Symptoms are the body’s way of speaking. Fatigue, bloating, broken sleep, skin flares or a mind that won’t settle are all messages pointing towards something underneath. Functional testing helps us listen more closely.

After your naturopathic consultation, I may recommend one or more tests to understand what is driving your symptoms. Testing helps us uncover underlying imbalances, identify contributing factors and build a clear picture of what is happening in your body. That picture lets us create a treatment plan that is precise, personal and focused on the cause.

The tests below are a selection of those I refer for. They offer an insight into how thoroughly we can investigate your health. Depending on your needs, I may recommend other tests as well not listed here.

How testing works

1. Your consultation. Every test begins with a naturopathic consultation. I take a full history of your health, symptoms, lifestyle and goals, then recommend the testing that will give us the most useful information. Testing is by referral only, so you’ll only do the tests that are right for you.

2. Your referral and test kit. I arrange your referral with the laboratory. Most tests are collected comfortably at home with a kit sent to you, and some need a simple blood draw at a local pathology collection centre.

3. Your preparation guide. You’ll receive a preparation outline specific to your test, so you know exactly what to do before and during collection.

4. Collection and return. You collect your sample following the instructions and return it to the laboratory in the packaging provided.

5. Results and review. Your results come to me. I review them in detail alongside your history and symptoms, then create a protocol designed for your best results.

6. Your results consultation. We meet to go through your results together. I explain what they show, how they connect to how you’re feeling, and the steps in your personalised protocol. Then we put the protocol into practice.

7. Ongoing care and retesting. We follow your progress at review consultations and adjust your protocol as your body responds. Where helpful, we retest to measure your improvement.

Reviewing your results and creating your protocol are included in your naturopathic follow-up consultation fee. Laboratory fees are paid directly to the laboratory and vary by test.

When results need medical attention. Your safety always comes first. If any result needs medical investigation or care, I’ll refer you back to your GP promptly, and we’ll keep working together alongside your medical team.

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Blood Testing

What it is

Blood testing gives us a detailed look at how your body is working from the inside: your blood cells, iron, thyroid, blood sugar, hormones, inflammation, nutrient levels, and liver and kidney function. Many people are told their blood results are “normal” while they still feel unwell. I read your results through a functional lens, looking at where each marker sits within the range and how the markers relate to each other and to your symptoms. This often reveals patterns that help explain how you’re feeling.

What it’s for

Blood testing helps us:

• Uncover underlying imbalances and contributing factors
• Identify nutrient deficiencies or excesses
• Understand your thyroid, blood sugar, hormone and inflammation patterns
• Set a clear baseline so we can measure your progress
• Shape a protocol that is safe and precise for you

You might consider blood testing if you experience

• Fatigue, low energy or feeling flat
• Weight changes that are hard to explain
• Hair thinning, brittle nails or dry skin
• Feeling cold, or sensitivity to temperature
• Brain fog, low mood or anxiety
• Irregular, heavy or painful periods, or hormonal symptoms
• Sugar cravings, energy crashes or feeling shaky between meals
• Frequent illness or slow recovery
• Ongoing inflammation, aches or pains
• Planning a pregnancy, or recovering from one

Two ways to do your blood test

Through your GP. I write to your GP with a request for specific tests and a clear explanation of why each one would be helpful for you. Many GPs are happy to support this, and some tests may then be covered by Medicare. Once you’ve reviewed the results with your GP, please ask for a copy and send it through to me.

Directly through pathology. I can refer you for blood testing directly, with collection at a pathology centre near you. This is a private-pay option and your results come straight to me.

What I may request

The tests I request depend on your history and symptoms. A comprehensive panel may include:

• General health: full blood count; liver function tests; kidney function and electrolytes (UEC).
• Iron and energy: iron studies, including ferritin and transferrin saturation; active vitamin B12; red cell/serum folate.
• Thyroid: TSH, free T4 and free T3; reverse T3; thyroid antibodies (TPO and thyroglobulin).
• Blood sugar and metabolic health: fasting glucose; fasting insulin; HbA1c; lipid profile.
• Other cardiovascular markers: Lipoprotein A and Apilolipoprotein A & B, MTHFr, Homocysteine
• Inflammation and methylation: hs-CRP (high-sensitivity C-reactive protein); ESR; homocysteine.
• Nutrients: vitamin D; zinc and copper; magnesium.
• Hormones (where relevant): oestradiol, progesterone, FSH and LH, timed to your cycle; testosterone, SHBG and DHEA-S; prolactin.
• Digestion and immunity (where relevant): coeliac serology.

