Client experiences and perceptions of naturopathic treatment in New Zealand: a qualitative study

Abstract

IntroductionNaturopathy is a well-known and utilised form of traditional, complementary, and integrative medicine TCIM). Limited New Zealand research exists that has examined the utilisation of naturopathy from the perspective of users. The present study was designed to identify and explore individual's experiences and perceptions of naturopathic care. MethodsTwenty clients (18 female and two male) who attended a student naturopathy and herbal medicine teaching clinic in Auckland, New Zealand were individually interviewed via Zoom video conferencing using open-ended questions. Interview transcripts were anlysed using an inductive thematic approach, focusing on similarities in participants experiences and perceptions of their naturopathic treatment. ResultsSix main themes were identified regarding individual's experiences and perceptions of naturopathic care (1) Feeling heard, (2) perceived attributes of the student practitioner and feeling looked after, (3) perceived knowledge of student practitioners, (4) high degree of client education, (5) partnership, empowerment and ownership, and (6) recommending naturopathy based on own experiences ConclusionsParticipants reported positive experiences and perceptions of their naturopathic treatment. Participants felt heard and looked after and indicated that their student naturopaths were caring, supportive and knowledgeable. Client education enhanced health literacy and participants felt empowered and in control of their health and healing. Client education was perceived to be important for individuals with chronic health conditions, as the information imparted was not always covered by their other healthcare practitioners.