Kaitlyn Tougas, ND – Naturopath | West Kelowna, BC

Dr. Kaitlyn Tougas is a dedicated Naturopathic Doctor (Acupuncture Services), ND. Practicing at West Kelowna Integrative Health Centre in West Kelowna, BC, Dr. Tougas is committed to providing high-quality, patient-centered naturopathic care, adhering to the standards set by the College of Naturopathic Physicians of British Columbia.

Dr. Tougas's 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, which delivers 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. Tougas serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors, and holds prescriptive authority to facilitate an integrative approach when needed.

Her educational background includes completing her ND training, with ongoing professional development and evidence-informed practices. She has developed advanced skills and a particular interest in Naturopathic Acupuncture and Naturopathic IV Nutrient Therapy. Her practice philosophy emphasizes a patient-centered approach, focusing on treating the whole person and addressing the root causes of illness (Tolle Causam). She empowers patients through education (Doctor as Teacher - Docere), with a strong emphasis on preventative medicine (Preventare) and sustainable lifestyle changes for long-term wellness. Dr. Tougas offers consultations in English.

Dr. Kaitlyn Tougas provides skilled naturopathic care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Stress Anxiety Sleep Support

• Stress Management & Adrenal Support: Utilizing adaptogenic herbs, nutritional support, and lifestyle counseling to help your body cope with stress more effectively.
• Anxiety & Mood Support: A holistic approach to improving mood, reducing anxiety, and enhancing overall mental wellness naturally.

Pain Musculoskeletal

• Sports Injuries (Naturopathic Recovery & Performance): Naturopathic interventions to aid in recovery from athletic injuries, reduce downtime, and enhance tissue healing.
• Ligament & Tendon Injuries (e.g., Tendinopathy, Sprains - Naturopathic Support): Naturopathic care to reduce inflammation, promote tissue repair, and restore function after ligament sprains or in chronic tendinopathies.
• Headaches & Migraines (Naturopathic Management): A comprehensive approach to manage chronic headaches or migraines by looking at underlying causes and providing supportive natural therapies.

Digestive Health

• Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO): Comprehensive SIBO treatment focusing on eradicating overgrowth, healing the gut lining, and restoring a healthy microbiome.
• Acid Reflux (GERD) & Heartburn: Naturopathic strategies to manage GERD without long-term reliance on acid-blocking medications, focusing on root causes.
• Food Sensitivities & Intolerances: Addressing digestive upset, skin issues, fatigue, or other symptoms linked to food sensitivities or intolerances.

This list offers examples of conditions commonly addressed. If your specific concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic. Dr. Tougas can assess your needs.

• 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.
• Conventional & Specialized Lab Test Analysis: Utilizing conventional lab work and advanced functional testing to gain deeper insights into your physiological function and guide treatment.
• Physical Examinations (Naturopathic): A physical check-up to gather objective information about your health status, complementing the detailed health history.
• Lifestyle Counseling & Health Promotion: Holistic coaching on mind-body practices, stress reduction, and environmental factors to improve resilience and overall health.
• Detoxification Support: Guided programs and therapies to support your body’s natural detoxification pathways, helping to eliminate metabolic wastes and environmental toxins.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Dr. Tougas. 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 West Kelowna Integrative Health Centre, naturopathic care is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health, well-being, and daily activities. Dr. Tougas frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• It's truly rewarding for Dr. Tougas to witness patients resolve joint pain or stiffness that feels inflammatory and experience experiencing significant relief from chronic, often debilitating, headaches/migraines. A holistic naturopathic approach, focusing on your unique constitution, can make a significant difference in your ability to participate in handling their job that involves frequent standing, walking, or bending with better ease again.
• Struggling with the frustration of wanting to lose weight in a healthy, sustainable way? Dr. Tougas develops individualized naturopathic protocols aimed at achieving a definite and profound improvement in their overall quality of life, key to helping you get back to doing comfortably cooking and meal prepping healthy foods for their family regularly with confidence and significantly improved health.
• The journey to feeling much more balanced mentally, emotionally, and physically when faced with persistent seasonal allergies or hay fever making me miserable is made more effective with Dr. Tougas's expert naturopathic care, often leading to a fulfilling and vibrant return to pastimes like participating in water aerobics or other pool-based exercises with good energy.
• Rediscover your ability to returning to dancing, whether it's ballet, salsa, or just for fun, with joy without the burden of skin problems like eczema, acne, or psoriasis that aren't improving. Dr. Tougas focuses on evidence-based naturopathic treatment plans that lead to finally feeling energetic throughout the entire day, not just in spurts, integrating various therapeutic modalities for optimal and lasting results.

Your personalized naturopathic treatment plan, developed with Dr. Tougas, will be designed to help you reach your specific functional and wellness objectives using a holistic approach.

Dr. Tougas practices at West Kelowna Integrative Health Centre, situated in the Lakeview Heights neighborhood of West Kelowna Estates. The clinic is conveniently located near the W.R. Bennett Bridge access and is well-connected via the Kelowna Regional Transit System (BC Transit). For visitors driving to the clinic, street parking and nearby paid parking lots provide convenient options, ensuring easy access for all patients.

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?

In British Columbia, patients can typically see a Naturopathic Doctor directly without a physician's referral, known as direct access. However, some private or extended health insurance plans do require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check with your insurance provider before your appointment to confirm coverage requirements.

Are Naturopathic treatments safe?

When provided by a qualified and licensed Naturopathic Doctor, treatments are generally very safe. They prioritize therapies with low risk of side effects and practitioners are trained to recognize situations where a treatment might not be appropriate. Open communication with your Naturopathic Doctor about your health and other treatments ensures safety.

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 MSP. Patients usually pay out-of-pocket, but many private insurance plans offer coverage for licensed Naturopathic Doctors. Coverage levels vary significantly, so it is recommended to check your individual plan.

What is Naturopathic Medicine and how can it help me?

Naturopathic Medicine is a system of primary healthcare that combines modern scientific research with traditional and natural therapies. A licensed Naturopathic Doctor aims to stimulate the body's innate healing abilities, identify root causes of health issues, and promote overall wellness. Treatments are tailored to the individual and may include clinical nutrition, botanical medicine, lifestyle counseling, and homeopathy.

What should I expect during my first Naturopathic appointment?

Your initial appointment typically lasts 60 to 90 minutes, during which your Naturopathic Doctor will review your medical history, current health concerns, lifestyle, diet, stress, sleep, and environmental exposures. A physical exam may be performed. Together, you will develop a personalized treatment plan that may include dietary recommendations, supplements, lifestyle changes, and possibly lab testing.

What types of conditions do Naturopathic Doctors at West Kelowna Integrative Health Centre address?

Our Naturopathic Doctors address a wide range of health concerns, including digestive issues like SIBO and acid reflux, hormonal imbalances, stress, fatigue, skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis, and musculoskeletal injuries. They often utilize therapies such as Naturopathic Acupuncture, IV nutrient therapy, comprehensive health assessments, lab analysis, and lifestyle counseling to help you reach your health goals.

West Kelowna Integrative Health Centre
2330 Hwy 97 - Suite 406
West Kelowna, BC, V4T 2P3

Phone: (778) 754-7644 | Website: http://kaitlyntougas.com

Dr. Kaitlyn Tougas 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=883&office=1169

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.