Frequently Asked Questions About Naturopathy in Melbourne
About Naturopathy — general questions
What is naturopathy and how does it work?
Naturopathy is a holistic approach to healthcare that looks beyond your symptoms to identify and treat the root cause of your health concerns. Rather than masking what’s wrong, our naturopaths use evidence-informed natural therapies — including herbal medicine, clinical nutrition, dietary planning, lifestyle medicine, and diagnostic testing — to support your body’s own ability to heal and rebalance.
What conditions can a naturopath help with?
Naturopathy can support a very wide range of acute and chronic health concerns including digestive disorders, hormonal imbalances, fertility challenges, skin conditions, fatigue, anxiety, autoimmune conditions, thyroid disorders, PCOS, IBS, insomnia, and much more. If you’re unsure whether naturopathy is right for your situation, contact us and we’ll be happy to help.
Do I need a referral to see a naturopath?
No referral is needed. You can book directly online or by phone at any time.
Will my naturopath work alongside my GP or specialist?
Absolutely — and we actively encourage it. Our naturopaths are experienced in working collaboratively alongside GPs, specialists, and other allied health professionals to ensure you receive the most comprehensive and coordinated care possible. Please bring any recent blood tests or specialist letters to your appointment.
How many appointments will I need?
This varies depending on the nature and complexity of your health concerns. Some clients notice significant improvement after just a few sessions, while chronic or long-standing conditions may require a longer treatment plan. Your naturopath will give you a realistic expectation at your first consultation and review your progress at every appointment.
Can I see a naturopath if I am already on medication?
Yes. Our naturopaths are trained to understand potential interactions between natural therapies and pharmaceutical medications and will always take your current medications into account when designing your treatment plan. Please bring a full list of your current medications to your first appointment.
Is naturopathy safe?
When practised by a fully qualified and registered naturopath, the risks are very low. It is worth noting that all forms of healthcare — whether prescribed by a GP or a naturopath — carry some degree of risk. However, a useful indicator of relative safety is professional indemnity insurance; naturopaths pay amongst the lowest indemnity premiums of any healthcare profession, reflecting the exceptionally low risk profile of naturopathic care compared to many other forms of treatment.
All of our practitioners hold advanced qualifications and are registered members of recognised professional associations including ANTA and ATMS, ensuring they adhere to the highest professional, ethical, and clinical standards at all times.
First Visit & What to Expect
What happens at my first naturopathic consultation?
Your initial consultation runs for 60 minutes and is unlike a standard GP appointment. To make the most of your time together, we encourage you to bring — or email ahead of your appointment — any recent blood tests, pathology results, or specialist reports. The more information your naturopath has before you walk through the door, the deeper and more productive your first consultation will be.
During your appointment your naturopath will take a thorough and detailed health history — exploring your symptoms, diet, lifestyle, sleep, stress levels, family history, and health goals. From there they will explain their findings clearly and begin building a personalised treatment plan tailored specifically to you. You will leave with a clear understanding of your health picture and a realistic, actionable path forward.
Do I need testing at my first appointment
Not necessarily. Your naturopath will assess whether diagnostic testing is appropriate for your situation during your initial consultation and will only recommend it where it will genuinely add value to your care.
Is diagnostic testing covered by Medicare or private health insurance?
Some standard pathology tests may attract a Medicare rebate when ordered by a GP. Where possible, we are happy to liaise with your GP and recommend that certain tests be ordered through them — which can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket costs by attracting a Medicare rebate.
Functional testing ordered privately through our clinic is generally not Medicare rebated, but may be partially covered depending on your private health insurance policy. Regardless of how testing is arranged, we will always explain the rationale for any recommended test and discuss the costs with you in full before proceeding — no surprises, ever.
About Our Practitioners
How do I know which naturopath is right for me?
Each of our practitioners has a distinct area of clinical focus, which makes choosing the right naturopath for your needs straightforward. As a general guide:
- Sara Canney is our senior naturopath specialising in gut health, detoxification, colonic hydrotherapy, and overall digestive wellness
- Carmen Farrugia is our senior fertility and pregnancy naturopath, with over 25 years of experience as a registered nurse and midwife — ideal for anyone navigating fertility, pre-conception, pregnancy, postnatal care, or women’s reproductive health
- Jessica Pensa specialises in thyroid disorders, hormonal imbalances, acne, and endocrine health — particularly suited to clients dealing with stubborn skin concerns or complex hormonal issues.
