Dr. Heather van der Geest is a dedicated Naturopathic Doctor (Acupuncture Services), ND. Practicing at The Apollo Clinic Abbotsford in Abbotsford, BC, Dr. Geest is committed to providing high-quality, patient-centered naturopathic care, adhering to the standards set by the College of Naturopathic Physicians of British Columbia. Her approach integrates a holistic perspective, emphasizing natural healing methods tailored to each individual's unique health journey.
Dr. Geest's practice focuses on integrating 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 specializes in the safe and effective administration of intravenous (IV) nutrient therapy, delivering customized formulations of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and amino acids directly into the bloodstream for optimal absorption and therapeutic benefit. Dr. Geest serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors, and her clinic also holds prescriptive authority, allowing for an integrative approach to treatment when necessary.
With a strong foundation in education and clinical experience, Dr. Geest completed her ND and remains committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-informed naturopathic practices. She has developed advanced skills and a special interest in areas such as Naturopathic Acupuncture and IV Nutrient Therapy. Her practice philosophy is rooted in a commitment to evidence-informed natural medicine, blending traditional wisdom with modern scientific understanding, and empowering patients through education to actively participate in their health journey (Doctor as Teacher - Docere). Dr. Geest offers consultations in English.
Dr. Heather van der Geest 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.
- Menopausal Symptom Management: Natural relief from common menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, mood changes, sleep disturbances, and vaginal dryness.
- Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) & Menstrual Irregularities: Natural solutions for managing challenging periods and achieving better hormonal health.
- 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.
Stress Anxiety Sleep Support
- Stress Management & Adrenal Support: Naturopathic strategies to build resilience to stress, support adrenal gland function, and manage symptoms of chronic stress or burnout.
- Insomnia & Sleep Disturbances: Naturopathic solutions for improving sleep quality and duration, addressing underlying causes of insomnia like stress, hormonal imbalances, or poor sleep hygiene.
- Anxiety & Mood Support: A holistic approach to improving mood, reducing anxiety, and enhancing overall mental wellness naturally.
This list offers examples of conditions commonly addressed. If your specific concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic. Dr. Geest can assess your needs.
- Clinical Nutrition & Dietary Counseling: Expert guidance on therapeutic diets, identifying food sensitivities or intolerances, and optimizing your nutritional status for better health outcomes.
- Conventional & Specialized Lab Test Analysis: Utilizing conventional lab work and advanced functional testing to gain deeper insights into your physiological function and guide treatment.
- Hydrotherapy: Therapeutic use of water in its various forms (hot, cold, steam) to stimulate circulation, detoxification, immune function, and reduce pain or inflammation.
- 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.
- Botanical (Herbal) Medicine: Utilizing the therapeutic properties of medicinal plants to restore balance, reduce symptoms, and enhance your body's natural healing processes.
Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Dr. Geest. 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 The Apollo Clinic Abbotsford, naturopathic care is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health, well-being, and daily activities. Dr. Geest frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:
- The journey to eating without bloating or discomfort when faced with persistent trouble with constipation or diarrhea that just won't go away is made more effective with Dr. Geest's expert naturopathic care, often leading to a fulfilling and vibrant return to pastimes like walking up and down several flights of stairs without issue or breathlessness.
- When frequent colds or feeling like my immune system is weak limits your lifestyle and prevents you from doing playing fetch with their dog in the park for an extended time with pleasure, naturopathic medicine with Dr. Geest can help you work towards breathing easier with less sinus congestion. The aim is to restore optimal physiological function so you can comfortably and safely enjoy the things you love.
- Through personalized naturopathic care with Dr. Geest, common concerns like managing symptoms of an autoimmune condition with holistic support are thoroughly investigated to achieve feeling more resilient to everyday stressors. This often involves dietary adjustments, targeted supplementation, and lifestyle education, helping people to once again enjoy painting or drawing for longer stretches without neck or shoulder ache or loss of focus.
- Many patients have found lasting relief from looking for natural ways to support my body's healing and achieved noticeably better posture and feeling taller under the skilled care of Dr. Geest. This renewed well-being often allows them to re-engage with beloved activities such as maintaining their balance and stability while walking on uneven ground or trails with a new lease on life.
Your personalized naturopathic treatment plan, developed with Dr. Geest, will be designed to help you reach your specific functional and wellness objectives using a holistic approach.
Dr. Geest's practice is situated at The Apollo Clinic Abbotsford, located in the West Abbotsford, Mount Lehman neighborhood of Abbotsford. The clinic is conveniently positioned near Essendene Ave, making it easy to access for patients in the area. Public transportation options are available via the Central Fraser Valley Transit System (BC Transit), ensuring convenient travel options. Our clinic is accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.
- 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 services provided by registered or licensed Naturopathic Doctors. It's important to check with your individual insurance provider, as coverage levels and requirements can vary significantly between plans.
- Approximately how many Naturopathic sessions will I need?
- This varies depending on your health concerns and goals. Some acute issues may resolve quickly within a few visits, while chronic or complex conditions might require ongoing care over several months. Dr. Geest will discuss your specific needs after your initial consultation and help you develop a personalized treatment plan, adjusting it as needed along the way.
- What are some of the specialized therapies Naturopathic Doctors (Naturopathic Doctors) might offer if they have extra training?
- Some Naturopathic Doctors pursue additional certifications in specialized therapies such as Intravenous (IV) nutrient therapy, which delivers 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 of these therapies varies, so inquire with Dr. Geest if you are interested in a specific treatment.
- Do I need a doctor's referral to see a Naturopathic Doctor in BC?
- In BC, patients can typically see a Naturopathic Doctor (ND) directly without a referral from a physician (known as direct access). However, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It's advisable to check your insurance policy beforehand to confirm whether a referral is needed for coverage.
- Does The Apollo Clinic Abbotsford offer direct billing to private insurance companies for Naturopathic services?
- Yes, The Apollo Clinic Abbotsford offers direct billing for Naturopathic services to many major private insurance providers, simplifying the payment process. Patients should bring their insurance card and verify their coverage details, including annual maximums, per-visit limits, and any referral requirements, directly with their insurer. Any remaining balance not covered by insurance is the patient's responsibility.
- What is the difference between a Naturopathic Doctor (ND or Naturopath) and a Medical Doctor (MD)?
- Medical Doctors (MDs) typically use conventional medicine, including prescription drugs and surgical interventions, to treat specific diseases and symptoms. Naturopathic Doctors (NDs) adopt a holistic approach, focusing on identifying and treating the root causes of health issues through natural therapies such as nutrition, herbal medicine, homeopathy, and lifestyle modifications. Both practitioners aim to improve health, but their philosophies and methods differ. NDs emphasize disease prevention, patient education, and natural healing, often complementing traditional medical treatments.
The Apollo Clinic Abbotsford
#109-3600 Townline Rd
Abbotsford, BC, V2T 5W8
Phone: (604) 855-1886 | Website: http://www.doctorheathernd.com
Dr. Heather van der Geest 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=845&office=1285
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.