Frequently Asked Questions
about East Valley Naturopathic Doctors Near You in Mesa, AZ

Naturopathic medicine is a form of primary healthcare that blends modern medical science with natural therapies. Licensed Naturopathic Doctors (NDs) attend accredited four-year medical schools and are trained in standard medical sciences as well as nutrition, herbal medicine, mind-body therapies, and other holistic modalities. At its core, naturopathic medicine is guided by principles like treating the root cause of illness, supporting the body’s innate healing ability, treating the whole person, and “first do no harm.” This means we emphasize understanding why you are ill and addressing underlying factors rather than just suppressing symptoms. Naturopathic care also prioritizes patient education (the doctor as teacher) and preventive medicine to help you achieve long-term wellness.

Naturopathic doctors (NDs) and conventional medical doctors share a foundation in basic medical sciences and are both trained to diagnose and treat disease. The key difference is in approach and toolkit. Conventional MDs are more likely to focus on acute care, symptom management, and use pharmaceuticals or surgeries as first-line treatments. NDs, by contrast, take a more holistic and proactive approach: we spend longer with patients during visits, delve into detailed questions about their lifestyle and environment, and often order more in-depth or functional lab testing. Our treatment plans typically start with the least invasive, most natural therapies – such as nutrition changes, herbal or nutritional supplements, stress management, and physical therapies – and we reserve prescription medications or referrals for surgery for when they are truly needed. In short, NDs aim to support the whole person and address root causes, while also being able to use conventional methods when appropriate. This integrative strategy often results in a more personalized healthcare experience and empowers you to participate actively in your healing process.

All of our NDs at East Valley Naturopathic Doctors are licensed naturopathic physicians in Arizona, which is a state that rigorously licenses NDs as primary care providers. They each hold a Doctorate of Naturopathic Medicine from accredited institutions (such as Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine) – a four-year medical graduate program with over 4,000 hours of classroom and clinical training. After graduation, some completed residencies or advanced training in specialties.

We can prescribe medications when needed, but our philosophy is to use the gentlest, most natural effective treatment first. In Arizona, licensed NMDs have a broad scope of practice – we can prescribe most pharmaceuticals (excluding only certain controlled substances) and also perform minor procedures. In our practice, if a prescription drug is the best choice for your health, we will absolutely utilize it (for example, antibiotics for an acute infection or thyroid hormone replacement for hypothyroidism). However, we often find that many conditions can improve with nutritional support, herbal medicine, lifestyle changes, or other natural therapies before turning to medications. Our doctors are experts in nutraceuticals and botanical medicine and will incorporate high-quality supplements or herbs into treatment plans as appropriate. Often, we blend approaches: a care plan might include dietary changes, targeted supplements, and medications when necessary for optimal results. For instance, in managing thyroid disorders like Hashimoto’s, our NDs might address nutrition and immune balance and prescribe thyroid hormone if your levels are low. Overall, we are not “anti-medication” – we are pro-health and pro-patient. We will use whatever tools are safest and most effective for you, from nature’s pharmacy to the conventional pharmacy, all while monitoring your progress closely.

Yes, absolutely. Our naturopathic physicians can order and interpret all standard laboratory tests (blood work, urine tests, imaging, etc.) just like any primary care provider. In fact, a thorough diagnostic evaluation is a cornerstone of our approach. We will often start by ordering conventional labs to assess things like blood counts, metabolic panels, thyroid levels, etc., to get a baseline picture of your health. Additionally, one of the strengths of naturopathic medicine is our use of specialty labs for deeper insight. We can order a wide array of advanced tests. For example, hormone panels (saliva, blood or urine) to pinpoint imbalances, comprehensive stool analyses for digestive health, food sensitivity and allergy panels, heavy metal and toxin screens, genetic tests (like MTHFR), and more. At EVND we have a whole suite of Specialty Labs we utilize to personalize your care. These include things like adrenal function testing, mold/mycotoxin testing, Lyme disease Western blot panels, micronutrient testing, and others, depending on your needs. We also perform unique in-house diagnostics such as QEEG brain mapping (a specialized brain wave scan) when evaluating neurological conditions, or nasal swab cultures for chronic sinus issues. Our clinic has an on-site phlebotomy room for drawing blood (in comfortable reclining chairs!) and we coordinate with major labs (LabCorp, Sonora Quest, etc.) as needed. We’re fully equipped to diagnose health conditions, from the simplest to the most complex, by combining standard medical tests with cutting-edge functional diagnostics. This detailed investigative approach helps us identify root causes that might be overlooked elsewhere.

We treat a wide range of conditions, from everyday ailments to complex chronic illnesses, in patients of all ages. As naturopathic primary care providers, we can address most health concerns that you would bring to any family doctor – and we specialize in many chronic and “mysterious” conditions that often benefit from a holistic approach. Some broad categories of conditions we manage include:

• Hormonal and Metabolic Disorders: Thyroid problems (like hypothyroidism and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis), adrenal fatigue, menopause and PMS, low testosterone, diabetes and pre-diabetes, weight management, etc.
• Autoimmune and Inflammatory Conditions: We see autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, Sjögren’s, celiac disease, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, etc., and work on balancing the immune system and reducing triggers.
• Chronic Infections and Immune Issues: This includes Lyme disease and co-infections, chronic viral infections (EBV, long COVID), recurrent sinus or yeast infections, mold illness and biotoxin illness, and Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS).
• Neurological and Mental Health: Anxiety and depression, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, PANS/PANDAS, migraines, concussion and traumatic brain injury, memory loss, and even supportive care for neurodegenerative conditions like dementia.
• Digestive and Allergic Conditions: Irritable Bowel Syndrome, inflammatory bowel diseases (Crohn’s, colitis), chronic constipation or diarrhea, food intolerances, heartburn, eczema, asthma, seasonal allergies, histamine intolerance, and others.
• Pain and Musculoskeletal Issues: Chronic pain syndromes (fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome), acute and sports injuries, arthritis, back/neck pain, headaches, and neuropathy. We offer specialized therapies for pain management and tissue healing (like regenerative injections and microcurrent therapy).
  