What qualifications do your naturopaths hold?
All of our practitioners hold advanced qualifications in naturopathy and are registered members of recognised professional associations. Their qualifications include:
- Sara Canney — Advanced Diploma of Naturopathy, Diploma of Nutrition, Diploma of Remedial Massage, Colonic Hydrotherapy, ATMS Member
- Carmen Farrugia — Advanced Diploma of Naturopathy, Bachelor of Applied Science Nursing, Graduate Diploma of Midwifery, ANTA Member
- Jessica Pensa — Bachelor of Health Science (Naturopathy), ANTA Member
Are your practitioners registered with professional associations?
Yes — all of our naturopaths are registered members of either the Australian Traditional Medicine Society (ATMS) or the Australian Natural Therapist Association (ANTA). These memberships require practitioners to maintain ongoing professional development, adhere to strict codes of conduct, and hold appropriate professional indemnity insurance.
Can I request a specific practitioner?
Absolutely — when booking online or by phone simply select your preferred practitioner and we will do our best to accommodate your request. If your preferred practitioner is unavailable we can add you to their waitlist or recommend an alternative practitioner who may be well suited to your needs.
Do your practitioners work collaboratively with each other?
Yes — while each practitioner manages their own client consultations, our team works collaboratively where appropriate. If your health concerns cross multiple areas of speciality — for example gut health and fertility — your practitioners can consult with each other to ensure your care is cohesive and comprehensive.
Do your practitioners keep up to date with the latest research?
Absolutely — all of our practitioners are required to complete ongoing continuing professional development as a condition of their professional association memberships. We are committed to staying at the forefront of evidence-informed natural medicine so our clients always receive the most current and effective care available.
Can I switch practitioners if my needs change?
Of course — your health needs may evolve over time and we fully support you in finding the right practitioner for where you are on your health journey. Simply contact us and we will make the transition as smooth as possible, including transferring your clinical notes to your new practitioner with your consent.
Fees, Rebates & Insurance
Does private health insurance cover naturopathy?
Great news — from 1 July 2025, naturopathy was reinstated as eligible for private health insurance rebates in Australia. Coverage levels vary between insurers, so we strongly recommend contacting your health fund directly before your appointment to confirm your entitlements and level of cover.
Our practitioners are registered members of ANTA and ATMS, which are recognised by the majority of Australian health funds. Please note that due to privacy legislation we are unable to make enquiries to your insurer or any third party on your behalf — but a quick call to your health fund before your appointment will give you complete clarity on what you can claim.
Is naturopathy covered by Medicare?
Naturopathy is not currently covered by Medicare in Australia.
Can I use my NDIS plan to see a naturopath?
Naturopathy is not routinely funded under the NDIS, however it may be considered in certain circumstances. You may be eligible if:
- You are self-managed or plan-managed — not NDIA-managed
- The treatment is clearly linked to a diagnosed medical need, such as chronic constipation unresponsive to conventional treatment
- You have written clinical justification from a relevant health professional
- Your plan includes suitable funding categories such as health and wellbeing supports
Before booking, please note: It is essential that you obtain pre-approval from your fund manager or support coordinator before making an appointment. Due to privacy legislation we are unable to liaise with the NDIS or any third party on your behalf. Coverage is not guaranteed and remains strictly a matter between you and the team responsible for managing your health-related supports.
If your NDIS funding is approved, we will provide a detailed paid invoice following your session so you can seek reimbursement directly from your fund manager or support coordinator.
Can I use my Home Care Package or Support at Home funding?
Naturopathy may be accessible under Australia’s aged care system, and there is an important update all older Australians should be aware of. From 1 November 2025, the Support at Home Program replaced the previous Home Care Packages Program — representing the most significant change to home care funding in over a decade.
