The terms naturopathic vs. functional medicine doctors frequently confuse those seeking natural alternatives to conventional medical care—or those looking for ways to supplement the traditional care they are receiving. Both providers use the healing power of nature, and both have a firm foundation in a holistic, whole-body approach to address health concerns.
Although the two share many similarities, there are a few critical differences between naturopathic vs. functional medicine doctors. We’ll dive deeply into both and help you understand why a naturopathic doctor is the better choice for your wellbeing.
What is a Functional Medicine Doctor?
Functional medicine utilizes both traditional and non-conventional approaches in evaluating and treating patients. They seek to uncover the underlying cause of a condition. Once the cause is revealed, a functional medicine doctor finds natural ways to reverse the disease.
Functional medicine doctors begin training in conventional medical schools. They receive additional training from recognized organizations like The Institute for Functional Medicine. To achieve certification, these practitioners must complete 200 hours of training and pass exams. It’s important to note that not all functional medicine providers are certified.
Functional medicine is a relative newcomer to the alternative medicine landscape, founded in the late 1980s and early 1990s. The concept of functional medicine is rooted in older and more established naturopathic medicine.
What is a Naturopathic Doctor?
Naturopathic medicine uses ancient natural therapies and believes that the body has extraordinary healing powers. Naturopathic doctors create unique wellness plans for patients and focus heavily on preventing the imbalances and conditions that cause diseases.
While naturopathic doctors use cutting-edge laboratory testing to uncover the root causes of a medical concern, they turn to natural and time-tested therapies to provide relief. These therapies may include any combination of dietary and lifestyle adjustments alongside homeopathy and trusted modalities such as acupuncture, herbal medicine, and supplements. While the roots of naturopathic medicine date back thousands of years, the practice as it is recognized today began in the 19th century.
A naturopathic provider can provide more traditional treatments, including pharmaceuticals and minor surgeries, but they prefer to use the least invasive methods possible in their approach.
A naturopathic provider holds licensure in most US states. The training is far more intense for a naturopathic vs. a functional medicine doctor, including a four-year degree program. Many Naturopathic doctors complete an additional residency program, similar to conventional medical students, with a heavy emphasis on direct patient care. These professionals receive a Doctorate in Naturopathic Medicine.
The curriculum for naturopathic medicine aligns with that studied by conventional healthcare providers and includes the following:
- Anatomy and physiology
- Microbiology
- Immunology
- Pharmacology
- Pathology
- Biochemistry
- Neuroscience
- Diagnostic medicine
Additional training is required in nutrition, Chinese and traditional world medicine, homeopathy, lifestyle counseling, botanical medicine, hydrotherapy, and other alternative medicine practices.
There is a difference between a naturopath and a naturopathic doctor. Naturopaths attend some training programs (often exclusively online), but do not hold a license, while naturopathic doctors have a doctorate, are recognized as practitioners, and are licensed.
Choosing a Naturopathic doctor vs. Functional Medicine Doctor
While the core approach of both providers is similar, there are several benefits to choosing a naturopathic doctor vs. a functional medicine doctor.
Prevention is vital: Naturopathic doctors focus heavily on restoring and maintaining the body’s harmony to prevent medical conditions.
The least invasive methods: Naturopathic doctors prefer to use herbs, supplements, and dietary and lifestyle modifications in each customized wellness plan.
Licensure: Naturopathic medicine is a fully accredited healthcare field, and naturopathic doctors must hold a license to practice.
Specialties: It’s not uncommon for naturopathic doctors to specialize in one aspect of medicine, such as pediatrics, women’s health, endocrinology, or nutrition.
Information you need to empower your health: Naturopathic doctors provide wellness plans, education, and tools that put the power of healing back into your own hands.
Are you feeling out of balance? For more information about how a naturopathic doctor will help restore your vitality, stabilize your moods, and feel amazing again, contact Dr. Jenna Blasi, ND, and schedule your free, no-obligation discovery call with a member of her team. This is one call that will change your life.
