Doctors of Naturopathy & Salaries

People seeking alternative health care may turn to a naturopathic doctor -- an N.D. or N.M.D. -- to treat their ailments. Rather than treating symptoms, doctors of naturopathy treat illnesses using natural and preventive therapies such as herbal medicine, homeopathy and massage.

Medical Doctors versus Naturopathic Doctors

• Medical doctors and naturopathic doctors are educated in the same sciences, according to the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians. Unlike doctors who practice traditional medicine, doctors of naturopathy study holistic medicine. Their studies also emphasize wellness and disease prevention.

Education

• Doctors of naturopathy must attend four years of a graduate-level licensed naturopathic medicine program, according to the Association of Accredited Naturopathic Medical Colleges. The four years of training include subjects such as acupuncture, homeopathic medicine, physical medicine and clinical nutrition.

Salary

• Salaries for a naturopathic physician vary. N.D.s with busy practices earn an average net income between $80,000 and $90,000, according to the AANMC. Salaries are usually considerably less for beginning naturopathic doctors and those who work part-time.