Choosing the Right Naturopathic Doctor

Choosing the right healthcare provider is an important step in your healing journey. Understanding what naturopathic medicine is - and how to identify a properly trained Naturopathic Doctor - can help ensure you receive safe, effective, and comprehensive care.

What Is Naturopathic Medicine?

Naturopathic medicine blends modern medical science with evidence-based natural therapies to support the body’s innate ability to heal. Rather than focusing solely on symptoms, naturopathic care looks at the root causes of illness and supports the whole person—mind, body, and lifestyle.

Appointments with a Naturopathic Doctor are typically longer than conventional medical visits, allowing for a deeper understanding of your health history, concerns, and goals. Treatment plans are highly individualized, designed specifically to support your unique health journey.

Education & Training of Licensed Naturopathic Doctors


Licensed Naturopathic Doctors (NDs) complete rigorous medical training comparable in structure to conventional medical education.

To become an ND, individuals must:

  • Complete a bachelor’s degree and required pre-medical coursework
     

  • Attend a 4-year, CNME-accredited naturopathic medical school
     

Medical education includes:

  • Years 1–2: Intensive training in basic sciences such as anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, pathology, and diagnostics (similar to allopathic medical education)
     

  • Years 3–4: Clinically focused training with 1,200 hours of supervised clinical rotations
     

  • 132 hours of required external preceptorship

Board Exams & Licensure

In addition to graduating from an accredited program, Naturopathic Doctors must pass two national board examinations (NPLEX):

  • A science-based board exam after the second year of medical school
     

  • A clinical board exam after graduation
     

These exams are required to obtain licensure and legally practice naturopathic medicine.

Accredited Naturopathic Medical Schools


There are only five Council on Naturopathic Medical Education (CNME) - accredited naturopathic medical schools in North America:

  • Bastyr University (Washington & California)
     

  • Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine (Boucher & Toronto campuses)
     

  • National University of Health Sciences (Illinois)
     

  • National University of Naturopathic Medicine (Oregon)
     

  • Sonoran University of Health Sciences (Arizona)
    (formerly Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine)
     

Graduation from one of these institutions is a critical marker of legitimate ND training.

Understanding ND Licensure

Unfortunately, the title “Naturopathic Doctor” is not regulated in every state. In states without licensure or regulation, individuals with varying levels of education or unrelated certifications may legally call themselves an “ND” without completing accredited medical training or passing board exams.

For this reason, it is especially important for patients in unlicensed or unregulated states to ask about a provider’s:

  • Medical school attended
     

  • Board certification
     

  • State licensure status
     

Currently, 23 U.S. states license Naturopathic Doctors. Scope of practice varies by state, but most licensed NDs are permitted to:

  • Diagnose and treat medical conditions
     

  • Order and interpret lab testing
     

  • Use natural and lifestyle-based therapies
     

Some states also allow NDs to serve as primary care providers with prescribing rights for certain classes of pharmaceuticals.

(See state licensure map for details on your location.)

Why This Matters for You

Understanding an ND’s education, training, and licensure helps ensure you are receiving care from a provider who is properly trained, qualified, and held to medical standards. Asking the right questions empowers you to choose a practitioner who can safely and effectively support your health goals.