Preparing for your blood test

You’ll receive a preparation guide specific to your tests. Common steps include:

• Fasting: some tests ask for 10 to 12 hours of fasting beforehand, with water as usual.
• Morning collection: many tests are best done early in the morning, ideally before 10am.
• Cycle timing: some hormone tests need to be done on a particular day of your menstrual cycle.
• Supplements: you may be asked to pause certain supplements, such as biotin, iron or B vitamins, for a few days beforehand.
• Medication: please keep taking any prescribed medication and speak with me before making any changes.
• We will give you clear instructions prior to testing.

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Stress and Sleep Hormones

AdrenoSCAN: Stress and Sleep Hormone Profile

via NutriPATH

What it is. This test measures your stress and sleep hormones across the whole day. It tracks cortisol, cortisone and melatonin at four points (morning, midday, afternoon and evening) and maps your daily rhythm.

What it’s for. Cortisol gives you energy and resilience during the day, and melatonin guides you into restful sleep at night. These two hormones work as a pair, and when their rhythm shifts, energy, mood and sleep all feel it. This test shows the shape of your rhythm across the day and how your body is responding to stress. It also gives insight into your HPA axis, the communication between your brain and adrenal glands.

You might consider this test if you experience:

• Ongoing stress or burnout
• Difficulty falling or staying asleep
• Waking unrefreshed, or feeling tired yet wired
• Low energy, fatigue or brain fog
• Anxiety or mood changes
• Salt cravings or headaches
• Hormonal changes, including irregular cycles, hot flushes or low libido
• Frequent illness or low immunity

What’s involved. A simple at-home dried urine test. You collect four urine samples on test strips at set times across one day, let them dry and post them back to the laboratory.

Results. They are usually available within 7–10 business days after the laboratory receives your sample. We then require approximately one week to review your results and prepare your personalised treatment protocol. We will contact you to arrange your follow-up consultation if you haven't already rebooked.

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Gut and Microbiome Health

GI-Advanced Microbiome Profile: Gut Health Mapping

via NutriPATH

What it is. This test gives a comprehensive picture of your gut from a single stool sample. It maps your beneficial bacteria, opportunistic bacteria, yeasts, fungi, parasites and worms, along with key markers of digestion, inflammation and gut lining health. It also measures short-chain fatty acids such as butyrate, which your gut bacteria produce to nourish the cells of the gut wall. The test also shows which natural and pharmaceutical agents are most effective against any organisms found, so we can choose treatment precisely.

What it’s for. Your gut is central to digestion, immunity, mood, skin and hormones. This test shows how well you’re digesting food, how balanced your gut ecosystem is, and whether there are signs of inflammation, infection or increased intestinal permeability (leaky gut). It includes markers such as calprotectin (inflammation), pancreatic elastase (digestive enzyme output), zonulin (gut lining integrity) and faecal occult blood.

You might consider this test if you experience:

• Bloating, gas or abdominal pain
• Diarrhoea, constipation or alternating bowel habits
• IBS, or a history of IBD
• Suspected SIBO or a parasite infection
• Food reactions or allergies
• Skin concerns such as eczema, acne or rashes
• Fatigue or weakness
• Symptoms after travel, food poisoning or antibiotics

What’s involved. A simple at-home stool test. You collect one stool sample using the kit and post it back to the laboratory.

Results. Usually 14 business days after the laboratory receives your sample.  We then require approximately one week to review your results and prepare your personalised treatment protocol. We will contact you to arrange your follow-up consultation if you haven't already rebooked.

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Worm and Helminths Screen

via NutriPATH

What it is. A focused stool test that screens for parasitic worms, including hookworm, roundworm, pinworm (threadworm), tapeworm, whipworm and Strongyloides, along with two microsporidia, which are tiny gut parasites.

