Dr. Donna received her Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine degree (N.D.) from Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine (SCNM) in Tempe, Arizona. SCNM is one of four accredited naturopathic medical schools in the United States offering graduate level naturopathic training with educational standards recognized and approved by the US Department of Education. She has 17 years experience in the health profession.
Dr. Donna welcomes most health conditions and has a special interest in Digestive Disorders, Women’s Health, and Environmental Illness. She develops a health plan for each individual based on his or her specific needs, applying the tools of naturopathy and taking into consideration budget, interests, and lifestyle. Dr. Donna is also an Educational Speaker and welcomes opportunities to speak to your group or business. Call or e-mail for information.
Contact:
- DoctorDonna@comcast.net
- P: 301-631-2936 ext. 305
Why see Dr. Donna?
- 17 years experience in the health field
- Listens closely and welcomes questions in a relaxed atmosphere
- Addresses all health aspects
- Takes time to explain causes of physical and mental symptoms
- Educates about diet and lifestyle factors that increase the risk for disease
Research clearly shows the correlation between dietary deficiencies and diminished mental and physical health. The link between environmental toxicity and poor health also is becoming more apparent and accepted. You truly are what you eat, breath, and drink. Dr. Donna believes that in order for the body systems to function normally, the most basic structure of the body, the cell, must first function optimally. “If we alter known diet and lifestyle factors that cause or contribute to disease, then we can slow down the disease process, or if caught early, reverse it. Intervention at the initial stages of disease saves time and money.”
- Services
- Conditions
- What is Naturopathy?
- The Holistic Principle and Vital Force
- Why Choose Naturopathy?
- History of Naturopathic Medicine
- FAQ
- First Visit
- Events
- Natural Medicine Articles
- Forms
Services
Nutritional Therapy is the therapeutic use of nutrient-rich foods and supplements to improve health and prevent disease. It is the science of nutrients and how they are absorbed, transported, utilized, stored, and eliminated from the body. Food is medicine. Scientific research has shown many medical conditions can be improved as effectively with food and nutritional supplements as they can by other means, with little to no side effects. Nutrition is the foundation of Naturopathy.
Lifestyle counseling Lifestyle counseling facilitates awareness of personal choices for the mind, body and spirit and how they affect health. Examples of lifestyle choices are: management of stress, use of alcohol or drugs, overeating, environmental toxic exposures, exercise or lack of, sleeping habits, and personal relationships. These choices can prevent disease or lead to the development of numerous diseases such as addiction, obesity, chronic fatigue, and cancer. Dr. Donna helps individuals examine their lifestyle choices and makes suggestions regarding potential changes.
Herbal Therapy refers to the use of plants to promote healing and has been used since ancient times. Whole plant extracts provide a complete range of the plants’ chemistry and energy and have a holistic effect within the body.
Homeopathy uses specific and diluted concentrations of natural substances, which stimulate the natural healing mechanisms in the body. They are safe remedies that are used to help you heal on all levels: physical, emotional, and mental.
Guided Shopping: Dr. Donna acts as your personal guide and introduces you to a healthy shopping lifestyle. Guided Shopping makes healthy eating easy and fun. Examples: locating foods for specific health conditions such as diabetes or weight loss. Guided shopping can be used as a separate service or in addition to your appointment.
Common Conditions
Chronic Conditions
- Allergies & Environmental Illnesses
- Cardiovascular Disease, Atherosclerosis
- Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
- Degenerative Diseases: Arthritis, Osteoporosis
- Diabetes, Hypoglycemia
- Digestive Complaints: Constipation, IBS, Heartburn, Candida,
- Diverticulosis
- Fibromyalgia
- High Cholesterol
- Hypertension
- Skin Conditions: Eczema, Psoriasis, Acne
- Thyroid and Adrenal Disorders
Acute Conditions
- Colds
- Headaches
- Urinary Tract Infections
Women’s Conditions
- Breast Cancer Prevention and Support
- Fertility Support
- Fibrocystic Breast Disease
- Menopausal Problems
- Menstrual Disorders, PMS
- Ovarian Cysts
- Pregnancy Health Enhancement
- Skin Health
- Uterine Fibroids
Children’s Health
- Allergies, Eczema
- Attention Deficit Disorder, Hyperactivity
- Children’s Nutrition and Supplementation
- Digestive Upset: Colic, Gas, Constipation
- Food Introduction for Infants
- Low Immune Function (recurrent infections)
Others
- Anxiety, Mild Depression
- Detoxification
- Inflammation and Body Pain
- Insomnia
- Men’s Health, Prostate Disorders
- Mental and Emotional Stress
- Weight Loss
What is Naturopathy?
