What to Expect During Your First Visit Naturopathic Visit at Dalhousie Health and Wellness6/23/2025  If you’re thinking about visiting a naturopathic doctor for the first time, you might be wondering what the experience will be like. Whether you’re dealing with hormonal imbalances, digestive issues, fatigue, or just want to feel better in your body, stepping into a new clinic can feel like a big step. At Dalhousie Health and Wellness Naturopathic Clinic, our goal is to make you feel seen, heard, and supported—right from the start.
Here’s what to expect during your first visit. A Warm Welcome From the moment you walk through our doors, you’ll notice the difference. We've been told the clinic feels calm, grounding, and inviting. You won’t find harsh lights or rushed appointments here. Instead, we take time to get to know you—not just your symptoms, but the whole you. A Deep-Dive Into Your Health Your first appointment is typically 60 minutes long, and it's all about listening and investigating. You’ll sit down with one of our licensed Naturopathic Doctors and talk about everything from your current concerns and health history to your lifestyle, diet, stress levels, and emotional wellbeing. No detail is too small—this is the time for us to connect the dots and look at your health from a holistic perspective. Testing, If NeededWe may recommend lab work or functional testing to get a clearer picture of what’s going on under the surface. At Dalhousie Health and Wellness, we offer access to a wide range of testing, including hormone panels, food sensitivity testing, nutrient levels, gut health assessments, and more. But don’t worry—you’re always in control. We’ll explain everything thoroughly and only recommend tests that feel aligned with your goals and values. A Personalized Treatment Plan After we’ve gathered enough information, we’ll work together to build a treatment plan that’s as unique as you are. That might include:
Time for Your Questions We want you to leave feeling empowered, not confused. You’ll have time to ask questions, express concerns, and be part of the process every step of the way. This is a partnership, and your voice matters. Ongoing Care Healing takes time, and we’re here to walk with you through it. Follow-up visits help us track your progress, make adjustments, and continue supporting your body’s healing in a natural, sustainable way. You can expect us to check in regularly and cheer you on as you move toward feeling your best. Ready to Get Started? If you’ve been searching for a naturopath in St. Catharines or the Niagara region who truly listens, you’ve found the right place. At Dalhousie Health and Wellness Naturopathic Clinic, we believe your body has the wisdom to heal—and we’re here to help guide that process. We can’t wait to meet you and support you on your health journey. 📞 Call us or 📧 book online to schedule your first visit
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 Chronic pain is one of the leading reasons people seek out natural health care. Whether it’s fibromyalgia, arthritis, endometriosis, or recurring migraines, living with daily discomfort can be both physically and emotionally exhausting. And while conventional medicine often relies on prescription pain relievers, many people are now turning to naturopathic treatments in St. Catharines and the Niagara Region for more holistic, long-term relief.
At Dalhousie Health & Wellness our St. Catharines naturopathic clinic, we offer an integrative, root-cause approach to managing chronic pain—supporting your whole body, not just the symptoms. Common Chronic Pain Conditions We See in Niagara We support clients across the Niagara Region dealing with:
How Naturopathic Medicine Helps Chronic Pain As a licensed naturopathic doctors in St. Catharines, we don’t just look at where the pain is—we look at why it’s there. Our approach involves:
Our goal is to reduce inflammation, support tissue healing, and improve your overall resilience. 1. Nutrition for Inflammation and Pain ReliefAn anti-inflammatory diet is foundational. Many clients report less pain and stiffness when they shift away from processed foods and start nourishing their body with real, healing food. We may recommend:
2. Acupuncture for Chronic Pain ReliefOne of the most effective therapies we offer for chronic pain is acupuncture. Rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine, acupuncture works by stimulating specific points on the body to:
3. Herbal and Nutritional Support for PainWe often prescribe customized botanical and nutritional supplements to help manage pain from the inside out. Common options include:
4. Mind-Body Approaches to Chronic PainPain is physical—but it’s also emotional and neurological. Chronic pain often involves heightened sensitivity in the nervous system and a stress-pain feedback loop. That’s why we support stress reduction and nervous system regulation through:
5. Hormonal and Immune System BalanceFor those dealing with hormone-related pain (like migraines, PMS, or endometriosis), or autoimmune-driven pain (like rheumatoid arthritis or fibromyalgia), we support:
Your Partner in Chronic Pain Relief – St. Catharines & Niagara RegionWe believe that you don’t have to “just live with it.” Whether you’re navigating a diagnosis like endometriosis or dealing with unexplained muscle tension and fatigue, naturopathic care offers a safe, supportive path to long-term pain relief. Our St. Catharines clinic proudly serves patients from across the Niagara Region—including Niagara Falls, Thorold, Welland, Grimsby, and beyond. Ready to explore a natural approach to pain relief?Let’s create a personalized plan to support your body, reduce your pain, and help you feel more like yourself again. 📍 Book your naturopathic consultation with Dr Michael Michna at Dalhousie Health & Wellness in St. Catharines today  If you’ve been searching for natural solutions to chronic health concerns, you're not alone. More people in St. Catharines and the Niagara region are turning to naturopathic doctors (NDs) to support their health and wellness journey. Whether you’re managing a specific condition or simply want to feel better in your body, naturopathic care offers individualized, root-cause medicine that works with your body—not against it.