• General Family Medicine: We also handle acute illnesses (colds, flu, ear infections), perform well-woman exams, address men’s health issues, support healthy pregnancies or fertility, and provide wellness care for all ages. 

This is just a sample – in truth, because we treat people, not just diseases, we’re able to help with nearly any health concern by tailoring a plan to your unique needs. If you’re unsure whether we manage a specific condition, feel free to ask; chances are we do, or we can refer you to someone who can.

Our approach to autoimmune diseases is very thorough and aimed at both relieving your symptoms and calming the underlying immune imbalance. Take Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (autoimmune hypothyroidism) as an example: First, we ensure a proper diagnosis and baseline by running comprehensive thyroid labs – not just TSH, but free T4, free T3, and the thyroid antibodies (TPO and thyroglobulin antibodies) to confirm autoimmunity. We then work on two parallel tracks: Supporting the thyroid function and addressing the root causes/triggers of the autoimmunity. To support your thyroid, your naturopathic doctor will likely prescribe thyroid hormone replacement if needed (we use whichever form suits you best – natural desiccated thyroid like Armour®, synthetic levothyroxine, or compounded T3/T4 – and we fine-tune the dose based on your symptoms and labs). At the same time, we investigate why your immune system “attacked” the thyroid in the first place. Common triggers we consider include chronic viral infections, environmental toxicants (like mercury or other chemicals), nutrient deficiencies, food sensitivities (especially to gluten), intestinal health, and stress. For example, in Hashimoto’s, we often find gluten intolerance or leaky gut issues that exacerbate the autoimmune process. By testing and treating these factors – perhaps recommending a gluten-free or anti-inflammatory diet, selenium and zinc supplementation for thyroid support, antiviral or gut-healing therapies if indicated – we can reduce ongoing damage to the thyroid and sometimes even lower antibody levels. We take a similar root-cause approach with other autoimmune conditions: Identify triggers (which could be different for each person, such as infections, foods, mold exposure, etc.), support the affected organ system, and use natural immune-modulating therapies. Our toolbox might include anti-inflammatory nutrients and herbs, low-dose naltrexone (LDN) therapy in some cases to modulate immunity, stress reduction techniques, and detoxification support. The bottom line is that at EVND, we don’t simply hand you an immune-suppressing drug and send you on your way – we partner with you to balance your immune system and improve your quality of life long-term

At EVND, we treat Lyme disease and other chronic infections using a comprehensive, personalized approach that addresses the complexity of these conditions. Care begins with advanced diagnostic testing and careful evaluation for co-infections, followed by a structured, multi-step treatment program designed to target the infection while supporting the body’s immune, hormonal, and detoxification systems.

Treatment plans often combine targeted herbal or medical antimicrobial therapies with supportive modalities such as IV nutrient and oxidative therapies, dietary guidance, and gentle detox protocols. When neurological symptoms are present, therapies like neurofeedback or microcurrent may be incorporated. The overall goal is not only to address the infection itself, but to restore balance, reduce inflammation, and support full-system recovery with compassionate, ongoing care.

We can prescribe medications when needed, but our philosophy is to use the gentlest, most natural effective treatment first. In Arizona, licensed NMDs have a broad scope of practice – we can prescribe most pharmaceuticals (excluding only certain controlled substances) and also perform minor procedures. In our practice, if a prescription drug is the best choice for your health, we will absolutely utilize it (for example, antibiotics for an acute infection or thyroid hormone replacement for hypothyroidism). However, we often find that many conditions can improve with nutritional support, herbal medicine, lifestyle changes, or other natural therapies before turning to medications. Our doctors are experts in nutraceuticals and botanical medicine and will incorporate high-quality supplements or herbs into treatment plans as appropriate. Often, we blend approaches: a care plan might include dietary changes, targeted supplements, and medications when necessary for optimal results. For instance, in managing thyroid disorders like Hashimoto’s, our NDs might address nutrition and immune balance and prescribe thyroid hormone if your levels are low. Overall, we are not “anti-medication” – we are pro-health and pro-patient. We will use whatever tools are safest and most effective for you, from nature’s pharmacy to the conventional pharmacy, all while monitoring your progress closely.

Yes, absolutely. Our naturopathic physicians can order and interpret all standard laboratory tests (blood work, urine tests, imaging, etc.) just like any primary care provider. In fact, a thorough diagnostic evaluation is a cornerstone of our approach. We will often start by ordering conventional labs to assess things like blood counts, metabolic panels, thyroid levels, etc., to get a baseline picture of your health. Additionally, one of the strengths of naturopathic medicine is our use of specialty labs for deeper insight. We can order a wide array of advanced tests. For example, hormone panels (saliva, blood or urine) to pinpoint imbalances, comprehensive stool analyses for digestive health, food sensitivity and allergy panels, heavy metal and toxin screens, genetic tests (like MTHFR), and more. At EVND we have a whole suite of Specialty Labs we utilize to personalize your care. These include things like adrenal function testing, mold/mycotoxin testing, Lyme disease Western blot panels, micronutrient testing, and others, depending on your needs. We also perform unique in-house diagnostics such as QEEG brain mapping (a specialized brain wave scan) when evaluating neurological conditions, or nasal swab cultures for chronic sinus issues. Our clinic has an on-site phlebotomy room for drawing blood (in comfortable reclining chairs!) and we coordinate with major labs (LabCorp, Sonora Quest, etc.) as needed. We’re fully equipped to diagnose health conditions, from the simplest to the most complex, by combining standard medical tests with cutting-edge functional diagnostics. This detailed investigative approach helps us identify root causes that might be overlooked elsewhere.

