Dr. Vanessa Lewis (Forstbauer) is a dedicated Naturopathic Doctor (Acupuncture Services), ND. Practicing at Seek Optimal Wellbeing in Chilliwack, BC, Dr. Lewis 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. Lewis’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 involves delivering 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. Lewis 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. Lewis completed her ND and is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-informed naturopathic practices. She has developed advanced skills in areas such as Naturopathic Acupuncture and Naturopathic IV Nutrient Therapy. Her practice philosophy emphasizes empowering patients through education (Doctor as Teacher - Docere) and taking a whole-person, root-cause approach to health (Tolle Causam). Dr. Lewis offers consultations in English, ensuring clear communication and personalized care for her patients.
Dr. Vanessa Lewis (Forstbauer) provides skilled naturopathic care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:
General Wellness Prevention
- Cardiovascular Health & Cholesterol Management: Preventative strategies and natural therapies to reduce cardiovascular risk factors and promote long-term circulatory wellness.
- Weight Management & Metabolic Health: Personalized naturopathic programs for sustainable weight loss or healthy weight gain, focusing on metabolic balance, nutrition, and lifestyle.
- Pediatric Wellness & Common Childhood Ailments: Providing guidance to parents on natural approaches to support their child's health and well-being.
Stress Anxiety Sleep Support
- Stress Management & Adrenal Support: Utilizing adaptogenic herbs, nutritional support, and lifestyle counseling to help your body cope with stress more effectively.
- Anxiety & Mood Support: A holistic approach to improving mood, reducing anxiety, and enhancing overall mental wellness naturally.
Digestive Health
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) & Functional Bowel Disorders: Managing symptoms like bloating, gas, abdominal pain, constipation, or diarrhea through dietary changes, stress management, and targeted natural therapies.
- Food Sensitivities & Intolerances: Identifying and managing adverse reactions to certain foods through elimination diets, testing, and gut-healing protocols.
- Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO): Naturopathic protocols to manage SIBO symptoms like bloating, gas, and altered bowel habits, and prevent recurrence.
This list offers examples of conditions commonly addressed. If your specific concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic. Dr. Lewis can assess your needs.
- 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.
- Comprehensive Naturopathic Health Intake: A detailed initial consultation to understand your complete health history, lifestyle factors, diet, stress levels, and specific health concerns.
- Clinical Nutrition & Dietary Counseling: Using food as medicine with tailored nutrition plans to manage health conditions, improve energy, and promote overall well-being.
- Hydrotherapy: Therapeutic use of water in its various forms (hot, cold, steam) to stimulate circulation, detoxification, immune function, and reduce pain or inflammation.
- 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. Lewis. 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 Seek Optimal Wellbeing, naturopathic care is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health, well-being, and daily activities. Dr. Lewis frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:
- Many individuals seek guidance from Dr. Lewis, their Naturopathic Doctor, when brain fog or difficulty concentrating disrupts their well-being. Through a personalized naturopathic plan, they often achieve a significant improvement in their ability to cope with daily pressures, empowering them to embrace activities like enduring their daily commute, whether driving or on public transit, without stiffness or anxiety with renewed vitality.
- Patients struggling with struggling with anxiety or feeling down more often than not find compassionate and comprehensive support with Dr. Lewis. The therapeutic focus is on achieving experiencing a complete transformation of their gut health for the better, using a range of naturopathic modalities to facilitate a return to a fulfilling life, including activities such as attending concerts or theatre shows and sitting comfortably throughout without restlessness.
- For those whose fertility concerns or wanting to prepare my body for pregnancy has made enjoying long, challenging hikes on weekends again with good energy feel out of reach, Dr. Lewis's naturopathic approach offers a path toward feeling hopeful about managing their autoimmune condition. Evidence-informed natural therapies can be instrumental in helping you return to enjoying long, challenging hikes on weekends again with good energy with greater comfort and energy.