What it’s for. Worms are more common than many people realise, particularly after travel, time spent in rural areas, contact with animals, or in households with young children. They can cause a wide range of digestive and general symptoms. This screen helps confirm or rule out a worm infection so we can treat it precisely.

You might consider this test if you experience:

• Abdominal pain, bloating or digestive upset
• Diarrhoea
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fatigue
• Itching around the bottom, especially at night
• Symptoms that began after overseas travel
• A household member, child or pet recently treated for worms

What’s involved. A simple at-home stool test. You collect one stool sample using the kit and post it back to the laboratory.

Results. Usually 7-10 business days after the laboratory receives your sample. We then require approximately one week to review your results and prepare your personalised treatment protocol. We will contact you to arrange your follow-up consultation if you haven't already rebooked.

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BabyBiome: Infant Gut Health Profile

via NutriPATH, for babies and toddlers aged 0 to 3 years

What it is. A gut microbiome test designed specifically for babies and toddlers, with results compared against age-specific reference ranges. It maps key beneficial bacteria such as Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus, screens for common gut viruses (adenovirus, norovirus and rotavirus) and Candida, and measures markers of inflammation, gut barrier health, immunity and digestion.

What it’s for. The first three years are a foundational window for the gut microbiome, shaping immunity, digestion and resilience for life. This test shows how your little one’s gut ecosystem is developing and highlights where gentle support may help.

You might consider this test if your baby or toddler experiences:

• Colic, unsettledness, tummy pain or bloating
• Constipation, diarrhoea or loose, watery stools
• Reactions to foods or formula
• Eczema or other allergic tendencies
• Frequent illness
• Gut disruption after antibiotics, a caesarean birth or early feeding challenges

What’s involved. A simple at-home stool sample, collected from a nappy using the kit and posted back to the laboratory.

Results. Usually around 14 business days after the laboratory receives the sample. We then require approximately one week to review your results and prepare your personalised treatment protocol. We will contact you to arrange your follow-up consultation if you haven't already rebooked.

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PaediatricBiome: Children’s Gut Health Profile

via NutriPATH, for children and teenagers aged 3 to 17 years

What it is. A comprehensive gut microbiome test for children and teenagers, with results compared against age-specific reference ranges. Using advanced DNA sequencing, it maps beneficial bacteria and overall diversity, screens for bacterial and viral pathogens, and measures markers of digestion, fat absorption, inflammation, gut lining health, immunity and coeliac antibodies.

What it’s for. A child’s gut supports their growth, immunity, mood, focus and skin. This test gives us a clear picture of how your child’s gut is functioning, so we can support them with care suited to their age.

You might consider this test if your child experiences:

• Tummy pain or bloating
• Constipation, diarrhoea or changing bowel habits
• Food reactions or intolerances
• IBS-type symptoms
• Eczema or allergies
• Recurrent infections
• Gut disruption after antibiotics
• Suspected parasites

What’s involved. A simple at-home stool test. Your child’s sample is collected using the kit and posted back to the laboratory.

Results. Usually around 14 business days after the laboratory receives the sample. We then require approximately one week to review your results and prepare your personalised treatment protocol. We will contact you to arrange your follow-up consultation if you haven't already rebooked.

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Oral Microbiome Profile

via NutriPATH

What it is. This test maps 20 key organisms living in your mouth, including the bacteria linked with gum disease and tooth decay, beneficial species such as Streptococcus salivarius and Lactobacillus, and yeasts such as Candida.

What it’s for. The mouth is the gateway to the gut and the rest of the body. When the balance of the oral microbiome shifts, it can affect your gums and teeth, and research is exploring its links with heart health, blood sugar regulation, brain health and reproductive health. This test shows which organisms are present, so we can work on restoring a healthy balance through diet, lifestyle and targeted support, alongside the care of your dentist.

You might consider this test if you experience:

• Bleeding, tender or receding gums
• Persistent bad breath
• Recurring tooth decay
• Mouth ulcers, oral thrush or a coated tongue
• Ongoing gut symptoms with an unclear cause
• A history of gum disease alongside heart, blood sugar or inflammatory concerns
• Preconception care

What’s involved. A simple at-home saliva sample and swab, posted back to the laboratory.