Yes, we have a dedicated focus on pediatric behavioral and developmental conditions including Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and PANS/PANDAS (pediatric autoimmune neuropsychiatric syndromes). Our goal is to support each child’s ability to learn, grow, and thrive by using safe, integrative therapies. At EVND, we design alternative pediatric programs around evidence-based functional medicine therapies that have shown positive results in these conditions. This typically starts with thorough evaluations – we look for underlying issues that could be affecting your child. For example, we might test for food sensitivities, nutrient deficiencies, toxin exposures, gut imbalances (like yeast overgrowth or dysbiosis), and even infections or immune markers (since PANS/PANDAS can be triggered by strep or other infections). By discovering root causes, we take a lot of the guesswork out of treatment.

Our treatment plans for these conditions are highly individualized but often include:

• Nutrition and Diet: Many children on the spectrum or with ADHD or PANDAS/PANS improve with diet changes. We may implement gluten-free/casein-free or other elimination diets if food intolerances are present, as well as ensure a nutrient-dense diet to address any deficiencies. Sometimes a specific protocol like a low-oxalate or anti-candida diet is recommended if relevant.
• Supplements: We commonly use vitamins, minerals, and herbals to support brain health and development. For instance, omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium, zinc, and B-vitamins can be helpful for mood and focus. In PANS/PANDAS, we might use natural immune modulators or even prescriptive interventions (like antibiotics or anti-inflammatories) in conjunction with the child’s pediatrician or specialist to address the acute immune response.
• Brain Therapies: One exciting modality we offer is Neurofeedback therapy for children. This is a gentle, drug-free technique to train the brain and improve its function. For kids with significant behavioral or learning challenges, we often start with a QEEG brain map, which is a painless scan that shows us patterns of brain wave activity. This helps confirm diagnoses and pinpoint areas of dysregulation. Then, through neurofeedback training sessions (which feel like playing video games with their brainwaves), we can often enhance focus, calm hyperactivity or anxiety, and improve self-regulation over time. We’ve seen wonderful outcomes in kids with ADHD and autism who undergo neurofeedback – it can improve attention, reduce impulsivity, and even aid speech and socialization in some autistic children.
  
• Other Therapies: Children can also benefit from Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) and other biomed interventions. HBOT involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized chamber, which can increase oxygen delivery to the brain. Some studies and our clinical experience suggest HBOT can help certain children with autism by reducing inflammation and improving neurological function. We also may use frequency-specific microcurrent (FSM), craniosacral therapy, or homeopathic remedies tailored to the child’s needs. And importantly, we guide families on behavioral strategies and refer for occupational or speech therapy as needed – truly a comprehensive approach.

Our naturopathic doctors (notably Dr. Jason Porter, NMD, BCN, and Dr. Laura Badalamenti, NMD) are passionate about pediatric care. Dr. Badalamenti, in particular, has a specialty in pediatrics and has been an excellent resource for families – she treats everything from chronic ear infections and eczema in little ones to behavioral issues in older kids. At EVND, we treat children of all ages, and we modify our treatments to be kid-friendly at every step. For example, we might use liquid or chewable supplements, and we make the therapies as fun and engaging as possible (our neurofeedback room, for instance, is very kid-oriented). Parents often tell us they finally feel hope after starting this integrative program, as they see their child become calmer, more connected, and healthier. We believe every child deserves a bright future, and we’re here to support that with the best of natural and medical care.

Yes. Our practitioners at East Valley Naturopathic Doctors have extensive experience treating environmental illnesses such as mold toxicity, Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS), and related chronic inflammatory conditions. These complex issues are approached systematically, starting with identifying triggers through detailed history and specialized testing when appropriate. Because ongoing exposure can prevent healing, a key first step is helping patients recognize and eliminate sources of mold or environmental toxins in their home or workplace before beginning targeted treatment.

Once exposure is addressed, care focuses on supporting the body’s natural detoxification and immune balance. Treatment plans often include binders to help remove toxins, liver and antioxidant support to improve detox pathways, and therapies that promote elimination, such as infrared sauna and lymphatic support. Because mold illness commonly overlaps with immune dysregulation and MCAS, care also includes calming mast cell overactivity using targeted nutrients, dietary strategies, and medications when necessary. Co-infections or microbial imbalances are addressed as part of a comprehensive plan to reduce ongoing immune stress.

For MCAS specifically, treatment centers on uncovering and addressing the underlying drivers of mast cell activation while providing symptom relief. This may involve temporary dietary modifications, immune-stabilizing nutrients, and carefully selected medications alongside detox and infection support. By removing triggers, reducing toxic load, and restoring immune regulation, many patients experience meaningful improvements in energy, cognition, and overall quality of life. The goal is long-term resilience and recovery, with compassionate guidance throughout the process.

