My health struggles began at the age of nine, when I was diagnosed with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune condition that causes swelling, pain, stiffness and damage in the joints. It wasn’t until an extreme arthritis flare up at the end of my university career that I was introduced to the incredible world of Naturopathic Medicine. Working with a Naturopathic Doctor, I was able to decrease my inflammation by treating my body as a whole and getting to the root of my autoimmune condition. Through diet, lifestyle and individualized supplementation, my condition improved. This is when I knew that Naturopathic medicine was the only career path for me. My goal was always to have an occupation where I could help others, and this was my opportunity to do so in a way I truly believed in.
My focus in practice is women’s health, stress, digestive concerns and autoimmune conditions. I am passionate about helping women get to the root of their health concerns, and as a result, reduce PMS and regulate their periods, reduce menopausal symptoms, increase energy levels, heal digestive upset and ease stress and anxiety through dietary and lifestyle changes, high quality supplementation and acupuncture. I pride myself in educating my patients so they can leave each appointment feeling empowered and confident in reaching their health goals! My personal experience of feeling a sense of helplessness during my own healthcare journey gives me a unique perspective and allows me to connect with each of my patients on a deeper level. We work as a team to achieve your health goals and I am there every step of the way to support you.
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Additional Certifications:
Achievements:
I am Dr. Erica Costabile and I am a licensed Naturopathic Doctor in Ontario. I graduated from Laurier University in 2017 with a Double Major degree in Biology and Chemistry and won an award for the Best Written Chemistry Thesis! I graduated university with an open-mind of wanting to get into the field of medicine, but was unsure of which path to take. As I lived in Italy as an Au Pair, I developed a major interest in healing from a natural approach. The longer I lived abroad, the more I learned about the world of Naturopathic Medicine and the importance of healing from the root cause. Soon after, I applied to the Naturopathic Medicine program at the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine in North York. Throughout my time seeing patients, I have grown an increased interest in women’s health, skin, and digestion as the connection between them is so impactful to daily life. My goal is to find the root cause and provide a combination of diet, lifestyle, and preventative approaches to help achieve all health goals, in a way that fits you best.
When I’m away from the clinic, you can find me snuggling up with my dog Turbo or at home in my “lab” creating all natural skincare products and candles for my small business, Barely There Skincare. It’s rare to find me relaxing, but when I do, I seek out hiking, shopping, and going to the cottage.
Qualifications and Certifications:
Honours Bachelor of Science; Double Major in Biology & Chemistry – Wilfrid Laurier University
Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine – Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine
Cosmetic Acupuncture and Facial Rejuvenation Certificate
Member of the OAND and CAND
Naturopathic medicine is a distinct primary health care system that incorporates modern scientific knowledge with traditional and natural forms of medicine. Naturopathic medicine involves getting to the root cause of disease, with disease diagnosis, treatment and the prevention of disease progression through diet and lifestyle changes and natural therapies including botanical medicine, clinical nutrition and Traditional Chinese medicine and acupuncture.
What is Botanical Medicine?
Plants have been used for medicinal purposes for thousands of years. Medicinal plants and their constituents are very effective and in proper doses are very safe. These herbs can be used in several ways; they can be encapsulated, made as teas and liquid tinctures. Botanical medicine can help to alleviate many symptoms. Some of these include autoimmune disorders, skin issues, menopausal symptoms, hormone imbalances, stress, anxiety and more! Naturopathic Doctors are highly trained in the science of Botanical Medicine.
What is Traditional Chinese medicine and acupuncture?
Naturopathic Doctors are also extensively trained in Traditional Chinese Medicine. TCM is a system that has been used for thousands of years and consists of acupuncture, acupressure and cupping, among other protocols. In TCM, when your Qi, our energy flow is out of balance, your body has a more difficult time dealing with stress, therefore making individuals more susceptible to developing illness. Utilizing TCM protocols enhances Qi, the energy flow of the body, bringing it to a state of balance, which can result in symptoms and pain decreasing as well as improving overall well being!
If you are interested in Naturopathic medicine, but still have questions, I am happy to offer a complementary 15 minute meet and greet!
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