Results. Usually 14 business days after the laboratory receives your sample. We then require approximately one week to review your results and prepare your personalised treatment protocol. We will contact you to arrange your follow-up consultation if you haven't already rebooked.

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Vaginal Microbiome Profile

via NutriPATH

What it is. This test maps the vaginal microbiome. It measures six protective Lactobacillus species, the bacteria associated with bacterial vaginosis, five Candida (thrush) species, Ureaplasma and Mycoplasma, and vaginal pH. It also screens for common sexually transmitted infections, including chlamydia, gonorrhoea, trichomonas and herpes simplex virus.

What it’s for. A healthy vaginal microbiome, rich in protective Lactobacillus, supports comfort, immunity, fertility and pregnancy health. Hormonal changes, antibiotics, contraception, stress and age can all shift this balance. This test shows what is present and what is missing, so we can restore balance precisely and support lasting vaginal health.

You might consider this test if you experience:

• Recurrent thrush
• Recurrent bacterial vaginosis
• Unusual discharge or odour
• Vaginal itching, irritation or discomfort
• Recurrent urinary tract infections
• Symptoms that return after treatment
• Preconception care, or fertility concerns
• Changes during perimenopause or menopause

What’s involved. A simple vaginal swab, collected at home using the kit and posted back to the laboratory. Your preparation guide will explain the best timing in relation to your cycle.

Results. Usually 14 business days after the laboratory receives your sample. If an infection is detected that needs medical treatment, I’ll refer you to your GP. We then require approximately one week to review your results and prepare your personalised treatment protocol. We will contact you to arrange your follow-up consultation if you haven't already rebooked.

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Toxins and Minerals

ALL-Tox Profile: Environmental Toxin Screen

via NutriPATH

What it is. This screen measures your total toxin load, the chemicals and metals your body may be carrying from your environment. It covers six categories: environmental pollutants, heavy metals, minerals, mycotoxins (toxins from mould), pesticides and phthalates (plastic-related chemicals). Your report includes a Toxic Burden Index and a Healthy Index.

What it’s for. We’re all exposed to chemicals every day through food, water, air, plastics, personal care products and the places we live and work. Over time these can build up and place extra demand on the liver, immune system and hormones. This test helps reveal what your body is carrying, points towards possible sources of exposure, and shows us where to focus your detoxification support.

You might consider this test if you experience:

• Ongoing fatigue or brain fog
•  Known or suspected mould exposure (water damage, a damp home or workplace)
• Chemical, occupational or agricultural exposure
• Hormonal imbalances
• Chronic inflammation
• Autoimmune or immune system concerns
• Sluggish liver function or difficulty detoxifying
• Sensitivity to fragrances, chemicals or medications

What’s involved. A simple at-home urine test. You collect one urine sample using the kit and post it back to the laboratory.

Results. Usually 12 to 15 business days after the laboratory receives your sample. We then require approximately one week to review your results and prepare your personalised treatment protocol. We will contact you to arrange your follow-up consultation if you haven't already rebooked.

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Mycotoxin Extensive Panel: Mould Toxin Screen

via NutriPATH

What it is. This panel measures 30 mycotoxins, the toxic compounds released by moulds, in a single urine sample. It covers the main mould toxin families: aflatoxins; ochratoxin A; trichothecenes, including those from black mould such as satratoxins, roridins and verrucarins; gliotoxin; zearalenone; and citrinin, patulin, sterigmatocystin and others. Results are adjusted for urine concentration, so your levels are measured accurately.

What it’s for. Moulds can grow quietly in water-damaged buildings, damp bathrooms, air conditioning systems and stored foods such as grains, nuts and coffee. The toxins they release can be inhaled or eaten, and in some people they build up and affect the brain, immune system, sinuses, gut, skin and energy. This test shows which mould toxins your body is carrying and how much. Knowing the specific toxins helps point towards the likely source, whether that’s your home, workplace or diet, and lets us tailor your detoxification and binder protocol to the toxins found.

