Naturopathic doctor Lise Alschuler to receive first-ever honorary degree from CCNM

TORONTO, May 22, 2014 – Naturopathic doctor Lise Alschuler will be the first individual in CCNM’s thirty-six year history to receive an honorary bachelor of naturopathy degree from the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine at its 34th convocation ceremony today.

Lise graduated from Brown University with an undergraduate degree in medical anthropology and received her doctorate in naturopathic medicine from Bastyr University in 1994. She also received her board certification in naturopathic oncology. She currently practices at Naturopathic Specialists, based in Scottsdale, AZ.

In 2008, Lise was diagnosed with breast cancer. After undergoing surgery, and while receiving chemotherapy, radiation and hormonal treatment, she integrated natural supplements, diet, exercise, and other lifestyle changes which helped keep her healthy throughout the process and still do to this day. She has used her own experience with cancer in her work with others who face this disease. She is widely recognized internationally as an expert in cancer treatment and prevention and is a sought-after speaker to physicians, patients and the general public.

“I am delighted that the recipient of this honour is Dr. Lise Alschuler. Dr. Alschuler has been a champion in leading the naturopathic profession forward in North America, particularly in the area of naturopathic oncology,” says Dr. Bob Bernhardt, president and CEO. “As a former department head at Midwestern Regional Medical Center of the Cancer Treatment Centers of America Lise’s practice has epitomized the integrative care that engenders significant hope for the future,” adds Bernhardt.

The Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine (CCNM) is Canada’s premier institute for education and research in naturopathic medicine. CCNM offers a rigorous four-year, full-time naturopathic medicine program. The College educates, develops and trains naturopathic doctors through excellence in health education, clinical services and research that integrate mind, body and spirit.

Naturopathic doctors (NDs) are primary health-care practitioners. Interns at CCNM’s Robert Schad Naturopathic Clinic improve their patients’ health by identifying and treating the underlying causes of illness, employing therapies such as lifestyle counselling, nutrition, botanical medicine, acupuncture/Asian medicine, manipulation, homeopathic medicine, and hydrotherapy/massage.