Yes, our clinic is equipped with a specialized Brain Regeneration Clinic to help patients recover from concussions, traumatic brain injuries (TBI), and other neurological challenges. We firmly believe – and emerging research confirms – that many symptoms following a brain injury can be improved or even reversed with timely and appropriate therapies. At EVND, we’ve brought together a range of cutting-edge, non-invasive treatments that target brain healing from multiple angles. Here’s what we offer for brain injury and brain health:

• Quantitative EEG (QEEG) Brain Mapping: Quantitative EEG (QEEG) brain mapping measures brain wave activity to identify areas of dysfunction, allowing us to personalize neurological therapies and track progress over time.
• Neurofeedback Therapy: Neurofeedback therapy trains the brain to develop healthier activity patterns using real-time feedback, helping improve cognition, focus, memory, and post-concussion symptoms.
• Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT): Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy delivers high levels of oxygen to injured brain tissue in a pressurized chamber, promoting healing, reducing inflammation, and improving cognitive recovery after concussion or brain injury.
• Photobiomodulation Therapy (PBM): Photobiomodulation therapy uses targeted red and near-infrared light to stimulate brain cell energy, improve blood flow, reduce inflammation, and support cognitive and mood recovery.
• Frequency-Specific Microcurrent (FSM): Frequency-Specific Microcurrent therapy uses gentle, targeted electrical currents to reduce inflammation, support tissue and nerve healing, and promote recovery from brain injury in a deeply relaxing way.
• Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS): We also offer tDCS as part of our brain regen toolkit. This involves a very mild direct current applied to specific scalp locations to modulate neural activity. Depending on the placement and polarity, tDCS can excite underactive brain areas or calm down overactive ones. It’s being researched for depression, PTSD, and TBI rehab with promising results.
• Nutrition and Supplementation: Brain recovery is supported with a personalized anti-inflammatory diet, targeted supplements, and hormone evaluation when needed to optimize healing and cognitive function.

In short, our approach is multifaceted and integrative. A patient recovering from a concussion might come in for a “brain rehab” session where they do 30 minutes of neurofeedback, 60 minutes in the hyperbaric chamber, and an FSM treatment, then head home with instructions for diet and supplements. Over a series of weeks, we often see tremendous improvements – better concentration, mood stabilization, fewer headaches, and return of restful sleep. We’ve helped athletes recover from sports concussions, supported veterans with blast TBIs, and assisted seniors in improving memory and cognitive function. We truly stay at the forefront of brain health innovations because brain healing is possible. If you or a loved one has suffered a brain injury or struggles with post-concussive syndrome, we are here to provide the latest therapies and a caring partnership on the road to recovery.

East Valley Naturopathic Doctors offers a comprehensive array of therapies – from natural remedies to advanced technological treatments – all under one roof. Our aim is to provide truly integrative care, so we have many tools at our disposal. Broadly, our treatments fall into a few categories:

• Lifestyle Medicine: Every patient receives guidance on nutrition, exercise, sleep, and stress management tailored to their condition. We might prescribe specific diets (anti-inflammatory, gluten-free, ketogenic, etc., as needed), and our in-house Holistic Nutritionist, Shelly Sandhu, can coach you through diet changes and even help reduce toxins in your home environment. Lifestyle changes form the foundation of healing and prevention for all patients.
• Herbal and Nutritional Supplements: We utilize high-quality botanical medicines, vitamins, and nutraceuticals. For example, herbal formulas for hormone balance, immune support, or digestion; nutritional supplements like fish oil for inflammation, magnesium for muscle relaxation, probiotics for gut health, and so on. These are often key in correcting deficiencies or imbalances. We maintain an on-site supplement dispensary, so you can conveniently obtain any recommended natural products during your visit.
• Physical Medicine and Bodywork: This includes therapies like spinal adjustments or mobilization, acupuncture (Dr. Seenauth and Dr. Badalamenti are trained in acupuncture and may incorporate it for pain or stress relief), and massage therapy. Our licensed massage therapist Jean Sutliff-Stanley, LMT/CM offers therapeutic massage and myopractic therapy – a specialized form of myofascial release to relieve pain and improve structural alignment. These hands-on treatments help with musculoskeletal issues, tension headaches, and chronic pain, and promote circulation and detoxification.
• Modern Regenerative Therapies: We provide cutting-edge treatments like Regenerative Injection Therapies – for instance, Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) and Prolotherapy for joint injuries and arthritis (Dr. Casey Seenauth is an expert in these, having trained extensively in regenerative orthopedics). These injections stimulate tissue repair naturally and can be great alternatives to corticosteroids or surgery for chronic pain. We also offer Stem Cell therapy consults and Trigger point injections for muscle pain.
• Detoxification Therapies: Beyond just telling you to “drink water and sweat,” we have specific modalities to aid detox. Our infrared sauna is available for patients to use – infrared heat penetrates deeply to encourage sweating out of toxins and has benefits for cardiovascular health and pain relief. We also have Ionic Detox Footbaths, which some patients use as a gentle adjunct to pull out toxins (especially helpful for children or those who can’t do a sauna). Additionally, we may utilize colon hydrotherapy referrals or guided fasting programs in certain cases where appropriate (for example, our Foundations of Fasting program for metabolic and detox benefits).

In addition to the above, EVND has a suite of specialty therapies which we’ll detail in individual FAQs below – including Neurofeedback, Hyperbaric Oxygen, Frequency-Specific Microcurrent, Photobiomodulation, Heart Rate Variability training, IV therapy, and more. What truly sets us apart is that we can combine these modalities in a personalized way for each patient. One person’s treatment plan might be weekly neurofeedback and counseling for anxiety, another’s might be herbal medicine plus ozone IVs for chronic fatigue, and another’s might be PRP for a knee injury plus acupuncture for back pain. Our practitioners collaborate as needed to make sure you’re getting well-rounded care. We basically strive to be your one-stop shop for integrative medicine – offering the most natural to the most technologically advanced therapies available, all with professional guidance and a caring touch.

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized chamber, allowing oxygen to dissolve into the bloodstream at much higher levels and reach damaged or oxygen-deprived tissues throughout the body. This “super-oxygenation” helps reduce inflammation, fight infection, stimulate new blood vessel growth, and accelerate tissue repair. At EVND, HBOT is used for a wide range of conditions, including brain injuries, stroke recovery, neurodegenerative disorders, chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia, chronic infections such as Lyme disease and mold illness, wound healing, and post-surgical recovery. Sessions typically last 60–90 minutes, are painless and relaxing, and are administered under medical supervision to ensure safety and effectiveness, with treatment plans tailored to each patient’s condition and healing goals.