You might consider this test if you experience:

• Known or suspected mould exposure, such as water damage, leaks, a musty smell or visible mould at home or work
• Ongoing fatigue that rest doesn’t resolve
• Brain fog, poor concentration or memory changes
• Headaches or migraines
• Ongoing sinus congestion or respiratory symptoms
• Low mood, anxiety or mood changes
• Digestive issues
• Skin rashes or dermatitis
• Symptoms that ease when you’re away from home or work and return when you’re back
• Several household members feeling unwell at the same time

What’s involved. A simple at-home urine test. You collect one urine sample using the kit and post it back to the laboratory.

Results. Usually 12 to 15 business days after the laboratory receives your sample. We then require approximately one week to review your results and prepare your personalised treatment protocol. We will contact you to arrange your follow-up consultation if you haven't already rebooked.

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Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis (HTMA)

via InterClinical Laboratories, analysed by Trace Elements Inc.

What it is. A gentle, non-invasive test that measures minerals and metals stored in your hair tissue. It reports 15 nutrient minerals (including calcium, magnesium, zinc, copper, iron, selenium, sodium and potassium), 8 toxic metals (including lead, mercury, cadmium, arsenic and aluminium), 14 additional elements, and more than 25 mineral ratios.

What it’s for. Hair reflects the mineral activity in your tissues over the previous few months, giving a longer-term view than a single blood test. Minerals work in delicate balance with each other, and their ratios offer insight into energy production, stress response, thyroid and adrenal activity, blood sugar regulation and nervous system health. HTMA also reveals exposure to heavy metals, so we can support your body to clear them.

You might consider this test if you experience:

• Ongoing fatigue or low energy
• Stress, anxiety or mood changes
• Sleep difficulties
• Thyroid or adrenal concerns
• Blood sugar imbalances or cravings
• Hormonal changes, including perimenopause and menopause
• Possible heavy metal exposure through work, water, old homes, dental work or diet
• Preconception care, for both partners
• In children: learning, focus or behaviour concerns, or recurring illness
• In athletes: endurance, performance or slow recovery

What’s involved. A small sample of hair, cut close to the scalp from the back of the head, placed in the envelope provided and posted to the laboratory. Your preparation guide explains how to collect it and what to do if your hair is coloured or chemically treated.

Results. Your report arrives in two parts, a patient-friendly summary and a detailed practitioner report, which I use to create your protocol. Usually 21 business days after the laboratory receives your sample. We then require approximately one week to review your results and prepare your personalised treatment protocol. We will contact you to arrange your follow-up consultation if you haven't already rebooked.

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Food Reactions

Precision Allergy 88: Food Allergy and Sensitivity Test

RN Labs

What it is. This test assesses how your immune system responds to 88 common foods. It measures five immune pathways:

• IgE: immediate allergic-type reactions
• IgA: immune reactions at the gut lining and other mucosal surfaces, which can reflect gut barrier stress and sensitivity
• IgG (subclasses 1 to 4): delayed food sensitivities, which can appear hours or days after eating
• IgG with complement (C3d): reactions with greater potential to drive inflammation
• IgG to Candida albicans: the immune response to yeast

What it’s for. Delayed food reactions can be hard to pin down, because symptoms may appear well after the meal. This test helps identify which foods are most likely contributing to your symptoms and which foods your body tolerates well. That lets us create a targeted eating plan, removing reactive foods while keeping your diet as varied and nourishing as possible. We then work on healing the gut so foods can be reintroduced over time.

You might consider this test if you experience:

• Bloating, IBS or digestive discomfort after eating
• Eczema, hives or skin flares
• Headaches or migraines
• Fatigue or brain fog
• Mood changes
• Suspected leaky gut
• Candida-related symptoms
• Autoimmune or inflammatory conditions where food may be a trigger

What’s involved. A blood test, available either as a blood draw at a pathology collection centre or as an at-home finger-prick blood spot kit. I’ll guide you on which option suits you.

Results. Usually 3 to 4 weeks after the laboratory receives your sample, as samples are analysed overseas. We then require approximately one week to review your results and prepare your personalised treatment protocol. We will contact you to arrange your follow-up consultation if you haven't already rebooked.

