About
Dr. Katherine Chung is a dedicated Naturopathic Doctor (Acupuncture Services), ND. Practicing at Optimal Health Collective in Burnaby, BC, Dr. Chung is committed to providing high-quality, patient-centered naturopathic care, adhering to the standards set by the College of Naturopathic Physicians of British Columbia.
Her approach integrates acupuncture, based on Traditional Chinese Medicine principles, as a key therapeutic modality within a naturopathic framework. This involves using fine, sterile needles at specific body points to alleviate pain, reduce stress, balance hormones, improve digestion, support fertility, and address a variety of other health concerns by stimulating the body's natural healing processes. She also specializes in the safe and effective administration of intravenous (IV) nutrient therapy, delivering customized formulations of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and amino acids directly into the bloodstream for maximal absorption and therapeutic effect. IV therapy can be used to address nutrient deficiencies, boost energy levels, support immune function, aid in detoxification, enhance athletic performance and recovery, and manage various chronic health conditions. Dr. Chung serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors, and for patient convenience, holds prescriptive authority, allowing for an integrative approach to treatment when necessary.
Based on her extensive education and clinical experience, Dr. Chung completed her ND and is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-informed practices. She has developed advanced skills in areas such as Naturopathic Acupuncture and Naturopathic IV Nutrient Therapy. Her practice philosophy centers on empowering patients through education (Doctor as Teacher - Docere), with a strong emphasis on preventative medicine (Preventare) and sustainable lifestyle changes for long-term wellness. Dr. Chung offers consultations in English, ensuring effective communication and personalized care for her diverse patient base.
Dr. Katherine Chung provides skilled naturopathic care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:
Immune Allergy Skin
- Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS/ME) & Fibromyalgia Support: Focusing on mitochondrial support, reducing inflammation, optimizing nutrition, and gentle detoxification to improve energy and reduce pain.
- Autoimmune Condition Support (General): A holistic approach to support immune health and improve well-being for those living with autoimmune challenges.
Digestive Health
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) & Functional Bowel Disorders: Naturopathic approaches to identify triggers and soothe digestive distress associated with IBS and other functional gut issues.
- Acid Reflux (GERD) & Heartburn: Soothing digestive discomfort and preventing acid reflux through personalized dietary and lifestyle modifications.
- Food Sensitivities & Intolerances: Addressing digestive upset, skin issues, fatigue, or other symptoms linked to food sensitivities or intolerances.
- Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO): Addressing bacterial imbalance in the small intestine through antimicrobial herbs, specific diets (e.g., low FODMAP), and gut motility support.
This list offers examples of conditions commonly addressed. If your specific concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic. Dr. Chung can assess your needs.
- Prolotherapy: Targeted injections to promote tissue repair and reduce pain in conditions like chronic joint instability, ligament sprains, tendinopathies, and osteoarthritis.
- Chelation Therapy: A specialized therapy aimed at reducing the body's burden of toxic metals, which may contribute to various chronic health issues.
- Comprehensive Naturopathic Health Intake: Thorough first visit involving an in-depth discussion of your health journey, symptoms, and wellness goals to form a holistic picture.
- Intravenous (IV) Nutrient Therapy: Administration of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and other nutrients directly into the bloodstream for enhanced absorption and therapeutic effect. (Requires specific certification and facility setup).
- Ozone Therapy: The administration of medical-grade ozone (a form of oxygen) through various methods (e.g., autohemotherapy, insufflation, topical application) to modulate the immune system, improve oxygen utilization, reduce inflammation, and exert antimicrobial effects.
Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Dr. Chung. For a full list or to discuss your specific needs, please contact the clinic.
All services are provided in accordance with the scope of practice for Naturopathic Doctors in BC and the standards set by the College of Naturopathic Physicians of British Columbia.
At Optimal Health Collective, naturopathic care is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health, well-being, and daily activities. Dr. Chung frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:
- Dealing with the ongoing effects of needing help to create a healthier diet and lifestyle plan? Dr. Chung partners with patients to achieve resolution of their chronic constipation/diarrhea. This involves a holistic approach, aiming to restore balance so you can confidently resume important aspects of your life, such as giving presentations or speaking publicly with confidence and good posture and clear thought.
- Dr. Chung frequently helps patients overcome struggling with anxiety or feeling down more often than not by identifying underlying imbalances. A tailored naturopathic program targeting a noticeable improvement in their hair and nail health supports your journey back to health and enthusiastic engagement in desired activities like feeling energetic enough to engage in social activities in the evenings.
