One myth we hear from time to time is that NDs are anti-mainstream/allopathic medicine. In fact, many naturopathic doctors collaborate with diverse healthcare professionals in various healthcare and clinical settings to provide a well-rounded and comprehensive approach to patient care. 1 This type of collaboration emphasizes the blending of conventional and natural therapies, recognizing that a combination of approaches can offer solutions to many health challenges patients face. After all, care should be about what is best for the patient.
Naturopathic doctors may opt to work alongside medical doctors, osteopaths, specialists, chiropractors, physical therapists, acupuncturists, nurses and other healthcare professionals to create a collaborative and patient-forward environment. This collaboration allows for the integration of diverse therapies, such as herbal medicine, nutrition, and lifestyle interventions, along with more conventional medical treatments. The goal is to address the root causes of health issues, promote overall well-being, and offer patients a broader range of therapeutic options. Through this collaborative effort, healthcare professionals can leverage their unique expertise to provide personalized and patient-centered care, fostering a more comprehensive and effective healthcare experience for individuals seeking a balance between conventional and natural medicine.
NDs Who Work in Collaborative Environments
Here are some real-world examples of naturopathic doctors who have chosen to build careers that involve collaboration with other healthcare professionals.
Arvin Jenab, ND at the Susan Samueli Institute for Integrative Medicine, University of California-Irvine
Dr. Arvin Jenab, currently the Medical Director of Naturopathic Medicine and Director of the ND Residency Program at the Susan Samueli Institute, joined with the mission to establish residency opportunities for new graduates and expand naturopathic medical services. Dr. Jenab’s responsibilities include clinical duties, mentoring residents, and lecturing nursing and medical students on various therapeutic approaches such as diet, nutrition, herbal medicine, traditional Chinese medicine, and mind-body therapies.
Actively contributing to the advancement of integrative health, Dr. Jenab engages in inter-professional collaboration, participating in national initiatives and meetings. He serves on the board of directors of the Council for Naturopathic Medical Education, collaborating with professional groups to advance integrative and naturopathic medicine principles.
Liz Kaltman, ND, MPH, NCMP at Upstream USA
Dr. Liz Kaltman is the Lead Clinical Advisor for Upstream USA, an organization that provides comprehensive contraceptive care to patients across the United States. As a licensed physician, epidemiologist, and public health professional, she balances leadership, training, and clinical roles. With over 25 years in sexual and reproductive health, she has collaborated with organizations such as Reproductive Health Access Project, Planned Parenthood, NARAL, Merck, Organon, and Gennev. Nationally, she serves as a Clinician Trainer, educating healthcare providers on evidence-based contraceptive care.
Lauren Young, ND at Connecticut Natural Health
Dr. Lauren Young has extensive experience in integrative settings, ranging from acupuncture at Lincoln Memorial Hospital to naturopathic care at Yale-affiliated Griffin Hospital. Working alongside gastroenterologists and specialists, she combines evidence-based natural medicine with conventional treatments to support the body’s healing process. Based in Manchester, Connecticut, her multi-specialty clinic serves the community.
Dr. Young also lectures throughout New England, contributing to both public and professional forums, and writes for journals. She teaches functional cardiology to physicians, participates in Schwartz Grand Rounds for oncology patients, and serves as clinical faculty for the residency program at Manchester Hospital, emphasizing the importance of natural medicine. In 2018, she made history as the first naturopathic physician with privileges at Manchester Memorial Hospital, providing inpatient care.
Daniel Kellman, ND, FABNO at CIty of Hope
Dr. Daniel Kellman has served as Director of Naturopathic Medicine at City of Hope (formerly Cancer Treatment Centers of America Hospital) – Atlanta since 2006. In this role, Dr. Kellman specializes in naturopathic support and provides comprehensive, team-based care along with oncologists, surgeons, nurses, pastoral counselors and others. He works collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team, all operating seamlessly under one roof. This integrative approach to oncology may reduce treatment side effects and improve quality of life for cancer patients.
Vanessa Esteves, ND, MBA at Oregon Integrated Health
Dr. Vanessa Esteves is a licensed Naturopathic physician based in Oregon. Influenced by her naturopathic training as a clinical physician, she is dedicated to educating patients for optimal health and wellness, emphasizing a preventive healthcare model. Dr. Esteves conducts classes and seminars on preventive healthcare topics, including evaluating the quality of dietary supplements. Continuously evolving in her profession, she actively researches natural medicine and clinical nutrition, attending seminars to enhance her expertise. Her ultimate passion lies in transforming healthcare delivery by empowering patients to manage their health and offering safe natural medicine products and therapies for achieving optimal well-being.
Remember that an education in naturopathic medicine can lead to a myriad of career possibilities, with varied opportunities and collaborative approaches available to you. Whether you are interested in collaborating with other healthcare professionals in a clinical setting, lecturing, publishing articles, or providing mentorship, becoming a naturopathic doctor empowers you to build a career that fits your personal interests and fosters your passion for helping people.
