Frequently Asked Questions

What is Dr. Serena’s training and specialty?

Dr. Serena is a Naturopathic Physician who graduated from Bastyr University, and completed a family medicine residency at the Bastyr Center for Natural Health.  She is licensed as a Primary Care Provider in the State of Washington, and practices holistic, integrative medicine with focus on women’s care and sexual health.

What is a Naturopathic Physician?

Naturopathic physicians (N.D.'s) are general practitioners trained as specialists in natural medicine.  They are educated in the conventional medical sciences, laboratory diagnostics, and holistic treatments. A naturopathic physician has a Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine (N.D.) degree from a four-year graduate level naturopathic medical university. In practice, naturopathic physicians perform physical examinations, laboratory testing, gynecological exams, nutritional and dietary assessments, X-ray and other diagnostic and screening tests.  Naturopathic physicians treat using therapies from the sciences of clinical nutrition, herbal medicine, physical medicine, exercise medicine, and counseling. Naturopathic physicians may prescribe some medications in the event that is considered clinically necessary.

How are Naturopathic Doctors different from MDs?

Like Medical Doctors, Naturopathic Doctors are trained extensively in clinical sciences and diagnostics. The primary difference is that Naturopathy focuses on the whole person, and seeks to identify and treat the underlying imbalances, rather than addressing health issues in isolation. Most importantly, Naturopathic Doctors treat health conditions with safe and effective natural therapies that the body can process easily. Pharmaceutical drugs and surgery are recommended when needed, and often they can be prevented and/or worked in conjunction with supportive natural medicines to speed your healing.

Can Dr. Serena prescribe medications?

Yes. Dr. Serena is a Washington State Licensed Naturopathic Physician, which grants her prescriptive rights. She does prefer to use natural and botanical medicines whenever possible, but she can have a pharmacy fill prescriptions as warranted.  She does not prescribe controlled substance pain medications.

Does Dr. Serena take insurance?

Yes, Dr. Serena is credentialed as a Primary Care Provider (PCP) with most major insurance plans. She is a preferred provider with the following insurance companies:

All health plans vary, please contact your plan directly to understand your specific coverage for naturopathic medicine.

What happens during my first visit?

Prior to your first visit, we'll ask you to complete an extensive questionnaire packet about your medical history, symptoms and anything you want the doctor to know, along with any medications and supplements you're currently taking. From that, Dr. Serena conducts a comprehensive review of health systems. Your initial consultation will last one hour, and Dr. Serena will discuss your medical history and current health issues, and provide diagnostic and treatment recommendations.  Follow up visits are 30 minutes.

What should I bring with me?

If you have copies of previous medical records or labwork results, please bring them to your first visit (or when relevant).  If you are already taking nutritional supplements bringing in the bottles of the products can be helpful in evaluating your current protocol.  A list of medications and dosages is also encouraged.

How many visits will I need?

The frequency of your office visits depends on the nature of your condition and how long it has been present. Each patient has an individualized healthcare plan that is created according to his/her needs. Initially, patients may need to come more frequently so adjustments and fine-tuning can be made to their care plan depending on their symptoms.

When do I pay for office visits and lab tests?

You will be billed for your services at our office in the mail.  If you have insurance, your office visits will be billed directly to them, and you will receive a bill after insurance payment has been received for any remaining copay or percentage of coverage amount due.  If you do not have insurance, a bill for your visits will be mailed directly to you.

What kinds of fees can I expect?

Office visit fees can run anywhere from $90.00 up to $225.00 depending on the type and length of visit. Most insurance companies pay 70 – 100% of office visit fees.