Have you changed business names?

Yes. Ocean Ivy Health & Wellness is now Klara Walsh Naturopathy. While the name has changed, my approach remains the same - offering evidence-based, holistic care to support your health and well-being. I continue to provide in-person consultations at Broulee Health Hub and online appointments.

What is naturopathy?

Naturopathy is a holistic, science-based approach to healthcare that focuses on treating the entire individual rather than only alleviating symptoms of a specific illness or condition. It combines contemporary research in natural medicine with age-old traditional wisdom. The core principles of naturopathy include recognising the healing power of nature, identifying and addressing the root causes of illness, prioritising non-harmful interventions, considering the interconnectedness of health factors and emphasising preventive measures.

Naturopathic treatments often include a range of dietary adjustments, nutritional supplements, herbal medicine and lifestyle recommendations.

Why is my first appointment one hour in duration?

The initial appointment is used to gather a comprehensive understanding of your past and present medical history, medication/supplement use, family medical history, significant illnesses/surgeries and so on. It involves questioning that does not often need to be covered in depth in your follow-up appointments.

How many appointments will I need?

The number of appointments varies depending on your individual health concerns, goals and how long you've been experiencing symptoms. Many clients notice improvements within the first couple of appointments, while more complex or long-standing concerns may require ongoing support. During your initial consultation, Klara will discuss a personalised treatment plan and recommend an appropriate follow-up schedule.

How does an online appointment work?

An online appointment is conducted through the internet using a secure and HIPAA-compliant video system. When scheduling your appointment, select the "Online Appointment" option. Following the confirmation of your booking, you will receive an email containing a hyperlink. To commence the video appointment, please click on the provided link. Please ensure you have a secure internet connection.

Important note: A telehealth appointment should not be conducted in situations or locations where privacy, confidentiality and safety cannot be assured. These include while driving, in public areas or in shared/communal spaces where others may overhear. It is strongly recommended that you find a quiet, secure location to conduct the appointment.

Do I need pathology testing?

Not always. If you have recent blood test results or other relevant investigations, these can often provide valuable insights and should be brought to your appointment. In some cases, additional functional or pathology testing may be recommended to help identify underlying factors contributing to your health concerns. Any testing recommendations will be discussed with you before proceeding.

Can naturopathy be used alongside medications?

Yes. Naturopathy can often complement conventional medical care. Klara has over 10 years of experience working in community and hospital pharmacies and carefully considers potential interactions between medications, supplements and herbal medicines. If you're taking prescription medications, your treatment plan will be tailored to ensure recommendations are safe and appropriate.

Can I claim my appointment through my private health insurance?

Unfortunately, naturopathic appointments are not currently eligible for claims through private health insurance.