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Genetics

myDNA Comprehensive Health Report

via myDNA, ordered through NutriPATH

What it is. A genetic test that analyses 92 genes to show how your DNA may influence the way your body uses nutrients, makes energy, balances hormones, handles stress, manages inflammation, repairs itself and clears toxins. It reports across eight areas:

• Digestion: your ideal diet type, macronutrient needs, weight management, and how you respond to fasting and ketosis
•  Energy: methylation, including MTHFR, folate needs and homocysteine
• Hormones: thyroid health, oestrogen, testosterone, SHBG and vitamin D
• Stress and cognitive performance: mood, anxiety, sleep, memory and focus
• Inflammation and longevity: antioxidant capacity and inflammation pathways
• Athletic performance: cardiovascular health, muscle recovery and fitness capacity
• DNA protection and repair: the genes that protect and repair your cells
• Detoxification: sensitivity to toxins, chemicals and medications

The report also highlights where your vitamin and mineral needs may be higher, and includes a personalised food list.

What it’s for. Your genes are your blueprint, and your diet, lifestyle and environment shape how that blueprint is expressed. This test shows your genetic strengths and the areas that may need more support, so we can tailor your nutrition, supplements and lifestyle to suit your body. Because your genes stay the same throughout your life, this is a test you do once and can draw on for years. It works beautifully alongside blood and functional testing, which show what is happening in your body right now.

You might consider this test if you:

• Want a deeply personalised approach to your nutrition and supplements
• Have a family history of heart, hormonal, metabolic or neurological conditions
• Have ongoing fatigue, or elevated homocysteine, or want to understand your methylation
• Experience anxiety, low mood or poor stress tolerance
• Have hormonal imbalances or thyroid concerns
• Are sensitive to caffeine, alcohol, chemicals or medications
• Are planning a pregnancy, for both partners
• Want to support healthy ageing and longevity
• Have tried many approaches and want to understand why some work better for you than others

What’s involved. A simple at-home cheek swab, posted back to the laboratory.

Results. Usually 21 working days after the laboratory receives your sample.  We then require approximately one week to review your results and prepare your personalised treatment protocol. We will contact you to arrange your follow-up consultation if you haven't already rebooked.

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Preconception and Fertility Care

Preparing the healthiest egg and sperm

A baby begins long before conception. Each parent contributes half of their baby’s genetic material, so the health of both the egg and the sperm matters equally. Preconception care is for couples who want to give their future child the strongest possible start, whether you’re simply planning a pregnancy, experiencing difficulty conceiving, preparing for IVF, or freezing your eggs.

Preconception care and fertility care can go hand in hand, and they can also stand on their own. Many couples come to me well before they’ve had any difficulty, simply wanting to prepare. Others come because conception is taking longer than they hoped.

Why the 100 days matter

Eggs and sperm take around three months to mature. During this window, both are shaped by nutrition, hormones, stress, sleep, toxin exposure, inflammation and overall health. This is why I recommend a minimum of 100 days of preparation for both partners before trying to conceive, before an IVF cycle, or before egg freezing.

Everyone begins from a different place in their health, health care and lifestyle, so more time is always beneficial. Some couples come to me a year or more before they plan to conceive, which gives us time to address underlying imbalances thoroughly before we begin.

Supporting IVF and egg freezing

If you’re undergoing IVF or planning to freeze your eggs, preconception care can work alongside your fertility specialist’s treatment. The same 100-day window applies, as it supports the quality of the eggs and sperm that will be collected. I’m happy to work collaboratively with your fertility clinic and medical team.

What we test

Every preconception journey begins with a thorough baseline blood test for both partners. This gives us a detailed picture of nutrient status, thyroid health, blood sugar, inflammation, hormones and overall wellbeing, so we can address any gaps well before conception.

