Frequently asked
questions.

Naturopathy is an approach to healthcare that looks at the whole picture — not just the presenting symptom. It draws on evidence-based nutrition, herbal medicine, and lifestyle support to understand what's actually driving your symptoms rather than just managing them.

A naturopath is not a medical doctor and cannot diagnose conditions or prescribe pharmaceutical medication. What we can do is take the time to understand your full health picture and build a protocol that supports your body in functioning the way it's meant to.

Yes — the approach at Olive Naturopathy is grounded in current research. That means recommendations are based on clinical evidence rather than anecdote, and any testing used is chosen because it has real diagnostic value.

Naturopathy has a long history of traditional use, and increasingly that traditional knowledge is being validated by modern research — particularly in areas like gut health, hormonal imbalance, and nutrition.

Absolutely — and this is encouraged. Naturopathy works best as part of a broader healthcare team. I work collaboratively alongside your existing practitioners and will always refer you back to your GP or a specialist if something requires medical attention.

Please let me know about any medications or supplements you're currently taking at the start of our first session.

Not necessarily. Supplements are recommended only when there's a clear clinical reason and when food-first approaches aren't sufficient. Your protocol is built around what's actually useful for your situation — not a generic stack.

If supplements are recommended, cost will always be considered. Anything prescribed will be explained clearly — you'll always understand what you're taking and why.

I hold a Bachelor of Health Science in Naturopathy — a four-year, accredited undergraduate degree covering clinical nutrition, herbal medicine, pathophysiology, pharmacology, and evidence-based practice.

I am a professional member of the Naturopaths and Herbalists Association of Australia (NHAA), which requires ongoing continuing professional education and adherence to a formal code of ethics.

Yes — and it's worth understanding why. In Australia, naturopathy is currently an unregulated profession, which means anyone can technically call themselves a naturopath regardless of their training. The difference between a certificate course and a four-year degree is significant — in depth of clinical training, understanding of pathology and pharmacology, and the ability to safely interpret test results and work alongside medical practitioners.

A degree-qualified naturopath who holds NHAA membership has met a minimum standard of education, carries professional indemnity insurance, and is held to a formal code of ethics. When you're dealing with complex hormonal or chronic health conditions, that training matters.

The free 15-minute call is a chance for us to talk through what's going on for you and for me to understand whether naturopathy — and Olive Naturopathy specifically — is a good fit. There's no obligation and no sales pitch.

It's also a chance for you to ask me anything before committing to a full consultation.

Your initial consultation is 45 minutes. We go through your full health history — symptoms, diet, sleep, stress, cycle, medical history, and anything else that's relevant. It's a thorough conversation, not a quick tick-box exercise.

From there, you'll receive a personalised protocol — which might include nutritional recommendations, herbal medicine, lifestyle adjustments, and where appropriate, a referral for further investigation.

Where clinically relevant and within your budget, yes. This might include DUTCH hormone testing, comprehensive blood panels, microbiome analysis, or other targeted investigation. Testing is never assumed — it's discussed and agreed upon first.

Testing costs are separate from consultation fees and are paid directly to the testing provider. Everything will be explained clearly before anything is ordered.

This genuinely depends on what you're presenting with and how your body responds. Chronic conditions that have been building for years typically take longer to address than something more acute.

Most clients see meaningful progress within 2–3 months of consistent work. We'll talk through realistic expectations at your first session.

All consultations are currently conducted via telehealth. This means you can see me from anywhere in Australia — you just need a stable internet connection and a private space.

No — naturopathy is not covered by Medicare. Some private health funds offer rebates for naturopathic consultations depending on your level of extras cover. It's worth checking with your insurer before booking.

Full fee information is on the Services page. All prices are in AUD. There are no hidden costs — you'll always know what you're paying before you book.

Please give at least 48 hours notice to cancel or reschedule. To secure your appointment, 50% of the consultation fee is required as a prepayment at the time of booking — this is non-refundable for cancellations made with less than 48 hours notice or for no-shows. The remaining balance is due at the time of your appointment. If something unavoidable comes up, please reach out as soon as possible and we will do our best to accommodate you.

Often yes — and this is exactly the kind of person Olive Naturopathy was built for. If you've been through the system, tried things, and still don't have clear answers, a thorough naturopathic investigation can sometimes find what's been missed.

Bring any previous results, referrals, or records you have. The more context, the better.

The primary focus is women's health — particularly hormonal conditions, endometriosis, PCOS, and fertility. For couples navigating fertility, both partners are seen as part of a joined process.

If you're unsure whether your situation is a good fit, the free symptom audit is the best place to start.

Yes. Endometriosis is one of the primary areas of focus at Olive Naturopathy. I have both clinical experience with complex hormonal cases and personal experience with endo — I understand the exhaustion of being dismissed, and I take it seriously from day one.

Naturopathy won't cure endometriosis, but it can meaningfully support symptom management, hormonal balance, and overall quality of life alongside your medical care.