BULLETIN
ANM25 Syllabus
Scvhedule of events for ANM25
ANM25 Speaker Profiles
Information and bios from ANM25 SPeakers
Remembering Dr. Stefan Kuprowsky
BCND honours the life and legacy of Dr. Stefan Kuprowsky
BCND BULLETIN
Fall 2025
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Dr. Vanessa Lindsay | President
Dr. Tanja White | Vice-President
Dr. Scott Tyler | Treasurer
Dr. Maria Boorman
Dr. Nick Jensen
Dr. William Meditskos
Dr. Kim Niddery
Dr. Tasneem Pirani-Sheriff
Dr. Sanja Tamburic
EDITOR, LAYOUT & DESIGN
Killian Stone
AD DEADLINES
Winter Issue • November 28, 2025
The BCND Bulletin is published quarterly by British Columbia’s Naturopathic Doctors 2238 Pine Street
Vancouver, BC, V6J 5G4
Phone 604.736.6646
Toll-Free 1.800.277.1128
Fax 604.736.6048
E-mail admin@bcnd.ca Website www.bcnd.ca
The information provided within this Bulletin is for general informational and/or educational purposes only. Views expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of the BCND Board of Directors, its staff, or members. While effort is made to keep the information up-to-date and correct, there are no representations or warranties, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or availability to the information, products, services, or related graphics contained in this Bulletin for any purpose. The BCND does not assume and hereby disclaims any liability to any party for any loss, damage, or disruption caused by errors or omissions, whether such errors or omissions result from accident, negligence, or any other cause.
No part of this Bulletin may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without written permission from the BCND.
Whistler Village with Fall Colors, British Columbia, Canada.
Whole mushroom, whole benefits.
NEW FROM CYTO ∙ MATRIX
Cyto·Matrix mushroom products include a blend of fruiting body extracts and mycelia for whole mushroom benefits, sourced from leading industry suppliers ensuring the highest quality and delivery of active ingredients.
Presidents Message
Dear members,
The past several months have been a period of strong momentum and meaningful progress for BCND. Much of our work has centered on navigating the Health Professions and Occupations Act and advancing our government relations strategy. Both are critical to shaping the future of our profession.
On the Health Professions and Occupations Act front, we remain deeply engaged as the April 1, 2026 implementation date approaches. While the HPOA may not immediately alter naturopathic clinical scope, it shifts the balance of power decisively toward government-appointed regulators. Without registrant-elected boards or binding consultation timelines, future scope changes could occur with minimal input. Defending the profession will require proactive engagement in every stage of implementation. Through submissions, consultations, and collaboration with our health
profession colleagues, we are committed to protecting our scope, title, and professional autonomy while ensuring that naturopathic doctor expertise continues to be recognized within British Columbia’s evolving regulatory environment.
Our government relations approach is deliberate, long term, and grounded in the strategic plan. Over the summer and fall we have seen encouraging signs of progress in building relationships and opening doors within the Ministry of Health. Meetings with the Allied Health Policy Secretariat, the Ministry’s Professional Regulation team, and Assistant Deputy Minister Ted Patterson have indicated a commitment to optimizing scope across professions and an openness to exploring opportunities ahead of Health Professions and Occupations Act implementation. It is our role to hold government to these commitments while continuing to build trust and momentum. We have also deepened our engagement with the Allied Health Policy Secretariat, maintained regular
contact with Lab Services, and strengthened our relationships with key decision makers across government.
Additionally, we achieved an important advocacy victory through our presentation to the Select Standing Committee on Finance and Government Services as part of the Budget 2026 consultation. Working closely with partner associations, we aligned on common goals and presented a unified message on the urgent need to modernize MSP supplementary benefits. The Committee’s final report reflects our shared recommendations to expand coverage, increase the number and value of covered visits, and improve access for patients. This outcome reinforces the impact of sustained advocacy and collaboration. We will need to see how the upcoming budget addresses these recommendations, but it is an important first step that was anchored in professional advocacy and deliberate partnership strategy.
Underlying this progress is the strength of our governance. BCND operates with a high functioning governance board that sets direction through our strategic plan and provides the oversight and accountability necessary for a professional association of our size and scope. Strong governance is essential because it ensures that decisions are made in the interest of the profession as a whole, not individual priorities. It creates goals and, through leadership transitions, keeps us focused on long term goals, and gives our members and external partners confidence that BCND’s advocacy and operations are anchored in a clear vision. Our staff team builds on that foundation by executing the tactics and plans that bring the strategy to life.
In addition to this visible work, important efforts are also underway behind the scenes to address issues that are critical to the profession’s future. We look forward to sharing more on this work soon, as it reflects both the commitment of our leadership and the collaborative energy of those supporting BCND’s strategic priorities.
Amid this policy and advocacy work, excitement is building for our Advancing Naturopathic Medicine 2025 Conference on October 4 and 5. This year’s
program is highly ambitious, offering 30+ hours of continuing education over two days, with streams on foundational care, complex conditions, and innovation. The lineup of presenters is exceptional, the topics timely, and the virtual format accessible from anywhere. Our ANM Preview: Tech Check and Learn in September was a great warm up, and I look forward to seeing many of you online and perhaps in person at our happy hour gatherings in Vancouver and Victoria.
We are also about to celebrate excellence within our own community. The BCND Awards of Excellence will shine a light on the leaders, advocates, educators, and innovators who inspire us all.
From governance to advocacy, education to community building, these past months have demonstrated the breadth and depth of our work. The momentum is real, and the opportunities ahead are worth our collective energy.
I look forward to continuing this journey together.
Dr Vanessa Lindsay, ND BCND President
Remembering Dr. Stefan Kuprowsky
BCND honours the life and legacy of Dr. Stefan Kuprowsky, ND, whose career shaped naturopathic medicine in British Columbia.
We remember Dr. Kuprowsky for his vision, generosity, and leadership, and for the enduring impact he made on the profession and the communities he served.
Read the obituary: https://www.evergreencremationcentre.com/ obituary/Stefan-KUPROWSKY
“With respect and profound sadness, we honour the life and legacy of Dr. Stefan Kuprowsky, a distinguished colleague, dedicated naturopathic physician, and inspiring educator, who passed away recently.
Dr. Kuprowsky devoted decades of service to the naturopathic profession, not only as a compassionate clinician who developed successful clinics and impacted many patients, but also as a committed leader on the CNPBC board, where his guidance and integrity helped shape policies that safeguard the standards of our practice. His voice was one of wisdom and fairness, and his tireless work in preserving and advancing naturopathic medicine in BC has left an enduring mark on the profession he deeply valued.
As an educator at CCNM Boucher, Dr. Kuprowsky enriched the lives and careers of countless students. His teaching extended beyond naturopathic medicine into the history of the profession and environmental medicine, instilling in students a sense of responsibility and lifelong dedication to patient care. He also pursued public education as a consultant, writer, lecturer, radio host, and teacher in the natural health industry.
Those fortunate to work alongside Dr. Kuprowsky will remember not only his professional achievements but also his relentless pursuit of effective healing strategies and the collegiality he brought to every interaction. He will be missed by his peers, students,
and the many communities he served.
In honouring Dr. Kuproswky, we carry forward his vision of a profession rooted in service, excellence, and learning. His contributions remain a legacy, and his memory will continue to guide and inspire us.”
Lorne Swetlikoff BSc., ND
“We honour the life and legacy of Dr. Stefan Kuprowsky - a true pioneer of naturopathic medicine in British Columbia. He was the founding force behind Vancouver Naturopathic Clinic which continues to thrive today thanks to the strong foundation he built. As one of the first naturopathic doctors in British Columbia, Dr. Kuprowsky was a visionary and trailblazer who forged a path for the students and doctors who came after him. His dedication and passion helped shape the profession of naturopathic medicine in British Columbia. His contributions continue to ripple through the lives of practitioners and patients alike, and his spirit lives on in the continued work of the clinic he founded. We are deeply grateful for his wisdom, leadership, and unwavering belief in the healing power of naturopathic medicine.”
