Kelsea Parker, ND – Naturopath | West Kelowna, BC

Dr. Kelsea Parker is a dedicated Naturopathic Doctor (Acupuncture Services), ND. Practicing at West Kelowna Integrative Health Centre in West Kelowna, BC, Dr. Parker 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. Parker'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 delivers 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. Dr. Parker's practice serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors. For patient convenience, the clinic also holds prescriptive authority, allowing for an integrative approach to treatment when necessary.

Based on her clinical experience, Dr. Parker completed her ND and remains committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-informed naturopathic practices. She has developed a strong interest and advanced skills in areas such as Naturopathic Acupuncture and Naturopathic IV Nutrient Therapy. Her practice philosophy centers on empowering patients through education (Doctor as Teacher - Docere), 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). Dr. Parker offers consultations in English.

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

Stress Anxiety Sleep Support

• Anxiety & Mood Support: Natural therapies to help manage symptoms of anxiety, mild to moderate depression, and mood swings, often addressing underlying nutritional or hormonal factors.
• Stress Management & Adrenal Support: Holistic approaches to reduce the physiological impact of stress, improve energy levels, and restore vitality.
• Insomnia & Sleep Disturbances: Restoring healthy sleep patterns through personalized protocols involving herbs, nutrients, and behavioral techniques.

Hormone Endocrine

• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Holistic support for women with PCOS, focusing on restoring hormonal balance and improving overall health.
• Andropause & Men's Hormonal Health: Optimizing men's hormonal well-being through lifestyle, nutrition, and botanical medicine.
• Menopausal Symptom Management: Natural relief from common menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, mood changes, sleep disturbances, and vaginal dryness.
• Pre-menstrual Syndrome (PMS) & Menstrual Irregularities: Natural solutions for managing challenging periods and achieving better hormonal health.

Immune Allergy Skin

• Allergies & Hay Fever (Seasonal or Environmental): Supporting your body's ability to cope with allergens through nutritional changes, herbal remedies, and gut health optimization.
• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS/ME) & Fibromyalgia Support: A multifaceted approach to support individuals with CFS/ME or fibromyalgia, aiming to enhance quality of life and functional capacity.
• Autoimmune Condition Support (General): A holistic approach to support immune health and improve well-being for those living with autoimmune challenges.
• Eczema, Psoriasis & Acne: A holistic approach to skin health, combining internal therapies with topical recommendations for lasting results.

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

• Comprehensive Naturopathic Health Intake: A detailed initial consultation to understand your complete health history, lifestyle factors, diet, stress levels, and specific health concerns.
• Detoxification Support: Personalized detoxification protocols using nutrition, herbs, and lifestyle adjustments to enhance organ function and reduce toxic burden.
• Lifestyle Counseling & Health Promotion: Empowering you with practical strategies to make sustainable lifestyle changes that address the root causes of health issues and promote optimal living.
• Physical Examinations (Naturopathic): Clinical physical examination tailored to your concerns, which may include specific naturopathic assessment methods.
• 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.

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

• Naturopathic care with Dr. Parker can be a transformative turning point for those affected by wanting to explore options like IV vitamin therapy or prolotherapy. The shared goal is experiencing significantly decreased anxiety levels, and feeling more grounded, paving the way for you to enjoy tackling home renovation and DIY projects with confidence and energy and a more energetic, balanced life.
• Many individuals seek guidance from Dr. Parker, their Naturopathic Doctor, when struggling with anxiety or feeling down more often than not disrupts their well-being. Through a personalized naturopathic plan, they often achieve complete resolution of chronic constipation/diarrhea issues that plagued them for years, empowering them to embrace activities like dressing myself independently and without difficulty, including shoes and socks with renewed vitality.
• Dealing with the ongoing effects of managing symptoms of an autoimmune condition with holistic support? Dr. Parker partners with patients to achieve experiencing digestion that is so much better now, it's like night and day. This involves a holistic approach, aiming to restore balance so you can confidently resume important aspects of your life, such as participating fully in family life with energy and good mood.
• Through personalized naturopathic care with Dr. Parker, common concerns like feeling tired all the time, no matter how much I sleep are thoroughly investigated to achieve a dramatic reduction in the frequency and intensity of painful muscle spasms that used to plague them. This often involves dietary adjustments, targeted supplementation, and lifestyle education, helping people to once again enjoy returning to dancing, whether it's ballet, salsa, or just for fun, with joy.

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

Dr. Parker's practice is located at West Kelowna Integrative Health Centre, situated in the Lakeview Heights area within the West Kelowna Estates neighborhood. The clinic is conveniently positioned near Historic Westbank Centre and offers easy access via the Kelowna Regional Transit System (BC Transit). Our clinic is accessible, with ample parking generally available close to the entrance, ensuring a comfortable visit for all patients.

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.

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

In British Columbia, patients can typically see a Naturopathic Doctor directly without a physician's referral (direct access). However, while a referral is not usually required to initiate treatment, some private or extended health insurance plans may require one for reimbursement purposes. Patients are advised to check their individual insurance policies before booking their first appointment to confirm coverage details.

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

Some Naturopathic Doctors pursue additional certifications for specialized therapies. Examples include 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, and advanced acupuncture techniques. Availability varies, and interested patients should inquire about these options during their consultation.

Approximately how many Naturopathic sessions will I need?

This varies based on individual health concerns. Some acute issues may resolve after a few visits, whereas chronic or complex conditions might require ongoing care over several months. Dr. Parker will assess your needs during the initial consultation and discuss a tailored treatment plan with you, adjusting as necessary based on your progress.

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

Both Naturopathic Doctors and Medical Doctors are licensed healthcare providers, but their approaches differ. MDs primarily diagnose and treat diseases using pharmaceuticals and surgery, focusing on managing symptoms and pathology. Naturopathic Doctors emphasize prevention, supporting the body's natural healing processes and addressing root causes through therapies like clinical nutrition, botanical medicine, lifestyle counseling, and homeopathy. They often work collaboratively with other healthcare providers to ensure comprehensive care. The scope of practice for Naturopathic Doctors varies by province and is regulated by provincial legislation.

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

Naturopathic services provided by a licensed Naturopathic Doctor in a private clinic are generally not covered by the Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC. Patients usually pay out-of-pocket for these services. However, many private or extended health insurance plans do offer coverage for consultations and treatments provided by registered/licensed Naturopathic Doctors. Patients are encouraged to verify their individual insurance policies to understand their coverage options.

West Kelowna Integrative Health Centre
406-2330 Highway 97
West Kelowna, BC, V4T 2P3

Phone: (778) 754-7644 | Website: https://www.westkelownaihc.com/

Dr. Kelsea Parker 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=829&office=888

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.