Neurofeedback therapy is a specialized form of biofeedback that helps train your brain to function optimally. It’s a non-invasive, drug-free therapy that has been used for decades to address neurological and psychological conditions. The basic concept is this: Your brain emits electrical patterns (brainwaves), and with neurofeedback, we give your brain real-time information about its own activity so it can self-correct and become more balanced. It’s like holding up a mirror to the brain – when the brain sees what it’s doing, it can adjust itself in healthier ways.

Who can benefit? We’ve seen benefits in both children and adults for a variety of issues. Some of the most common uses of neurofeedback at EVND include:

• ADHD and Attention Issues: Neurofeedback is well-known for helping improve attention span, reduce impulsivity, and calm hyperactive behavior. Children with ADHD often enjoy the sessions (it feels like playing a video game) and over the course of training, parents and teachers notice improved focus and less distractibility. It can often reduce the need for stimulant medications (under medical guidance).
• Anxiety and Stress: For people with anxiety, neurofeedback can teach the brain to step out of constant “fight or flight” mode. We often see decreased frequency and intensity of anxiety or panic attacks after training. Patients report feeling more relaxed and resilient in the face of stress. It’s also great for PTSD or trauma recovery, as it can gently guide the brain out of stuck, overaroused patterns.
• Depression and Mood Disorders: By encouraging healthier brain-wave activity in certain regions, neurofeedback can lift mood and improve emotional stability. It’s a useful adjunct to therapy or medications, or as a standalone for mild-to-moderate depression.
• Sleep Problems: Many insomnia sufferers have shown improvements – neurofeedback can help regulate the brain to achieve the appropriate waves needed for falling asleep and staying asleep deeply.
• Migraines and Headaches: We have had success reducing the frequency of migraines using neurofeedback protocols that promote calmer neural activity and better blood flow regulation in the brain.
• Autism Spectrum & Developmental Delays: As noted earlier, we incorporate neurofeedback for kids on the autism spectrum or with developmental delays, often with positive effects on self-regulation, attention, and sometimes language and social interaction.
• Peak Performance: Even if you don’t have a “condition,” neurofeedback can be used by students, professionals, or athletes who want to improve cognitive performance, concentration, creativity, or even enter meditative brain states more easily. It’s used by peak performers (think Olympic athletes, CEOs, etc.) to gain an edge in mental fitness.

What is a session like? During a neurofeedback session at EVND, you’ll sit comfortably in a chair. Our technician will place a few electrodes on your scalp and ears – these just listen to your brain waves, they don’t put any electricity into you (nothing invasive). We run a QEEG first (a separate mapping session) to personalize your training protocol. Then, in each training session, you’ll either watch a computer screen with some sort of feedback display (like a game, a movie, or visual patterns) and perhaps listen to sounds. When your brain is in the desired state, the game or movie plays smoothly, or you get positive cues; when your brain deviates from the desired activity, the feedback might pause or change. Your brain subconsciously learns from this feedback and starts adjusting itself toward more of the “rewarded” activity. It’s typically relaxing – you don’t have to consciously do anything except maybe pay mild attention to the screen.

Our neurofeedback program is overseen by Dr. Jason Porter, who is board-certified in neurofeedback. He will analyze your brain maps and progress, and fine-tune the protocols as needed. A course of therapy might be 10–20 sessions (varies widely depending on the condition and individual). Improvements are often lasting, because you’re actually rewiring the brain. For example, a child with ADHD may maintain the gains from neurofeedback long-term, especially if combined with other healthy lifestyle changes. And it’s very safe – the worst that could happen is maybe feeling a bit tired or a temporary mild headache after a session, in rare cases, if the brain was challenged (we adjust protocols to minimize any discomfort).

In summary, neurofeedback is a powerful tool to normalize brain function, and it has broad applications. If you have trouble with focus, mood, or brain-based issues, it’s definitely worth discussing whether neurofeedback could help you. We’ve seen truly life-changing results – kids succeeding in school without meds, adults overcoming years of anxiety, and overall improvement in quality of life through a stronger, calmer brain.

Yes, Frequency Specific Microcurrent (FSM) is one of the advanced, non-invasive therapies offered at EVND and is commonly used for pain relief, injury recovery, and nerve and tissue healing. FSM delivers extremely low-level electrical currents at targeted frequencies that correspond to specific tissues and conditions, allowing the body to gently correct dysfunction without discomfort. Because the current is sub-sensory, treatments are painless and often deeply relaxing, yet they can produce significant therapeutic effects by reducing inflammation, improving circulation, and encouraging tissue repair.

FSM is used for a wide range of concerns, including musculoskeletal injuries, chronic pain conditions, nerve pain and neuropathy, headaches and migraines, women’s health issues, digestive and organ support, and even sleep or stress-related concerns. Sessions typically last 30 to 60 minutes, with patients frequently noticing improved mobility or reduced pain immediately after treatment. With repeated sessions, FSM can help create lasting improvement by supporting the body’s natural healing processes, making it a powerful option for those seeking effective, drug-free pain and recovery support.

Photobiomodulation (PBM), also known as red or near-infrared light therapy, is a non-invasive treatment that uses specific wavelengths of light to stimulate cellular energy production, reduce inflammation, and promote tissue repair. At EVND, PBM is offered as part of both brain regeneration and pain management programs, using specialized equipment designed for targeted brain, joint, muscle, and skin applications. By energizing mitochondria and improving circulation, PBM helps support healing at a cellular level and aligns naturally with a holistic, restorative approach to care.