Dr. Kelly Fujibayashi, Dr. Alexia Harris, Dr. Vanessa Lindsay, Dr. Sanjay Mohan Ram, Dr. Svea Ogilvie, Dr. Sanja Tamburic, Dr. Nicole van Poelgeest, Dr. Tanja White
Spotlight on ANM 2025
This issue of the BCND Bulletin shines a spotlight on the upcoming Advancing Naturopathic Medicine 2025 Conference, our flagship virtual event taking place October 4–5, 2025. Under the theme Honouring Roots, Embracing Innovation, ANM will bring together the best of tradition and progress in naturopathic medicine.
As the premier continuing education event of the year for naturopathic doctors, this issue will take you behind the scenes with the expert speakers leading our sessions and the sponsors supporting our shared vision of integrative, patient-centred care. You will find thoughtful profiles that introduce the voices and ideas poised to inspire and elevate the profession, as well as insights into the organizations that help make this event possible.
ANM 2025 offers over 30 hours of continuing education through interactive, expert-led presentations designed to deepen skills, spark innovation, and energize your practice. Whether you are seeking to revisit core principles or explore cutting-edge developments, this conference promises rich, practical learning you can access from anywhere.
In this issue you will find:
• Introductions to our speakers, including clinical leaders, educators, and innovators shaping the future of naturopathic care
• A showcase of our sponsors and their commitment to advancing holistic health and supporting the ND community
• High-level details about the session topics
This issue is your guide to everything ANM has to offer. Whether this will be your first conference or you are a returning attendee, it is your chance to see what makes this year’s program stand out.
Together, we will honour our roots and embrace the innovations shaping the future of naturopathic medicine.
To learn more and to register for ANM, please visit: https://www.bcnd.ca/advancing-naturopathicmedicine-conference/.
EFFECTIVE SCIENCE-BASED FORMULATIONS
Protocol For Life Balance® is a well-researched, efficacious, and accessible line of supplements available through licensed health care practitioners.
Protocol For Life Balance® provides effective science-based formulations with trademarked ingredients that address a variety of patient needs at a level of quality that healthcare practitioners can feel confident recommending.
Jared Zeff
Translating 19th century philosophy into 21st century clinical practice
Qwisun Yoon-Potkins
Naturopathic doctors as a first point of care: Connecting with youth seeking support (Cat G Approved)
Christina Bjorndal
Beyond Supplements:
How to support patients mental, emotional and spiritual health
Rigobert Kefferputz
Brains Like Ours: Embracing ADHD with Naturopathic Medicine
Sonya Doherty
Autism Spectrum Disorder – Have we been wrong all along?
Aaron Wong
“No One Taught Us This” – How Personal Development Shapes Your Growth as a Doctor and the Power of the Therapeutic Relationship (Cat G Approved)
Marie Matheson
Comprehensive Clinical Management of Lyme disease and co-infections
15 min Gold 1 Ad + 45 Min Booths Meet the Vendors
Teresa Holler
Herbal Approach to PANS and PANDAS for BC Naturopathic Doctors
Maria Boorman & Eric Chan
A Conversation on the Pharmaceutical Treatment of Chronic Tick Borne Infections (Cat F Approval Pending)
15 min Gold 2 Ad + 45 Min Booths Meet the Vendors
Teresa Holler
An Integrative Herbal Approach to Treating Chronic Infections.
Sarah Wilson
The Collision of Research and Tradition in Post-Pandemic Hormonal Health
Brenden Cochran
Healthy Aging Begins Now: Medical Ozone for Cellular Preconditioning
Victor Huckell
Postural Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) (Cat F Approval Pending)
Carissa Doherty
POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome: Latest updates in research and clinical findings
David Kendler
Osteoporosis (for the naturopath) (Cat F Approved)
Paul Theriault
Vitalistic management of infectious disease with Hydrotherapy and Homeopathy
ROOM ONE
ROOM TWO
ROOM THREE
Karen Parmar
Menopause Hormone Therapy (Cat F Approved) ROOM ONE
Farah Shroff
Green, Safe, & Effective: Discover the Sympto-Thermal Method for Natural Family Planning (This lecture will NOT be available after the conference)
Heidi Lescanec
The Pink Zones: Creating the Conditions for Women to Thrive in Midlife and Beyond (Cat G Approval Pending)
Stephanie Bayliss
Is It Depression or Is It Menopause? (Cat F Approved)
Jodie Peacock
Back to Our Roots: Supporting Hormonal Regulation in Women with Homeopathy, Nutrients & Botanicals from Menarche to Menopause
ROOM TWO
Dicken Weatherby
Functional Blood Chemistry
Analysis: Bridging Tradition and Innovation in Clinical Lab Testing
Shabita Teja
Inside Pain: A Naturopath’s Guide to Central Sensitization (Cat F Approved)
15 min Gold 3 Ad + 45 Min Booths Meet the Vendors
Paul Anderson
Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN)
Clinical Pharmacology Update Part 1 (Cat F Approved)
Paul Anderson
Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN)
Clinical Pharmacology Update Part 2 (Cat F Approved)
15 min Video + 45 Min Booths Meet the Vendors
Gurdev Parmar
The Naturopathic Approach to Palliative Care (Cat F Approved (0.5))
Closing Plenary
Naturopathic Medicine Past, Present and Future
Jeanne Paul
Screaming Babies: How to Heal Using Traditional Medicines ROOM THREE
Loreen Dawson Herbal Medicine Basics
Marisa Marciano Adaptogens & Immunity
Eric Yarnell
Low Grade Prostate Cancer
Lindsay Adrian
Bile –Its importance beyond fat absorption for the regulation of detoxification and digestion metabolism, and hormones
ANM2025 SPEAKER PROFILES
SPEAKER
Bile - its importance beyond fat absorbtion for the regulation of detoxification and digestion metabolism, and hormones
LECTURE
OCT 4 & 5 2025
Dr. Lindsay Adrian holds a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from the University of Calgary and completed her post-graduate training at the Boucher Institute of Naturopathic Medicine, followed by a general residency and fellowship in naturopathic oncology. She practices in Port Moody with a focus on supporting patients with cancer and complex chronic disease, and contributes extensively to the profession through her roles with the Oncology Association of Naturopathic Physicians, the American Board of Naturopathic Oncology, and the College of Complementary Health Professionals of BC. Education remains one of her passions, and she directs a residency program dedicated to complex chronic disease and oncology while teaching internationally. Her session explores the role of bile far beyond fat absorption, reviewing recent research on its activity as a peristaltic regulator, a mediator of fat-soluble toxin elimination, and a modulator of metabolism, hormones, and detoxification. She will examine advances in bile acid receptor binding and their physiological implications, including the role of bile acids as natural inducers of GLP-1 and regulators of lipid and sugar metabolism. Case studies will illustrate clinical applications of bile support, highlighting safe and effective strategies to improve digestion, hormone regulation, and overall metabolic function.
Dr. Paul Anderson is a clinician, researcher, and educator with more than three decades of experience in integrative and naturopathic medicine, specializing in complex chronic illness and cancer. He founded Advanced Medical Therapies in Seattle, directed the interventional arm of a US-NIH funded human trial on integrative cancer care, and has held numerous academic positions including Professor of Pharmacology and Clinical Medicine at Bastyr University. He is coauthor of Outside the Box Cancer Therapies, Cancer… The Journey from Diagnosis to Empowerment, and the IV therapy textbook A Scientific Reference for Intravenous Nutrient Therapy. His two-part session offers a comprehensive update on the clinical pharmacology of low dose naltrexone (LDN), drawing on over twenty years of practice with oncology and non-oncology patients. Part one introduces the concept of LDN, reviews immunology fundamentals, and explores its role as a powerful immunomodulator. Part two applies these principles clinically, reviewing prescribing strategies, management considerations, and illustrative cases. Participants will learn how LDN fits within human immunobiology, why it is both safe and effective, and how to troubleshoot difficult cases by understanding underlying immunologic compensations. The series provides clinicians with a practical and evidence-informed framework for prescribing LDN in diverse clinical contexts.
