Frequently asked questions
Straight answers about naturopathic care with Dr. Maurice Werness, ND, the free check-in, cost and your privacy.
What does a naturopathic doctor do?
A naturopathic doctor looks at your health as a whole: food, sleep, stress, movement, environment and relationships. Together you find what is draining you and build habits that last, alongside your own doctor. Read the full answer.
Is naturopathic medicine the same as functional medicine?
No, but they overlap. Naturopathic medicine is its own four-year doctoral training. Functional medicine is a framework used by clinicians from several professions, including some NDs. See the comparison.
What is the difference between a naturopath and a naturopathic doctor?
“Naturopathic doctor” or “ND” usually means someone who completed a doctoral program in naturopathic medicine. “Naturopath” is a broader word, so it is fair to ask anyone where they trained.
Is this medical advice?
No. The check-in, the videos and the articles on this site are general education. They do not replace care from your own doctor.
Do I have to stop or change my medicines?
Never on your own. Do not stop or change a medicine without the doctor who prescribed it. If you are thinking about it, the check-in will point you back to that doctor.
Do you see people in Raleigh, Durham and Chapel Hill?
Dr. Werness is based near Durham and works with people across the Triangle, including Raleigh, Chapel Hill and Cary. Consultations also happen by video.
How much does a consultation cost?
The Garden Check-in and the first 20-minute conversation are free. We talk about the investment on the conversation, before you decide anything.
What happens on the first call?
It lasts about 20 minutes, by video or phone. Dr. Werness has read your map if you shared it. You talk about what you want to try first and whether working together fits. There is no obligation, and it is not emergency care.
What happens to my check-in answers?
They stay in your browser while you answer. Nothing is sent unless you choose to send it, and you can ask us to delete what we hold at any time. Read the health data policy.
Where to start
Take the free Garden Check-in. Seven plain questions, about three minutes. You get a map of where to begin, and you can book a free 20-minute call with Dr. Werness right there. Your answers stay in your browser until you choose to share them.