Here are the top 5 reasons to see a naturopathic doctor in St. Catharines: 1. You’re Tired of Feeling Tired Chronic fatigue is one of the most common reasons people seek naturopathic care. If you’re always tired but your bloodwork is “normal,” it’s time to look deeper. At our St. Catharines naturopathic clinic, we assess thyroid function, adrenal health, nutrient levels, and sleep quality to uncover why your energy is depleted. Whether it's chronic stress, adrenal fatigue, low iron, or blood sugar imbalance, we build a plan tailored to your body to help you feel like yourself again—with natural, non-invasive support. 2. You Want to Balance Your Hormones Naturally Hormonal issues like PMS, painful or heavy periods, perimenopause, PCOS, and estrogen dominance are common concerns we address in our practice. As naturopathic doctors in St. Catharines, we often help women understand their hormonal patterns through lab testing, cycle tracking, and in-depth case taking. From herbal medicine and targeted nutrition to liver detox support and stress management, naturopathic medicine offers gentle yet effective ways to bring hormones back into balance without relying solely on synthetic medications. 3. You Have Digestion Issues No One Can Figure Out Bloating, gas, constipation, or irritable bowel symptoms are often signs that your gut needs deeper support. At our clinic in St. Catharines, we explore potential root causes like food sensitivities, gut dysbiosis, SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth), or sluggish digestion due to stress or inflammation. Using tools like comprehensive stool testing, elimination diets, or herbal antimicrobials, we help patients rebuild a healthy gut environment—and finally feel comfortable in their own body again. 4. You Want to Be Proactive About Your Health Naturopathic care isn’t just for fixing what's broken. Many people visit us because they want to stay healthy naturally and reduce their risk of chronic disease. Whether you're hoping to support immune resilience, protect cardiovascular health, or age gracefully, naturopathic doctors can guide you with preventive strategies rooted in both science and traditional wisdom. Supporting your wellness with food, lifestyle changes, functional medicine testing, and supplementation can help you stay ahead of health concerns—before they become diagnoses. 5. You Want a Doctor Who Actually Listens One of the biggest things we hear from new patients is: “I just want someone to listen.” Naturopathic appointments are longer and more comprehensive, so we can hear your story, connect the dots, and see the big picture. We take time to understand your symptoms, but also your lifestyle, stress levels, emotional well-being, and family history. That’s how we create a treatment plan that fits you—not a one-size-fits-all protocol. What to Expect at our Naturopathic Clinic in St. Catharines At Dalhousie Health & Wellness, you’ll start with a detailed intake appointment where we review your full health history, current concerns, and health goals. We may recommend blood work, hormone or digestive testing, and build a plan that includes herbal medicine, nutrition, acupuncture, homeopathy, or lifestyle guidance—always based on what your body needs. Most patients find that naturopathic care gives them tools, confidence, and clarity about how to care for their health long-term. Book with a Naturopathic Doctor in St. Catharines We proudly serve patients across St. Catharines, Niagara Falls, Thorold, and surrounding areas. Many extended health benefits cover naturopathic visits, and no referral is needed. If you’re ready to get to the root of your symptoms—and feel better naturally—we invite you to book a free 15-minute discovery call or a full consultation. 👉 Book Your Appointment Today  Digestive discomfort is incredibly common—but not always easy to decode. That post-meal bloating, abdominal cramping, or lingering gas might feel familiar, but the cause can be surprisingly different depending on whether the issue is functional or structural.
