## Mental Health Conference 2026 – Event Summary **Mental Health Conference 2026** is a global hybrid conference organized by PubScholars, scheduled for **20–21 November 2026** at Aloft Boston Seaport District, with virtual participation available worldwide. Under the theme *“Next-Generation Mental Health: Integrating AI, Genomics & Clinical Excellence,”* the conference will bring together psychiatrists, psychologists, researchers, (more...)
I am pleased to put my name forward for a position on the BCND Board.
For the past nine years, I have served on the CAND board in a general board capacity and on the executive, most recently as Treasurer and previously as Secretary. This experience has given me a strong understanding of governance, advocacy, and the importance of thoughtful leadership. Our profession is at a critical juncture. I am passionate about advocating for a strong and sustainable future. My key priorities include: expanding scope of practice, improving access to referrals and laboratory testing, and ensuring naturopathic doctors are appropriately integrated and recognized within the broader primary care landscape.
Since beginning practice in 2015, I have developed a diverse clinical background. My experience ranges from working as an associate in multiple clinics in North Vancouver, to collaborating alongside neurosurgeons and orthopaedic surgeons in an MD pain clinic. I now own and operate Viridis Health in Kamloops, BC, a women’s health–focused clinic that also provides ultrasound-guided regenerative injection therapies.
I believe our profession has an important role to play in supporting patient access to high-quality, collaborative care. I would be honoured to contribute my experience, perspective, and commitment to advocacy as part of the BCND Board.
Thank you for your consideration.
I am a naturopathic doctor with a background that bridges conventional and naturopathic medicine, shaping how I approach patient care and clinical decision-making. My goal is to provide thoughtful, integrative care that supports patients across all stages of life.
As a mother of two boys, I have a strong interest in family wellness and prevention. I am a primary care provider for many of my patients, with a focus on early intervention, education, and long-term health outcomes. My practice includes working with children and adults across a range of concerns, from pediatric conditions to more complex presentations.
Clinically, I focus on chronic and autoimmune conditions, as well as mental health, hormonal balance, and digestive health. I draw on tools including dietary and lifestyle interventions, botanical medicine, homeopathy, IV and oxidative therapies, and biofeedback, with additional training in prescribing, immunizations, acupuncture, and advanced therapeutic approaches.
I place a strong emphasis on listening, building relationships, and tailoring care to the individual, with the belief that patients benefit most when care is personalized and grounded in clinical understanding.
Since joining the BCND Board in 2024, I have brought an advocacy lens and practical experience during a period of regulatory change and would welcome the opportunity to continue supporting members across British Columbia.
Withember.
Kim grew up in cottage country near Peterborough, Ontario, and took the long way to naturopathic medicine. After high school, she spent time living and working in London, England, before eventually making her way west. In 2003, she landed on Vancouver Island for tree planting, the kind of experience that gets into your soul, and never quite left British Columbia.
Her decision to become an ND was shaped by watching her mother go through ovarian cancer. Seeing the difference naturopathic care made during that time left a mark, and it still informs how she shows up for her own patients.
She now practices in Revelstoke and the surrounding area, offering patient-centred, evidence-informed care with a scope that includes prescriptive authority, acupuncture, IV and injection therapies, and oxidative treatments. As a mother of three, including twins, she knows firsthand that life is busy and health decisions are rarely simple. Living and working in a smaller community creates the connection she enjoys, where access gaps, travel distances, and continuity of care shape daily practice.
Since joining the BCND Board in 2024, Kim has appreciated the chance to contribute beyond her own practice, supporting members and working toward a stronger future for naturopathic medicine in BC. She is keen to continue that.
I am a naturopathic physician with residency training in integrative oncology and complex chronic illness, and a clinical focus in regenerative medicine and pain management. My practice is grounded in evidence-based, compassionate, and personalized care for patients navigating complex and chronic conditions.
My training includes a Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine from the Boucher Institute, a Bachelor of Health Science in health policy, and an honours degree in nutrition and nutraceutical sciences. This foundation has shaped how I approach care, combining clinical depth with systems-level thinking and a strong focus on long-term patient outcomes.
In practice, I hold prescriptive authority and work with a wide range of therapies, including acupuncture, advanced injection therapies, IV and oxidative treatments, and immunizations. I aim to use these tools thoughtfully and safely, always in service of patient-centred, integrated care that reflects both clinical evidence and patient goals.
My practice is grounded in curiosity, clinical rigor, and respect for complexity. I am especially interested in bridging naturopathic and conventional approaches in ways that are practical and meaningful for patients.
I am seeking a position on the BCND Board to support thoughtful advocacy, strengthen integration within the healthcare system, and contribute to the long-term growth of the profession in British Columbia.
It has been a privilege to serve on the BCND Board of Directors, including as President since 2023, and to be re-elected in 2024. This period has brought both challenge and opportunity, and I have valued working collaboratively with colleagues, engaging with key stakeholders, and advocating for the role of naturopathic doctors in a changing healthcare environment.