PBM is commonly used to support brain health, cognitive function, mood, and recovery from concussion or neurological conditions, often in combination with therapies like neurofeedback and hyperbaric oxygen. It is also effective for reducing pain and inflammation in joints, muscles, and nerves, supporting skin and wound healing, and addressing localized inflammatory conditions. Sessions are painless, quick, and require no downtime, making PBM a gentle yet powerful tool for enhancing recovery and overall wellness.

Heart Rate Variability (HRV) training is a biofeedback-based approach designed to improve stress resilience by helping the nervous system become more balanced and adaptable. At EVND, the Foundations HRV Stress Resilience Program teaches patients how to intentionally shift their physiology out of chronic stress and into a calm, regulated state using guided breathing, mindfulness techniques, and real-time feedback. By increasing HRV, patients strengthen the connection between the heart and nervous system, improving their ability to handle stress and recover more quickly from it.

HRV training is valuable because chronic stress affects nearly every aspect of health, contributing to anxiety, sleep issues, mood imbalance, immune dysfunction, and chronic illness. Through repeated sessions, patients learn skills they can use anytime to regulate stress responses, improve focus, support emotional balance, and even see physical benefits such as improved blood pressure or fewer stress-related symptoms. When combined with medical support, nutritional strategies, or other therapies, HRV training becomes a powerful, empowering tool for long-term wellness and nervous system health.

Yes, IV therapy is one of the clinic’s most popular and effective services, offering a fast and efficient way to deliver nutrients and therapeutic compounds directly into the bloodstream. By bypassing the digestive system, IV therapy allows for higher absorption and quicker results, making it especially helpful for patients with chronic illness, fatigue, immune challenges, or nutrient deficiencies. Treatments are administered in a comfortable IV suite under medical supervision, where patients can relax while receiving personalized care.

The clinic offers a wide range of IV options to support different health goals, including wellness and immune support, hydration and recovery, detoxification, chronic infection support, neurological and mitochondrial health, and advanced oxidative therapies. Popular infusions include nutrient blends like Myers’ Cocktail, immune and hydration IVs, glutathione-based detox support, ozone and hydrogen peroxide therapies for infections and immune modulation, and NAD+ IVs for energy, brain health, and anti-aging support. Custom IV blends are also available for specific needs, such as migraines or targeted nutrient deficiencies.

Before receiving IV therapy, patients are carefully screened to ensure safety and appropriateness, and infusion times vary depending on the formulation. Some basic IVs may be available with minimal screening, while more advanced or high-dose therapies require consultation with a provider. IV therapy serves as a cornerstone of care for those needing rapid replenishment or more intensive support than oral supplements can provide, offering an effective and restorative option for both acute and chronic health concerns.

The clinic offers comprehensive diagnostic testing and specialty labs designed to uncover the root causes of health concerns rather than simply managing symptoms. Providers can order all standard medical labs and imaging typically available through conventional care, including blood work, hormone panels, cardiovascular testing, metabolic labs, EKGs, pulmonary screening, and diagnostic imaging such as X-rays or MRIs. Basic in-office tests are also available, and when imaging or specialty procedures are needed, care is coordinated with outside facilities.

What truly sets the clinic apart is access to advanced functional and integrative testing. These specialty labs allow for deeper evaluation of hormone balance, thyroid autoimmunity, gut health, nutrient status, food sensitivities, chronic infections, autoimmune activity, environmental toxin exposure, and metabolic function. Testing may include comprehensive stool analysis, SIBO breath testing, detailed hormone mapping, micronutrient panels, heavy metal and mold toxin screening, infectious disease panels, and immune or neurological markers that are often overlooked in conventional settings.

All testing is thoughtfully selected based on each patient’s symptoms and goals, with a focus on avoiding unnecessary labs while ensuring important contributors are not missed. Results are explained clearly, insurance considerations are discussed upfront, and specialty testing options are reviewed for cost transparency. By combining conventional diagnostics with functional testing, the clinic is often able to identify hidden imbalances that explain persistent symptoms and guide highly targeted, effective treatment plans

Yes, the clinic offers convenient in-house blood draws for most laboratory tests, performed by skilled medical staff in a comfortable, patient-friendly setting. Samples are either processed on-site for immediate testing or prepared and sent to trusted labs, with all handling and shipping managed for you. For at-home tests such as stool or urine collections, kits are typically provided during your visit with clear instructions, making the testing process simple and streamlined.

In addition to lab work, the clinic offers several diagnostic tools on-site, including heart rate variability assessments, body composition analysis, and advanced neurological testing such as QEEG brain mapping. Results are communicated clearly and promptly through follow-up visits or the secure patient portal, with explanations provided in plain language and copies shared for your records. The goal is to make testing efficient, informative, and integrated into your care, while using results to guide and monitor personalized treatment plans.

The clinic offers several specialized diagnostic services on-site that provide insight into functional health rather than just structural findings. These include QEEG brain mapping to assess brain wave activity, Heart Rate Variability analysis to evaluate autonomic nervous system balance, stress hormone rhythm assessments, bioimpedance analysis for body composition, and select cardiovascular testing such as EndoPAT. These tools help providers understand how the body and nervous system are functioning and allow for more personalized treatment planning.

For structural imaging such as X-rays, MRIs, CT scans, ultrasounds, or bone density tests, patients are referred to trusted local imaging centers, with results coordinated back into care. The clinic may also use optional complementary assessments, such as bioenergetic or autonomic response testing, to provide additional context when appropriate. By combining in-house functional diagnostics with conventional imaging and laboratory testing, providers are able to evaluate the full picture and integrate findings into a comprehensive, holistic care plan.

Our team at EVND is a collaborative group of practitioners with diverse specialties, all working together to provide comprehensive care. Here’s an overview of our primary providers and their roles:

Dr. Jason Porter, NMD, BCN

Dr. Jason Porter, NMD, BCN is the co-founder of EVND and a leading expert in chronic illness and brain regeneration, with over 20 years of experience and board certification in neurofeedback. He leads the Brain Regeneration Clinic and specializes in complex cases such as Lyme disease, mold illness, autoimmune conditions, and neurological disorders, using advanced, integrative therapies with a compassionate, patient-centered approach.

