Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine

Dr. Nooreen Sumar, BSc. ND.

Meet our Naturopathic Doctor:

Nooreen Sumar, a licensed Naturopathic Doctor, recently moved to Edmonton from her home town of Calgary to pursue her passion in the practice of Naturopathic Medicine. She is available for consultations three days a week at our massage therapy clinic in downtown Edmonton.

Nooreen received her Bachelor of Science degree with a Minor in Management & Society from the University of Calgary, followed by her Naturopathic Medical training at the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine (CCNM).  At CCNM, Nooreen served as Vice President for External Communications on the Naturopathic Student’s Association.  In her final year, she was presented with the Community Spirit Award for demonstrating exceptional commitment to advocating for students and leaving a positive impact on the profession at large.  She is an active member of the Alberta Association of Naturopathic Physicians as well as the Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors.

Naturopathic Medicine is an art and a science that combines evidence-based medicine with traditional modalities such as traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture, homeopathy and nutrition.

Please print and fill out these forms before your initial visit:
Naturopathic Medicine Intake Form
Naturopathic Medicine Consent Form

Please print and fill out this form if the appointment is for a child:
Naturopathic Pediatric Medical Intake Form

Click here for hours of availability.

Her Approach:

Dr. Sumar strives to embody the holistic approach of care by addressing all determinants of health including biological, psychological, emotional, and environmental through a thorough understanding of personal history, assessment of your current health status, and physical examination.  Naturopathic medicine is an art and science that combines evidence based medicine with the Naturopathic modalities including Clinical Nutrition, Lifestyle Counseling, Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture, Physical Medicine, Homeopathic Medicine, and Botanical Medicine.

I seek to empower and support each individual in the quest
to achieve a state of optimal health and well being. – Nooreen

Where She Practices:

Nooreen is practicing in downtown Edmonton at Healing Connections Wellness Centre.  She runs a general family practice addressing a wide array of concerns including but not limited to:

  • Autism/ADHD
  • Bone Health
  • Detoxification
  • Diabetes
  • Digestive Concerns
  • Fatigue/Low Energy
  • Headaches
  • Immune Support
  • Infertility
  • Mental Health
  • Musculoskeletal Concerns
  • Overall health maintenance
  • Pediatric Care
  • Skin Concerns
  • Weight Loss

If your concern is not on this list, we can still help you!  Naturopathic medicine offers a wide array of approaches which allows each treatment to be tailored to the individual.  Nooreen invites you to browse the website, call in, or email to ask questions and get started on your journey to wellness.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. What kind of training does a Naturopathic Doctor have?

Naturopathic Doctors (NDs) have eight years of post-secondary education. After their undergraduate degree, they pursue the four year vigorous naturopathic program at one of seven accredited Naturopathic Colleges in North America.  Their training involves the comprehensive classroom and practical, hands-on study of:

  • Anatomy
  • Physiology
  • Biochemistry
  • Immunology
  • Microbiology
  • Pharmacology
  • Pathology
  • Research principles
  • Lab testing & Interpretation
  • Radiology
  • Obstetrics
  • Pediatrics
  • Venipuncture
  • Minor Surgery
  • Massage/Hydrotherapy
  • Psychology
  • Public Health
  • Clinical Nutrition
  • Physical Medicine
  • Asian Medicine
  • Botanical Medicine
  • Homeopathy

Naturopathic doctors must also successfully pass the Naturopathic Physicians Licensing Examinations (NPLEX) I and II, a standardized examination for all NDs in North America

2. What is the difference between my Medical Doctor and a Naturopathic Doctor?

Like your family medical doctor (MD), a Naturopathic Doctor (ND) is trained and licensed as a primary health care physician.  They are skilled in performing physical examinations, interpreting lab exams, and understanding pharmacology and drug-herb-vitamin interactions.  The difference lies in the treatments that are prescribed as well as the approach offered to each patient.

3. How long does it take to get better? What do I have to do as the patient?

The time to get better varies for each individual depending on the concern(s) one presents with, and the length of time that the individual has had the concern(s).  As the patient, you are an active participant in your quest to achieve optimal health. Thus, you play a vital role by working with your Naturopathic Doctor to implement a plan that works best for you.

4. How many times do I have to see my Naturopathic Doctor?

After the initial consult, you will be given a treatment plan with a timeline of when to follow up.  This may be twice a week if you are receiving acupuncture treatments or it may be yearly for your annual checkup.  If you feel that you need more support during your quest to achieve optimal health, your Naturopathic Doctor is more than happy to see you.  You are encouraged to see your Naturopathic Doctor if an acute condition such as an injury or the common cold arise.  However, under life threatening situations, patients should seek emergency care at their nearest hospital.

5. What can I expect on my initial visit?

Before your initial visit, you are encouraged to fill out the Initial Naturopathic Medical Intake Form found online.  Your initial visit will last about 75 minutes to allow the ND to get to know you better and acquire a thorough history and physical.  This information will be compiled and a comprehensive treatment plan will be created with your input so that it works best for you.

6. Is Naturopathic Medicine covered by Alberta Health Care?

Naturopathic Medicine is not covered by Alberta Health Care. However, most private insurance companies do offer coverage. You will be provided with a receipt after your visit so that you are able to submit a claim for reimbursement.