Through this work, I have developed a strong understanding of the pressures facing our profession and the importance of steady, thoughtful advocacy. Continuity and stability in leadership are especially important during this time of regulatory change, and I remain committed to supporting members through this transition while advancing recognition of naturopathic doctors as primary care providers.
Since graduating from BINM in 2017, I have practised at Vancouver Naturopathic Clinic, with additional experience in a rural setting on Vancouver Island. These varied clinical environments have shaped my approach to care and strengthened my commitment to accessible, patient-centred practice. I integrate a range of modalities, including advanced injections, IV and oxidative therapies, acupuncture, and immunizations.
I have a deep respect for the foundations of naturopathic medicine and believe they must continue to guide us as the profession evolves. I am committed to providing steady leadership, supporting members, and helping position naturopathic doctors within the broader healthcare system.
I have been involved with BCND over the past decade, stepping in at different points to support the work of the Board, including serving as President from 2018 to 2020. This experience has given me a strong understanding of how to navigate complex issues, represent the profession, and move priorities forward in a meaningful way that reflects the needs of both NDs and the patients we serve.
I am a naturopathic doctor and clinic owner based in Langford, BC, with a commitment to patient care and to strengthening the position of naturopathic doctors within healthcare. My clinical work spans a wide range of concerns, with particular interests in hormones, thyroid health, allergies, brain health, menopause, and complex chronic conditions.
I have spent years engaging directly with MLAs, ministers, and decision-makers to elevate understanding of naturopathic medicine and the role we play in patient care. A key focus of mine is on advancing scope. Advancing scope of practice not only ensures NDs can fully apply their training but also improves timely access to care, reduces system strain, and better meets the needs of patients. I approach this work in a direct and solutions-focused way.
I am committed to continuing to contribute this experience, supporting members, and strengthening the profession.
With six years in practice, I believe it is the right time for me to give back to our profession during this period of regulatory change. I am excited for this opportunity to collaborate with fellow board members, gain insights into the evolving regulatory landscape in BC, and advocate for the growth of our profession.
My practice has a focused interest in digestive health, from autoimmune to disorders of gut-brain interaction. I support patients in moving from feeling limited by their symptoms to feeling confident in their bodies and in control of their digestion. After helping patients uncover the root causes of their concerns, I have seen how sustainable change is possible.
My path to naturopathic medicine began while working as an exercise physiologist in cardiac rehabilitation. That experience shaped my understanding of the connection between physical, mental, and emotional health and informs how I approach patient care.
I thrive in collaborative environments and work within an interdisciplinary team to implement evidence-informed treatment plans. We troubleshoot issues, share ideas, and enhance workflows. I value clear communication and navigating diverse perspectives.
I am committed to evidence-based medicine, adherence to guidelines, and advocating for patients while maintaining safe and effective care. I believe these experiences will support my contributions as a BCND Board member.
(written by Dr. Karen Fraser, Nanaimo ND)
It is with heavy hearts that we are announcing the sudden and unexpected passing of Dr. Tahira Jiwani, a long time naturopathic doctor in BC who lead her life with love, passion, determination and a keen business sense. Dr. Jiwani had a very loyal and committed patient base and was voted Best Naturopath for Surrey by Vancouver Burnaby NOW Gold Award five years in a row from ’21-’25.
Tahira began her career by completing her Bachelor of Science in Nutrition at UBC with honors in 1993. Her interest in “food as medicine” and compassion for helping people, sparked her decision to pursue her diploma in naturopathic medicine at CCNM in Toronto. As a student, Tahira was known for being kind, thoughtful, and a hard worker. She shared her study notes freely, offered her perspective with a balanced view, and had bigger plans for her practice upon graduating – she hit all of her milestones and goals.
In her early years, she opened a general practice in Surrey. She participated in radio shows, volunteered her time with the former BCNA (currently BCND), and built a strong practice. Her career was enhanced further with the support of her good friend, Surj, who became her long time and current business partner.
By 2012, she launched what she always referred to as “her baby” – Physician’s Research supplements. This is a professional supplement line that she built during her off-patient time. She met her goals of creating high quality products, that were potent, clean, effective and priced competitively. She also wanted to ensure an altruistic goal of helping patients get the most for their supplement money by cleverly combining ingredients to support more than one target condition with each product.
Tahira’s practice evolved to have a focus on auto-immune conditions and chronic illnesses. She had a very busy practice and high success rate with her patients. She continued her education with her constant curiosity to learn by attending more conferences, workshops and seminars than she ever “needed”. She didn’t have a lot of spare time, but she made time to travel with her husband and loved to explore.
Personally, Tahira was my roommate during our graduating year at CCNM, and remained a long term friend. We could always “pick up where we left off”. She thoughtfully saved a seat for me at every AGM or conference lecture. Tahira, I will hold a seat for you at the next one.
Dr. Tahira Jiwani will be greatly missed by her husband, her sister, Dr. Nyla Jiwani, ND in ON, as well as parents, family, friends, patients, and colleagues.