Dr. Jennifer Nevels, NMD

Dr. Jennifer Nevels, NMD is a naturopathic physician with over 15 years of experience and a recognized expert in women’s health, with advanced training in gynecology and hormonal balance. She provides personalized, integrative care for conditions such as hormonal disorders, thyroid and adrenal imbalances, Breast Implant Illness, and mood concerns, and is known for her compassionate, thorough approach.

Dr. Laura Badalamenti, NMD

Dr. Laura Badalamenti, NMD is a naturopathic physician specializing in family medicine and pediatrics, with advanced residency training and a strong focus on children’s health. She also treats digestive, metabolic, hormonal, and women’s health conditions using a thorough, foundations-based approach that emphasizes nutrition, lifestyle, and individualized care.

Dr. Casey Seenauth, NMD

Dr. Casey Seenauth, NMD is a pain relief and sports medicine specialist with advanced training in regenerative therapies such as PRP and prolotherapy, as well as acupuncture and spinal adjustments. He takes a whole-body, educational approach to treating chronic pain, injuries, and men’s health concerns, helping patients of all activity levels restore function and mobility.

Jean Sutliff-Stanley, LMT, CM

Jean Sutliff-Stanley, LMT, CM has over 20 years of experience in therapeutic bodywork and specializes in relieving chronic muscle pain, tension, and structural imbalances through myopractic and myofascial techniques. She offers highly customized sessions that support pain relief, detoxification, stress reduction, and overall healing.

Shelly Sandhu, Holistic Nutrition Practitioner

Shelly Sandhu is a Holistic Nutrition Practitioner and environmental health coach who helps patients turn medical recommendations into realistic, sustainable lifestyle and dietary changes. She specializes in therapeutic diets, behavior change, and reducing toxic exposures in the home to support long-term healing.

Marie Ybarra, Licensed Aesthetician

Marie Ybarra is a Licensed Aesthetician specializing in natural, integrative skincare treatments, including microneedling and personalized facial therapies. She takes a holistic approach to aesthetics, coordinating with the medical team to address skin concerns from both internal and external perspectives.

In summary, our EVND team covers a wide range of specialties: from women’s health to pediatrics, chronic disease to pain management, plus supportive services in nutrition, bodywork, and aesthetics. We often collaborate on patient cases – e.g., a patient with autoimmune illness might see Dr. Nevels for medical management, do IVs with our nurses, have nutrition sessions with Shelly, and get massages with Jean to manage stress. We truly approach healing as a team effort. When you join EVND as a patient, you’re not just getting one doctor – you’re getting a whole integrative care team rooting for you! We believe this comprehensive approach is what sets us apart and leads to such positive outcomes for our patients.

East Valley Naturopathic Doctors provides family-centered care for children of all ages, with pediatric medicine being a core focus of the clinic. While the philosophy of addressing root causes and supporting whole-body health is the same as for adults, care for children is delivered in a gentler, developmentally appropriate way within a welcoming, kid-friendly environment that helps children feel safe and comfortable during visits.

Pediatric treatment plans emphasize safety, minimal invasiveness, and strong foundations such as nutrition, sleep, movement, and lifestyle support. The clinic treats a wide range of childhood concerns, from acute illnesses and allergies to behavioral, developmental, and hormonal issues, while actively involving parents as partners in care. Education and practical guidance are central to each visit, empowering families and teens alike to support healing and build resilience for long-term health.

Choosing the right practitioner can feel overwhelming, but at East Valley Naturopathic Doctors, you never have to figure it out alone. All providers work as a collaborative team, and the front desk or patient care coordinator can help guide you based on your main concerns. Even if you start with one practitioner, your care can easily evolve to include others as needed, ensuring you receive well-rounded, coordinated support. As a general guide, you might consider the following when booking your initial appointment:

• Patients with hormonal concerns, women’s health issues, thyroid disorders, fertility challenges, or Breast Implant Illness often begin care with Dr. Jennifer Nevels due to her extensive experience in these areas. 
• Children and teens, especially those dealing with digestive, immune, or behavioral concerns, are often best matched with Dr. Laura Badalamenti, who specializes in pediatric and family care. 
• For more complex or chronic conditions such as Lyme disease, mold illness, chronic fatigue, neurological concerns, or brain recovery, Dr. Jason Porter is frequently the starting point given his advanced protocols and neuro-focused therapies.
• Patients seeking help for chronic pain, sports injuries, or musculoskeletal issues, including regenerative injections or acupuncture, are typically directed to Dr. Casey Seenauth. 
• Those looking for targeted nutritional guidance, weight management, or environmental detox support may work with Shelly Sandhu, often alongside a naturopathic doctor’s treatment plan. 
• Massage and myopractic therapy sessions with Jean Sutliff-Stanley or aesthetic services such as microneedling with Marie Ybarra can be scheduled independently or as part of a coordinated care plan.

Ultimately, personal comfort and rapport matter just as much as specialization. If a provider feels another team member could add value to your care, they collaborate internally or make seamless referrals, all while sharing a unified medical record. Patients are never locked into one provider and are encouraged to adjust their care team as their needs change. Think of the clinic as a healthcare family where your care evolves with you, and the right support is always within reach.

Yes, the clinic actively collaborates with conventional doctors and specialists as part of an integrative, patient-centered approach. Providers regularly coordinate care with primary care physicians and specialists such as endocrinologists, cardiologists, rheumatologists, and mental health professionals, sharing relevant information with patient consent. Many patients choose to use naturopathic care alongside their existing medical team, allowing conventional treatments to address acute or specialized needs while holistic care supports overall health, prevention, and management of side effects.

