About
Dr. Kristen Shirley-Salme Timusk is a dedicated Naturopathic Doctor, ND. Practicing at Serenity Health Co. in Sault Ste. Marie, ON, Dr. Timusk is committed to providing high-quality, patient-centered naturopathic care, adhering to the standards set by the College of Naturopaths of Ontario.
Dr. Timusk's role encompasses providing comprehensive naturopathic care for a broad spectrum of health concerns in individuals of various ages. This includes preventative health strategies, management of chronic conditions, and acute illness support through a holistic and individualized approach, utilizing core naturopathic therapies like clinical nutrition, botanical medicine, and lifestyle counseling. She serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors, tailoring treatments to suit their unique needs and circumstances.
Having completed their ND, Dr. Timusk has gained clinical experience and is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-informed naturopathic practices. She has developed a strong interest and advanced skills in areas such as General Naturopathic Practice, ensuring her approach remains current and effective. Dr. Timusk’s practice philosophy emphasizes utilizing the healing power of nature (Vis Medicatrix Naturae) and employing therapies that are gentle and minimally invasive (First, Do No Harm - Primum Non Nocere). Her patient-centered approach focuses on treating the whole person and addressing the root cause of illness (Tolle Causam), integrating traditional wisdom with modern scientific understanding. Dr. Timusk offers consultations in English.
Dr. Kristen Shirley-Salme Timusk provides skilled naturopathic care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:
Pain Musculoskeletal
- Headaches & Migraines (Naturopathic Management): Identifying and addressing potential triggers for headaches and migraines, such as dietary factors, nutrient deficiencies, hormonal imbalances, stress, or musculoskeletal tension.
- Ligament & Tendon Injuries (e.g., Tendinopathy, Sprains - Naturopathic Support): Supporting the healing of soft tissue injuries through nutritional strategies, targeted supplementation, and regenerative therapies like prolotherapy or acupuncture.
Hormone Endocrine
- Fertility Optimization & Preconception Care: Utilizing diet, lifestyle changes, herbs, and targeted supplements to improve reproductive outcomes.
- Menopausal Symptom Management: Utilizing botanical medicines, nutritional support, and lifestyle adjustments to ease the transition through menopause.
- Andropause & Men's Hormonal Health: Addressing symptoms associated with declining testosterone in men (andropause), such as fatigue, low libido, and changes in mood or muscle mass.
This list offers examples of conditions commonly addressed. If your specific concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic. Dr. Timusk can assess your needs.
- Conventional & Specialized Lab Test Analysis: Utilizing conventional lab work and advanced functional testing to gain deeper insights into your physiological function and guide treatment.
- 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.
- Physical Examinations (Naturopathic): Clinical physical examination tailored to your concerns, which may include specific naturopathic assessment methods.
- Detoxification Support: Personalized detoxification protocols using nutrition, herbs, and lifestyle adjustments to enhance organ function and reduce toxic burden.
- Lifestyle Counseling & Health Promotion: Holistic coaching on mind-body practices, stress reduction, and environmental factors to improve resilience and overall health.
Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Dr. Timusk. 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 ON and the standards set by the College of Naturopaths of Ontario.
At Serenity Health Co., naturopathic care is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health, well-being, and daily activities. Dr. Timusk frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:
- It's truly rewarding for Dr. Timusk to witness patients resolve frequent colds or feeling like my immune system is weak and experience getting sick much less often, even when everyone around them is unwell. A holistic naturopathic approach, focusing on your unique constitution, can make a significant difference in your ability to participate in getting back to their regular, consistent gym workouts with enthusiasm again.
- Naturopathic care with Dr. Timusk can be a transformative turning point for those affected by wanting to lose weight in a healthy, sustainable way. The shared goal is achieving better day-to-day management of their chronic arthritis pain and inflammation, paving the way for you to enjoy going on enjoyable fishing or camping trips again with zest and a more energetic, balanced life.
- When concerns about my thyroid health and energy levels limits your lifestyle and prevents you from doing playing a few sets of tennis without pain and with good recovery, naturopathic medicine with Dr. Timusk can help you work towards a smoother, quicker, and more comfortable postpartum recovery period. The aim is to restore optimal physiological function so you can comfortably and safely enjoy the things you love.
- Many patients have found lasting relief from seasonal allergies or hay fever making me miserable and achieved feeling more comfortable and confident in their own skin under the skilled care of Dr. Timusk. This renewed well-being often allows them to re-engage with beloved activities such as engaging in regular exercise that they enjoy and can sustain without post-exertion malaise with a new lease on life.
Your personalized naturopathic treatment plan, developed with Dr. Timusk, will be designed to help you reach your specific functional and wellness objectives using a holistic approach.
Dr. Timusk practices at Serenity Health Co., situated in the Downtown, Central neighborhood of Sault Ste. Marie. The clinic is conveniently located near Sault College and is accessible via Sault Ste. Marie Transit. Our clinic is accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.
- Does Serenity Health Co. offer direct billing to private insurance companies for Naturopathic services?
- Yes, Serenity Health Co. offers direct billing for Naturopathic services to many major private insurance companies. Patients are advised to bring their insurance card and confirm their specific coverage details (such as annual maximums, per-visit limits, and referral requirements if any) directly with their insurer, as plans vary. Patients are responsible for any portion not covered by their insurance.
- Are Naturopathic treatments safe?
- When provided by a qualified and licensed/registered Naturopathic Doctor, Naturopathic treatments are generally very safe. They prioritize therapies with a low risk of side effects and are trained to recognize situations where a treatment might not be suitable for an individual. Open communication with your Naturopathic Doctor about your health and any other treatments you're receiving is key to ensuring safety.
- 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 the use of natural therapies that support and stimulate the body’s ability to heal itself. Your Naturopathic Doctor (or Naturopathe) 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 ON?
- Patients in Ontario can typically see a Naturopathic Doctor (ND or Naturopathe) directly without a physician's referral. However, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a referral for coverage purposes. It is recommended to check with your insurer before your first appointment to confirm their specific requirements.
- 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. They 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.
- 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.
- Is Naturopathic Medicine covered by the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?
- Naturopathic services provided by a Naturopathic Doctor (ND) in a private clinic are generally not covered by provincial health plans like Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). Patients typically pay out-of-pocket. It is recommended to check your 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.
Serenity Health Co.
765 Queen Street E., Suite 101
Sault Ste. Marie, ON, P6A 2A8
Dr. Kristen Shirley-Salme Timusk is regulated by the Naturopathy Act, 2007 in ON and is a member of the College of Naturopaths of Ontario.
Registration Number: 4390
Registration can typically be verified with the College of Naturopaths of Ontario.
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.