Join us October 2, 2025 from 5:30-6:30pm Pacific time for a final ANM 2025 tech check. Test your system, set-up and get a quick overview of the Gatherly platform. The team will be there to answer questions.
Join by clicking here:
For NDs wishing to access the LearningHub, the work-around when creating an account is to select the account type as “Affiliate” (e.g., those without a direct BC Health Authority Employee ID).
Current enrollment as a student in a healthcare related discipline in BC. Please select the Health Authority you expect your first practicum to be with. If you need to change the Health Authority at any time, please contact LearningHubAdmin.
Employees under an organization in partnership/affiliated with a BC Health Authority. Includes contractors and those without a direct BC Health Authority Employee ID.
Medical Staff (i.e. physicians, dentists, midwives) working within a BC Health Authority.
If you are a Medical Staff with a direct Health Authority Employee ID, please register with an Employee Account.
Providing volunteer services in a healthcare setting in BC.
Join colleagues for a casual post day one ANM gathering with light nibbles and good conversation. These happy hour events are a relaxed opportunity to connect, share insights from the day, and enjoy time together in person.
When: October 4th, 5:30pm – 7:30pm
Where:
Nomination packages should include a minimum of two and no more than five letters of support from peers or other stakeholders, clearly demonstrating how the nominee meets the award criteria. Letters should clearly demonstrate how the nominee not only meets the criteria for the award, but how they have consistently gone above and beyond in order to meet the criteria.
In rural or remote areas where obtaining letters from colleagues is difficult, letters from other healthcare team members or community stakeholders may be substituted, with an explanation provided.
Type of Insurance
Typical Uses
Who chooses how the money is spent?
When does it pay out?
How does it
pay out?
Can I hold it corporately?
Life Insurance
You + your beneficiaries
Upon death. Depending on your policy, you may be able to withdraw money while alive as well.
Tax-free lump sum
Tax preferred if you make a withdrawal while alive.
Yes
Mortgage Insurance
You (if you get it individually and not through the bank)
Upon death.
Tax-free lump sum
Yes
Critical Illness Insurance
*how you spend the money is up to you
You
Upon diagnosis of a covered condition such as cancer, heart attack, stroke, MS
*many policies have around 25 covered conditions but each policy is different
Tax-free lump sum
Yes
Disability Insurance
*how you spend the money is up to you
You
If you cannot work due to injury or illness.
Plans can have different waiting periods before the benefit is payable. 90 days is common.
Monthly to you personally
Yes
Business Overhead Insurance
Paid as a reimbursement for business expenses
If you cannot work due to injury or illness.
Plans can have different waiting periods before the benefit is payable. 30 days is common.
Monthly to your corporation as a reimbursement for corp. expenses.
Yes
Saskia Karlen is a third-generation insurance broker specializing in life and health insurance, financial planning, and employee benefits. With a BA from the University of British Columbia, Saskia transitioned from a successful career in marketing to the insurance and financial services industry. She provides personalized insurance solutions and financial planning strategies to individuals and businesses, helping them achieve long-term financial security.
Saskia is highly regarded for her expertise in insurance solutions and has been a key provider of life and health insurance services. She has a deep understanding of the financial needs of both individuals and businesses and uses her extensive knowledge to ensure clients are well-protected.
Sindy Billan is the founder of SB Wealth Solutions and has been an investment and insurance advisor since 2003. Licensed in BC for the sale of investments, life, and health insurance products, Sindy brings a unique, holistic approach to financial advising, incorporating considerations of health, wealth, and work-life balance. She is dedicated to helping families and business owners prepare for their financial futures with strategic solutions tailored to their individual needs.
Sindy is passionate about educating her clients and has presented at numerous seminars and workshops for both business owners and medical professionals. She has sponsored booths at BCND’s Advancing Naturopathic Medicine & Northwest Naturopathic Physician Convention (NWNPC) since 2011. Outside of her professional life, Sindy enjoys golf, spending time with her grandkids at Granville Island, and cooking for her family
“I’ve been seeing an ND for over 20 years. My ND listens and we spend time focusing on my questions and what matters to me. I see it as a true partnership.”
“My ND helped me get through some rough health challenges when I was experiencing menopause. Nothing I did helped, but my ND listened, helped me balance my hormones, and got me through it.”
“I’ve had health problems since I was a kid. Asthma, digestive issues and a host of other things. My ND has helped me manage all my conditions and has gotten me healthier.”
“My ND makes me feel empowered. I participate in my health decisions and feel like I’m an equal partner in my care.”
“My ND didn’t just focus on my symptoms and instead focused on treating my problem.”
BCND is pleased to share a professional development opportunity through the Indigenous Relations Academy, which is generously offering naturopathic doctors a 20% discount on two of their most valued online training courses.
BCND thanks the Indigenous Relations Academy for making this offer available to naturopathic doctors committed to advancing cultural safety and humility in their practices.
