Katie Coombs, ND – Naturopath | West Kelowna, BC

Dr. Katie Coombs is a dedicated Naturopathic Doctor (Acupuncture Services), ND. Practicing at West Kelowna Acupuncture in West Kelowna, BC, Dr. Coombs 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. Coombs'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 involves 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.

Serving patients of all ages, from infants to seniors, Dr. Coombs emphasizes a proactive, preventative approach to health. For patient convenience, the clinic also holds prescriptive authority, allowing for an integrative approach to treatment when necessary. Based on her educational background, Dr. Coombs completed her ND and has accumulated clinical experience that fuels her ongoing commitment to evidence-informed naturopathic practices. She has developed advanced skills in Naturopathic Acupuncture and IV Nutrient Therapy, continually refining her expertise to better serve her patients.

Her practice philosophy centers around empowering patients through education (Doctor as Teacher - Docere), treating the whole person and addressing root causes (Tolle Causam), utilizing the healing power of nature (Vis Medicatrix Naturae), and employing gentle, minimally invasive therapies (First, Do No Harm - Primum Non Nocere). Dr. Coombs offers consultations in English, ensuring clear communication and personalized care for her diverse patient base.

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

Hormone Endocrine

• Andropause & Men's Hormonal Health: Natural strategies to support healthy testosterone levels and manage age-related hormonal changes in men.
• Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) & Menstrual Irregularities: Naturopathic approaches to alleviate PMS symptoms (e.g., mood swings, cramps, bloating) and regulate irregular menstrual cycles.
• Thyroid Disorders (e.g., Hypothyroidism, Hashimoto's Support): A comprehensive approach to thyroid health, including diet, lifestyle, and targeted natural therapies to improve energy and metabolism.
• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Naturopathic strategies to regulate menstrual cycles, improve fertility outcomes, and reduce metabolic complications associated with PCOS.

General Wellness Prevention

• Weight Management & Metabolic Health: Supporting healthy metabolism and achieving your ideal body composition through natural and evidence-informed strategies.
• Cardiovascular Health & Cholesterol Management: A holistic plan for maintaining a healthy heart and blood vessels using evidence-based natural medicine.

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

• Lifestyle Counseling & Health Promotion: Guidance on stress management techniques, sleep hygiene, exercise recommendations, and healthy habit formation to support lasting wellness.
• Physical Examinations (Naturopathic): Clinical physical examination tailored to your concerns, which may include specific naturopathic assessment methods.
• Detoxification Support: Guided programs and therapies to support your body’s natural detoxification pathways, helping to eliminate metabolic wastes and environmental toxins.
• Conventional & Specialized Lab Test Analysis: Review and interpretation of standard blood tests, plus recommendations for specialized functional medicine tests (e.g., hormone panels, food sensitivity, digestive analysis) if indicated.
• Comprehensive Naturopathic Health Intake: An extensive assessment exploring all aspects of your well-being, from physical symptoms to emotional and environmental influences, to identify root causes.

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

• Patients struggling with joint pain or stiffness that feels inflammatory find compassionate and comprehensive support with Dr. Coombs. The therapeutic focus is on achieving a much better understanding of their condition and effective strategies to manage it long-term, using a range of naturopathic modalities to facilitate a return to a fulfilling life, including activities such as sitting comfortably through a movie at the cinema or a play without restlessness.
• For those whose constant bloating, gas, or stomach pain after eating has made returning to a specific physical or mental hobby they had to give up due to pain or fatigue feel out of reach, Dr. Coombs's naturopathic approach offers a path toward feeling more motivated and engaged in their life activities. Evidence-informed natural therapies can be instrumental in helping you return to returning to a specific physical or mental hobby they had to give up due to pain or fatigue with greater comfort and energy.
• Dealing with the ongoing effects of concerns about my blood pressure or cholesterol levels? Dr. Coombs partners with patients to achieve experiencing improved blood pressure and cholesterol levels. This involves a holistic approach, aiming to restore balance so you can confidently resume important aspects of your life, such as standing for longer periods, for example, while cooking or at an event, without discomfort.
• Naturopathic care with Dr. Coombs can be a transformative turning point for those affected by hot flashes, night sweats, or other uncomfortable menopausal symptoms. The shared goal is achieving vastly improved range of motion in their hips, making stairs and getting up from chairs much easier, paving the way for you to enjoy participating fully in family life with energy and good mood and a more energetic, balanced life.