Naturopathy or Naturopathic Medicine is a holistic (whole person) system of healing. It is based on the principle that the body has a natural ability to restore and maintain health. Naturopathy artfully blends a combination of the latest scientific research with the tradition and simplicity of the back to basics approach to wellness. A Naturopath’s goal is to discover the cause of disease and help individuals achieve the highest level of health possible. To support the healing process, we use safe, non-toxic therapies, such as herbs, nutrition, lifestyle counseling, hydrotherapy, and homeopathy. These natural therapies work in harmony with the body’s natural healing ability to gently improve health. Naturopaths teach the principles of healthy living and preventative medicine, which are the safest, most common sense, and cost effective treatments available to you.
The Holistic Principle
Naturopathic healing principles recognize that the body, mind, emotions and spirit – are interconnected and constantly interact. Disharmony on any one of these levels can have adverse effects on the body, in other words, cause disease. Likewise, the appropriate healing therapy may be directed at any one or a combination of these areas. Therefore, each aspect of your makeup and environment must be considered when evaluating your case Naturopathically. In Naturopathic Medicine, we understand that symptoms in different parts of the body, seemingly unrelated illnesses, or other life events from the past may play an important role in your current condition. Naturopathic Doctors use this interconnected information to generate a specific, principle-based health plan customized for your particular needs.
The Vital Force, Your Living Organic Energy
Naturopathic Medicine is based on the philosophy of Vitalism, the belief that all living beings possess an intelligent, living energy which provides an innate ability to heal. Naturopathic Medicine refers to this energy as the Vital Force. Chinese Medicine call it the Qi (“chee”). The Vital Force represents a natural wisdom of the body which constantly works to restore health to the human system — in essence a living, intelligent, feedback control system. Naturopathic medicine is designed to work with this inherent healing ability in a holistic manner to restore balance and harmony to the whole person.
Why Choose Naturopathy?
- I want healthcare that addresses the whole person.
- I am tired of living with a chronic health condition.
- I want to prevent disease.
- I have a persistent symptom to which no one can find an answer.
- I want to take charge of my health.
- I desire a better quality of life.
History of Naturopathic Medicine
Naturopathy is neither New Age nor Alternative medicine. The natural therapies and the philosophy on which Naturopathy is based have been effectively used to treat disease since the fourth century B.C. Hippocrates, considered the father of medicine, said, “Let your food be your medicine.” Hippocrates is often considered the earliest predecessor of Naturopathic Physicians and taught that “nature is the healer of all diseases”. This concept has long been the core of indigenous medicine in many cultures around the world and remains one of the central themes in Naturopathic philosophy to this day.
In the 18th Century, water therapy, known as hydrotherapy, was popularized in Germany and “nature cure” developed. It was based on the proper use of food, light, water, and herbs to treat illness. In 1902, Benjamin Lust, a German Immigrant, first introduced Naturopathy to the United States and founded the school of Naturopathy. The earliest Doctors used herbs, foods, water, fasting, and tissue manipulation – gentle treatments that did not obscure the body’s own healing powers. Naturopathic Medicine was popular and widely available throughout the United States well into the early part of the 20th century.
