Naturopaths
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What is Naturopathy?
Naturopathy was developed in the late 1800's and early 1900's
as a way to promote a natural diet and exercise with avoidance of tobacco and overwork.
Naturopathy covers a wide range of practices including acupuncture,
homeopathy,
botanical medicine, chelation therapy, colonic enemas, hair analysis,
nutrition, physical therapy and massage, meditation, reflexology, and more.
Naturopathy is mainly practiced in the US and Canada.
In the US, 15 states including
California license NDs (Naturopathy Doctors)
and require training at recognized Naturopathic
institutions (not medical school). In the other 35 states,
anyone may use the title ND regardless of level of education.
More information at Wikipedia.
Feb 2013
Re: Pediatrician who understands gluten diet
Instead of a mainstream pediatrician, I would suggest going to a Naturopath that also
sees children. The Walnut Creek Naturopath group is one such example. I recently took my
10 year old son to see Dr. Anya. She laid out a treatment plan for him which involves
elimination of gluten and dairy and also prescribed probiotics etc to heal and strengthen
his immune system. His regular pediatrician consistently dismissed food as possible
culprit for his issues.
I myself go to a different Naturopath in San Francisco and prefer them over regular MDs.
I believe there is a Naturopathic group in Berkely as well that sees children.
Good luck!
Believer
Jan 2011
Looking for a naturopathic/holistic doc or anyone to help me with my
hypothyroidism and ongoing bouts with postpartum depression. Preferably in
the Walnut Creek area, but willing to drive if I can find someone helpful!
Also, does anyone know of a support group for PPD in the area?
anon
I can't recommend Dr Elizabeth Korza ND at the Berkeley
Naturopatic Medical Group on Ashby Ave highly enough. I've
been under her care for hypothyroidism for over a year now
and my test results have improved nicely.
She's a wonderful individual, professional, caring,
supportive, a great communicator, and truly knowledgeable in
the field of alternative care. You can find out more about
her at www.berkeleynaturopathic.com. She offers a 10 - 15
minute free consultation on the phone or in person as well.
Nothing to lose! So much to gain.
Rosie
Hello,
I have been in your situation with PPD. The good news for me
is that it went away after 1 year and I am back to my happy
self.
Dr Erika Horowitz is great. She works in Berkeley and San
Francisco so not close to Walnut Creek but it is so worth
the drive! She is a DN and uses Chinese herbs as well. I
highly recommend her.
Feel free to contact me: belzebuthienne@gmail.com
Fully recovered
I have been seeing an excellent Naturopath in Berkeley that I would
highly recommend. She is smart, well informed, and her treatment has
worked for me where my western doctor's failed miserably. She is right
over the hill from you on Ashby in Berkeley, and she has Saturday hours,
which might help with your schedule. Dr Elizabeth Korza, 510-845-8600.
anon
Sept 2010
Re: Primary care physician ... Recs and advice needed
If you want a physician who is committed to health and preventative care -
rather than just treating symptoms - consider Dr. Elizabeth Korza, a
Naturopathic Physician. You can phone her at 510-845-8600 to get a sense
of her approach to medicine ... or visit her website here:
http://www.berkeleynaturopathic.com/Dr._Elizabeth_Korza__N.html
Dr. Korza has really helped my own daughter, and I can give her an
enthusiastic recommendation.
David
Sept 2010
Re: OB-GYN in Berkeley area with holistic mindset
Hi,
Dr. Erika Horowitz is wonderful! She is a Naturopathic
Doctor, has a great non invasive approach and in my case,
she had an alternative approach in response to all my
ailments. Her treatments were all super efficient (such as
Chinese herbs and naturopathy). Dr. Horowitz works at the
Milvia Alta Bates and can be reached on (510) 848 7070.
Isabelle
You might want to try Dr Elizabeth Korza ND who is a
naturopathic doctor and primary care physician specializing
in women's health incl. annual exams (pap etc). She's been
my doctor for several years and I think she's absolutely
wonderful! I find her to be extremely knowledgeable, caring,
warm, and an excellent listener. Take a look at her website:
http://www.berkeleynaturopathic.com/Dr._Elizabeth_Korza__N.html
for more info. She's conveniently located in the Elmwood
district in Berkeley.
Rosie
Feb 2010
Re: Nutritionist, Internist, or naturopath for digestion issues?
I could have written your post five years ago. I tried my
MD, useless, and chose a naturopathic doctor. Basically, I
told her that everything I eat makes me fart.