When additional evaluation or intervention is needed, the clinic makes appropriate referrals and works within a trusted network of specialists to ensure seamless care. Whether coordinating imaging follow-ups, surgical evaluations, mental health support, or specialty consultations, the goal is always the best possible outcome for the patient. By bridging natural and conventional medicine, the clinic ensures care is collaborative, comprehensive, and aligned across all providers involved.

Scheduling an appointment is simple and flexible, with options to call the front office during business hours or book online through the clinic’s website. New patients are asked to complete intake forms ahead of time so the provider can review health history and concerns in advance. This helps ensure your first visit is as productive and focused as possible from the moment you arrive.

During your initial appointment, you can expect a thorough, unhurried consultation that typically lasts about 60 minutes, with more time allotted for complex cases. Your doctor will review your history in depth and ask detailed questions about symptoms, lifestyle, diet, stress, sleep, and family health, along with performing any relevant physical exams. By the end of the visit, you’ll receive an initial assessment, recommended next steps for testing if needed, and often some foundational treatment guidance to begin right away, such as dietary changes or targeted supplements.

The first visit is designed to be collaborative and empowering, with time for questions and clear explanations of the care plan moving forward. Patients are encouraged to bring current medications or supplements, recent labs, and personal health goals. Overall, the experience is meant to leave you feeling heard, supported, and confident that a thoughtful, step-by-step plan is in place to address your health concerns.

The clinic does not offer formal long-term financing or membership programs, but it strives to remain flexible when possible. In certain cases, payment arrangements may be discussed in advance for higher-cost treatment plans, and all major credit cards are accepted. 

Care is provided on a pay-as-you-go basis rather than a monthly membership model, which allows patients to pay only for the services they use. However, bundled packages and occasional discounts may be available for programs such as neurofeedback, weight management, or recurring therapies. Health Savings Accounts (HSA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) are commonly accepted, enabling patients to use pre-tax funds for services and products.

Patients are encouraged to communicate openly about budget concerns, as care plans can often be prioritized or adjusted to focus on the most impactful and cost-effective options first. The clinic’s goal is to make care as accessible as possible while ensuring patients feel supported, informed, and confident in their investment in long-term health and well-being.

Generally, we ask for at least 24 hours’ notice if you need to cancel or change a scheduled appointment. If you cancel with less than 24 hours notice or no-show a visit, there may be a cancellation fee (often it’s a percentage of the visit fee, or a flat fee like $50, depending on the type of appointment). We understand true emergencies and illnesses happen – we’re not unreasonable about it – but because our providers reserve a significant amount of time for each patient, late cancellations do impact the schedule and prevent others from filling that slot.

For procedures or long treatments (like a series of IVs or a long neurofeedback session), we may have a 48-hour notice policy – but our staff will inform you if that applies when booking. Typically 24 hours is sufficient for standard appointments.

If you find you’re running late to an appointment, please call us. We’ll do our best to accommodate if you’re a bit late, but beyond ~15 minutes we might have to shorten your session or reschedule out of fairness to the next patient. We try not to do that, but we’ll work with what we can.

All the details of these policies are usually in the new patient paperwork you sign. But the take-home point is: give us a heads-up as early as possible if you can’t make an appointment, and we’ll gladly reschedule you. That way someone else can utilize that time slot.

Yes, in many cases you can use your health insurance for lab tests, imaging, and prescription medications ordered by the clinic. Standard lab work is typically sent to outside laboratories that bill insurance directly, and imaging studies such as MRIs or ultrasounds are completed at in-network imaging centers using your coverage. While some specialty functional labs require out-of-pocket payment, the clinic will clearly explain which tests are covered and help you choose insurance-friendly options whenever possible.

Prescription medications are processed through your pharmacy just like those from any other provider, with insurance covering eligible medications according to your plan. Compounded or specialty prescriptions may have more limited coverage, but alternatives are often available. Supplements are generally not covered, though HSA or FSA funds can usually be used. Overall, while in-office visits are out-of-network, most services sent outside the clinic can be billed through insurance, and staff are available to help you navigate the process.

East Valley Naturopathic Doctors operates during standard weekday business hours and is not an urgent care facility. For true medical emergencies or serious symptoms such as chest pain, severe breathing difficulty, signs of stroke, or major injury, patients are advised to seek immediate care through an emergency room or urgent care center, especially outside of clinic hours.

For non-emergency concerns after hours, patients may send messages through the secure patient portal or leave a voicemail, which will be addressed as soon as possible during the next business day. While the clinic does not offer 24/7 on-call coverage, providers offer guidance when needed and may provide additional contact instructions for certain treatment protocols. During office hours, the clinic often reserves flexibility for same-day appointments for acute issues, helping patients receive timely care without unnecessary urgent care visits.

We are located at 5416 E. Southern Ave. Ste 110, Mesa, AZ 85206, in the East Valley area of Mesa (not far from the intersections of Southern Ave and Higley Rd). We have ample parking outside and a welcoming reception area inside suite 110.

Our hours of operation are generally: Monday, Wednesday, Friday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm; Tuesday and Thursday: 9:00 am – 3:00 pm. We are closed on weekends and major holidays. We also close for lunch from 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm each day.

Some of our practitioners have slightly different schedules (for instance, one doctor might only see patients Monday-Thursday, another might start earlier or later on a given day). But as a clinic those are our core hours when front desk is staffed and treatments are happening. If you need to pick up supplements or ask a billing question, doing so during those hours is best.

If you ever show up and find the door locked during what you thought were open hours, it could be due to a team meeting or unforeseen event, but that’s rare and we’d post a note. On normal days, we welcome walk-ins for supplement purchases or scheduling questions, though for provider consultation we do by appointment.