Around 1920, from coast to coast, there were a number of Naturopathic Medical schools, thousands of Naturopathic Doctors, and thousands of people using natural therapies. During the 1940’s and 1950’s an increase in availability of pharmaceutical drugs in the United States caused naturopathic medicine to experience a decline. This did not hold true for the rest of the world, however, as natural medicines were and still are practiced in much of Europe and Asia, even in conventional settings. In the past few decades, however, naturopathic medicine has seen a resurgence as interest in nutrition, exercise and healthful living, along with a desire for natural, rather than conventional medical treatment, has become a renewed focus. The number of visits to Holistic Practitioners now exceed conventional medical visits.
Although advances in medical technology have made great strides in emergency medicine and diagnostic procedures, Americans are more chronically ill than any other time in history. Modern medicine falls short in the treatment of chronic degenerative diseases, health promotion, and disease prevention. Growing interest is returning to the simple and common approach to health and healing.
FAQ
How do conventional medical schools and naturopathic schools compare?
Naturopathic medical schools have admission requirements and coursework comparable to those of conventional medical schools. In addition to this standard medical curriculum, ND’s study clinical nutrition, counseling, homeopathic medicine, botanical medicine, physical medicine, exercise therapy, and hydrotherapy.
This education includes premedical undergraduate coursework, completion of a four year, graduate-level program at an accredited naturopathic medical college, and two years of a supervised clinical internship.
What is the difference between modern medicine and naturopathic medicine?
The two main tools utilized by M.D.’s are drugs and surgery, both of which can harm the body. Medicating symptoms does not address the disease process and allows the disease to continue, albeit quietly. Stronger medicine and/or additional medicines are needed overtime because the diseased body continually tries to relay the message that there is a problem that needs addressing. Medications are overused and in this country to quiet disease symptoms and “manage the disease”. Subsequently, the individual continues the same lifestyle that promoted the disease.
Do you accept insurance?
The state of Maryland does not currently recognize licensing for Naturopathic Doctors; therefore, Dr. Acree is not able to accept insurance payments and does not provide billing statements for insurance reimbursement.
How long will my appointment last?
The first appointment will last 1 ½ hours. The follow-up appointments are usually about 45 minutes. The follow-up appointments serve as the compass that continually leads the individual to the road of optimal health and wellness. Follow-ups are recommended 1 week after the initial appointment and at one, three, and six months.
How do I get started?
To get started, the first step is to call the office and schedule an appointment. Please leave your name and number clearly on the voice mail and Dr. Donna will contact you within 24 hours. I can also be reached at (717) 357-0242 weekdays before 6pm.
Can I bring my child to the appointment?
The focus of the appointment is on you, and I encourage you to arrange for someone to watch him/her. Having a child present is often distracting and can bring the focus away from your health concerns.
Do you see acute patients?
Aside from the common cold (ex. sinusitis), Dr. Donna does not see people for acute care cases of infectious disease or injury. Please see your primary care physician or go to the emergency room for acute care.
Why is Naturopathy a healthier option?
Naturopathy utilizes tools and therapies that promote lifelong improvements in health. Health conditions are resolved or supported in a manner that creates an overall healthier person rather than simply patching the problem with a potentially toxic medication that can in it-self create health problems. Individuals who implement the basics of healthy living and natural medicine into their lives are more likely to live a richer quality of life.
What types of diet changes will I be expected to make?
Food can be one of the most powerful influences for regaining health and vitality. Your particular diet changes will be based on your specific needs and preferences. The more open you are to commit to positive diet changes, the more effective your other therapies will be. Some people are able to completely manage a chronic health concern through diet alone, such as Type 2 Diabetes. These individuals save significant amounts of money on office visits and medications. Dr. Donna will take into account what is best for your specific concern, and what you are willing and capable of doing at that time.
Do I have to stop taking my prescription medication or discontinue other therapies to benefit from Naturopathic Medicine?
No. Prescription medication should never be abruptly discontinued. However, many people find that as their bodies regain health and vitality they need to rely less on prescription drugs and can adequately manage their health with more natural approaches. Consult your Primary Care Physician if you wish to decrease or discontinue any prescription medications.
What alternatives are there to taking capsulated supplements?
Many people and more specifically children are not comfortable taking too many capsules or tablets. Many of the herbal supplements and vitamins are available in liquid, powder, and sublingual (under the tongue) form. People who do not like taking vitamins in any form are encouraged to rely more heavily on positive dietary and lifestyle changes.