- Lindsay Adrian, ND
Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN) Clinical Pharmacology Update Part 1 & 2
- Paul Anderson, ND
ANM2025 SPEAKER PROFILES
SPEAKER
LECTURE
4 & 5 2025
Dr. Stephanie Bayliss has a clinical focus on women’s mental health. A graduate of the Boucher Institute of Naturopathic Medicine, she also holds a BSc in Biopsychology from the University of Victoria and earned the Menopause Society Certified Practitioner credential in 2022. She has additional training in Compassionate Inquiry with Gabor Maté and in mindfulness-based stress reduction and self-compassion. Alongside her private practice in Victoria, she teaches with the Confident Clinician and lectures widely, sharing her expertise on topics spanning hormonal health and mental wellbeing. Her session, Is it Depression or is it Menopause? An Integrative Approach to Treating Depression in Mid-life, examines why women are two to three times more likely to experience depression during the menopause transition and how naturopathic care can address this period of vulnerability. Participants will review diagnostic criteria for mood disorders, learn how to screen women at risk, and explore therapeutic options. Discussion will include when menopausal hormone therapy, particularly estrogen, may be appropriate, as well as the use of herbs and nutraceuticals such as saffron, curcumin, St. John’s Wort, methylfolate, and omega-3 fatty acids. Case studies will illustrate practical strategies and management skills to support women through mid-life depression.
Dr. Maria Boorman has been in practice for more than 25 years with a clinical focus on complex chronic illness, including tick-borne infections and mast cell activation. A graduate of Bastyr University, she integrates prescriptive authority, intravenous therapies, and advanced training into personalized care for patients whose conditions are often resistant to conventional approaches. Dr. Eric Chan’s practice emphasizes infection-related illness, mold and biotoxin exposure, chronic fatigue, and pain management, supported by certifications in chelation therapy, acupuncture, oxidative medicine, and prescriptive authority. In this session, they will lead a conversation on the pharmaceutical treatment of chronic tick-borne infections, highlighting case studies that illustrate their clinical reasoning and the challenges encountered in practice. Each case will examine decision-making processes, therapeutic considerations, issues unique to British Columbia, as well as diagnostic limitations and provider shortages. By walking through how they evaluate options, manage complications, and adapt protocols to patient needs, Boorman and Chan will offer attendees valuable insight into the critical clinical thinking required to provide strategies that can be applied directly in practice.
Is It Depression or Is It Menopause?
- Stephanie Bayliss, ND
A Conversation on the Pharmaceutical Treatment of Chronic Tick Borne Infections
- Maria Boorman, ND
- Eric Chan, ND
ANM2025 SPEAKER PROFILES
SPEAKER
LECTURE
Dr. Christina Bjorndal brings both lived experience and clinical expertise to her work in mental health. Having overcome depression, anxiety, bulimia, and bipolar disorder, she draws on personal insight along with her naturopathic training and additional study in mind–body medicine. A gifted speaker and best-selling author, she has written four books including Beyond the Label, created integrative mental health programs for both patients and clinicians, and shared her philosophy widely through summits, foundations, and educational platforms. Her session explores how to support patients’ mental, emotional, and spiritual health by looking beyond supplements and diagnosis to the roots of suffering. Many mental health conditions begin in childhood, where survival mechanisms such as attachment, “attunement”, and authenticity shape future well-being. Trauma and early disconnection from self can create compensation patterns that persist into adulthood, influencing beliefs, behaviours, and health outcomes. Dr. Bjorndal will guide participants through techniques to help patients reconnect with themselves, including addressing core and limiting beliefs, practicing responsible language, and cultivating mindfulness, forgiveness, and compassion. She emphasizes the importance of healing as physicians, recognizing that who you are deeply influences our capacity to guide patients. This session provides a framework for compassionate, integrative approaches to mental health.
Dr. Brenden Cochran is a physician, coach, and educator recognized for his commitment to outcome-based medicine and progressive therapies. A graduate of Bastyr University and founder of the Interactive Health Clinic, he is known for advancing integrative oncology, holistic healthcare, and innovative pain management. Through his teaching and clinical leadership, he empowers practitioners to expand their therapeutic tools and improve patient outcomes. His session focuses on medical ozone as a central component of healthy aging strategies. Proactive care is essential for maintaining health throughout the aging process, and ozone therapy offers broad applications as a safe and effective preconditioning tool. Participants will explore the mechanisms of ozone compared to other forms, its impact on pharmacology, and how it benefits key systems such as immune, antioxidant, lymphatic, and cardiovascular function. Clinical applications will be presented for common challenges associated with aging, with practical discussion of indications, contraindications, and protocols. Ozone’s ability to act as a homeostatic balancing agent makes it valuable not only for individuals seeking to maintain wellness but also for those navigating age-related health struggles. This session provides clinicians with an evidence-informed framework for integrating ozone therapy into practice to support healthier aging outcomes.
The Weight on Weight: A whole person approach to weight loss
- Christina Bjorndal, ND
Healthy Aging Begins Now: Medical Ozone for Cellular Preconditioning
- Brenden Cochran, ND
ANM2025 SPEAKER PROFILES
SPEAKER
LECTURE
4 & 5 2025
Dr. Loreen Dawson graduated from the National College of Naturopathic Medicine in Portland in 1997 and has owned and operated Hummingbird Naturopathic Clinic in Sechelt since 1998. She taught for nearly a decade at the Boucher Institute of Naturopathic Medicine, offering courses in differential diagnosis, physical exam, women’s health, and advanced clinical training. She also served on the board of the BCNA (now BCND) for seven years and has made herbal medicine a central part of her clinical practice, continuing to expand her knowledge and application of this traditional modality. Her session provides a practical introduction to herbal medicine and its integration into practice. Participants will explore why patients are drawn to herbal options, the advantages of this approach, and strategies for building and maintaining a dispensary. The lecture covers basic forms such as teas, tinctures, syrups, capsules, and topicals, with guidance on selecting herbs for the immune, digestive, respiratory, cardiovascular, nervous, endocrine, reproductive, dermatologic, and inflammatory systems. Dosages, simple formulas, and safety considerations including side effects and herb–drug interactions will be reviewed. Attendees will leave with tools to begin incorporating herbal medicine confidently into practice, enhancing treatment options and strengthening a core naturopathic modality.
Dr. Carissa Doherty is a clinician and educator with a focus on complex chronic conditions such as autoimmune disease, dysautonomia, and connective tissue disorders. She is known for bridging emerging research with clinical practice, offering individualized strategies that support resilience and quality of life. Her session examines Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome, a frequently overlooked form of dysautonomia that predominantly affects women of childbearing age and is often misdiagnosed for years. Defined by a sustained increase in heart rate on standing without orthostatic hypotension, it produces symptoms such as lightheadedness, fatigue, palpitations, and cognitive impairment, with disability levels comparable to heart failure or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. She reviews recent findings on mechanisms including hypovolemia, autonomic neuropathy, mast cell activation, hyperadrenergic states, and autoimmune factors, alongside associations with lupus, Sjögren’s syndrome, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, and celiac disease. Practical strategies will be discussed, including targeted nutrients, botanicals, and lifestyle measures that address pathophysiology, offering participants clinical insights to reduce diagnostic delays and improve outcomes through integrative care.
Herbal Medicine Basics
- Loreen Dawson, ND
POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome: Latest updates in research and clinical findings
- Carissa Doherty, ND
ANM2025 SPEAKER PROFILES
SPEAKER
Autism Spectrum Disorder –Have we been wrong all along?
- Sonya Doherty, ND
Herbal Approach to PANS and PANDAS for BC Naturopathic Doctors & Chronic Infections
- Teresa Holler
LECTURE
OCT 4 & 5 2025
Dr. Sonya Doherty is a clinician, author, and international lecturer whose work focuses on the medical assessment and treatment of developmental concerns, particularly autism spectrum disorder. A graduate of the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine with additional training through the Medical Academy of Pediatric Special Needs, she brings both professional expertise and personal perspective as the mother of three teenagers. Her session challenges conventional assumptions about autism by examining mounting evidence that many individuals on the spectrum may be affected by a treatable sensory motor integration disorder. Drawing on more than a decade of clinical and teaching experience, she will review research linking autism with motor planning and sensory processing dysfunction, explore underlying medical contributors, and outline laboratory testing and interventions that address these issues. Participants will gain a deeper understanding of how targeted medical assessment and treatment can transform outcomes and expand the role of clinicians in supporting people with autism and their families.
