Dr. Sarah Christina Glassford

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

Hormone Endocrine

• Fertility Optimization & Preconception Care: Utilizing diet, lifestyle changes, herbs, and targeted supplements to improve reproductive outcomes.
• 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.
• 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): Managing PCOS symptoms like irregular periods, acne, hirsutism, and insulin resistance through diet, lifestyle changes, and hormone-balancing herbs.

General Wellness Prevention

• Weight Management & Metabolic Health: Addressing underlying factors contributing to weight issues, such as hormonal imbalances, insulin resistance, or thyroid dysfunction.
• Pediatric Wellness & Common Childhood Ailments: Focusing on strengthening a child's immune system and promoting healthy development through nutrition and gentle natural remedies.

Stress Anxiety Sleep Support

• Insomnia & Sleep Disturbances: Restoring healthy sleep patterns through personalized protocols involving herbs, nutrients, and behavioral techniques.
• Anxiety & Mood Support: A holistic approach to improving mood, reducing anxiety, and enhancing overall mental wellness naturally.
• Stress Management & Adrenal Support: Holistic approaches to reduce the physiological impact of stress, improve energy levels, and restore vitality.

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

• Men's Health Support: Naturopathic strategies to optimize men's vitality, energy, and long-term well-being.
• Comprehensive Naturopathic Health Intake: A detailed initial consultation to understand your complete health history, lifestyle factors, diet, stress levels, and specific health concerns.
• Physical Examinations (Naturopathic): Standard physical assessments (e.g., blood pressure, pulse, relevant organ system checks) alongside naturopathic diagnostic techniques.
• Conventional & Specialized Lab Test Analysis: Analysis of laboratory findings to identify nutritional deficiencies, hormonal imbalances, metabolic dysfunctions, or other underlying issues.
• Women's Health & Hormone Balancing: Holistic management of hormonal imbalances using nutrition, herbal medicine, and lifestyle interventions tailored for women.

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

• Many patients have found lasting relief from supporting my child's health naturally for common issues and achieved feeling hopeful about managing their autoimmune condition under the skilled care of Dr. Glassford. This renewed well-being often allows them to re-engage with beloved activities such as spending hours gardening comfortably, without subsequent back or knee strain or fatigue with a new lease on life.
• Struggling with the frustration of acid reflux or heartburn that's really bothersome? Dr. Glassford develops individualized naturopathic protocols aimed at achieving feeling empowered and truly in control of their own health journey, key to helping you get back to doing playing in their competitive volleyball league again with vigor with confidence and significantly improved health.
• Many individuals seek guidance from Dr. Glassford, their Naturopathic Doctor, when needing help to create a healthier diet and lifestyle plan disrupts their well-being. Through a personalized naturopathic plan, they often achieve managing flare-ups more effectively, empowering them to embrace activities like hitting the slopes for a full day of skiing or snowboarding in winter feeling resilient with renewed vitality.
• Patients struggling with frequent colds or feeling like my immune system is weak find compassionate and comprehensive support with Dr. Glassford. The therapeutic focus is on achieving a noticeable improvement in the health and strength of their hair and nails, using a range of naturopathic modalities to facilitate a return to a fulfilling life, including activities such as playing actively and roughhousing with their young kids or grandkids with joy and energy.

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

Practicing at The Wellness Lab, situated in a naturopathic clinic in the central Orangeville neighborhood, Dr. Glassford’s practice is conveniently located near local health food stores and community wellness centers. Easily accessible via local public transit routes, the clinic offers a welcoming environment for all patients. Our clinic is accessible, and ample parking is generally available close to the clinic entrance.

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 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 for these services. However, many private/extended health insurance plans do offer coverage for services provided by registered and licensed Naturopathic Doctors. Coverage levels vary significantly, so patients are encouraged to check their individual plans.

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

Patients in Ontario can typically see a Naturopathic Doctor (or Naturopathe) directly without a physician's referral (direct access). However, some private or extended health insurance plans require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It's advisable to verify your insurance requirements before your first appointment.

Is there anything specific I should bring to my first Naturopathic appointment?

Bringing recent lab work (within the last year or two), a list of current medications and supplements (including doses), and your extended health insurance information can be helpful. Filling out any intake forms beforehand can also save time during your appointment.

Are Naturopathic treatments safe?

Licensed Naturopathic Doctors (e.g., Naturopathic Doctors or Naturopathes Agréés) are trained to provide safe and effective natural healthcare. They have extensive education in medical sciences and natural therapies, and are regulated in many Canadian provinces. They are trained to identify contraindications and potential interactions between natural therapies and conventional medications. Always inform your ND (or Naturopathe) and other healthcare providers about all treatments and supplements you are using to ensure coordinated and safe care.

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 into the bloodstream, prolotherapy for chronic joint and ligament pain by stimulating natural healing, or advanced acupuncture techniques. Availability varies; inquire with your provider if interested in specific therapies.

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

Both Naturopathic Doctors and Medical Doctors are healthcare providers, but their approaches differ. MDs primarily diagnose and treat diseases using conventional methods like pharmaceuticals and surgery. Naturopathic Doctors focus on prevention and supporting the body's self-healing abilities through natural therapies, often addressing root causes. They may use treatments such as clinical nutrition, botanical medicine, lifestyle counseling, and homeopathy. Both can collaborate to provide comprehensive care, but their scopes and training vary by province.

How long do Naturopathic appointments typically last?

Initial appointments usually last between 60 to 90 minutes to allow for a thorough health assessment. Follow-up visits are generally shorter, around 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the case complexity and therapies involved.

The Wellness Lab
295A Broadway
Orangeville, ON, L9W 1L2

Phone: (519) 307-3228

Dr. Sarah Christina Glassford is regulated by the Naturopathy Act, 2007 in ON and is a member of the College of Naturopaths of Ontario.

Registration Number: 3692

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.