Alumni Spotlight
Dr . Crystal Foresman Landers , OT , ND , CNS
Dr . Crystal Foresman-Landers ,’ 12 , OT , ND , CNS is the first and only dual-licensed occupational therapist and naturopathic doctor in the United States . Dr . Foresman-Landers is also a board certified nutrition specialist . She provides naturopathic , functional medicine , functional integrative nutrition and integrative occupational therapy services in Wheaton , Illinois .
Prior to becoming a naturopathic doctor , Dr . Foresman-Landers was a pediatric occupational therapist . She made the transition into naturopathic medicine because it combined her career goals and passion . “ I was looking to expand my career , and became more interested in addressing the cause of people ’ s health concerns , rather than just providing supportive care for symptoms .” Dr . Foresman-Landers really embraces the concept of ‘ docere ’, or doctor as teacher . In her opinion , teaching patients how to be and stay well is really where the profession of naturopathic medicine shines . She enjoys educating people to address their health concerns from a whole person perspective and sees this as an opportunity for personal empowerment .
During naturopathic medical school Dr . Foresman-Landers gained knowledge in the core philosophy of naturopathic medicine and its sciences . She attributes her comfort to speak with other medical peers and support the health of the people she works with to her ND education . In addition , she is thankful for the team of professional colleagues that she is grateful to call friends . “ I can reach out to them if I have clinical questions .”
When asked how she planned for success in naturopathy , she responded , “ By applying the tenets of naturopathic philosophy in my own life .” Further , “ At NUHS there is a motto : ‘ Esse Quam Videri ’ meaning – To be , rather than to seem to be ; that motto stuck with me from the beginning .” This is also the advice she gives to future ND students . “ My advice prior to ND school would be to see a naturopathic doctor and set up your own optimal health plan , including a sound nutrition plan and re-establishing health if there are underlying health concerns . You will have good reserves going into the program and a solid understanding of what you are being taught if you have gone through your own health journey .”
Alumni Spotlight , continued next page
3