From there, further testing depends on your history, your goals and, where relevant, the underlying cause of infertility. This may include:

• Hormone testing for both partners, timed to the menstrual cycle where needed
• Gut and microbiome testing, including the GI-Advanced Microbiome Profile
• Vaginal Microbiome Profile, to support a healthy reproductive environment
• Oral Microbiome Profile, as oral health is linked with reproductive and pregnancy health
• Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis, to assess mineral balance and heavy metal exposure in both partners
• Toxin screening, such as the ALL-Tox Profile or Mycotoxin Extensive Panel, where exposure is suspected
• myDNA genetic testing, to understand methylation, folate needs and other genetic tendencies
• Stress and sleep hormone testing with the AdrenoSCAN
• Semen analysis, arranged through your GP or fertility specialist

Your preconception protocol

Once we have your results, I create a personalised protocol for each partner. It brings together nutrition, targeted supplementation, herbal medicine, lifestyle support and detoxification where needed, all designed to nourish egg and sperm health and prepare your body for pregnancy. We review your progress throughout the 100 days and beyond, adjusting your protocol as your body responds.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a consultation before testing? Yes. All testing is by referral following a naturopathic consultation. This makes sure every test you do is relevant to your health and gives us information we can act on.

Can I choose my own tests? Your input is always welcome. I’ll recommend tests based on your history, symptoms and goals, and explain why each one would help, so we invest only in testing that will guide your care.

Are these all the tests you offer? These are a selection of the tests I refer for most often. Depending on your health picture, I may recommend other specialised tests.

How much does testing cost? Laboratory fees vary by test and are paid directly to the laboratory. I’ll let you know the current fee for each test I recommend before you order. Reviewing your results and creating your protocol are included in your naturopathic follow-up consultation fee.

Are these tests covered by Medicare or private health? Functional tests are outside the Medicare schedule. Some standard blood tests requested through your GP may be covered by Medicare. Some private health funds may offer partial rebates on naturopathic consultations, so check with your fund.

How long do results take? It depends on the test, ranging from a few days to around four weeks once the laboratory receives your sample. I’ll book your results consultation once your results arrive and I have created your protocol.

Do I need to prepare for my test? You’ll receive a preparation outline specific to your test. Some tests ask you to fast, collect at a particular time of day or cycle, or pause certain supplements beforehand. Please keep taking any prescribed medication and speak with me before making changes.

What if I’m unwell when I’m due to test? Let me know first. For some tests it’s best to wait until you’re back to your usual health, so your results reflect your true baseline.

Can I do more than one test at once? Often, yes. Several tests can be collected in the same week. I’ll help you plan the timing and preparation so collection stays simple.

Can my children be tested? Yes. The BabyBiome and PaediatricBiome tests are designed specifically for babies, children and teenagers, with age-appropriate reference ranges. HTMA is also gentle and well suited to children.

Should I do my blood test through my GP or directly through pathology? Both work well. Going through your GP may mean some tests are covered by Medicare, and it keeps your GP informed. Going directly through pathology is quick and private, and your results come straight to me. We’ll choose the option that suits you best.

Why might my blood results look “normal” when I still feel unwell? Laboratory reference ranges are wide and are designed to detect disease. A result can sit within the range and still be lower or higher than optimal for you. I read your results in context, alongside your symptoms and history, to see the fuller picture.

Can you use test results I’ve already had? Yes. Please bring any recent results to your consultation. Results from the past three to six months may give us a helpful starting point and save you repeating tests. Please send them as quickly as possible so I have time to review before your consult with me.

What’s the difference between the ALL-Tox Profile and the Mycotoxin Extensive Panel? The ALL-Tox Profile is a broad screen across six categories of environmental toxins, including the extensive mould toxin panel, heavy metals, pesticides and plastics. It’s a great starting point when we want a wide view of your total toxin load. 

If my results show mould toxins, what happens next? We work on two fronts together. First, we identify and address the source of exposure, which may involve a building assessment by a qualified mould inspector. Second, I create a protocol to support your body to clear the toxins, nourish your detoxification pathways, calm inflammation and restore your energy. Retesting later shows us your progress.

Will my GP see my results? Results from functional tests are sent to me. You’re very welcome to share them with your GP or specialist, and I’m happy to prepare a letter summarising key findings for your healthcare team. Working with you health care professional is the best outcome all round.

Do these tests replace medical tests? Functional testing works alongside your GP and specialist care, giving us a deeper view of how your body is functioning. Where results suggest something that needs medical investigation, I’ll refer you to your GP.

Will I need to retest? Retesting can be a valuable way to measure progress and confirm your protocol is working. We’ll decide together whether and when retesting would help.

How do I get started? Book a naturopathic consultation and we’ll begin with your story.