My ND got me started on hydrochloric acid and more complex
digestive enzymes. That helped but then I needed to find out
about food allergies, that's where the ND beats a
nutritionist as an ND is a doctor who can order food allergy
panels that were covered by my insurance. (And don't get me
started about nutritionists who tow the line on the RDA aka
Recommended Death Allowance). Once I identified my allergies
I really noticed results and also benefited from clearer skin.
Next steps where some tough but helpful detox's to 'heal my
gut'. Finally, a round of anti-candida medications. Today, I
feel like a million bucks and my appearance has improved so
much, such as no dark circles under the eyes, no more adult
acne.
I moved from Seattle a few years ago and started working
with an ND here in Berkeley, Coleen Murphy. I felt that she
continued the good care I received from my former ND and
also pushed the envelope by bringing in the candida factor.
My life and my wife are much happier now! My diet is more
limited and I have eliminated some of my former (but
troublesome) foods but the changes have been the best thing
I have ever done for my health. It wont be easy, but it will
be worth it. Good Luck.
Happy Gut
I highly recommend Carol Lourie in Berkeley. She is a
licensed acupuncturist, trained naturopath and homeopath.
She is helping me heal through a massive health crisis that
involved spinal collapse and subsequent fusion. She is
incredibly loving, knowledgeable, competent and
compassionate. She is very holistic and treats the whole
body as opposed to just the parts. She owns the Center for
Natural Health Care and Healing at 776 Page Street in
Berkeley. Her number is 510-526-2028 and her website is
www.cfnhc.com
Good luck in your healing process!
chiro
I highly recommend Charlotte Massey, ND. She specializes
in digestive issues. I've been seeing her for hormone
balancing. She is compassionate and caring, and most
importantly, she really helped me get healthy. She is at
Clear Center of Health in Mill Valley (www.clearcenterof
health.com). It's not a convenient location, but after
the initial consultation, I have had most of my
appointments via phone, which works our great for me. You
can reach Dr. Charlotte at (415) 388-5520.
Healthy and Balanced
April 2009
Hello,
I have a 14 month old who has been dealing with eczema that started at
around 4 months old. I have tried nearly every cream out there and
only the hydrocortisone ointment seems to work, but only temporarily
and with possible unknown health detriments. I am hoping to take him
to a naturopathic pediatrician who can prescribe a more natural
treatment and possibly become our child's primary physician. I would
love to be pointed in the right direction to someone who is qualified
as well as affordable as it will most likely be out of our insurance
network (Kaiser). Anything helps! Thanks!
ckp
I would like to recommend my naturopathic doctor, Coleen Murphy ND of
Natural Medicine Works in Berkeley. She worked with me and my (now 2
year old) son to manage his eczema with effective natural therapies
and provided concrete advice on necessary diet and environmental
changes. It worked! I like that she directed me to press my PCP for
some labs which were very revealing, but she can order the labs
herself if your PCP refuses.
Dr. Murphy is not contracted with insurance companies (I have BC) but
she did give me a superbill which got me a ~70% reimbursement and I
ran the rest through my HSA. I would check with your insurance
company first before making an appointment since reimbursement rates
vary greatly. Good Luck,
MPM
Nov 2008
Does anyone have good experiences about treating baby's eczema with
the help of a naturopath? If yes, can you recommend a naturopath
in Berkeley or Oakland?
Our 10 month old daughter baby has eczema on her cheeks and chin.
On bad days it's red, on worst days it gets dry and flaky. Natural
creams, oils (olive oil, sunflower, calendula) only seem to
aggravate it (make it even more red). Hydrocortisone, of course,
helps, but I don't want to use it, unless it's absolutely
necessary. I have been trying to figure out if it is an allergic
reaction, but don't have consistent ''findings.''
I would appreciate any advice.
Kati
For the treatment of pediatric eczema, a great naturopathic doctor I
recommend is Coleen Murphy, ND. Her main office is in SF but offers
weekend appointment in the East Bay. Not only is she a smart and caring
ND; she is a mom herself so can definately craft a realistic treatment
plan for you.
You can find her contacts at www.calnd.org; as well as a list of all the
other licensed naturopath's in California. This is important because
many people call themselves naturopath's; but only the doctors on
CalND.org have been to a naturopathic medical school.
Big Pappa
August 2008
Any recommendation for a good Naturopath Doctor on the East Bay or Bay area?
Thanks.
Dr. Jaspreet Mundair is a naturopathic doctor in Pleasant Hill.