Teresa Holler is a family practice physician assistant, author, and former assistant professor of medicine whose career has spanned clinical care, education, and medical writing. She has spoken widely for professional and public audiences, including the American Academy of Physician Assistants, the Medical Academy for Pediatric Special Needs, and the North Carolina Integrative Medicine Society, and has been featured on NPR, FOX TV, Good Morning Arizona, and more. Known for her ability to distill complex medicine into clear, practical guidance, she brings a special focus on patients with chronic illness and neuroimmune disorders. Her sessions will provide clinicians with actionable strategies for two challenging areas of practice: chronic infections and pediatric autoimmune neuropsychiatric syndrome. In chronic Lyme disease, bartonella, and babesia, she will review the pleomorphic nature of bacteria, compare studies of antibiotic and herbal approaches, and examine the role of biofilm alongside effective herbal strategies. In PANS, she will outline integrative tools for immune modulation, inflammation control, and antimicrobial support, with guidance on dosing, targeted supplementation, and the safe management of Herxheimer reactions. Across both topics, participants will leave with simple, evidence-informed approaches that can be implemented immediately to improve patient outcomes in these complex conditions.
ANM2025 SPEAKER PROFILES
SPEAKER
LECTURE
4 & 5 2025
Dr. Victor Huckell is a Clinical Professor of Medicine in Cardiology at the University of British Columbia and a staff cardiologist at Vancouver General Hospital. Certified by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada in Internal Medicine and Cardiology, he has been widely recognized for his teaching, receiving awards such as the UBC Killam Award for Excellence in Teaching, the Canadian Cardiovascular Society Distinguished Teacher Award, and the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal. He has co-authored national practice guidelines, published extensively, and mentored hundreds of residents and medical students from around the world. His session, Inside Postural Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), examines this complex autonomic disorder first described in 1993, which affects about 0.2 percent of the population, most often young women. Participants will review the mechanisms of postural tachycardia syndrome, including impaired vasoconstriction and altered cerebral circulation, as well as its overlap with hypermobile Ehlers Danlos syndrome, post-viral illness including COVID-19, chronic fatigue syndrome, and autoimmune conditions. The lecture will highlight when to suspect POTS, common symptoms such as light-headedness, fatigue, and palpitations, diagnostic tools including the stand test, and the high rates of psychiatric misdiagnosis. Management strategies including fluids, salt, exercise, compression, postural maneuvers, medication, and supportive therapies will also be discussed.
Dr. Rigobert Kefferputz focuses his clinical work on men’s health, hormones, and mental wellbeing. An international speaker, he is known for blending evidence-based care with a compassionate, human-centered approach that bridges science and soul. Drawing on his lived experience with ADHD, he brings authenticity and depth to his work on neurodivergence, emphasizing difference rather than deficit. His session reframes ADHD as more than a diagnosis, presenting it as a unique way of experiencing the world that requires individualized and multifaceted care. Participants will explore how naturopathic medicine can support ADHD across the lifespan through strategies that enhance executive functioning, emotional resilience, and overall wellbeing. Evidence-based tools will be shared, including approaches in nutrition, lifestyle, and mind–body medicine, with attention to integrating these within a neurodiverse and strengths-focused framework. The session also examines the importance of patient-centered dialogue, the ethical responsibilities of care, and how practitioners can cultivate environments that empower rather than pathologize. Attendees will leave with practical insights for working with ADHD patients, informed by both clinical research and lived perspective, and a renewed framework for supporting neurodiverse individuals through integrative, strengths-based care.
Postural Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS)
- Victor Huckell, MD
Brains Like Ours: Embracing ADHD with Naturopathic Medicine
- Rigobert Kefferputz, ND
ANM2025 SPEAKER PROFILES
SPEAKER
LECTURE
4 & 5 2025
Dr. David Kendler is an endocrinologist, researcher, and educator whose career has centered on advancing osteoporosis care and research. A graduate of the University of Toronto, he completed internal medicine and endocrinology training at the University of British Columbia, followed by a fellowship in thyroid immunology in New York. Now emeritus Professor of Medicine at UBC, he has directed major osteoporosis programs at Children and Women’s Hospital and St. Paul’s Hospital and is Medical Director of Prohealth Clinical Research, a leading North American centre for osteoporosis clinical trials. He serves on national and international advisory councils, has published extensively, and has received multiple awards recognizing his global contributions to osteoporosis care. His session focuses on the role of the primary care provider in managing patients at high fracture risk. Participants will review osteoporosis pathophysiology, diagnostic evaluation, the role of nutrition, and the integration of pharmacological therapies. Discussion will cover antiresorptive agents such as bisphosphonates, denosumab, and estrogen, as well as bone anabolic therapies like teriparatide and romosozumab, with attention to efficacy, safety, and sequencing of treatments. Dr. Kendler will emphasize the importance of recognizing secondary causes, using clear patient communication, and initiating timely interventions to reduce fragility fractures and preserve quality of life.
Dr. Heidi Lescanec is a writer and founder of The Pink Zones, a storytelling and research-based initiative helping women thrive in midlife and beyond. A certified menopause practitioner through the Menopause Society (MSCP), she draws on more than two decades of clinical experience, early mentorship with Dr. Tori Hudson and Dr. Kimberly Windstar, and contributions to Katie Couric Media. She also co-leads Menopausewize, which supports workplaces to become menopause informed. Her session, The Pink Zones: Helping Women Thrive in Midlife and Beyond, reframes menopause not as inevitable decline but as a powerful life stage rich with possibility. Grounded in research, clinical observation, and women’s lived stories, this framework highlights the emotional, physiological, creative, and communal conditions that foster wellbeing after the menopausal transition. Drawing inspiration from Blue Zones, it expands the focus from lifespan to whole person flourishing. Attendees will learn how to move beyond a fix it model to integrate pro aging, narrative-based tools, and culturally attuned strategies into care, applying core naturopathic principles including root cause inquiry, systems thinking, and whole person support to foster resilience, balance, and vitality in this third chapter of life.
Osteoporosis (for the naturopath)
- David Kendler, ND
The Pink Zone
- Heidi LeScanec, ND
ANM2025 SPEAKER PROFILES
SPEAKER
Adaptogens & Immunity
- Marisa Marciano, ND
LECTURE
4 & 5 2025
Dr. Marisa Marciano is both a naturopathic doctor and registered herbalist with extensive experience in botanical medicine education and clinical practice. She graduated from the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine – Boucher Campus, where she later served as Chair of the Department of Botanical Medicine and as academic and clinical faculty for over a decade. She is co-author of The Botanical Medicine Manual: A Quick Reference Evidence-Based Guide, creator of the online resource The Naturopathic Herbalist, and owner of Herbal Energetics, which produces ethically sourced herbal tinctures for practitioners. Her practice emphasizes custom formulations and the integration of safe, effective phytotherapy within holistic and evidence-informed frameworks. Her session explores the clinical importance of stress on immune function and the role of adaptogens and immunomodulators in addressing this relationship. Drawing on both traditional knowledge and modern research, she will review botanicals such as ashwagandha, eleuthero, ginseng, echinacea, schisandra, licorice, and rhodiola. Participants will gain insights into pharmacology, key constituents, dosing, preparation methods, and safety considerations, with practical applications for conditions such as post-viral fatigue, chronic fatigue syndrome, and immune dysregulation. This session offers clinicians strategies to incorporate herbal protocols into practice to strengthen resilience and restore immune balance.
Comprehensive Clinical Management of Lyme disease and co-infections
- Marie Matheson, ND
Dr. Marie Matheson is co-founder of BioHeal Ottawa, a multidisciplinary clinic specializing in complex chronic illness, and creator of the LymeBright Collective and the online course “Tick Bite Ready.” She is a member of the International Lyme and Associated Diseases Society, where she completed physician training with Charles Ray Jones, and serves on the Advisory Board for The Forum for Integrative Medicine. She is also a contributing author to New Paradigms in Lyme Disease Treatment and is recognized for her expertise in integrative management of tick-borne illness. Her session addresses the clinical complexity of Lyme disease, which often involves co-infections such as Bartonella, Babesia, and Mycoplasma, as well as environmental and behavioral factors including mold exposure, heavy metals, and stress. Conventional antibiotic treatment is often insufficient due to immune suppression and biofilm formation, making a multi-modal approach essential. Dr. Matheson will present evidence-informed strategies that integrate nutrition, herbal medicine, detoxification tools, lifestyle interventions, and mind–body practices to strengthen immune function, reduce symptom burden, and restore systemic balance. Participants will gain practical tools for managing Lyme and co-infections, with a framework for addressing root causes and supporting patients through a comprehensive healing process that empowers active participation in recovery.