- Many individuals seek guidance from Dr. Chung, their Naturopathic Doctor, when wanting to improve my overall health and prevent future illness disrupts their well-being. Through a personalized naturopathic plan, they often achieve feeling more in control of their eating habits, empowering them to embrace activities like taking energetic, long walks with their dog every day and enjoying it with renewed vitality.
- It's truly rewarding for Dr. Chung to witness patients resolve hormonal issues, like difficult periods, PMS, or PCOS symptoms and experience a definite improvement in their quality of life. A holistic naturopathic approach, focusing on your unique constitution, can make a significant difference in your ability to participate in reading a good book for hours without experiencing neck pain or headaches or losing concentration again.
Your personalized naturopathic treatment plan, developed with Dr. Chung, will be designed to help you reach your specific functional and wellness objectives using a holistic approach.
Dr. Chung practices at Optimal Health Collective, a reputable naturopathic clinic situated in the Burnaby neighborhood of Burnaby. The clinic is conveniently located near Crystal Mall and is easily accessible via TransLink, including SkyTrain Expo and Millennium Lines, as well as local bus routes. Our clinic is accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.
- How long do Naturopathic appointments typically last?
- Your first Naturopathic visit is comprehensive and usually takes about 60-90 minutes. Subsequent follow-up appointments can vary, typically from 30 to 60 minutes. The length of your appointments will be determined by your Naturopathic Doctor based on your individual needs and treatment plan.
- What types of conditions do Naturopathic Doctors at Optimal Health Collective address?
- Our Naturopathic Doctors address a wide range of health concerns, with a focus on identifying and treating the root cause. This includes, but is not limited to, issues like digestive health, hormonal imbalances, immune support, stress management, and skin conditions. We often have practitioners with particular interests in areas like Naturopathic Acupuncture and Naturopathic IV Nutrient Therapy. Our treatments may involve Prolotherapy, Chelation Therapy, lifestyle counseling, and patient education to help you achieve your health goals.
- Is there anything specific I should bring to my first Naturopathic appointment?
- It's helpful to bring any recent lab work (within the last year or two), a complete list of your medications and supplements (including brand and dose), and your extended health insurance information. Some people also find it useful to fill out any intake forms provided by the clinic beforehand to save time during the appointment.
- What is the difference between a Naturopathic Doctor (ND or Naturopathic Doctor) and a Medical Doctor (MD)?
- Both Naturopathic Doctors (Naturopathic Doctors) and Medical Doctors (MDs) are healthcare providers, but their approach and primary scope can differ. MDs typically focus on diagnosing and treating diseases using conventional methods like pharmaceuticals and surgery. Naturopathic Doctors focus on prevention and use natural therapies to support the body's self-healing abilities, often looking for the root cause of illness. Naturopathic Doctors may use treatments like clinical nutrition, botanical medicine, lifestyle counseling, and homeopathy. In many cases, Naturopathic Doctors and MDs can work collaboratively to provide comprehensive patient care. The regulation and scope of practice for Naturopathic Doctors vary by province.
- Do I need a doctor's referral to see a Naturopathic Doctor in BC?
- Patients in BC can typically see a Naturopathic Doctor directly without a physician's referral (direct access). However, while a referral is not legally required to see an ND, some private or extended health insurance plans do require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check your insurance policy to confirm their specific requirements before booking your appointment.
- What should I expect during my first Naturopathic appointment?
- The first visit involves a thorough assessment of your health history, current symptoms, and lifestyle. Expect to spend time discussing your health concerns in detail. A physical examination relevant to your condition may be performed. Your Naturopathic Doctor will then share their initial findings and work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan, which may include dietary advice, lifestyle modifications, or natural therapies.
- Is Naturopathic Medicine covered by the Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?
- Naturopathic services provided by a licensed Naturopathic Doctor in a private clinic are generally not covered by the Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC. Most patients pay out-of-pocket for these services. However, many private or extended health insurance plans offer some coverage for naturopathic treatments. It is recommended to review your insurance policy to understand your benefits, as coverage levels can vary significantly between plans.
Optimal Health Collective
103 - 2849 North road
Burnaby, BC, V3C 0G8
Phone: (604) 420-1818 | Website: http://drkatherinechung.com
Dr. Katherine Chung is regulated by the Health Professions Act (British Columbia) in BC and is a member of the College of Naturopathic Physicians of British Columbia.
Verify registration with the College of Naturopathic Physicians of British Columbia: https://members.bcnd.ca/code/find.php?doctor=712&office=728
Naturopathic medicine aims to support overall health and well-being. It is recommended to maintain a relationship with your medical doctor for conventional medical care, diagnosis of serious conditions, and emergencies. Naturopathic care can often complement conventional treatments.