At Dalhousie Wealth & Wellness, we help patients unpack the "why" behind their symptoms, and digestive health is one of the most frequent conversations we have. Here's how we help distinguish between functional issues—where the gut isn’t damaged, but isn’t happy—and structural issues, where something physical may be interfering with digestion. Functional Discomfort: When Your Gut is Reacting, Not BrokenFunctional digestive symptoms occur when the gut is sensitive, sluggish, or overreactive—but not structurally damaged. For example, feeling bloated after eating lentils or garlic may be due to the natural fermentation of certain carbohydrates in the gut, not a disease or inflammation. These reactions are common with:
Support here often includes lifestyle adjustments, nutrition changes, stress support, and gentle herbal or therapeutic tools to help regulate digestion. Structural Discomfort: When the Body Needs a Closer LookIn contrast, structural digestive concerns involve physical changes or abnormalities—things that can be seen on imaging or found during procedures. Think: inflammation, tissue damage, or blockages. Common examples:
These conditions often bring symptoms like:
Listening to Your Gut: A Compassionate ApproachIf your symptoms come and go, are tied to particular foods, and improve with rest, you're likely dealing with a functionalissue. But if pain is persistent, escalating, or disconnected from meals or stress, a structural assessment may be warranted. Both types of digestive discomfort deserve care and attention. Our role is to help you understand what your body is telling you—and to support your healing with an integrative approach. Want to explore what your digestive symptoms are telling you? Connect with our team at Dalhousie Health & Wellness for a personalized assessment.  As artificial intelligence continues to evolve and expand its reach into healthcare, one question looms large: will AI replace human therapists? For individuals grappling with anxiety, depression, or PTSD, the prospect of instant, 24/7 support is enticing. AI-powered mental health tools, like chatbots and virtual therapy assistants, are already available, but can they truly replace the depth and nuance of human connection? One Key Benefit of AI in Mental Health Support Accessibility and Availability: AI can provide immediate, around-the-clock support to individuals who may otherwise have limited access to mental health care. For someone experiencing symptoms of anxiety or depression in the middle of the night, an AI chatbot can offer grounding exercises, cognitive behavioral techniques, and calming strategies. This kind of support is particularly valuable in regions with limited mental health services or long wait times. But What About Human Connection? Here’s Why It Still Matters Despite AI’s growing capabilities, there are critical benefits to human-to-human psychotherapy that technology simply can’t replicate: 1. Empathy and Emotional Nuance: A trained therapist can read subtle facial expressions, body language, energetic vibration, and tone of voice—interpreting emotional cues that AI cannot fully understand. This emotional resonance is often what helps clients feel truly seen and heard. 2. Therapeutic Relationship (The Alliance): Research shows that the relationship between client and therapist is one of the strongest predictors of positive outcomes in therapy. Trust, rapport, and the feeling of being genuinely cared for are fundamental—and uniquely human. 3. Adaptability and Deep Insight: Human therapists can flexibly adapt their approach in real time, drawing from a wide range of therapeutic modalities. They can challenge harmful beliefs, hold space for silence, or shift strategies based on the client's immediate emotional needs—something AI is far from mastering. The Future: Augmentation, Not Replacement While AI will likely continue to play a supportive role—providing psychoeducation, mood tracking, or acting as a digital bridge during crisis moments—it’s unlikely to replace the core of what makes therapy transformative: genuine human connection. In the end, AI may be a helpful tool. But for true healing, growth, and resilience, people still need people. Reach out today to book your session with Registered Social Worker and Psychotherapist Carol Cowan and discover how the depth of real human connection can be profoundly healing. Call Dalhousie Health and Wellness at 289-668-5433 or go to https://dhw.janeapp.com/#/staff_member/31 At Dalhousie Health & Wellness, we understand that when a concussion strikes, it’s about more than just rest—it’s about mindful, holistic healing. For athletes and active individuals, your body is your temple. A concussion disrupts your flow, but with the right care, you can come back stronger, smarter, and more balanced.
Why Choose Osteopathic Manual Care for Concussion Management? John Van-Herbert brings specialized osteopathic manual therapy to concussion recovery, combining expert hands-on treatment with a deep understanding of the nervous system. This approach supports your body’s natural healing and helps you regain control—physically and mentally. What Does Effective Concussion Management Look Like?
