The California Naturopathic Doctors Association (CNDA) has been an instrumental part of my educational journey and professional development. It has provided me with invaluable resources, networking opportunities, and a strong sense of community among peers and mentors who are equally passionate about holistic healthcare. The advancement of naturopathic medicine in California lies in the hands of the CNDA as they play a pivotal role in advocating for the rights and recognition of naturopathic doctors, striving to enhance our scope and ensuring our voices are heard in legislative matters. This advocacy is vital for the integration of naturopathic medicine into the broader healthcare system, promoting a more diverse, inclusive and holistic approach to health and wellness. I’m so grateful I was able to participate in Lobby Day this year in Sacramento, and I look forward to continuing our efforts to modernize our scope of practice in California.

“CNDA is the voice of all naturopathic doctors in California. Their advocacy for our rights and protecting our title in the state is extremely important for our profession. For example, they worked hard to pass SB 944, which was an instrumental win for NDs in California. Unfortunately, there are limitations to the scope of practice in California. As a prospective ND, I genuinely appreciate CNDA's fight to expand our scope of practice in the state so we can provide better care for our patients.”

The CNDA is important to our profession as naturopathic doctors because it plays a crucial role in advancing naturopathic medicine in California. It advocates for our professional rights and takes action to expand our scope of practice in this state so that we can effectively serve patients. California is where I plan to practice so I deeply appreciate the CNDA and their efforts in championing our profession. I also believe in the power of community and being involved in organizations that inspire and uplift members of our profession. I plan to always be a part of CNDA throughout my career and am hoping to start now by attending conferences as a student where I can meet the doctors that I look up to, and learn how I can become more involved in the field of naturopathic medicine as a student.

As a graduating Naturopathic Doctor student, I can't stress enough how vital the California Naturopathic Doctor Association is to me. From connecting me with experienced mentors to providing webinars and resources. Their advocacy efforts are also impressive. Through legislative work, they're fighting to ensure that naturopathic medicine maintains and modernizes our scope of practice. Thanks to the CNDA, I feel confident and empowered as I prepare to start my career. They've shown me that I'm not just joining a profession, I'm becoming part of a community dedicated to making a real difference in people's lives. They're not just an organization, they're the backbone of our profession.