“I love teaching what I believe in. I love the enthusiasm of my students for this medicine and their belief in it. Basically, I love my students.”
For Cynthia L. Anderson, ND, CNM, teaching has truly been a life’s calling that has taken her around the world. She shares her passion in naturopathic medicine by educating the future generation of NDs at the University of Bridgeport School of Naturopathic Medicine – her alma mater.
Why did you choose naturopathic medicine?
“I chose naturopathic medicine because I wanted to learn how to understand and treat the underlying causes of disease rather than use a Band-Aid or mechanistic approach. Working in the allopathic field for many years, I came to realize there was a more holistic way to help others. My father was an honoree naturopathic doctor, curing his gout with black cherry juice, his hypertension with exercise and beet juice. He was my champion in becoming a naturopathic doctor.”
Furthermore, Dr. Anderson experienced the healing power of nature while fighting cellulitis. She was amazed to see tea tree heal her infection within a few days without the side effects that she may have endured through the use of prescribed antibiotics.
What can students learn from you?
Dr. Anderson teaches naturopathic OB/gynecology, gynecology lab, medical ethics, physical examination lab full-time. She also supervises clinic shifts including a women’s healthcare shift. Her career experience is not only inspirational, but also educational.
“My hope is that students incorporate my abiding and deep love for naturopathic medicine and its principles into their practice. I intersperse life stories of various work experiences into my classes.”
Dr. Anderson worked as a midwife and as an adjunct professor at the University of Minnesota Midwifery school where she led residents through the birthing process. She supervised and volunteered as a midwife in St. Lucia, the West Indies, and Thailand. In Cambodia, she spearheaded the training program for Khmer midwifes.
“On my clinic shifts, I emphasize working holistically with mind, body and spirit, adhering to naturopathic medicine principles. I impress on my students that the four-year program is only the beginning of a life-long journey in learning naturopathic medicine and the art of helping others.”
Dr. Anderson is continuously learning and incorporating her education into her work. She is certified in Wilson Temperature Syndrome and trained in holistic counseling.
“I am continually grateful to all of my teachers, many whom I work with at UBSNM.”
Finding fulfillment as an ND
“When naturopathic principles are combined with the natural ability of our bodies and minds to heal, it’s so powerful. As a midwife and life-long feminist I am passionate in educating women about their bodies and providing them with the guidance to stay healthy throughout life. Utilizing naturopathic medicine alongside my midwifery skills has enabled me to help women heal more effectively and profoundly than I could have ever imagined.”
Dr. Anderson has presented at the American College of Nurse Midwifery (ACNM) annual convention on natural options for menopause, and more recently on non-surgical options for urinary incontinence related to pelvic floor prolapse.
“Sharing naturopathic medicine with midwives and a broader population is one of my missions as a naturopathic doctor.”
As a part of increasing awareness of naturopathic medicine, Dr. Anderson hosted a radio show Your Health is Your Wealth where she featured many prominent naturopathic doctors.
“Dr. Ben Lynch was a guest and discussed the MTHFR gene mutation and its relationship to miscarriage. One of my listeners emailed me many months later to thank me, as after hearing the show she was tested for the mutation, treated and finally had a healthy baby.”
“Another story is in regards to Dr. Dennis Godby and his sons Isaiah and Jeremiah who literally ran from California to the East Coast with the goal of bringing the message about naturopathic medicine to the general population.” The brothers joined the podcast weekly to share updates on their journey and advocacy efforts.”
Dr. Anderson has a private practice called Sabita Holistic Health located in Southport, CT where she offers holistic, individualized care.
Advice for aspiring NDs
Dr. Anderson advises prospective students to explore their interest in naturopathic medicine. Shadowing or interviewing a naturopathic doctor is a great way to gain insight and network. If you decide naturopathic medicine is for you – jump in whole-heartedly, be prepared to work hard, and make your education a priority. Finally, “remember during the struggle of school what an honor it is to be a student of this medicine.”
Learn more about Dr. Anderson
