The Traditional Naturopath
The doctor of naturopathy (N.D.) follows the natural health traditions brought to the United States by Benedict Lust and others  to forego invasive procedures, surgeries, and prescriptive medications.

Tradition Meets Medicine
The naturopathic physician (N.M.D.) combines the philosophies of traditional naturopathy and modern medical principals.

Naturopathy Certification or Licensure
Graduates of naturopathic programs will receive either certification or licensure depending on which course of study is completed:  

• Certification grants permission to work in the field.
• Licensure grants permission to perform functions that are normally prohibited.
 
Naturopathy Certification Regulated by Private Agency
Naturopathy doctors who are board certified (ND, CTN) have successfully completed a national examination, and meet professional standards of care.  Practitioners:

• successfully reached a recognized and acceptable national level of competency,
• agree to follow the rules and regulations of the profession,
• must meet the minimum requirement of twenty hours per recertification every two years.

Naturopathy License Regulated by Laws
Naturopathy doctors who are licensed to practice (NMD) are strictly governed by regulations and statutes.  Licensure:

• defines the scope of practice,
• provides the public with clear titles that are easy to understand,
• is regulated by the state and renewal is mandatory,
• provides an avenue for disciplining practitioners.

Consumers of naturopathic care should always know who is behind those credentials and look for the certification or license to be publically displayed.


BIO:  Dr. Mundorff is a Registered Nurse and Board Certified Naturopath, and not a medical doctor.  Dr. Mundorff is the author of several books. Her latest book, Take Control: a Guide to Holistic Living is an innovative health guide, which helps the reader learn how to regain control of their health by discovering the practical effectiveness of combining alternative and modern medicine.  Contact her at bridges2hlth@aol.com.

Also by this author, Polyarthralgia/Fibromyalgia Connection, Polyarthralgia/Fibromyalgia Treatment, Healthy Eating for Osteoporosis: The Importance of Vitamin D, and Health Transitions from Summer to Fall: Boosting the Immune System.