About Me

Hi! I’m Vanessa Vasquez

a fourth-year naturopathic medicine student in my final year at the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine. I am currently completing my internship at the Schad Naturopathic Clinic (SNC), where I work under the supervision of licensed Naturopathic Doctors (NDs) as I pursue my goal of becoming an ND myself.

I’m deeply passionate about helping patients reconnect with their bodies, balance their hormones, and uncover the root cause of their health concerns—naturally. My goal is simple: to create a space where you feel heard, supported, and equipped with the tools to feel like you again.

My journey into naturopathic medicine began with my own health challenges and a determination to understand why I was feeling unwell—not just how to suppress the symptoms. That personal search for answers led me to a naturopathic doctor who listened deeply, treated me as a whole person, and introduced me to the power of root-cause medicine. That experience didn’t just shift my health—it shaped my purpose.

As a future ND, I’m committed to:

Seeking the root cause of my patients’ health concerns rather than offering temporary relief.
Empowering individuals with the knowledge and tools to take charge of their own health journey.
Viewing each patient through a whole-body lens—considering their physiology, environment, emotions, and lifestyle.

Designing individualized treatment plans that aim for long-term healing and meaningful change.

Whether you’re navigating hormonal imbalances, gut issues, or simply seeking to feel more aligned in your body, I’m here to walk beside you—with compassion, clarity, and care.

My Interests

My clinical focus is rooted in gut health, autoimmune conditions, and women’s health. Having personally navigated gastrointestinal challenges myself, I understand the physical and emotional toll these conditions can take. This lived experience allows me to connect with my patients on a deeper level, offering both empathy and evidence-informed care.

I strive to empower individuals not only through treatment, but through education—because when we truly understand our bodies, we can take confident, lasting steps toward wellness. My goal as a practitioner is to thoughtfully integrate the best of both conventional and naturopathic medicine to create personalized, well-curated care plans that support each patient’s unique journey.

I am especially interested in working with:

Digestive concerns including:
- Celiac disease
- Inflammatory bowel diseases such as Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn’s
- Diverticulitis
- Irritable bowel syndrome
- Microbial dysbiosis
- Candida
- SIBO
- GERD – heartburn, reflux
PCOS & menstrual irregularities
Ovarian cysts
Chronic pain
Stress and sleep disturbances
Fatigue & Burnout
Mental health
& so much more!

My Education

I have a strong academic foundation in medical sciences, built through my naturopathic medical education at the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine (CCNM) and my undergraduate degree in Human Kinetics from the University of Guelph, where I also completed a minor in Nutritional and Nutraceutical Sciences.

I graduated with high honours from the University of Guelph in 2021, and the following year, I pursued additional specialization at the University of Western Ontario to further expand my understanding of human physiology and health sciences.

Outside the Clinic

You’ll almost always find me with a book in hand—or at the very least, my Kindle. Reading has been one of the great loves of my life. I read across many genres, but I have a particular soft spot for fantasy, romance, and character-driven fiction. My all-time favorite series is Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas—it’s one I return to often for both comfort and inspiration. There’s just something about strong female leads and complex world-building that speaks to me deeply.

One of my personal goals is to build my own home library—and I’m well on my way. At last count, I’ve collected over 450 books, and I don’t plan on slowing down any time soon. There’s something magical about being surrounded by stories, and I truly believe books help us explore the world, our emotions, and ourselves in ways nothing else can.

I also have a deep love for photography. Capturing quiet moments, everyday beauty, and the small details that often go unnoticed has become one of my favorite creative outlets. Whether I’m photographing nature, books, or candid moments with loved ones, photography reminds me to slow down and stay present—something I try to carry into both my personal life and my work as a future practitioner.

Here are some of my favourite pictures I have taken so far:

When I’m not studying, reading, or taking pictures, I’m usually in the kitchen experimenting with new healthy recipes, with my wonderful partner, Keifer, acting as the ever-patient taste tester—bless him. I also share my space with Faye, my two-year-old cat and loyal study companion. She’s convinced she’s just as qualified as I am—and honestly, she might be right.

Fun fact: I taught myself how to play the guitar. Music has become one of my favorite ways to unwind and reconnect. I love sifting through vinyl at local markets, always on the lookout for a new record to play while I work or relax. If you ever come across Live in Concert: The 24 Karat Gold Tour—let me know. It’s at the top of my wish list!

If any part of my story resonates with you and you’re interested in working together, I would be truly honoured to support you on your health journey—wherever you’re starting from, and wherever you hope to go.

In Health,

Vanessa Vasquez.