Many athletes rush their recovery, risking setbacks and prolonged symptoms. At Dalhousie Health & Wellness, we believe in empowering you to heal completely. This means addressing every aspect of your concussion—from physical symptoms to nervous system health—so you can perform your best, on and off the field. Book Your Concussion Assessment Today If you’ve experienced a concussion, don’t wait to seek professional care. John Van-Herbert is here to guide your recovery with expertise and compassion. Book your concussion assessment today and take the first step toward reclaiming your power and your life. By: Jennifer Deprez, Psychotherapist at Dalhousie Health & Wellness
Is there truth to the saying, "You are what you eat"?While it might sound like an exaggeration, there’s more truth to this age-old expression than we realize. Although you can’t exactly turn into a potato (or a slice of chocolate cake), the foods we consume have a powerful influence on our emotional health and well-being. The link between nutrition and mental health is scientifically backed and deserves more attention. The gut microbiome plays a central role in regulating not just digestion but also mood, immune function, and overall mental health. Understanding this connection between what we eat and how we feel can transform the way we approach our diets for better mental clarity, emotional balance, and overall wellness. The Gut-Brain Connection: A Vital RelationshipThe microbiome, located in the gut, consists of bacteria, fungi, and viruses that work together to communicate with the brain through the gut-brain axis. This axis is a pathway through which the microbiome sends signals to our brain, influencing emotions, cognitive function, and even behavior. The balance of these microbes is affected by the foods we eat, making diet a crucial element in maintaining emotional well-being. How Food Affects Your Mood and BehaviorEver felt a sudden burst of energy after a smoothie, or a wave of relaxation after indulging in a comforting dish? That's your microbiome at work, influencing your mood and thoughts in ways you may not even realize. The delicate balance of microorganisms in your gut directly impacts your mental state, much like ingredients in a dish affect the final flavor. The Role of Nutrition in Preventing Mental Health IssuesStudies have shown that the gut microbiome can help defend against mental health disorders like anxiety, depression, and ADHD. This is why what we eat is so closely linked to mental health outcomes. A diet rich in whole foods—fruits, vegetables, healthy fats, lean proteins, and complex carbs—supports the microbiome, contributing to a healthier mental state. Probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, sauerkraut, kimchi, and kombucha are especially beneficial for boosting gut health and fostering positive brain function. How a Healthy Diet Protects Your BrainMuch like how premium fuel powers a high-performance car, your brain thrives on high-quality nutrition. Consuming nutrient-dense foods provides essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support cognitive function. Furthermore, a well-balanced diet protects your brain from oxidative stress and cell damage that can contribute to cognitive decline and mental health challenges. Fun Fact About SerotoninDid you know that nearly 95% of serotonin, the "happy hormone," is produced in your gastrointestinal tract? Maintaining healthy levels of serotonin is vital for mood regulation and mental clarity. A nutritious diet supports serotonin production, while a diet high in processed foods can deplete these essential neurotransmitters, contributing to low moods and even depressive symptoms. The Blood Sugar Rollercoaster and Mental HealthEver experienced the blood sugar rollercoaster? The highs and lows of blood sugar can have a significant impact on mood, energy levels, and even mental clarity.
Traditional Diets vs. Western Diets: The Mental Health ConnectionResearch shows that traditional diets like the Mediterranean diet or Japanese diet are associated with a significantly lower risk of depression compared to the Western diet, which is often high in processed foods and sugars. These diets, rich in vegetables, whole grains, seafood, and lean meats, promote better mental health outcomes and overall well-being. Nutritional Strategies for Mental WellnessOne powerful strategy for improving mental health through nutrition is to focus on the quality of your calories. For example, 150 empty calories from sugary snacks provide little nutritional value, while the same amount of calories from fruits or vegetables offers a wealth of essential nutrients that support brain health. To begin, track how different foods affect your mood and mental state. Keeping a food journal can help you make connections between your diet and emotional responses. Take note of any changes in mood, energy, or concentration after consuming processed or sugary foods. The Power of Clean EatingConsider trying a week of clean eating, eliminating processed sugars and refined foods. Many individuals report feeling more energetic, mentally clear, and emotionally balanced after just one week of clean eating. This simple change allows you to tune into how diet impacts your mood and overall health. Empower Yourself with NutritionThe foods you eat can either enhance or hinder your mental and physical health. By becoming mindful of the relationship between nutrition and mental well-being, you can make intentional food choices that contribute to a more balanced and fulfilling life. Every food choice you make has the potential to either nourish or deplete your body and mind. If we truly are what we eat, it’s time to start making choices that support a healthy and vibrant life. Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace medical advice. Please consult with a healthcare provider before making any dietary changes.  As a Registered Social Worker and Psychotherapist in Niagara with over 20 years of experience, I’ve seen how powerful therapy can be—especially when we take it outside the traditional office setting and into the natural world. Walk and Talk Therapy combines movement, nature, and conversation in a way that’s backed by neuroscience and deeply supportive of mental wellness. It is also covered by most insurance benefits! If you’ve ever noticed that you think more clearly on a walk or feel calmer after being in the woods, there’s a reason for that. Let’s break down what’s actually happening in your brain—and why Walk and Talk Therapy can be a powerful approach to emotional and behavioural change. What Is Walk and Talk Therapy? Walk and Talk Therapy involves walking outdoors during sessions instead of sitting face-to-face in an office. It offers the same therapeutic support and structure, but in a more dynamic environment. This approach can feel more relaxed and less intimidating, especially for those who find traditional therapy settings overwhelming. 3 Key Benefits of Walk and Talk Therapy 1. Nature Reduces Stress and Regulates the Nervous System Spending time in green spaces is shown to:
2. Movement Changes the Brain and Boosts Mood Even light physical activity like walking leads to powerful brain chemistry shifts, including:
3. Side-by-Side Conversation Feels Safer and More Natural When we walk side by side, instead of facing each other across a room, it often feels easier to open up. This posture mimics how we naturally talk to friends and can:
Beyond the benefits of being outdoors and physically active, I specialize in the neuroscience of behaviour change—supporting clients who struggle with motivation, self-care, and prioritizing their own needs. If you’ve ever found yourself stuck in patterns that no longer serve you, or you know what youshould do but can’t seem to make it happen, you’re not alone—and there are ways forward. Together, we can explore not just why change feels hard, but how to make it easier by working with your brain, not against it. Ready to Take the First Step? If you’re curious about Walk and Talk Therapy in beautiful Port Dalhousie or want support shifting into new habits, I’d love to walk with you—literally. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, burnout, life transitions, or just want to reconnect with yourself, this approach can be a powerful starting point. Let’s talk—and walk—your way forward. Contact Carol Cowan today to book a free consultation or learn more about how Walk and Talk Therapy might support your unique journey. Call 289-668-5433 or book online Peri-what-now? If you're in your late 30s or 40s and suddenly experiencing a cascade of seemingly unrelated symptoms, you might be entering perimenopause – the transition period leading up to menopause. Hot flashes, irregular periods, mood swings... you've probably heard of these. But have you heard about histamine intolerance making the perimenopausal rollercoaster even bumpier? Let's dive in!
What's the Deal with Histamine?Histamine is a naturally occurring chemical in your body that plays a vital role in your immune response, digestion, and even your brain function. Think of it as your body's first responder to invaders or injury, causing inflammation to help protect and heal. You also get histamine from certain foods. Normally, your body has enzymes, primarily diamine oxidase (DAO), that break down histamine, keeping things in balance. However, when the amount of histamine in your body exceeds your capacity to break it down, that's when problems can arise – a condition known as histamine intolerance. Perimenopause: A Hormonal HurricanePerimenopause is characterized by fluctuating hormone levels, particularly estrogen and progesterone. These hormonal shifts can have wide-ranging effects on your body, and guess what? They can also impact your histamine levels and your ability to process it effectively. Here's how the perimenopausal hormonal shifts can contribute to histamine issues:
Navigating the Histamine-Perimenopause MazeIf you suspect a connection between your perimenopausal symptoms and histamine intolerance, here are some steps you can consider:
 Recover and Reclaim Your Life with Professional Concussion Management
At Dalhousie Health & Wellness, we're thrilled to announce a new and essential service for our community: Concussion Management, now offered by John, our experienced Osteopathic Manual Provider. If you or someone you know is recovering from a concussion, John is here to help guide you through every step of the healing process. Concussions are more than just a bump on the head – they can significantly impact your day-to-day life, from physical balance to emotional well-being. Our specialized concussion management services are designed to help you recover safely, quickly, and with tailored care to meet your unique needs. What is Concussion Management? Concussion management involves a comprehensive approach to assessing and treating the physical, cognitive, and emotional effects of a concussion. With John’s expert guidance, you’ll receive a personalized treatment plan designed to restore balance and function, helping you regain confidence and return to your normal activities. How John Can Help You Recover John’s approach combines advanced osteopathic techniques with personalized care, focusing on:
Why Choose Dalhousie Health & Wellness for Concussion Management? At Dalhousie Health & Wellness, we prioritize your well-being. Our clinic offers a calm, welcoming environment where you can feel supported throughout your recovery journey. With John’s expertise in osteopathy and a strong focus on concussion care, you’ll be in great hands. We believe that every concussion recovery journey is unique. That's why we provide:
Don’t let a concussion keep you from living your best life. Take the first step toward recovery with a personalized assessment by John, our Osteopathic Manual Provider. 📅 Call us now at 289-668-5433 or visit our website to book your concussion assessment appointment today. 📍 Visit us at Dalhousie Health & Wellness – your partner in recovery and wellness. Start Your Recovery Journey Today!Whether you're struggling with headaches, dizziness, or other symptoms after a concussion, John’s expertise in Osteopathy can make a meaningful difference in your recovery. We’re here to support you as you get back to living your life to the fullest! #ConcussionManagement #Osteopathy #HealthAndWellness #DH&W #ConcussionCare #RecoveryJourney #GetBackToLife #WellnessMatters @osteopathyforeverybody |
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