ANM2025 SPEAKER PROFILES
SPEAKER
The Naturopathic Approach to Palliative Care
- Gurdev Parmar, ND
LECTURE
Dr. Gurdev Parmar is a leader in integrative naturopathic cancer care, cofounder and medical director of the Integrated Health Clinics, and founder of the Integrative Oncology Institute. In practice since 2000, he directs a CNMEapproved naturopathic oncology residency with Bastyr University, established hyperthermia in Canada, and serves on multiple international boards and committees. He has published survival data from his clinic’s research program, authored Arming the Immune System and The Algorithm Book, and is editorin-chief of the Textbook of Naturopathic Oncology. His session explores the naturopathic approach to palliative care, clarifying that it is not limited to endof-life but is appropriate from the time of diagnosis of serious, chronic, or lifelimiting illness. Palliative care addresses physical, psychological, social, and spiritual needs and represents one of the most collaborative fields in medicine. Naturopathic doctors are well suited to provide Generalist Palliative Care, directing advanced care planning, managing symptoms, and working as part of interprofessional teams. This presentation will review definitions, common misconceptions, and the role of naturopathic physicians in enhancing quality of life throughout illness. Participants will gain practical strategies to integrate a confident, competent, and formalized palliative approach into practice, supporting patients and families with compassion and comprehensive care.
Menopause Hormone Therapy
- Karen Parmar, ND
Dr. Karen Parmar has practiced in women’s health since 2000 and is cofounder of Integrated Health Clinics, licensed in both British Columbia and Washington State. She holds the MSCP credential from the Menopause Society, founded the Integrative Reproductive Care institute to advance education in reproductive health, and trains physicians in IUD insertions for the Society of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Canada. Through her work as a clinician, educator, and mentor, she is dedicated to ensuring healthcare providers utilize their full scope in reproductive and hormonal care. Her session presents a historical review of menopause hormone therapy research from 1960 to 2002, with particular attention to breast cancer and cardiovascular outcomes. The lecture examines the findings of the Women’s Health Initiative, a landmark study whose conclusions have shaped patient and clinician perspectives, while also identifying methodological flaws that complicate its interpretation. By contrasting the types and dosing of therapy used in the WHI with bio-identical estradiol and prometrium, Dr. Parmar will highlight important differences that influence clinical outcomes and patient safety. Participants will gain a clearer understanding of how research has evolved, why misconceptions persist, and how to integrate evidence into more effective and individualized treatment approaches for women experiencing menopause.
ANM2025 SPEAKER PROFILES
SPEAKER
Screaming Babies
- Jeanne Paul, ND
Back to Our Roots: Supporting Hormonal Regulation in Women with Homeopathy, Nutrients & Botanicals from Menarche to Menopause
- Jodie Peacock, ND
LECTURE
Dr. Jeanne Paul, of the Coast Salish Sliammon Band in British Columbia, has dedicated her life to Traditional Healing. Inspired by her mother Mary, who instilled the value of plants like Elderberry with the simple teaching “it’s just good for you,” Jeanne pursued a deeper understanding of these medicines. Trained as a naturopathic physician with specialized study in botanical medicine, she has spent more than two decades wildcrafting, preparing, and teaching about traditional herbs. Today, she bridges ancestral teachings with modern botanical science, sharing this knowledge with both Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities. Her lecture, Screaming Babies: How to Heal Using Traditional Medicines, is presented in two parts. In Part 1, Jeanne explores the “12 screaming babies”, a metaphor for the body’s 12 systems, and the seasonal growth of herbs that support them. From cottonwood and coltsfoot to dandelion and hawthorn, she illustrates how plant chemistry aligns with symptoms and healing needs. In Part 2, she offers a practical look at traditional medicine-making, including her proven tincture method and a live demonstration of Devil’s Club preparation. Together, the two parts weave ancestral teachings with hands-on practice, showing how traditional plants continue to heal and guide us today.
Dr. Jodie Peacock has a special interest in women’s health, fertility, mitochondrial function, and inflammation. A graduate of the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine, she also holds an MBA from the University of Edinburgh. She is the author of Preconceived, founder of the Canadian Fertility Show, co-founder of Exceptional ND, and serves as a board member of the Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors. She teaches part-time at CCNM and lectures widely across North America, advancing professional education and women’s health expertise. Her session explores a comprehensive approach to hormonal regulation across a woman’s lifespan, from menarche through menopause. With a focus on restoring balance and supporting the body’s innate intelligence, she highlights the synergistic use of homeopathy, nutrient therapy, and botanical medicine. Participants will examine the physiology of hormonal changes and the interplay between the endocrine and nervous systems, with case-based strategies for regulating cycles, addressing emotional balance, and supporting endocrine harmony. Nutrient roles in hormone synthesis, detoxification, and signaling will be discussed alongside botanical applications for the HPO axis, adrenal resilience, and liver metabolism. Attendees will leave with practical tools to create individualized treatment plans that integrate natural modalities, empowering patients and enhancing long-term hormonal vitality.
ANM2025 SPEAKER PROFILES
SPEAKER
- Farah Shroff, ND
LECTURE
4 & 5 2025
Dr. Farah Shroff is a global public health researcher, educator, and advocate whose work spans integrative health, women’s wellbeing, and social justice. A faculty member at the University of British Columbia, she founded Health Together, a collaborative dedicated to improving health for women, children, and the environment. She has served as a Harvard School of Public Health mid-career fellow, received awards for gender equity and community health, and was appointed to the Board of Governors of Vancouver Coastal Health. Fluent in several languages and experienced in global education, she brings an intersectional lens to public health and integrative medicine. Her session introduces the Sympto-Thermal Method (STM), a natural, evidence-based approach to fertility planning that identifies fertile and infertile phases using physiological indicators such as cervical mucus, basal body temperature, and cervical changes. STM has been shown to be 98 to 99 percent effective with correct use, providing couples with a green, side effect free, low-cost alternative for both achieving and preventing pregnancy. Beyond its medical effectiveness, STM promotes gender equity by sharing responsibility between partners and strengthening communication. Attendees will also learn about Health Together’ s online STM course, with the opportunity to participate in pilot testing to expand accessibility.
Inside Pain: A Naturopath’s Guide to Central Sensitization
- Shabita Teja, ND
Dr. Shabita Teja brings a unique dual perspective as both a board-certified naturopathic doctor and licensed pharmacist, integrating allopathic and preventative medicine in an evidence-informed way that supports both patients and the training of future NDs. Her personal experience as one of the first patients in British Columbia to receive a spinal cord stimulator for chronic abdominal pain further shapes her compassionate, relatable, and resilient approach to care. Her session, Inside Pain: A Naturopath’s Guide to Central Sensitization, explores the neurobiological mechanisms of central sensitization (CS), a brain-based process that amplifies pain signals and contributes to syndromes such as fibromyalgia, chronic low back pain, and irritable bowel syndrome. Participants will learn to distinguish central from peripheral pain, recognize clinical presentations, and apply validated tools such as the Central Sensitization Inventory, Widespread Pain Index, and Pain Catastrophizing Scale. Dr. Teja will review current research on both pharmacologic and naturopathic strategies, highlighting nutraceuticals, anti-inflammatory nutrition, cannabinoids, and lifestyle interventions, alongside mind–body tools like mindfulness, CBT, hypnosis, and emerging modalities such as whole-body cryotherapy. Attendees will leave with practical strategies to assess, educate, and support patients, reinforcing the naturopathic role in offering comprehensive, integrative approaches to chronic, sensitization-driven pain.