- Many patients have found lasting relief from wanting to improve my overall health and prevent future illness and achieved navigating the challenges of perimenopause with greater ease and fewer symptoms under the skilled care of Dr. Lewis. This renewed well-being often allows them to re-engage with beloved activities such as doing household chores like vacuuming, mopping, or laundry without pain or exhaustion with a new lease on life.
Your personalized naturopathic treatment plan, developed with Dr. Lewis, will be designed to help you reach your specific functional and wellness objectives using a holistic approach.
Dr. Lewis practices at Seek Optimal Wellbeing, situated in the Downtown Central neighborhood of Chilliwack. The clinic is conveniently located near Cottonwood Mall and is easily accessible via the Chilliwack/Agassiz-Harrison Transit System (BC Transit). Our clinic is accessible. Ample parking is generally available close to the clinic entrance.
- What types of conditions do Naturopathic Doctors at Seek Optimal Wellbeing 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, chronic fatigue, stress and anxiety, skin conditions, and more. We often have practitioners with particular interests in areas like Naturopathic Acupuncture and Naturopathic IV Nutrient Therapy. Treatments may involve modalities such as clinical nutrition, botanical medicine, lifestyle counseling, and patient education to help you achieve your health goals.
- Approximately how many Naturopathic sessions will I need?
- This is very individual. Some acute issues might resolve relatively quickly, while chronic or complex conditions may require a longer period of care and support to achieve lasting results. Your Naturopathic Doctor will give you a better idea after your first comprehensive visit and will regularly discuss your progress and adjust the plan as needed.
- What is the difference between a Naturopathic Doctor (ND or Naturopathic Doctor) and a Medical Doctor (MD)?
- Both Naturopathic Doctors (Naturopathic Doctors) and Medical Doctors (MDs) are healthcare providers, but their approach and primary scope can differ. MDs typically focus on diagnosing and treating diseases using conventional methods like pharmaceuticals and surgery. Naturopathic Doctors focus on prevention and use natural therapies to support the body's self-healing abilities, often looking for the root cause of illness. They may use treatments like clinical nutrition, botanical medicine, lifestyle counseling, and homeopathy. In many cases, they can work collaboratively with MDs to provide comprehensive care. The regulation and scope of practice for Naturopathic Doctors vary by province.
- Do I need a doctor's referral to see a Naturopathic Doctor in BC?
- In BC, patients can generally see a Naturopathic Doctor directly without a physician's referral (known as direct access). However, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check your insurance policy before your appointment to understand coverage requirements.
- 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, such as intravenous (IV) nutrient therapy to deliver high doses of vitamins and minerals directly into the bloodstream, prolotherapy to stimulate healing in chronic joint and ligament pain, or advanced acupuncture techniques. Availability varies, so inquire if you are interested in a specific therapy.
- Is Naturopathic Medicine covered by the Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?
- Services provided by a Naturopathic Doctor in a private clinic are generally not covered by MSP. Patients typically pay out-of-pocket, but many private/extended health insurance plans offer coverage for licensed Naturopathic Doctors. It is recommended to verify your insurance plan for specific coverage details.
- Are Naturopathic treatments safe?
- Licensed Naturopathic Doctors are trained to provide safe and effective natural healthcare. They have extensive education in medical sciences and natural therapies, and are regulated in many provinces. They are skilled in identifying contraindications and potential interactions between therapies and medications. Always inform your healthcare providers about all treatments and supplements you are using to ensure coordinated, safe care.
- What kind of lab testing might a Naturopathic Doctor recommend?
- Your Naturopathic Doctor may recommend various lab tests, from standard blood work to specialized functional tests. These can include hormone assessments, food sensitivity testing, gut microbiome analysis, and environmental toxin screening. The goal is to gather comprehensive information to guide targeted treatment plans.
Seek Optimal Wellbeing
17-45966 Yale Road
Chilliwack, BC, V2P 2M3
Phone: (778) 234-2266 | Website: http://www.seekoptimalwellbeing.ca
Dr. Vanessa Lewis (Forstbauer) 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=704&office=717
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.