refer Clients For?
If you have had recent testing performed such as blood’s or scans please bring these to your initial appointment.
Melissa may also suggest further pathology or functional testing where it may be advantageous to do so. These include comprehensive stool analysis, food intolerance testing, hormone testing or organic acid testing.
The cost of these tests ranges from $100 - $500 depending on the test required. While these are not compulsory, in certain cases they are advised as they give an understanding of the bodies functioning at a point in time. Melissa will discuss the benefits of these tests with you in your appointment. Melissa’s moto is 'test don't guess' as testing can often shorter treatment time with more precise outcomes. Testing can also act as a way to assess treatment.
Do I Need A Referral To See A Naturopath?
No you do not require a referral to see a Naturopath.
What Is The Difference Between Naturopath Supplements And Those From A Chemist Or Health Food Store?
Supplements found in chemists and health food stores are often low dose, poor quality and often do not contain the right forms of nutrients which leads to poor absorption. Naturopaths use supplements that fall under the 'practitioner only’ banner of the Therapeutic Goods Administration. These supplements are supported by scientific research and are higher quality and the right bioavailable forms of nutrients and herbs to ensure the correct therapeutic outcome. Because of this they are also stronger in potency and require use under the guidance of a practitioner to ensure safety is upheld. It is also worth noting that many supplement companies use fillers and binders in supplements that are not labeled. These can include gluten, dairy, soy etc which can exacerbate autoimmune conditions.
How Many Consultations Are Required?
This is dependant on your specific health needs so it's best to ask Melissa in your introductory call or initial appointment. However generally you will require at least 4 and they will initially be every 2-3 weeks. As your health begins to even out these will be further spaced out until you eventually do not require Melissa's assistance. Keep in mind the longer you have been experiencing a condition or symptoms the longer it may take to improve your overall health. Melissa likes to think of health as a journey. There are no quick fixes.
How Much Does A Naturopath Consult Cost?
Initial consultations are $250, extended follow ups are $170, general follow up consultations are $140. Any functional testing and supplementation is additional. However Melissa will work with you to develop a plan based on your specific budget.
What Methods Of Payment Do You Accept?
We accept credit card, EFTPOS and cash. We also now offer Afterpay in clinic only.
What Is Your Cancellation Policy?
Due to high demand we require at least 48 hours for cancellations or reschedule otherwise there is a late cancelation fee. This is outlined in the terms and conditions when booking.
Where is Elixir Naturopathy Located?
Melissa works out of her clinic Elixir Naturopathy located on Stanley Street in East brisbane.
Where Can I Park?
Parking is available on site as well as plenty of 2hr street parking on Longland street. Because Elixir Naturopathy is located in the metro area there will be certain days where on street parking is limited to 15min. This is generally only on GABA days. On these days we advise you to park under the building.