Green, Safe, & Effective: Discover the Sympto-Thermal Method for Natural Family Planning
ANM2025 SPEAKER PROFILES
SPEAKER
Functional Blood Chemistry Analysis: Bridging Tradition and Innovation in Clinical Lab Testing
- Dicken Weatherby, ND
LECTURE
4 & 5 2025
Dr. Paul Theriault combines backgrounds in anthropology, biological sciences, and naturopathic medicine with a focus on chronic disease, trauma, and infectious illness. A graduate of the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine, he has pursued extensive postgraduate training in homeopathy, vitalism, drainage, auricular medicine, and energetic therapies. He is a fellow of the Naturopathic Medicine Institute, a member of the Homeopathic Academy of Naturopathic Physicians, and author of multiple volumes on homeopathic materia medica, including the Table of Animals series. His clinical and research work emphasize vitalistic approaches to health, with publications spanning case reports, pharmacology, and the development of new remedies. His session explores vitalistic management of infectious disease through hydrotherapy and homeopathy, a historically rooted approach with strong outcomes documented in the pre-antibiotic era. Participants will examine homeopathic prescribing for acute infections, including constitutional, miasmatic, and repertorization methods, with discussion of specific remedies and dosing strategies. Hydrotherapy applications such as constitutional treatments, compresses, and heating or cooling modalities will be reviewed alongside adjunctive practices like fasting in fever. The lecture also covers red flag symptoms, acute patient management, and the value of preparing patients with home kits. Attendees will gain practical tools to integrate vitalistic infection management into modern practice.
Dr. Richard (Dicken) Weatherby is recognized internationally for his expertise in Functional Blood Chemistry Analysis (FBCA). A graduate of the National College of Naturopathic Medicine in 1998, he is the author of the bestselling text Blood Chemistry and CBC Analysis – Clinical Laboratory Testing from a Functional Perspective. He is founder, president, and CEO of Optimal DX and the ODX Academy, where he developed the Optimal DX Platform and the FBCA Mastery Training and Certification Program to help clinicians transform routine lab results into powerful diagnostic and preventive tools. His session explores how FBCA bridges traditional naturopathic principles with modern diagnostics to enhance root-cause evaluation and preventive care. Attendees will learn the difference between conventional laboratory ranges and functional ranges, and how this reframing shifts practice from reactive treatment to proactive intervention. Using systems biology and pattern recognition, Dr. Weatherby will show how FBCA detects dysfunction long before disease manifests, with inflammation as a case example. Participants will review both standard and underutilized markers—including hs-CRP, ESR, fibrinogen, ferritin, WBCs, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, platelet count, and red cell distribution width— and learn how to interpret these results in context. The lecture provides a functional framework to improve detection, refine patient care, and elevate clinical outcomes.
Vitalistic management of infectious disease with Hydrotherapy and Homeopathy
- Paul Theriault, ND
ANM2025 SPEAKER PROFILES
SPEAKER
LECTURE
4 & 5 2025
Dr. Sarah Wilson is a naturopathic doctor, researcher, and founder of Advanced Women’s Health, a multi-location integrative clinic in Canada. With experience in both research and clinical practice, she has developed evidence-informed protocols for hormonal health, post-viral fatigue, and metabolic resilience. She mentors clinicians across North America and is a frequent speaker on the intersection of traditional naturopathic principles and emerging science. In her session she examines the new hormonal landscape emerging in the wake of the pandemic, where patients present with fatigue, cycle disruption, worsening menstrual symptoms, and fertility challenges that do not fit conventional diagnostic patterns. Drawing on research into viral reactivation, mitochondrial dysfunction, bile acid signalling, and immune-liver crosstalk, she highlights how these mechanisms contribute to hormonal dysregulation and why they matter for clinical practice. Using a naturopathic framework grounded in functional liver health, adaptogenic support, and tolle causam, Dr. Wilson shows how time-honoured approaches align with and are refined by modern science. Participants will leave with an evidence-informed treatment model that integrates traditional principles with emerging research, offering practical strategies to support hormonal resilience, immune balance, and patientcentred care in the post-COVID era.
“No
Dr. Aaron Wong is a clinician, counselling therapist, educator, and mentor who helps healthcare professionals move beyond technical skills into reflective, self-aware practice. As co-founder of The Conscious Clinician Movement and a long-standing clinic faculty supervisor, he integrates psychotherapy research and medical education to support doctors in cultivating personal growth, clinician well-being, and the therapeutic relationship as central to effective care. His session explores why experience alone does not create mastery, showing how some clinicians evolve into intuitive, effective professionals while others plateau, struggling with self-doubt and patient rapport. Drawing on research from medicine, psychology, and psychotherapy, he examines the stages of professional development, the role of self-awareness in shaping decisionmaking and trust, and why some clinicians remain stuck. Studies show that 30 percent of patient outcomes are determined by the therapeutic relationship while only 15 percent stem from treatment choice, underscoring that who you are as a clinician matters more than the modality you use. Through reflection and case discussion, participants will assess their own growth trajectory and learn strategies for advancing their development, strengthening patient relationships, and cultivating the qualities that distinguish a masterful practitioner.
One Taught Us This” – How Personal Development Shapes Your Growth as a Doctor and the Power of the Therapeutic Relationship
- Aaron Wong, ND
The Collision of Research and Tradition in Post-Pandemic Hormonal Health
- Sarah Wilson, ND
ANM2025 SPEAKER PROFILES
SPEAKER
Naturopathic doctors as a first point of care: Connecting with youth seeking support
- Qwisun Yoon-Potkins
LECTURE
4 & 5 2025
Dr. Eric Yarnell is chief medical officer at Northwest Naturopathic Urology and has been in practice for nearly three decades, specializing in men’s health, urology, and nephrology with a strong emphasis on botanical medicine. He is also chief creative officer of Wild Brilliance Press, vice president of Heron Botanicals, and CEO of Red Root Pharmaceuticals. He previously served as chair of the department of botanical medicine at the Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine (SCNM, now called Sonoran University of Health Sciences), was full professor at Bastyr, and helped edit the Journal of Naturopathic Medicine. He is adjunct faculty at Bastyr (both campuses), SUHS, and CCNM. An accomplished author, his works include multiple editions of Clinical Botanical Medicine and the Natural Approach series, and his contributions have been recognized with awards from the AANP, GastroANP, and NMSA. His sessions will examine two important areas of practice. In lowgrade prostate disease, he will explore the biology underlying cases previously classified as cancer that do not metastasize or cause morbidity, outlining how to differentiate these from aggressive cancers and reviewing prevention and natural therapies to support prostate health. In chronic kidney disease, he will discuss naturopathic approaches to moderately severe cases, addressing monitoring and treatment strategies, evidence-based alternatives to outdated restrictive diets, and appropriate integration of conventional medications such as SGLT2 inhibitors, highlighting both their benefits and limitations.
Qwisun Yoon-Potkins is a sexual health educator whose work centers on reimagining sexual health education through youth collaboration and inclusive pedagogical practices. She completed her Master of Arts in Educational Studies at the University of British Columbia with a thesis on centering youth voice in sex education and will begin doctoral studies at the University of Toronto in the OISE Curriculum and Pedagogy Program. Her work bridges education and healthcare, emphasizing equity and empowerment for youth navigating barriers in traditional systems. Her session highlights the unique position of naturopathic doctors as first points of care for young people, particularly those who have experienced medical discrimination. Drawing from research and lived examples, she will explore how NDs can support youth who may distrust conventional medical settings, including 2SLGBTQIA+ youth, trans and gender diverse youth, racialized youth, and youth who menstruate. Participants will examine how to create inclusive, judgment-free, and safer spaces that empower youth in making informed decisions about their health, while also considering the importance of acknowledging mistakes and limits in practice. The session concludes with practical strategies, resources, and referral approaches that equip practitioners to provide youth-centered, collaborative, and respectful sexual health support.
Low Grade Prostate Cancer
- Eric Yarnell, ND
SPEAKER PROFILES
KEYNOTE SPEAKERLECTURE
Dr. Jared Zeff, ND, LAc, FNMI, is one of the most influential figures in modern naturopathic medicine, a practitioner, educator, and theorist whose career spans nearly five decades. He is a founding member of the Naturopathic Medicine Institute and an Emeritus Founding Member of its Board of Directors. Known internationally as a thought leader, he co-authored the modern definition of naturopathic medicine and, with Pamela Snider, developed the Therapeutic Order, a guiding framework that has become a cornerstone of naturopathic clinical theory. His upcoming plenary talk, Translating 19th Century Philosophy into 21st Century Clinical Practice, reflects the depth of his scholarship and his enduring role in bridging the history of naturopathic thought with the demands of modern clinical care.