Why does the cost of health insurance and health care continue to rise?
Most people assume if they have mild or intermittent symptoms, they are healthy and wait until serious problems develop before seeking healthcare. Other people may think having health problems are OK, so long as you can take a pill to mask the symptoms, such as
taking antacids for heartburn. Disease is often silent and progressive over many years or decades, as is the case in atherosclerosis (hardening and blocked arteries). When serious disease becomes obvious such as a heart attack or stroke, expensive procedures are often necessary. Enter the high cost of medical insurance and health care.
Why haven’t our advances in diagnostic and surgical medicine prevented the rise of chronic disease?
Drugs and surgery do not eliminate the cause of diseases. Drugs and surgery may effectively manage disease and prolong life quantity, but unless the underlying cause is addressed and the internal and/or external environment, which produced the disease, is altered, disease is likely to resurface.
Why should I be concerned about suppressing symptoms with medication?
There are times medication is absolutely necessary short or long term. The issue is using wisdom to determine if medication is absolutely necessary or if there are other options that address the cause and fix the problem so long term medication can be avoided. Ignoring and medicating the symptoms allows the disease process to continue.
First Visit
A comprehensive and detailed health history form will be sent prior to your appointment. Once received, complete the confidential questionnaire in a rested state and in a quiet, uninterrupted place. Because Naturopathy is holistic care, the more information collected about your physical, mental, and emotional health, the more effective Dr. Donna will be in helping you. Your pre-submitted information is reviewed prior to the visit and will make the time in the office more efficient.
Appointments
Patients are seen by appointment only. The Initial visit is 90 minutes. Follow up appointments are 45 minutes. Please bring any current supplements that you are taking as well as any recent lab work copies from the past 12 months.
Financial Policy
Phone questions/ consultations: There is no charge for brief questions that can be answered on the phone such as clarification of on-going therapy. However, if you are calling about a new health concern or need extended time, fees based on office visit rate schedule will apply.
E-mail: E-mail communications are provided as a no-fee service for brief questions or clarification of on-going therapy and are not intended as a substitute for regular office visits or for new health concerns. E-mail is not suitable for time sensitive messages. Please allow up to 5 days to receive a reply.
No Show/Cancellation
The scheduled time for your appointment has been reserved specifically for you. Except in emergency situations, if you miss or cancel a scheduled appointment without providing 24 hours notice, you will be charged a $50 no show/cancellation fee. Because we make every attempt to stay on schedule, if you are late for an appointment, you will only be seen for the remainder of your scheduled time.
Insurance
The state of Maryland does not currently recognize licensing for Naturopathic Doctors; therefore, Dr. Acree is not able to accept insurance payments and does not provide billing statements for insurance reimbursement. Payment due at time of service. Cash and check accepted.
Cost Effective
Naturopathy is cost effective because it prevents the high price of long-term disease. The overall costs are lowered because the disease process is addressed and corrected at the early stages. If disease is long standing, Naturopathy still offers therapies that improve health quality as much as possible. Establishing healthy lifestyle practices will significantly lower cost by preventing expensive and common American diseases such as heart disease and cancer.
THE FINE PRINT…READ ME PLEASE!
You must pre-register, as space is limited. Prepayment of your class is required to reserve your spot. If a student cancels prior to 48 hours before the class, the refund will be applied to a future class or a full monetary refund will be given. No refunds will be given for cancellations received after the 48-hour deadline or for no-shows. Please be on time! Late arrivals are disruptive to the instructor and other students. The classroom is open at least 15 minutes before each class. Anyone arriving more than 10 minutes late will, unfortunately, be counted as a no-show. If you have any questions, please contact Zoe Brittain at 301.663.3416 or zoe@commonmarket.coop
Forms
Welcome Form
Female Health Form
Male Health Form
Child Health Form (Infant -12 Years)
Events
- Upcoming Natural Medicine Events
Contact:
- DoctorDonna@comcast.net
- P: 301-631-2936 ext. 305
