About
Dr. Andrea Whelan is a dedicated Naturopathic Doctor (Acupuncture Services), ND. Practicing at Advanced Women's Health in Victoria, BC, Dr. Whelan 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. Whelan'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. Whelan offers a comprehensive and holistic approach to health. For patient convenience, the clinic also holds prescriptive authority, allowing for an integrative approach to treatment when necessary. Her educational background includes completing her ND, with clinical experience and a strong commitment to ongoing professional development, ensuring her practice remains evidence-informed. Dr. Whelan has developed advanced skills and a particular interest in Naturopathic Acupuncture and IV Nutrient Therapy. Her practice philosophy emphasizes preventative medicine, sustainable lifestyle changes, patient empowerment through education, and the integration of traditional wisdom with modern scientific understanding. She offers consultations in English.
Dr. Andrea Whelan provides skilled naturopathic care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:
Pain Musculoskeletal
- 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.
- Chronic Joint Pain & Osteoarthritis Support: Holistic strategies to enhance joint function and quality of life for individuals with chronic pain or arthritis.
- Headaches & Migraines (Naturopathic Management): A comprehensive approach to manage chronic headaches or migraines by looking at underlying causes and providing supportive natural therapies.
- Sports Injuries (Naturopathic Recovery & Performance): Optimizing nutrition, utilizing natural anti-inflammatories, and therapies like acupuncture or IV nutrients to support athletes.
Immune Allergy Skin
- Autoimmune Condition Support (General): Focusing on gut health, identifying triggers, and supporting overall systemic balance in individuals with autoimmune diseases.
- Eczema, Psoriasis & Acne: A holistic approach to skin health, combining internal therapies with topical recommendations for lasting results.
- Allergies & Hay Fever (Seasonal or Environmental): Natural strategies to reduce allergy symptoms, modulate immune responses, and decrease sensitivity to common allergens.
Hormone Endocrine
- Fertility Optimization & Preconception Care: Naturopathic support for individuals and couples looking to enhance fertility naturally, addressing factors like hormonal balance, nutrient status, and overall health.
- Andropause & Men's Hormonal Health: Natural strategies to support healthy testosterone levels and manage age-related hormonal changes in men.
- Menopausal Symptom Management: Natural relief from common menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, mood changes, sleep disturbances, and vaginal dryness.
This list offers examples of conditions commonly addressed. If your specific concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic. Dr. Whelan can assess your needs.
- Chelation Therapy: Administration of chelating agents (e.g., EDTA, DMSA) orally or intravenously to bind to and facilitate the excretion of heavy metals or certain minerals from the body, often used in cases of diagnosed heavy metal toxicity.
- Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) Support/Referral: Naturopathic support and guidance for patients undergoing Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, or referral to specialized HBOT centers when indicated for conditions like chronic wounds, infections, or neurological issues. (Direct provision by NDs is less common and requires specialized facilities).
- Ozone Therapy: Utilizing ozone therapy as an adjunctive treatment for chronic infections, inflammatory conditions, circulatory issues, and to support overall detoxification and healing.
- Naturopathic Aesthetic Procedures: Holistic approaches to enhance skin appearance and health, focusing on stimulating natural collagen production and improving tissue quality.
- Acupuncture (Naturopathic): Application of Traditional Chinese Medicine principles, including the insertion of fine, sterile needles at specific acupoints, to promote energy flow (Qi), reduce pain, manage stress, and improve physiological function. (Performed by NDs with specific acupuncture training/certification).
Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Dr. Whelan. 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 Advanced Women's Health, naturopathic care is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health, well-being, and daily activities. Dr. Whelan frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:
- The journey to feeling equipped to handle stress better when faced with persistent needing support for detoxification or cleansing is made more effective with Dr. Whelan's expert naturopathic care, often leading to a fulfilling and vibrant return to pastimes like getting back to cycling for leisure or commuting feeling strong.
- With Dr. Whelan, a Naturopathic Doctor, individuals with feeling tired all the time, no matter how much I sleep are guided towards finally addressing and resolving health issues they've struggled with for many years. The focus is on empowering your body's innate healing ability so you can once again participate fully in activities you enjoy, such as pushing a stroller or shopping cart without difficulty.
- Rediscover your ability to dancing the night away at social events and family celebrations feeling great without the burden of seasonal allergies or hay fever making me miserable. Dr. Whelan focuses on evidence-based naturopathic treatment plans that lead to feeling 'lighter', less bogged down, and more clear-headed, integrating various therapeutic modalities for optimal and lasting results.
- Dr. Whelan frequently helps patients overcome hormonal issues, like difficult periods, PMS, or PCOS symptoms by identifying underlying imbalances. A tailored naturopathic program targeting getting sick much less often, even when everyone around them is unwell supports your journey back to health and enthusiastic engagement in desired activities like being able to carry their baby or toddler without straining their back or arms or feeling exhausted.
Your personalized naturopathic treatment plan, developed with Dr. Whelan, will be designed to help you reach your specific functional and wellness objectives using a holistic approach.
Dr. Whelan practices at Advanced Women's Health, situated within a reputable naturopathic clinic in the Victoria neighborhood of Victoria. The clinic is conveniently located near the Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre (Arena) and is easily accessible via the Victoria Regional Transit System (BC Transit). Our clinic is accessible, with free patient parking typically available on-site or nearby.
- What types of conditions do Naturopathic Doctors at Advanced Women's Health 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 Thyroid Disorders (e.g., Hypothyroidism, Hashimoto's Support), Headaches & Migraines (Naturopathic Management), stress and fatigue, and skin conditions. We often have practitioners with particular interests in areas like Naturopathic Acupuncture and Naturopathic IV Nutrient Therapy. Our treatments may involve Chelation Therapy, Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) Support/Referral, lifestyle counseling, and patient education to help you achieve your health goals.
- 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 kind of lab testing might a Naturopathic Doctor recommend?
- A Naturopathic Doctor may utilize both conventional and specialized lab tests. Conventional tests (like those your MD might order) can include standard blood panels (CBC, cholesterol, blood sugar, iron, etc.), urinalysis, and thyroid hormone testing. Specialized or functional tests might include comprehensive hormone panels (saliva, urine, or blood), food sensitivity testing (e.g., IgG), comprehensive digestive stool analysis, organic acid testing, or heavy metal testing. The specific tests recommended will depend on your individual health concerns and history, and are used to gain deeper insights into your body's functioning and guide treatment.
- 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.
- 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 MSP in BC. Patients typically pay out-of-pocket for these services. However, many private and extended health insurance plans offer coverage for licensed Naturopathic Doctors, so it's advisable to check your specific plan for details.
- What is Naturopathic Medicine and how can it help me?
- Naturopathic Medicine, practiced by a qualified Naturopathic Doctor, focuses on holistic, patient-centered care. It emphasizes prevention, treatment, and optimal health through natural therapies that support and stimulate the body's innate healing abilities. Your Naturopathic Doctor will work with you to understand your unique health picture and develop a personalized plan to address your concerns, improve your vitality, and help you achieve your wellness goals.
- 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, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It's recommended to verify your insurance requirements before your appointment.
- Approximately how many Naturopathic sessions will I need?
- The number of sessions varies depending on the nature of your health concerns, their chronicity, your goals, and how you respond to treatment. Your Naturopathic Doctor will discuss a treatment plan and frequency after your initial assessment and will monitor your progress to determine ongoing care needs.
Advanced Women's Health
1183 Fort Street
Victoria, BC, V8L 1L3
Phone: (778) 363-4294 | Website: http://www.drandreawhelan.com/
Dr. Andrea Whelan 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=668&office=1237
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.