It was a long and difficult journey getting to where I am today. I spent 4 years at Northern Arizona University on my pre-medical education studying biochemistry and human biology. I then moved on to 4 more years of school and a year of clinical internship at the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine here in Toronto. I’m originally from Arizona but I decided to stay in Toronto after graduation because I can honestly say I've grown to love the city and the life that I've built here.

Graduation proved to be the beginning of a new challenge - licensing exams. I spent the better part of the past year writing my exams, and as of June 2022 I am officially a registered member with the College of Naturopaths of Ontario! I'm also happy to announce that I'm now seeing patients at a beautiful clinic on the East End of Toronto - Porter Health IV Therapy & Integrative Medicine.

This journey was filled with countless long lectures, all-nighters, study weekends, and exams from hell that made me question my life choices. I made it through, and surprisingly my love of medicine has grown exponentially throughout the process.

I used to think the Naturopathic Medical Doctor's Oath was a little on the hokey side, but since it became my oath I’ve realized that it represents the values I strive to uphold as both a person and a doctor, it reads:

I dedicate myself to the service of humanity as a practitioner of the art and science of naturopathic medicine.

By precept, education and example, I will assist and encourage others to strengthen their health, reduce risks for disease, and preserve the health of our planet for ourselves and future generations.

I will continually endeavour to improve my abilities.

I will conduct my life and practice of naturopathic medicine with integrity and freedom from prejudice.

I will keep confident what should not be divulged.

I will honor the principles of naturopathic medicine:

First, to do no harm.
To co-operate with the healing powers of nature.
To address the fundamental causes of disease.
To heal the whole person through individualized treatment.
To teach the principles of healthy living and preventative medicine.
With my whole heart, before these witnesses, as a Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine, I pledge to remain true to this oath.


Author: Emily Howard, ND, BSc