dr. lindsay mckenzie nd, msc
Naturopathic doctor based in Orillia, Ontario offering virtual care across Ontario. In-person visits available upon request.
When patients first reach out, they’ve typically been feeling ‘off’ for a while and feel like they haven’t had their concerns taken seriously by their doctor. It’s common that they are overwhelmed with information and unsure where to start. My role is to create a space where you can slow down, feel heard, and begin to make sense of what’s going on. Together, we can unravel your health history, start putting the pieces together and get you on the right path forward.
what it’s like to work together
My approach is collaborative, direct and practical. I believe in meeting you where you’re at and helping you navigate your current experience. But that’s not where my care stops! I will also prompt self-reflection and lead us to look at the bigger picture to understand how you got to this place. Working with me, you’ll be supported, guided, and held accountable as we build healthy habits that have long-lasting benefits. You’ll leave our visits having a better understanding of how your body works, the tools & knowledge to take control of your health, and a clear path forward.
the ‘why’ behind my work
Having been in the patient’s seat myself — through burnout, intense athletic training, and time on medical leave — I understand how challenging the healing process can be. I understand what it’s like to have your concerns minimized by the medical system. To have testing or imaging done without fully understanding why, and not being relayed the results. To be given medication without discussing the reason or pros and cons of taking it. I strive to treat you like the whole human that you are. I feel strongly that there is a need for care between starting to feel ‘off’ and the visit to your medical doctor’s office — that’s where I believe naturopathic medicine fits in.
my approach to care
Your body is incredibly smart and adaptive. Symptoms are not a sign that something is “broken”, but instead a reflection of how your body has adapted over time to stress, environment, and daily demands. Through this lens, we can understand that a state of health built over time also requires time and patience to be brought back into balance.
I see healthcare as a collaborative process. You reflect to me how you’re feeling in your body — what feels off, what your suspicions are — and I piece this information together through a holistic lens. As a team, we explore what may be contributing to your symptoms, and I take the time to explain why I’m recommending certain approaches so you can feel informed and confident in your care. Your input matters — your preferences, your lifestyle, and what feels realistic for you are all part of the plan.
In many healthcare settings, there can be a tendency to focus on treating individual symptoms in isolation. I believe there’s much more to medicine than that. I find great joy in helping people truly understand what’s going on in their bodies — whether it’s reviewing bloodwork and imaging reports with you, explaining the physiology of how your body works, or connecting patterns that may not be immediately obvious.
From this place, we can create a whole-person treatment plan that takes into account your real life — habits, beliefs, likes and dislikes — and challenges you to take accountability for your health. My goal is not just to help you feel better in the short term, but to help you feel more connected to and confident in your health over time.
Dr. Lindsay, ND’s favourite therapies
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Our bodies thrive on routine — consistent wake, eating and sleep schedules. This helps to regulate our hormones, energy levels, and even our bowel movements! Routine includes the types of food you tend to reach for, and how they make your body feel. It includes your tendency for making social plans or go to the gym. Developing healthy routines that become habitual makes being healthy automatic. It’s just who you are!
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Herbal medicine is unique because one plant can have many medicinal properties. Sometimes I find these actions match up seamlessly with a patient’s combination of symptoms. Using botanicals can help to nudge the body back into balance while we work on lifestyle changes over the long-term.
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Our bodies have so many ways of telling us that they need support — and symptoms are a big part of this. The hard part is knowing what exactly our bodies are trying to say, especially when we’ve been conditioned to ignore and silence them.
This is where testing through blood, saliva, urine or stool comes in handy. We can learn so much through directly testing the affected systems so that we can get specific answers and direction for treatment. Specific faves include:
Bloodwork
Organic acids testing (OAT)
Stool testing (GI MAP)
4-point cortisol saliva testing
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Our fast-paced society values output and productivity, which is why a lot of people’s resting hours take a hit. Getting adequate quality sleep is key for repairing our bodies and having enough energy through the day. Whether it’s waking up in the middle of the night, a racing mind before bed, or simply not making sleep a priority, I can help optimize your sleep and reset your routine.
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We have so much competing for our time, energy and attention — whether it be work, kids, family & friends, or an endless loop of screentime — we don’t often take time to ask “what do I need?”. Part of my practice involves asking where you can make space for yourself by taking some responsibilities off of your plate and asking for the support you deserve. This can be difficult at first, but it can have profound benefits for your health.
about me
Outside of clinic, I enjoy making the most of a sunny day whether it be waterskiing in the summer or a nature walk on the trails. I love to cook, bake and eat, and I am known for “winging” recipes. I value my quiet time — so much so that I devote at least 1 hour to my morning routine — and deep, thoughtful conversations with my loved ones.
educational background
doctor of naturopathy
Dr. Lindsay, ND completed her Doctor of Naturopathy degree at the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine (CCNM), including a 1-year internship at the Schad Naturopathic Clinic. She is registered with the College of Naturopaths of Ontario (CONO).
master of science
Dr. Lindsay, ND attended the University of Guelph for her master’s degree in Human Health & Nutritional Sciences. Her studies included learning about natural health product regulations by Health Canada and the FDA which helps her to ensure her patient’s get the safest and best quality products.
bachelor of science
Dr. Lindsay, ND obtained her bachelor’s degree from the University of Guelph in Nutritional & Nutraceutical Sciences, where she learned about the best-studied dosing and botanical extraction methods that she relies on for treatment in her clinic today.
let’s connect
Reaching out for support can feel like a big step. If you’re considering working together, you’re welcome to book a consultation or reach out with questions. I’d be happy to chat.