She can treat a variety of ailments, is extremely knowledgable and
will take the time to listen to you. She can be reached at
925.812.4990.
anon
I highly recommend Dr. Tara Levy
(http://www.taranaturalmedicine.com/) I, my husband, and our young
daughter have all seen her for various ailments and issues and I
have been very impressed by both the depth and breadth of her
knowledge. Her approach is very holistic and she really listens to
you, asks good questions and makes suggestions that go beyond what
supplements to take - including nutrition and lifestyle changes you
can make. She has offices in Concord and Oakland.
Elizabeth
Dr. Cecilia Hart is a wonderful, brilliant naturopathic doctor.
499-2297, Stanford grad, trained in Oregon, precise in diagnosis,
teaches meditation. www.berkeley-naturopathic.com.
Reba
My wife and I have been very happy with 2 naturopathic doctors at
Natural Medicine Works-Dr Coleen Murphy and Dr. Minna Yoon.
Dr. Yoon treated our son for food allergies and Dr. Murphy was able
to see us too when Dr. Yoon was on vacation. They both really know
their stuff and were able to get to the root of the problem and
make recommendations that we are very happy with. I feel that not
only was our problem addressed, but that our whole family became
healthier with the knowledge they shared.
There is a conmplete list of naturopathic doctors in California on
www.calnd.org. I can say you should choose one of these licensed
and clinically educated docs over a 'naturopath' which does not
tell you anything about their education or training.
BigDaddy
I very highly recommend Elizabeth Korza! She is a highly
knowledgeable, personable naturopath with excellent communication
and a great passion for her work! She's been taking great care of me
and others I have referred to her. She has offices in Berkeley as
well as in San Francisco. Please see her website for contact info:
www.bewellnaturally.org.
rosie
Oct 2007
Hi,
Can anyone recommend a naturopathic doctor, preferably not too far from the
Oakland/Berkeley area? I'm looking for someone who has decent experience,
and preferably went to school at Bastyr. Experience with adrenal fatigue is
a plus. Most importantly, I'd like an ND who cares more about helping to
heal their patients than being a businessman/woman. Any recommendations
would be greatly appreciated.
shelly
I have the PERFECT person for you! Dr Tara Levy meets every
one of your criteria: naturopath, on the Berkeley/Oakland
border, graduate of Bastyr, and truly passionate about the art
of healing. She is very down to earth, accessible, and
communicative, with a balanced approach to healing body, mind,
and spirit. Check out - http://drtaralevy.com/
Hi, I can highly recommend a woman who is the best all round
practioner, Dr. Zhao Su, a chiropractor/acupuncturist/Chinese
herbalist and nutritionist with many sub-specialites under her
belt. She is in San Leandro right off Marina Blvd. and is so
much MORE into patient care that she hasn't taken the time to
advertise so I am happy to seak up on her behalf. She helped me
significantly with adrenal repair, overall metabolism with a
very holistic, cutting edge approach, gentle and specific. She
is fascinated with problem solving and detecting causes...and
that worked out great for me.
She is a lovely young woman as well. I value her care and
knowledge.
New Paradigm Chiropractic Center
Zhao Su, L. Ac, Chiropractor and Nutritionist
2287 Washington Ave, San Leandro 510-346-2688
Louise
H Shelly,
I want to recommend Dr. Rebecca Wilhelm, ND. She is caring,
intelligent, and an extremely good diagnostician. Her offices
are in a medical building on Milvia Street in Berkeley. Call
510.848.7070 to make an appointment. Her website is at
www.ndaccess.com/RebeccaWilhelmND
David
I can't say enough good things about Tara Levy, our ND. She
works in both Walnut Creek and Berkeley, She helped me to get
pregnant quite easily after my Western doctors wanted me to
undergo extensive testing and take fertility drugs. She very
quick, is a great listener and really cares about her patients
and their outcomes. I cannot recommend her highly enough. I
believe she is a graduate of Bastyr as well.
http://www.taranaturalmedicine.com/
happy mom
I highly recommend Tara Levy, ND. She went to Bastyr and is an
incredibly gifted, intelligent and thoughtful doctor. Great
listener, and I always come away feeling like I've learned
something and feeling inspired to take better care of myself.
And she has an office in Berkeley. Her website:
http://www.taranaturalmedicine.com/
Dr. Rebecca Wilhelm is a great Berkeley-based ND who graduated
from Bastyr. She's my health-care provider and a personal
friend of 20+ years, and I respect & trust her implicitly.