Under the new Support at Home Program, naturopathic care including personalised herbal medicine, nutritional support, and lifestyle recommendations to support digestion, energy, immune function, and healthy ageing may be funded either fully or partially, depending on your individual care plan and assessed needs.
How your funding works depends on how your plan is managed:
- Agency Managed — please check with your fund manager first, as our practitioners may need to be registered with your provider before services can be claimed
- Plan Managed or Self-Managed — you generally have the freedom to choose your own practitioner and access our services more flexibly
Before booking, please note: We strongly recommend contacting your package coordinator or My Aged Care before making an appointment to confirm which of our services align with your approved funding. Due to privacy legislation we are unable to make enquiries to My Aged Care or any third party on your behalf.
If your funding is approved, we will provide a detailed paid invoice following your session so you can seek reimbursement directly from your care package provider.
To begin the process, contact My Aged Care on 1800 200 422 or visit myagedcare.gov.au to arrange an assessment. We are always happy to help guide you in the right direction — just reach out before your first appointment and we will do our best to make the process as smooth as possible.
Telehealth
Do you offer telehealth consultations?
Yes — all of our naturopathic consultations are available via telehealth for clients who prefer to connect from the comfort of their own home. Telehealth appointments are conducted via phone or video call and offer the same level of personalised, thorough care as an in-person consultation.
Is telehealth as effective as an in-person consultation?
For most naturopathic consultations, telehealth is equally effective. Your naturopath will conduct a thorough health history, review your test results, and prescribe herbal or nutritional support — all via phone or video call. Where an in-person physical assessment is needed, we will let you know and arrange accordingly.
How do I book a telehealth appointment?
Simply select telehealth as your appointment type when booking online, or contact us directly and we will take care of the rest.
Herbal Medicine & Natural Supplements
What is herbal medicine and how does it work?
Herbal medicine is one of the oldest and most widely used forms of healthcare in the world. It uses plant-based medicines — including roots, leaves, flowers, and bark — to support the body’s natural healing processes. At Naturopathy Melbourne, our practitioners prescribe evidence-informed herbal formulas tailored specifically to your individual health needs, rather than generic off-the-shelf products.
Is herbal medicine safe?
When prescribed by a qualified naturopath, herbal medicine is very safe. Our practitioners have advanced training in herbal medicine and are fully aware of potential herb-nutrient and herb-drug interactions. We will always take your current medications into account before prescribing anything. All herbal medicines we prescribe comply with Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) regulations in Australia.
Can herbal medicine interact with my prescription medications?
Yes — some herbs can interact with pharmaceutical medications, which is exactly why it is so important to see a qualified naturopath rather than self-prescribing. Our practitioners are extensively trained in identifying potential interactions and will always review your current medications before making any herbal recommendations.
Do I have to take supplements as part of my treatment plan?
Not necessarily. Our naturopaths focus first on diet and lifestyle changes, which are the foundation of lasting health. Herbal medicines and nutritional supplements are prescribed where they will genuinely add value to your treatment — never for the sake of it. We are always mindful of keeping your plan practical and financially manageable.
Are the supplements you prescribe available in health food stores
The herbal and nutritional products we prescribe are professional-grade, practitioner-only formulas that are not available over the counter. These products are held to a significantly higher standard of quality, potency, and purity than retail supplements — and because they are considerably more powerful, they must be prescribed with care.
This is precisely why a thorough health history is so important before any herbal or nutritional medicine is recommended. Depending on your current and past health history, existing medications, and any other supplements you may be taking, certain products may be contraindicated — meaning they could cause an adverse reaction if prescribed without proper assessment. What works well for one person may not be appropriate for another.
This is one of the most important reasons to always seek guidance from a qualified naturopath rather than self-prescribing from a health food store — the products are simply not comparable, and neither is the risk.
How long do I need to take herbal medicines or supplements?
This depends entirely on your health goals and the nature of your condition. Some clients only need short-term support, while others with chronic conditions may benefit from longer-term supplementation. Your naturopath will always give you a clear timeframe and review your need for ongoing supplementation at every appointment.
Just because something is natural does it mean it's safe to take without guidance?
