About
Dr. Michelle Decker is a dedicated Naturopathic Doctor (Acupuncture Services), ND. Practicing at Horizons Holistic Health Clinic in Victoria, BC, Dr. Decker 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 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 serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors, and for patient convenience, the clinic also holds prescriptive authority, allowing for an integrative approach to treatment when necessary.
Based on her extensive education and clinical experience, Dr. Decker completed her ND with a focus on evidence-informed naturopathic practices. She has developed a strong interest and advanced skills in Naturopathic Acupuncture, continually updating her knowledge through ongoing professional development. Her practice philosophy emphasizes a holistic and preventative approach, utilizing the healing power of nature and therapies that are gentle and minimally invasive. She is committed to combining traditional wisdom with modern scientific understanding to support her patients' health and well-being. Dr. Decker offers consultations exclusively in English, ensuring clear and effective communication with her diverse patient community.
Her core philosophy revolves around preventative medicine and sustainable lifestyle changes for long-term wellness. She believes in empowering her patients through education and personalized care, helping them achieve their health goals by addressing underlying causes rather than just symptoms. Dr. Decker’s compassionate and holistic approach aims to foster a nurturing environment where patients feel supported and confident in their journey toward better health.
Dr. Michelle Decker provides skilled naturopathic care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:
General Wellness Prevention
- Pediatric Wellness & Common Childhood Ailments: Providing guidance to parents on natural approaches to support their child's health and well-being.
- Weight Management & Metabolic Health: Personalized naturopathic programs for sustainable weight loss or healthy weight gain, focusing on metabolic balance, nutrition, and lifestyle.
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.
- Chronic Joint Pain & Osteoarthritis Support: Utilizing anti-inflammatory diets, targeted supplements, botanical medicines, and therapies like acupuncture or prolotherapy to manage joint pain.
- Ligament & Tendon Injuries (e.g., Tendinopathy, Sprains - Naturopathic Support): A comprehensive approach to accelerate recovery from soft tissue injuries and prevent recurrence.
This list offers examples of conditions commonly addressed. If your specific concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic. Dr. Decker can assess your needs.
- 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.
- Clinical Nutrition & Dietary Counseling: Expert guidance on therapeutic diets, identifying food sensitivities or intolerances, and optimizing your nutritional status for better health outcomes.
- Physical Examinations (Naturopathic): Clinical physical examination tailored to your concerns, which may include specific naturopathic assessment methods.
- Homeopathic Medicine: A gentle yet effective system of medicine using minute doses of remedies to address acute and chronic health conditions by triggering a healing response.
- Botanical (Herbal) Medicine: Safe and effective use of herbal remedies, customized to your individual needs and health concerns, as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Dr. Decker. 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 Horizons Holistic Health Clinic, naturopathic care is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health, well-being, and daily activities. Dr. Decker frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:
- With Dr. Decker, a Naturopathic Doctor, individuals with trouble with constipation or diarrhea that just won't go away are guided towards feeling 'lighter' and less bogged down. The focus is on empowering your body's innate healing ability so you can once again participate fully in activities you enjoy, such as sleeping soundly through the night without being woken by pain or discomfort or racing thoughts.
- It's truly rewarding for Dr. Decker to witness patients resolve concerns about my thyroid health and energy levels and experience experiencing smoother, lighter, and much more comfortable periods. A holistic naturopathic approach, focusing on your unique constitution, can make a significant difference in your ability to participate in managing the physical and mental demands of their job without constant pain or fatigue again.
- When seasonal allergies or hay fever making me miserable limits your lifestyle and prevents you from doing doing household chores like vacuuming, mopping, or laundry without pain or exhaustion, naturopathic medicine with Dr. Decker can help you work towards waking up feeling refreshed and ready to start their day. The aim is to restore optimal physiological function so you can comfortably and safely enjoy the things you love.
- Rediscover your ability to managing daily stressors with a greater sense of calm and focus without the burden of looking for natural ways to support my body's healing. Dr. Decker focuses on evidence-based naturopathic treatment plans that lead to breathing easier with much less sinus congestion and fewer infections, integrating various therapeutic modalities for optimal and lasting results.
Your personalized naturopathic treatment plan, developed with Dr. Decker, will be designed to help you reach your specific functional and wellness objectives using a holistic approach.
Dr. Decker's practice at Horizons Holistic Health Clinic is located in the vibrant Quadra Village neighborhood, near Topaz Park, in Victoria, BC. The clinic's central position makes it easy for patients to access from various parts of the city, with close proximity to the Royal BC Museum. The clinic is conveniently reachable via the Victoria Regional Transit System (BC Transit), making public transportation a practical option for many. For those who prefer to drive, ample parking is generally available close to the clinic entrance, ensuring a smooth and stress-free visit.
- Approximately how many Naturopathic sessions will I need?
- The number of Naturopathic sessions required varies greatly depending on the nature and chronicity of your health concerns, your individual health goals, your body's response to treatment, and your commitment to implementing the recommended dietary and lifestyle changes. Your Naturopathic Doctor will discuss a proposed treatment frequency and estimated timeline after your initial assessment and will continually re-evaluate your progress with you.
- What types of conditions do Naturopathic Doctors at Horizons Holistic Health Clinic 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 digestive health, hormonal imbalances, pediatric health, skin conditions, and musculoskeletal issues. Common areas of interest include Naturopathic Acupuncture, clinical nutrition, and preventative medicine, with treatments involving comprehensive health assessments, dietary counseling, lifestyle advice, and patient education to support your health goals.
- 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 visits to registered or licensed Naturopathic Doctors. It's advisable to check with your insurer to understand your specific coverage options, as the level of coverage varies between plans.
- What should I expect during my first Naturopathic appointment?
- Your initial appointment usually lasts between 60 to 90 minutes. During this time, Dr. Decker will review your medical history, current health concerns, lifestyle, and goals. She may perform a physical examination and discuss potential treatment strategies tailored to your needs. The appointment aims to gather comprehensive information to develop a personalized treatment plan, which may include dietary advice, herbal medicine, supplements, and recommendations for further testing if needed.
- Do I need a doctor’s referral to see a Naturopathic Doctor in BC?
- Patients in BC can typically see a Naturopathic Doctor (ND or Naturopathe) directly without a physician's referral. However, some private health insurance plans require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It is recommended to verify your insurance requirements before your appointment to ensure coverage.
- What is the difference between a Naturopathic Doctor (ND) and a Medical Doctor (MD)?
- Medical Doctors (MDs) generally utilize conventional medicine, including prescription drugs and surgery, to treat specific diseases and symptoms. Naturopathic Doctors (NDs) take a holistic approach, focusing on identifying and treating the root causes of health issues through natural therapies like diet, herbs, homeopathy, and lifestyle modifications. Both can work collaboratively to support your overall health.
- Are Naturopathic treatments safe?
- When provided by a qualified, licensed, and registered Naturopathic Doctor, naturopathic treatments are generally very safe. They emphasize therapies with low risk of side effects and are trained to recognize situations where a treatment may not be appropriate. Open communication with your Naturopathic Doctor ensures a safe and effective treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Horizons Holistic Health Clinic
401-3939 Quadra St.
Victoria, BC, V8X 1J5
Phone: (250) 800-1220 | Website: https://horizonsholistichealth.com
Dr. Michelle Decker 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=681&office=691
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.