Dr. Zeff ’s academic journey reflects his interdisciplinary training. He earned a Bachelor of Science from the University of California in 1974, graduated from the National College of Naturopathic Medicine in 1979, and completed his degree from the Emperor’s College of Traditional Oriental Medicine in 1987. He served as Academic Dean at NCNM from 1988 to 1993, a formative period in which he influenced the education of an entire generation of naturopathic physicians. He currently teaches at Bastyr University’s College of Naturopathic Medicine in Seattle, where he continues to mentor students and pass forward his deep commitment to the profession.
In practice, Dr. Zeff is recognized as a traditionalist, committed to a classical form of naturopathic medicine that emphasizes the principles laid down by the field’s earliest physicians. His career has spanned family medicine, obstetrics, and now chronic disease management at Salmon Creek Naturopathic Clinic in Vancouver, Washington. This breadth of clinical experience, grounded in philosophy and tested in practice, gives him a distinctive perspective on how timeless naturopathic principles can guide the complexities of today’s patient care.
Dr. Zeff ’s leadership has been recognized repeatedly. He was named “Naturopathic Physician of the Year” in 1989 by the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians, and in 2002 he received the first Lifetime Achievement Award from the Northwest Naturopathic Physicians Association. These honors reflect his unique ability to shape both the theory and the practice of the profession.
As a plenary speaker, Dr. Zeff brings more than accolades. He brings lived history, a profound respect for the philosophical roots of naturopathy, and a gift for making those roots vital and relevant to contemporary practice. His session promises to be a defining moment in the conference, one that reaffirms the enduring wisdom of naturopathic medicine while charting its course forward.
Translating 19th century philosophy into 21st century clinical practice
- Jared Zeff, ND
ANM2025 SPEAKER PROFILES
CLOSING PLENARY PANEL
The Advancing Naturopathic Medicine 2025 Conference concludes with a powerful Closing Plenary, Naturopathic Medicine: Past, Present, and Future. Moderated by Dr. Vanessa Lindsay, President of the BC Naturopathic Doctors, this session brings together a distinguished panel of leaders whose perspectives reflect the breadth and vitality of the profession today. Together they will explore the roots of the profession, the opportunities and challenges shaping current practice, and the innovations needed to meet the evolving health needs of patients and communities. The discussion will highlight naturopathic principles in action, the integration of new research and therapies, and the growing role of collaboration in healthcare. With voices that span clinical practice, education, and advocacy, this plenary invites reflection on how far naturopathic medicine has come and inspiration for where it is going. Designed as both a celebration and a call to action, this closing session will leave attendees with renewed purpose, strengthened connection to their colleagues, and excitement about the future of the profession.
Discover Stretchy
S-Acetyl Glutathione Synergy
Antioxidant Support to Help Protect Cells Against Oxidative Damage Caused by Free Radicals
Learn More
Supports nutrient metabolism
Product Highlights
Promotes healthy antioxidative status
Provides 174 mg of glutathione from 200 mg of S-acetyl glutathione, 10 mg of vitamin B6 (as P5P), and 1 g of N-acetyl-L-cysteine per daily dose
Promotes normal cellular functioning and repair
Your Go-to Acute
Cold & Flu Formula
“Andrographis is my favourite go-to immune boosting medicine as soon as the days are shorter and my kids are back in school. I tell my patients it’s nature’s most potent antibiotic, antiviral and antifungal medicine, which does not diminish our friendly, benefcial gut bacteria and positively impacts our gut microbiome.”
— Bryn Hyndman MD, ND
Highly Bioavailable Curcumin Helps Relieve Inflammation
❖ Theracurmin® 2X has the highest concentration of Theracurmin curcumin per capsule available
❖ Smaller capsules, more concentrated potency
❖ Utilizes patented, natural colloidal dispersion technology to enhance bioavailability and dramatically increase curcumin levels in the blood
❖ Advanced manufacturing techniques increase free curcumin blood levels in a dose-dependent linear relationship
❖ High-potency formula allows for easy dosing
For performance and endurance.
+Thorne Creatine helps maintain and promote lean muscle mass, muscle endurance, and power
+Benefits athletes, aging populations, individuals with muscle damage
+Supports energy production (ATP) and increases muscle work capacity
+Enhanced mental performance and cognitive processing speed - in vegan users1
+Women aging healthfully: improved lean body mass and muscle strength in postmenopausal women – when combined with resistance training2
+Up to 5.8% increase in lean muscle mass in women with long term creatine use and resistance training when supplementing with 5 g creatine daily preceded by a loading phase of 20 g creatine daily for 4 days3
Clinical dose of 5 g per scoop
Micronized for superior dissolvability and absorption
Highly researched creatine monohydrate
C, Digney AL, McEwan SR, Bates TC. Oral creatine monohydrate supplementation improves brain performance: a double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over trial. Proc Biol Sci. 2003;270(1529):2147-2150. doi:10.1098/rspb.2003.2492
2Aguiar AF, Januário RS, Junior RP, et al. Long-term creatine supplementation improves muscular performance during resistance training in older women. Eur J Appl Physiol. 2013;113(4):987-996. doi:10.1007/s00421-012-2514-6
J Appl Physiol (1985). 1997;83(6):2055-2063. doi:10.1152/jappl.1997.83.6.2055
1Rae
NSF Certified for Sport®
3Vandenberghe K, Goris M, Van Hecke P, Van Leemputte M, Vangerven L, Hespel P. Long-term creatine intake is beneficial to muscle performance during resistance training.
For performance and endurance.
LifeLabs® is committed to supporting your naturopathic practice by offering tests that focus on prevention and early identification of potential health conditions. Get access to our complete suite of conventional and functional laboratory tests, that can help measure hormone levels, identify food reactions and underlying imbalances, providing a broader perspective on overall patient health and wellness.
+Thorne Creatine helps maintain and promote lean muscle mass, muscle endurance, and power
+Benefits athletes, aging populations, individuals with muscle damage
+Supports energy production (ATP) and increases muscle work capacity
Food Sensitivity Test
+Enhanced mental performance and cognitive processing speed - in vegan users1
Gain accurate, antigen-specific, and reliable results for over 200 common foods, representing a patient’s typical diet, to guide informed treatment plans with LifeLabs Food Sensitivity Test (FSTTM).
+Women aging healthfully: improved lean body mass and muscle strength in postmenopausal women – when combined with resistance training2
Patient Assessment Panels
+Up to 5.8% increase in lean muscle mass in women with long term creatine use and resistance training when supplementing with 5 g creatine daily preceded by a loading phase of 20 g creatine daily for 4 days3
Our new and updated LifeLabs Patient Assessment Panels are a convenient and cost-effective tool for enhancing patient care. They include a variety of markers in a single panel, providing comprehensive health insights on metabolic, cardiac, nutritional, and sexual health. To access and download the updated requisition, log into drOpsite.
Saliva Hormone Health
Saliva hormone testing is a convenient method to determine bioavailable hormone levels and uncover underlying hormone imbalances, helping to effectively manage sleep, stress, and hormone health in both men and women.
For more information contact: Tina Glover, Key Account Manager - Team Lead, at tina.glover@lifelabs.com
Micronized for superior dissolvability and absorption
Why choose LifeLabs®?
Highly researched creatine monohydrate
Accredited laboratory
Dedicated client and clinical support
Accurate and Reliable testing solution
We want to ensure you are well supported and offer complimentary clinical support through consultations with Dr. Joe Klassen, ND.
C, Digney AL, McEwan SR, Bates TC. Oral creatine monohydrate supplementation improves brain performance: a double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over trial. Proc Biol Sci. 2003;270(1529):2147-2150. doi:10.1098/rspb.2003.2492
AF, Januário RS, Junior RP, et al. Long-term creatine supplementation improves muscular performance during resistance training in older women. Eur J Appl Physiol. 2013;113(4):987-996. doi:10.1007/s00421-012-2514-6
Dr. Joe Klassen is the Medical Director and Clinician support specialist at LifeLabs®. A licensed Naturopathic Doctor in Alberta, Dr. Klassen uses his experience in functional medicine and conventional lab testing to provide support and training to healthcare professionals in understanding laboratory tests and results.
3Vandenberghe K, Goris M, Van Hecke P, Van Leemputte M,
creatine intake is beneficial to muscle performance during
1997;83(6):2055-2063. doi:10.1152/jappl.1997.83.6.2055
Scan and Schedule a Consult
Rae
Aguiar
NSF Certified for Sport®
Vangerven L, Hespel P. Long-term
resistance training. J Appl Physiol (1985).
