What is..?
Ever wondered what exactly is a naturopath? Why you would see an osteopath? When to consult a psychiatrist rather than a psychologist?
What is a combined consultation?
A combined consultation is when a Doctor and a Naturopath consult at the same time, in the same room with the patient. This integrative approach creates a thorough understanding of the individuals health needs and combines the comprehensive knowledge of the two modalities which can yield a safer and better outcome for the patient.What is a General Practitioner?
General Practitoners are doctors who provide medical care to patients without a referral. They prevent and treat illness in patients and act as the 'gate keepers' of the medical profession by deciding when and to whom to refer for other services.
Increasingly GPs are working with other health profesionals in teams.
General Practioners provide a complete spectrum of care often involving physical, psychological and social factors in dealing with their patients.
General Practitioners call on an extensive knowledge of medical conditions to be able to assess a problem and decide on the appropriate course of action. They know how and when to intervene, through treatment, prevention and education, to promote the health of their patients and families.
General Practitoners are highly trained in their chosen field and are required to maintain and improve upon their knowledge and skill base through the Continuing Professional Development and Education Program to maintain their registration with the Medical Board.
Why see a GP at NCMC? There are 4 General Practitioners at NCMC - Dr Anthony Solomon, Dr Robert Trigger, Dr Bettie Honey and Dr Lee Sui.
What is an Osteopath?
An Osteopath uses a system of healthcare that treats musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction with hands-on techniques directed to the bones, muscles, joints and connective tissues to enhance the performance of your body’s circulatory, immune and nervous systems. Osteopaths are trained in exercise prescription, rehabilitation, and nutrition so as part of your treatment expect some advice on posture, exercise, and diet to help you prevent future problems. Osteopathic services are covered under private Health Funds. When referred through a GP, patients can receive rebates through workers compensation insurance and the Medicare Enhanced Primary Care programme.
Why see an Osteopath? There are 2 osteopaths at NCMC - Paul Orrock and Tomas Leszczynski
What is a Naturopath?
A Naturopath is a wholistic health professional who considers you from a physical, mental, emotional and spiritual perspective then creates a workable health plan, using herbal medicine, nutritional supplementation, homoeopathic remedies, flower essences, foods and/or lifestyle changes to support and accelerate your own natural healing and optimal wellness. Naturopathy is the complementary practice of working towards understanding the underlying patterns of illness whilst complementing the body's innate healing ability to find it's optimum state of health using natural substances such as herbs and nutrients. A well prescribed supplement regime is the basis of the healing that occurs Naturopathically. Naturopathy has been proven to be safe and effective due to vast amount of research into the common herbs and nutrients prescribed for the individual.
Why see a Naturopath? The 3 naturopaths at NCMC are Reine Dubois, Gareth Vanderhope and Peter Keil
What is a Psychologist?
A psychologist is a clinician with post graduate training who specialises in mental health and psychological issues. Psychologists have to be registered with their state licensing board and have a strict code of professional conduct. Psychologists have to continue their professional development throughout their career in order to maintain their registration. Psychologists tend to specialise in targeted interventions for specific issues such as anxiety disorders, mood disorders and any psychological issues that interfere with the quality of a persons life. Generally psychologists do short to medium term interventions focussing on present difficulties.
Why see a Psychologist? The 4 Psychologists at NCMC are Robyn Grace, Tim Loughnan and Paula Thomas.
What is a Psychotherapist?
A well qualified Psychotherapist has had three or more years training and has been through therapy to understand the process first hand. In their training they present their clients to supervisors to show the quality of their work.
Why see a Psychotherapist? The 2 Psychotherapists at NCMC are Robyn Grace, Lily Schmelzle and Ruth Levy.
What is a Psychiatrist?
A Psychiatrist is a qualified medical doctor who has obtained additional qualifications to become a specialist in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of mental illness and emotional problems. Because of their extensive medical and psychiatric training, Psychiatrists are able to view illness in an integrated way by taking into consideration the related aspects of body and mind. Psychiatrists are trained both to recognise and treat the effects of emotional disturbances on the body as a whole, as well as the effects of physical conditions on the mind. This is particularly important, as many emotional disturbances affect various parts of the body and physical illnesses can certainly affect the mind. A psychiatrist's medical and psychiatric training allows both the physical and emotional to be kept in perspective.
What are the differences between Psychiatry and Psychology? The Psychiatrist at NCMC is Dr Mark Scurrah
What is a Counsellor?
Counsellors are professionals who provide short and long-term therapy in a safe and confidential environment. They assist individuals with the skills to understand, prevent and relieve distress or behaviours that inhibit productive relationships and social functioning. This process involves learning new strategies, life management skills and in gaining personal insights into behaviours and thoughts. This can facilitate change and can assist in an individual’s increased sense of well being and personal development.
Why see a counsellor? The Counsellors at NCMC are Simon DuBois, Sarah Mabbutt and Peter Keil
What is a Dietitian?
Dietitians are professionals with the qualifications and skills to provide expert nutrition and dietary advice. They translate the latest scientific information into practical advice about what to eat for optimum health and wellbeing. Dietitians educate patients and family members on eating well and work with them to ensure diets meet individual needs.
Why see a Dietitian?
One would see a Dietitian for any diet related health condition. Dietitians have the clinical training to modify diets to treat, or help to manage, conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, obesity, cancer, food allergies and intolerances. This includes people recovering from illness or surgery. Dietitians can also help athletes, sporting clubs, children and those interested in fitness to eat better to achieve their goals. Their advice may be related to helping people achieve peak sporting performance or improved energy and activity levels.What is a Herbalist?
A Herbalist is trained in the philosophies, principles and practice of western herbal medicine and takes a holistic view towards health and illness. A herbalist will assess you as a whole person and seek to treat the underlying cause of disease using herbal medicines, nutritional supplements, flower essences, plus dietary and lifestyle changes to maintain your wellbeing.
Why see a Herbalist? The Herbalists at NCMC are Reine DuBois, Gareth Vanderhope and Lynette Tyrrell.
Find us
24 Shirley Street, Byron Bay NSW 2481
We are situated 5 doors down from the Byron Bay Hospital in Shirley St
Click here for Map (pdf 120kb)
Ph: 02 6685 8666
Fx: 02 6685 6570
Email: doctor@northcoastmedicalcentre.com.au
Opening hours: Monday - Friday 9am - 6pm
Still more questions?
Please read our frequently asked questions page for answers.
If you still have a question please call our reception on 02 6685 8666