Not always — and this is an important point. Natural does not automatically mean safe for everyone in every situation. Herbs and nutritional supplements can have powerful effects on the body and can interact with medications or be contraindicated in certain health conditions. This is why professional guidance from a qualified naturopath is always recommended over self-prescribing.
Children & Family Health
Can children see a naturopath?
Yes — naturopathy is wonderfully suited to children of all ages, from newborns through to teenagers. Children often respond particularly well to natural therapies as their bodies are highly receptive to gentle, targeted support. Our naturopaths take a warm, age-appropriate approach to children’s health, making every visit as comfortable and reassuring as possible for both child and parent.
What conditions can naturopathy help with in children?
Our naturopaths commonly support children with:
- Eczema, skin rashes, and allergies
- Recurrent colds, infections, and low immunity
- Digestive complaints including constipation, bloating, and reflux
- Sleep difficulties and settling issues
- Behavioural concerns including ADHD and anxiety
- Food intolerances and fussy eating
- Growing pains and musculoskeletal support
Are herbal medicines and supplements safe for children?
Yes — when prescribed by a qualified naturopath who specialises in children’s health. Dosages for children are carefully calculated based on age, weight, and individual health needs. We never apply adult dosing to children and always prescribe with safety as the absolute priority.
Can I bring my whole family to Naturopathy Melbourne?
Absolutely — we welcome the whole family. Whether you are seeking support for your child, yourself, your partner, or all three, our naturopaths are experienced in supporting people of all ages and life stages. Many of our clients come to us as families, which allows us to take a truly holistic view of the health dynamics within the household.
Do you offer family health consultations?
While our standard consultations are individual, we encourage parents to be present during children’s appointments. For couples or general family health concerns, please contact us directly so we can recommend the most appropriate consultation type for your needs.
For couples fertility consultations, it is essential that both partners attend together. Both individuals are fully assessed during this appointment as fertility outcomes depend on the health of both partners — not just one. Our couples fertility initial consultation runs for 90 minutes to allow adequate time for a thorough assessment of you both.
At what age can a child start seeing a naturopath?
There is no minimum age. We see newborns, infants, toddlers, school-age children, and teenagers. The approach and treatment recommendations are always tailored to the developmental stage and specific needs of the child.
Can naturopathy support children with autism, ADHD, or sensory processing concerns?
Yes — this is an area where naturopathy can offer meaningful support. Our naturopaths take a thorough, root-cause approach to neurodevelopmental concerns, investigating factors such as gut health, nutritional deficiencies, food intolerances, and inflammation that may be contributing to or exacerbating symptoms. We always work collaboratively alongside your child’s existing healthcare team.
Fertility & Pregnancy
Can a naturopath help with fertility?
Yes — naturopathy can play a significant and evidence-informed role in supporting both natural and assisted fertility. Our senior fertility naturopath Carmen Farrugia brings over 25 years of experience as a registered nurse and midwife alongside her naturopathic qualifications, giving our fertility clients a truly unique and comprehensive level of care that bridges natural medicine and mainstream healthcare.
What fertility concerns can naturopathy help with?
Our naturopaths commonly support clients with:
- Natural conception support and pre-conception planning
- Unexplained infertility
- PCOS and hormonal imbalances affecting fertility
- Endometriosis
- Irregular or absent menstrual cycles
- Recurrent miscarriage
- Low sperm count, motility, or morphology
- IVF preparation and support
- Post-IVF recovery
- Premature ovarian insufficiency
Do both partners need to attend fertility consultations?
Yes — for couples fertility consultations both partners are required to attend. Fertility is a shared journey and the health of both individuals plays an equal role in conception outcomes. Our couples fertility initial consultation runs for 90 minutes to allow a thorough assessment of both partners. Individual fertility consultations are also available where appropriate.
How long before trying to conceive should we see a naturopath?
Ideally we recommend beginning naturopathic pre-conception care at least three to six months before you plan to start trying. This timeframe allows sufficient time to address any underlying hormonal, nutritional, or health imbalances and optimise the health of both partners’ reproductive cells — which take approximately three months to mature. However it is never too late to start and every step taken towards better health improves your chances.
Can naturopathy support us through IVF?