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

Dr. Coombs's practice at West Kelowna Acupuncture is situated in the Westbank area, within the Shannon Lake, Smith Creek, and Rose Valley neighborhoods of West Kelowna. The clinic is conveniently located near the Westside Wine Trail and is easily accessible via the Kelowna Regional Transit System (BC Transit). Our clinic is accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

What is the difference between a Naturopathic Doctor (ND or Naturopathic Doctor) and a Medical Doctor (MD)?

Medical Doctors (MDs) generally use conventional medicine, including prescription drugs and surgery, to treat specific diseases and symptoms. Naturopathic Doctors (Naturopathic Doctors or Naturopathes) take a holistic approach, aiming to identify and treat the underlying cause of health issues using natural therapies such as diet, herbs, homeopathy, and lifestyle changes. Naturopathic Doctors emphasize disease prevention and patient education. While their philosophies differ, Naturopathic Doctors and MDs can complement each other in a patient's overall healthcare plan.

Approximately how many Naturopathic sessions will I need?

The number of Naturopathic sessions required varies greatly depending on the nature and chronicity of your health concerns, your individual health goals, your body's response to treatment, and your commitment to implementing the recommended dietary and lifestyle changes. Your Naturopathic Doctor will discuss a proposed treatment frequency and estimated timeline after your initial assessment and will continually re-evaluate your progress with you.

What kind of lab testing might a Naturopathic Doctor recommend?

Your Naturopathic Doctor may recommend a variety of lab tests to help assess your health. This can range from standard blood work you might get at your family doctor's office (to check things like nutrient levels, organ function, or inflammation markers) to more specialized functional tests. These specialized tests could look at hormone balance in more detail, identify potential food sensitivities, assess your gut microbiome, or check for environmental toxin exposure. The goal is to get a clearer picture of what's happening in your body to create a more targeted treatment plan.

Is Naturopathic Medicine covered by the Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?

Naturopathic services provided by a Naturopathic Doctor (ND) in a private clinic are generally NOT covered by provincial health plans like Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC. Patients typically pay out-of-pocket. It is recommended to check with private or extended health insurance plans, as many offer coverage for services provided by registered or licensed Naturopathic Doctors. The level of coverage varies significantly between plans.

What are some of the specialized therapies Naturopathic Doctors (Naturopathic Doctors) might offer if they have extra training?

Some Naturopathic Doctors pursue additional certifications for specialized therapies, such as Intravenous (IV) nutrient therapy to deliver high doses of vitamins and minerals directly, prolotherapy for chronic joint and ligament pain by stimulating natural healing, or advanced acupuncture techniques. Availability varies, so inquire directly if interested in a specific therapy.

How long do Naturopathic appointments typically last?

Initial Naturopathic consultations are generally longer to allow for a thorough health intake and assessment, typically lasting between 60 to 90 minutes. Follow-up appointments are usually shorter, often ranging from 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the complexity of your case and the therapies being discussed or administered.

Do I need a doctor's referral to see a Naturopathic Doctor in BC?

Patients in BC can typically see a Naturopathic Doctor (Naturopathic Doctor or Naturopathe) directly without a physician's referral (direct access). However, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check with your insurance provider before your appointment to confirm any requirements.

West Kelowna Acupuncture
893 Stevenson Rd
West Kelowna, BC, V1Z 1N3

Phone: (778) 755-1255 | Website: http://www.kelownanaturopathicdoctor.ca

Dr. Katie Coombs 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=759&office=792

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.