Zainab Farahmand, ND My passion for health, healing, and overall wellness led me to pursue a career in Naturopathic Medicine. As a Naturopathic Doctor (ND), my primary goal is to work collaboratively with patients to understand their current health status and guide them towards improved overall well-being. I hold an honors bachelor's degree in Biology and Neuroscience from the University of Toronto, and I graduated from The Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine in May 2013. In addition to being an ND, I am a proud mother and homeschooler of three wonderful children. While Naturopathic Doctors treat a broad range of conditions, I have chosen to focus my practice on women's health and wellness. I have pursued additional studies and ongoing continuing education to strengthen my expertise, as treatment protocols, research, and standards of care continue to evolve. I regularly treat conditions such as painful periods, PCOS, PMS, perimenopause and menopause, thyroid disorders, anxiety, depression, metabolic issues, and more. Though trained in various naturopathic modalities, I have a particular affinity for Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and acupuncture, nutritional medicine, as well as botanical and physical medicine. What is Naturopathic Medicine?Naturopathic Medicine is a system of primary health care that emphasizes disease prevention and wellness promotion by integrating standard medical diagnostics with natural therapies. It plays a vital role in integrative health care, with treatments that can complement conventional medicine or stand alone. Naturopathic doctors focus on identifying and addressing the root causes of illness, supporting the body’s natural ability to heal. Common treatments include acupuncture, botanical medicine, physical therapies (such as massage and hydrotherapy), clinical nutrition, homeopathy, and lifestyle counseling. Who Can Benefit?Naturopathic care is for anyone looking to take charge of their health. Naturopathic Doctors are primary healthcare providers qualified to treat a wide range of individuals, from pediatrics to geriatrics, and those with specific health concerns such as fertility, digestive issues, cancer care, pain management, and more. Conditions Treated:You don’t need to be unwell to see a Naturopathic Doctor. Many patients seek naturopathic care for guidance in maintaining optimal health. However, NDs are also equipped to manage numerous health conditions, including:
Pregnancy and postpartum support
Digestive issues
Stress management
Respiratory conditions (allergies, asthma, colds, and flu)
Cardiovascular conditions (high cholesterol, high blood pressure, metabolic syndrome)
Pediatric health and development
What to Expect During Treatment:Naturopathic treatments are highly individualized. While there are general treatment protocols, each patient receives a tailored approach based on their specific needs. Your first visit typically lasts 60-90 minutes, where a comprehensive health history and any necessary physical exams or tests will be conducted. Follow-up visits are structured to monitor progress, and the frequency of appointments may vary depending on your condition and treatment plan. As naturopathic care works with the body's natural healing mechanisms, results may take time. It’s important to feel comfortable asking questions about your treatment plan and any alternative strategies that may be available. What to Expect During Naturopathic Visits:The first consultation usually takes about 60 to 90 minutes, involving a thorough health assessment and any necessary physical exams or lab work. Follow-up appointments may vary based on individual needs, but after a few visits, patients often only require periodic check-ins to monitor progress. Fees: Naturopathic medicine is not covered by OHIP, and so each practitioner sets his or her own rates. A typical appointment in the Greater Toronto Area, depending on the region, can start from $150-$300 per hour-long visit. Most health benefits packages include coverage for naturopathic medicine; check your benefits or consult your HR department.