Absolutely — and this is an area where naturopathic support can make a meaningful difference. Our naturopaths work alongside your fertility specialist to optimise your health in the lead-up to each IVF cycle, support your body’s response to stimulation medications, and assist with recovery and emotional wellbeing throughout the process. We always work collaboratively with your medical team and never recommend anything that could interfere with your IVF protocol.
Can naturopathy help during pregnancy?
Yes — naturopathic care during pregnancy focuses on supporting the health and wellbeing of both mother and baby throughout each trimester. Carmen Farrugia’s background as a qualified midwife makes her uniquely placed to provide safe, evidence-informed naturopathic support during pregnancy covering nutrition, morning sickness, fatigue, gestational concerns, emotional wellbeing, and birth preparation.
Is naturopathic care safe during pregnancy?
Yes — when provided by a qualified naturopath with specific training and experience in pregnancy care. Not all herbal medicines and supplements are safe during pregnancy, which is why it is absolutely essential to work with a practitioner who has the appropriate knowledge and clinical experience. Carmen’s dual qualifications in naturopathy and midwifery mean our pregnant clients are in exceptionally safe and experienced hands.
Can you support us after the birth?
Yes — the postnatal period is a time when naturopathic support can be incredibly valuable. We can help with recovery and healing after birth, breastfeeding support, postnatal depletion, hormonal rebalancing, mood and energy, and getting both mother and baby off to the healthiest possible start.
Do you offer support for menstrual disorders and reproductive health outside of fertility?
Yes — Carmen also has extensive experience supporting women with PCOS, endometriosis, menopause, perimenopause, PMS, irregular cycles, and the anxiety and depression that so often accompany hormonal health challenges. You do not need to be trying to conceive to benefit from Carmen’s expertise.
How is a naturopathic fertility consultation different from seeing a fertility specialist?
A fertility specialist focuses primarily on medical diagnosis and assisted reproductive technologies such as IVF. A naturopath takes a whole-body, root-cause approach — investigating the dietary, lifestyle, hormonal, nutritional, and environmental factors that may be affecting your fertility and addressing them naturally. The two approaches are highly complementary and we strongly encourage our fertility clients to maintain their relationship with their GP or fertility specialist alongside their naturopathic care.
Naturopathy & Colonics (+ Colonic Infusions)
Do you offer colonic hydrotherapy at Naturopathy Melbourne?
Yes — colonic hydrotherapy is one of the specialised treatments available at our Brunswick naturopathic clinic. What makes our approach unique is that all colonic sessions are performed by practitioners who are also fully qualified naturopaths — meaning your treatment goes far beyond a standalone cleanse.
What makes having a colonic at a naturopathic clinic different?
At Naturopathy Melbourne your colonic is performed by a dual-qualified practitioner who can assess your digestive health holistically, identify the root cause of your gut concerns, prescribe herbal and nutritional support, and order diagnostic testing where needed — all within the same appointment. It is a fundamentally more comprehensive and clinically informed experience than a standalone colonic clinic.
Can colonics be incorporated into my naturopathic treatment plan?
Absolutely — and this is where the real power lies. When colonic hydrotherapy is combined with naturopathic medicine the results can be truly transformative. Your naturopath will determine whether colonics are appropriate for your situation and how they can best complement your broader treatment plan.
Do you offer colonic infusions?
Yes — we offer a range of therapeutic infusions including organic coffee, alkalising greens, probiotics, and turmeric to enhance your colonic results. Infusions are available to returning clients only and are always recommended based on your individual health needs and naturopathic treatment plan.
Where can I find more detailed information about your colonic services?
For comprehensive information about our colonic hydrotherapy services, closed system technology, preparation guidelines, and what to expect, please visit colonicshydrotherapy.com.au
Cancellations & Clinic Policies
What is your cancellation policy?
We kindly ask that you provide a minimum of 24 hours notice if you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment. This allows us to offer your appointment time to another patient who may be waiting for care. We understand that life happens — if you need to cancel please contact us as soon as possible and we will do our best to accommodate you.
What happens if I cancel with less than 24 hours notice?
