Understanding Entry-To-Practice Requirements in Ontario
This Regulatory Education Program (REP) session focused on the essential requirements for entering naturopathic practice in Ontario. Designed for new graduates and internationally educated applicants, the session provided valuable information on educational standards, examination pathways, documentation, and regulatory obligations.
It also reviewed the role of the Regulated Health Professions Act (RHPA), the Naturopathy Act, 2007, and how the College of Naturopaths of Ontario sets and enforces entry-to-practice requirements. Participants gained practical guidance through real-life case examples and learned how to avoid common delays and risks during the registration process.
Key points that were covered included:
- Common application errors and how to avoid them.
- The core regulatory requirements for registration in Ontario.
- How to navigate exams, documents, and application steps.
- Entry options for internationally educated applicants.
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PRESENTERS
Dr. Adam Gratton
Naturopathic Doctor
Dr. Adam Gratton, ND completed his naturopathic medical studies at the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine (CCNM) in 2008 after earning a Specialist Bachelor of Science in Toxicology from the University of Toronto. He went on to complete a two-year residency at CCNM, followed by a Master of Science in Pharmacology and Toxicology at Michigan State University.
Since 2010, Adam has been an associate professor at CCNM, where he coordinates and teaches courses in evidence-based medicine and pharmacology. He is actively involved in collaborative research projects and has a strong clinical and research interest in naturopathic approaches to patients with skin conditions.
Alongside his private practice, Adam is also actively engaged with the College and currently serves on the Standards Committee.
Erica Laugalys
Deputy CEO, Registrant and Corporate Services
Erica Laugalys is the Deputy CEO, Registrant and Corporate Services, and has just recently celebrated 10 years with the College. Erica has served with many Council members supporting their work on several committees, including the Registration Committee and Exam Appeals Committee. She has been vital to the development and implementation of the College’s Clinical Sciences, Biomedical and Clinical (Practical) Examinations, not to mention the Prescribing & Therapeutics and IVIT exams. In addition to her Council and Committee work, Erica has interacted with countless volunteers who have served as examiners, invigilators, and item writers. Erica has a Bachelor of Arts degree in English Literature from the University of Waterloo. Prior to her work with the College, she worked in Registration and Examinations for the Board of Directors of Drugless Therapy-Naturopathy.
Dr. Shelly Burns
Naturopathic Doctor
Dr. Shelley Burns, ND is co-owner of Pomegranate Healthcare, a multidisciplinary clinic in Toronto. With extensive experience in executive health, she collaborates with physicians to support clients in achieving peak wellness.
She completed the four-year program at the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine (CCNM), receiving the NaturoMedic Award for proficiency in naturopathic medicine. She also holds a BA in Psychology and Philosophy from Wilfrid Laurier University, a certification in Complementary and Integrative Medicine from Harvard Medical School, and a Master of Laws in Health Law from Osgoode Hall Law School.
Shelley is a past chair of the Ontario Association of Naturopathic Doctors and currently serves on the Registration Committee of the College. She supervises at the Robert Schad Naturopathic Clinic (RSNC) and has contributed to Skin Deep magazine, Maclean’s, The Toronto Star, and The Medical Post. She has also appeared on CTV and spoken at healthcare conferences across North America on naturopathic and preventive medicine.