Digestive Health Support
For performance and endurance.
+Thorne Creatine helps maintain and promote lean muscle mass, muscle endurance, and power
+Benefits athletes, aging populations, individuals with muscle damage
+Supports energy production (ATP) and increases muscle
+Enhanced mental performance and cognitive processing speed - in vegan users
+Women aging healthfully: improved lean body mass and muscle strength in postmenopausal women – when combined with resistance training
+Up to 5.8% increase in lean muscle mass in women with long term creatine use and resistance training when supplementing with 5 g creatine daily preceded by a loading phase of 20 g creatine daily for 4 days
Clinical dose of 5 g per scoop
Disability Insurance – Do I need it?
Disability is often overlooked. Some do not see the value, others assume it is costly, or that insurers avoid paying. Let’s examine its real value.
Let’s take a look at insurance to see the value is. We insure our homes against fire, flood, and damage, with mortgage insurance mandated in Canada. Government regulation protects the economy by reducing risk, and banks often require coverage to safeguard assets.
It is also unlawful to drive in BC without insurance, which protects all of us from the significant costs of accidents. We accept these protections not simply because they are required, but because they make financial sense.
Where does disability insurance fit in?
Owning a home or vehicle usually depends on the ability to work and earn. Your earning power is your most valuable asset. If income stopped due to illness or disability, who would pay the bills? Many protect their property but neglect to insure the very income that makes everything possible.
Disability insurance is mandatory for employees through Employment Insurance (EI), but optional for the self-employed. EI provides temporary support for illness, pregnancy, or caregiving, generally covering up to 55% of insurable weekly earnings for a maximum of 45 weeks. Most NDs, as self-employed professionals, do not have EI coverage.
The Canada Pension Plan also offers disability benefits, but eligibility is strict: a severe and prolonged disability preventing substantially gainful work, plus sufficient contributions.
In June, the government launched the Canada Disability Benefit. Those qualifying for the disability tax credit may be eligible, but the income threshold is low: families
earning under $32,000 after adjustments. See Canada Services: https://www.canada.ca/ en/services/benefits/disability/canada-disabilitybenefit.html
Do not be misled by ICBC’s “no fault” wage-loss benefits after accidents. You cannot sue for lost income or suffering unless there is criminality. Coverage is limited to 90% of net income up to $119,000 annually, with no recognition of future earning potential.
Misconceptions about disability insurance
The first is assuming it will not happen to you. The second is believing insurers never pay. In reality, illness and accidents can strike at any age, and the financial consequences are severe.
For example, a 30-year-old earning $84,000 who becomes disabled could lose over $4.8 million in future income by age 65. At 40 with $120,000 earnings, the loss is about $4 million, and at 50 with $120,000, about $2.1 million (assuming 2.5% annual increases).
• A 35-year-old has a 50% chance of a disability lasting 90 days or longer.
• 1 in 4 Canadians will develop heart disease.
• Half of those diagnosed are under 65.
Insurance companies are in the business of paying claims. Today, the leading causes are mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety, followed by musculoskeletal issues like back and neck pain.
The lesson is to ensure you have enough income replacement coverage, whether through employment or private insurance, to meet your needs throughout a disability.
Disability insurance can be complex, with multiple carriers and varying benefits, terms, guarantees, waiting periods, and tax implications.
Reach out to Sindy or Saskia for your quote today.
Sindy Billan
SB Wealth Solutions sbwealth@telus.net
Saskia Karlen (nee Vermeulen) Southlands Financial saskia@southlandsfinancial.com
This article has been provided by Sindy Billan, SB Wealth Solutions* and Saskia Karlen, Southlands Financial is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to provide legal, accounting, tax, investment, financial or other advice and such information should not be relied upon for providing such advice. Information obtained from third parties is believed to be reliable, but no representation or warranty, express or implied, is made by Sindy Billan or Saskia Karlen as to its accuracy, completeness or correctness.
SBILLAN Wealth Solutions Inc. doing business as SB Wealth Solutions E&O/E 2025.
Specializing in Financial Wellness Plans for Naturopaths
CCNM Students’ Corner
Happy Autumn from CCNM – Boucher!
Congratulations to all our 2025 graduates! You are all such an inspiration to those of us on our own journeys towards graduation. We at CCNM are cheering you on, as your continued success transfers into rewarding careers. As the final year of the Legacy curriculum at our school have finished boards, now the first cohort of the Enhanced Curriculum has officially entered their fourth and final year, as primary interns in our clinics.
This semester, we have continued our new trend of welcoming our larger cohort sizes, with 47 students. They will be part of the 2029 graduating class, along with the others joining Boucher in January 2026. There have been many adjustments taking place to accommodate this many students, and we will need to keep adjusting, as we are predicting that the class sizes will continue to grow each year. As much as changes can be overwhelming, this is very exciting for the future of Naturopathic Medicine. It also proves our outreach initiatives to be successful, as more people than ever are drawn to learning more about this amazing profession.
Approaching the end of 2025, there are many exciting events to look forward to. We are launching the pilot initiative, BCND Leadership Connections, bringing together upper year CCNM Boucher
students and experienced BC NDs for mentorship in leadership, professional growth, and career paths. This is about connection and shared insight beyond the clinic, creating meaningful exchanges that strengthen our profession. We also have the upcoming ANM Virtual Conference, in addition to the first BCND Awards of Excellence event. On behalf of my classmates, I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to all of you who have, and continue to, share your time and expertise with us. Your support and mentorship mean so much, and we look forward to even more opportunities to connect in the future.
As the weather gets cooler, I would like to extend a warm welcome to all the new students, graduates, BCND members, and Naturopathic Doctors. I wish you all continued success in this new season.
Yours in health, Emily Chauder
Third-year CCNM–Boucher Student BCND Student Representative
#1 dispensed IV iron in Canada1*
PrMONOFERRIC® (ferric derisomaltose for injection†) is indicated for the treatment of iron deficiency anemia (IDA) in adult patients who have intolerance or unresponsiveness to oral iron therapy. The diagnosis must be based on laboratory tests.
For pregnant patients, it is recommended that:
• The maximum single dose is restricted to 1,000 mg
• The maximum cumulative dose is restricted to 2,000 mg.
• Treatment with MONOFERRIC should be confined to gestation week 16 and beyond.
A careful risk/benefit evaluation is required before use during pregnancy.
For all patients, the iron dose and administration schedule for MONOFERRIC must be:
•Individually established for each patient, with allowance for clinical judgement. One method to calculate cumulative dose is using the simplified table, which is presented below.
See the Product Monograph for more information regarding warnings and precautions in pregnant patients. Consider MONOFERRIC for your patients with IDA.
Reassess Hb level no earlier than 4 weeks after the final MONOFERRIC administration. The
Maximum allowable dose per infusion: A single MONOFERRIC infusion should not exceed 20 mg iron/kg body weight. Single doses above 1,500 mg are not recommended.
Please see the Product Monograph for complete dosing and administration recommendations, including more information on the Ganzoni formula.
Consult the Product Monograph at https://www.pfizer.ca/pm/en/MONOFERRIC.pdf for important information relating to conditions of clinical use, contraindications, warnings, precautions, adverse reactions, drug interactions, dosing and administration which have not been discussed in this piece. The Product Monograph is also available by calling us at 1-800-463-6001.
Hb=hemoglobin; IV=intravenous
* Comparative clinical significance has not been established.
† Also known as iron isomaltoside 1000
‡ The iron need is expressed in mg elemental iron.
MONOFERRIC® is a registered trademark of Pharmacosmos Holding A/S, Rørvangsvej 30, DK-4300 Holbæk, Denmark and used in Canada under licence by Pfizer Canada ULC.
© 2025 Pfizer Canada ULC, Kirkland, Quebec H9J 2M5
® Pfizer Canada ULC, Licensee PP-MFR-CAN-0362-EN
References: 1. IQVIA. MONOFERRIC® prescription data. January 2024 to December 2024. 2. MONOFERRIC® Product Monograph. Pharmacosmos A/S.
Ganzoni formula can also be used to determine the cumulative iron need.