Late cancellations — those made with less than 24 hours notice — may incur a cancellation fee. This policy exists out of respect for our practitioners’ time and for other patients who could have used that appointment slot. We appreciate your understanding.
What if I simply don't show up for my appointment?
Missed appointments without any notice will be charged in full. We invest significant time preparing for each consultation and a no-show prevents another patient from accessing care. If you are unable to attend please always let us know, even at short notice.
Can I reschedule my appointment?
Absolutely — life is unpredictable and we are always happy to reschedule. Simply contact us with as much notice as possible and we will find a time that works for you.
How do I cancel or reschedule my appointment?
To cancel or reschedule your appointment please contact us directly by phone or email. For security reasons, our clinic management system does not support online cancellations or rescheduling by patients, nor does it integrate with third party booking apps or AI assistants — ensuring your personal health information remains fully protected at all times. Please always contact us directly to make any changes to your appointment, and please do not send cancellation requests via social media as we cannot guarantee these messages will be seen in time.
What if I am running late to my appointment?
Please let us know as soon as possible if you are running late. We will always do our best to accommodate you, however please be aware that your consultation may need to be shortened to avoid impacting the next patient. Arriving a few minutes early — particularly for your first appointment — is always recommended.
Do you have a waitlist for popular appointment times?
Yes — if your preferred time or practitioner is unavailable, we are happy to add you to our waitlist. Please contact us directly and we will notify you as soon as a suitable appointment becomes available.
What is your privacy policy?
Yes — we maintain secure clinical records for all patients in accordance with Australian healthcare record-keeping requirements. Your records allow your naturopath to track your progress over time and ensure continuity of care across appointments.
Do you keep my health records on file?
All personal and health information shared with our clinic is kept strictly confidential in accordance with Australian privacy legislation. Your information will never be shared with any third party without your explicit written consent — with the exception of emergency situations where your safety is at risk. If you would like a copy of our full privacy policy please view here.
Can I request a copy of my health records
Yes — you have the right to access your own health records at any time. Please contact us directly to make a request and we will respond in accordance with our privacy obligations and applicable legislation.
Parking & Getting Here
Where is Naturopathy Melbourne located?
We are located inside the Brunswick Health building at 5/68 Melville Road, Brunswick West VIC 3055 — just 7 kilometres from Melbourne’s CBD in the heart of Melbourne’s inner north.
Is there parking available at the clinic?
Yes — easy street parking is available directly outside the clinic on Melville Road. We recommend arriving a few minutes early to allow time to park, particularly during peak hours. There are no street parking restrictions after 9 am weekdays.
How do I get here by tram?
We are conveniently located right on the Route 58 tram line (West Coburg line). Simply exit at Stop 35 at the corner of Victoria Street and Melville Road — the clinic is between Victoria & Hope Streets.
How do I get here by car?
We are easily accessible from Brunswick, Coburg, Carlton, Fitzroy, Moonee Ponds, Essendon, Pascie Vale and across Melbourne’s inner north. Simply enter 68 Melville Road Brunswick West into your navigation app and you will find us with ease.
Is the clinic accessible for people with mobility concerns?
Please contact us directly before your appointment if you have any mobility or accessibility requirements and we will do everything we can to ensure your visit is as comfortable as possible.
Is there public transport nearby?
Yes — in addition to the Route 58 tram, the clinic is also accessible by bus. Brunswick is well connected to Melbourne’s broader public transport network making us easy to reach from across the inner north and beyond.
What should I do when I arrive?
When you arrive please make your way to 5/68 Melville Road, Brunswick West and head inside the Brunswick Health building where our friendly reception team will check you in and let your practitioner know you have arrived. If you have any trouble finding us please don’t hesitate to call us and we will guide you straight to our door.
Is there a waiting area?
Yes — we have a comfortable waiting area where you are welcome to sit until your practitioner is ready for you. Please aim to arrive a few minutes before your appointment time, particularly for your first visit as you will need to complete a brief intake form before your consultation begins.
Est. 1990 | 65,500 Patients Treated Successfully.
To read real patient experiences, please visit our Google Reviews for both Naturopathy Melbourne & Brunswick Health