Here's her contact info:
2500 Milvia Street
Suite 218
Berkeley, CALIFORNIA 94704
Tel: (510) 848-7070
dr.wilhelm@gmail.com
www.ndaccess.com/RebeccaWilhelmND
-
Saaba
June 2007
My family and I, two adults and two young children, have been going through one
illness after another since last October. We have had little time inbetween
illnesses which range from colds and flu bugs to staph and strep infections. We
cannot seem to break out of it and we are exhausted. The doctors at Kaiser give us
conflicting advice IE: Everyone take antibiotics at once, stop all antibiotics,
give only the person who is sick antibiotics etc. And round and round we go. It is
very frustrating and I pretty much never want to go to Kaiser again. We need to try
something else and I don't know what I am looking for. Homeopath? Naturopath?
Whatever it is I need to be able to comprehend it with a foggy brain. I don't have
time to read a book. I would greatly appreciate any suggestions for alternative
treatments or physicians who can help get us get out of this cycle.
sick of being sick
If you are looking for a good naturopathic doctor, I would
recommend Dr. Rebecca Wilhelm. She is a gifted diagnostician
and often able to come up with simple solutions that
traditional physicians have overlooked. She might be just
what you have been looking for. Her appointment number
is 848-7070.
anon
I feel for you--you and your family must be exhausted. I think a naturopath would
be a great way to go at this point (homeopathy is one tool in the naturopath's
arsenal, so you may get more bang for your buck, so to speak, in seeing a
naturopath). Antibiotics are not the answer in many cases, and unfortunately, could
be part of the reason your family's illnesses continue. Antibiotics kill not only
the bad bacteria, but also wipe out all of the beneficial bacteria in your gut.
This is a problem because it is the beneficial flora that help keep your immune
system strong--without the good bacteria, your immune system is weakened, and thus
more susceptible to illness. You all should start taking probiotics immediately
(available in health food stores, Whole Foods, Berkeley Bowl), to replenish and
restore the good bacteria, and help your immune system get back up to snuff. The
other things that help stave off illness in our household are amino acids (via
supplement or good old protein), TONS of vitamin C, elderberry, goldenseal, and
Virastop, which is an enzyme made by Enzymedica (avail. at same places as
probiotics). A naturopath can recommend other supplements, and also help you get to
the root of the problem. Best wishes in healing. Tracy
Try Dr. Rebecca Wilhelm, ND. She's a Naturopathic doctor who has helped my family
with various illnesses, chronic and otherwise, over the last 2 years. She's
different from regular docs in that she looks at the whole picture --diet/nutrition,
stress, exercise, sleep, etc. But she's not anti-allopathic medicine either --a nice
balance. Here's her info:
Dr. Rebecca Wilhelm, ND
2500 Milvia Street Suite 218 Berkeley, CALIFORNIA 94704 Tel: (510) 848-7070
http://www.ndaccess.com/RebeccaWilhelmND/Doctor.asp
Good luck, S. L
Nov 2006
Does anyone recommend a Naturopathic doctor that is located in Berkeley or Oakland. I have
a recommnedation for one in Sf - Elspeth Seddig, but less travel would be better as
naturopathy is a time/money commitment. I foudn a listing of about 7 NDs in the East Bay.
I have been diagnosed with parasites and then I have some other ailments that could be
related and my fmaily practioner is ready to presribed Flagyll but I took that 10 years ago
and not sure I can do it whiel watchign 2 toddlers. long story.
thanks for any advice/recommendations
karen
Hi Karen,
I can highly recommend Dr. Marianne Marchese, N.D. She is a Naturopathic Doctor and is
State licensed as a primary care doctor. Her office is in Albany on Santa Fe Ave. Her
phone is 510-414-9727. She has a website that describes her practice: http://
www.drmarchese.com
David
I can highly recommend Claudia Weitkemper at Natural Healing Ways, 1115 Marin Ave in
Albany. She is a Naturopath, an RN, and an accupunturist - great combination of
skills. I found her warm and knowledgable and experienced. 510-288-3313 Best of luck
Melissa
I highly recommend Marianne Marchese as a naturopathic doctor. She is highly
intelligent, caring and has great bedside manner. She is very thorough in her intake.
Her number is 510- 414-9727. You can also check out her website: www.drmarchese.com
Sara
Oct 2006
I am looking for a naturopathic practitioner in the
Oakland/Berkeley area who can help me with seasonal allergies.
Can you recommend anyone?
Thank you
Lisa
Dr. Rebecca Wilhelm is a fantastic Naturopath. She works in
Oakland and Berkeley and takes most insurance. She does work
with allergies and your initial visit can be over an hour as
she wants to understand your medical history. She has an
approachable easy-going disposition and really looks at the
whole person. Good luck.
510 332-1865 or www.ndaccess.com/RebeccaWilhelmND
Kari
Oct 2006
Does anyone have any recommendations or feedback on naturopaths
in the Oakland/Berkeley area? Specifically I'm looking for a
doctor who accepts their patients using allopathic medicine in
addition to naturopathy, and who has experience with
fibromyalgia, chronic pain, and possibly subclinical hypothyroid.
I can highly recommend a gifted diagnostician and treator, Dr. Zhao Su, D.C.,
L.Ac., in San Leandro.
Dr. Su has helped me quickly (6 months) resolve chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia and
depression (small D) with her multi-specialty approach. I am so happy and grateful.
She uses applied kinesiology, nutritional supplements (very easy on the stomach,
very reasonable costs) chiropractic and interesting approaches like cold laser, EFT
version that is so fast,etc.
She is very kind, very smart, thorough but efficient, a great diagnostician, loves
to find the solution and for the right reasons, and very affordable.
I have friends who swear by her, as well.
Her office is very near intersection of Marina Blvd and Washington Blvd, on
Washington, just east of Nordstrom Rack.
New Paradigm Health Center Dr. Zhao Su, D.C., L.Ac
2287 Washington Ave San Leandro, CA 94577
510-346-2688
Louise
I've seen Dr. Tara Levy on several occasions. I personally combine allopathic with
alternative medicine (including homeopathy) which she seems absolutely fine with.
She is very open, informed and a great listener. She has offices in Berkeley and
Concord. I'd highly recommend her
I have had a very positive relationship with Dr.Sada Anand Miller; she's a hands-on
chiropracter, nutritionist, gives supplements if indicated, has a lot of tricks up
her sleeve. Her knowledge is extensive and I find her presence very healing. Her
office is at 29th St and Summitt on Pill Hill. Phone 208-3224
Bonnie
Oct 2006
Hello,
I've been experiencing a depressive episode for about six months
now, and am finally considering taking something to help
alleviate these negative feelings. For a variety of reasons, I'd
rather not consider pharmaceuticals at this stage, and have heard
that some folks have luck with herbal remedies. Has anyone on the
list tried this and, if so, would you recommend your
naturopath/doctor of oriental medicine? Has anyone had any luck
with other natural remedies (I have a pretty decent diet and
exercise regularly, so I've got those bases covered.) I'm ideally
looking for a practitioner in Oakland/Berkeley. Thanks
looking for alternatives
I recommend Mary Lynn Morales, who is an acupuncturist and herbalist. She has
helped both my partner and myself and several friends with various mental and
physical complaints. 510-326-7928
Constance
Aug 2006
Hi:
I am wondering if anybody can recommend a REALLY good
naturopath. This would be for an adult and I need somebody who
is really really knowledgable on western herbs and what types
of herbs are best for specific ailments. Specifically, I need
somebody who could help in treating a chronic urological
problem. I am not interested in homeopathic or chinese herbs,
so I would prefer to see somebody who doesn't focus heavily on
that.
Thanks so much for the help,
wanting to heal
Try Tara Levy ND. She is in Concord and has a breadth of knowledge in a lot of areas. Her
office manager, Gabrielle is very knowledgable and can answer your specific questions when
you call. Tara's number is: 925- 602-0582. Good Luck!
Sindy
2001
I'm looking for a naturopath for a consultation for my daughter, preferably
in the Berkeley / Oakland area. I checked the Naturopath national
organization web site and found Carol Lourie listed in Berkeley. Anyone
familiar with her or have another recommendation?
Thanks Seth
I recommend the Center for Natural Health Care in Berkeley not a pediatric
practice explicitly but one that caters to families and often children, mine
included. The practice specializes in Naturopathy and Homeopathy. Phone
number is: 5262028. Extremely professional, friendly and personal.
AJPlow
October 2001
I am looking for a naturopathic physician, and wonder if anyone has
had good or bad experiences with Victoria Hamman (S.F.), Carl
Hangee-Bauer (S.F.) or Tara Levy (Concord). Thanks.
I went to Carol Lourie after producing several irregular pap smears. She
put me on a regimen--similar to that recommended by Tori Hudson, a
well-known and reputedly brilliant naturopath in Portland--of vitamins,
vegan diet, herbal treatments, a little homeopathy, as well as some
acunpuncture for destressing, and the combination appears to have worked,
to my relief.
Her office is in the Tannery at 4th and Gilman in north Berkeley; her
number is 526-2028.
Good luck. Melanie
This reply is a bit late but I hope it still helps you. Carl
Hangee-Bauer is AWSOME! He's very very nice, really cares, really
listens, and knows a lot. I've never been to a better doctor.
Web Site here:
http://SOMAacupuncture.com/
Colleen
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