Your initial consultation may be in-person or online, and is an in-depth conversation where we explore your health history, current symptoms, medications, lifestyle and goals, and begin mapping out a tailored plan.

“In our first session I listen carefully, ask detailed questions, and we agree on the first few steps together, which might include dietary tweaks, simple lifestyle changes, targeted supplements and, if appropriate, recommendations for tests or referrals.” – Catrina Bleicher, Naturopath (BHSc), Essencia Wellbeing.

To prepare, I will provide you with a client intake form that asks you to provide me with existing test results where relevant, a list of medications and supplements, and a brief note of your main concerns and priorities before our consultation.

My fees depend on the length and type of consultation and I’m always upfront about the costs of appointments, potential tests and supplements so you can make decisions that feel realistic for you.

​From July 2025, naturopathy has been reinstated as eligible for private health insurance rebates in Australia, but coverage varies between funds. Some private health funds now include rebates for naturopathy again, while others are still updating their policies, so it’s important to check directly with your insurer.

For the most current fee schedule, visit the Fees & Bookings page, and if you’re unsure which consultation type you need, you’re welcome to send me an online enquiry.

No. Many people get meaningful benefit from naturopathic care using a thorough consultation and existing test results, without needing extra functional testing straight away.

“You don’t have to commit to testing to begin. In our first appointment we map out your health history, current symptoms, lifestyle and goals, and from there we decide together whether additional tests are likely to change our decisions or simply add cost” – Catrina Bleicher, Naturopath (BHSc), Essencia Wellbeing.

If budget is a concern, let me know at the start so we can prioritise the most cost‑effective options and only consider tests that are truly likely to guide your care.

At Essencia Wellbeing we a range of functional tests, including gut microbiome and stool analysis, hormone and adrenal profiles, metabolic and nutrient testing, and selected cardiovascular and longevity panels. These are based on your specific picture rather than as a routine package.

“In practice, I only recommend tests that are likely to answer a clear clinical question. For example, clarifying drivers of stubborn IBS symptoms, complex perimenopausal complaints, unexplained fatigue, or recurrent cardiometabolic issues, and I will explain the pros, cons and costs before you decide.” – Catrina Bleicher, Naturopath (BHSc), Essencia Wellbeing.

These tests add depth to standard GP investigations but do not replace regular medical care, diagnosis or screening.

Yes. A major focus of my practice is supporting women in their 40s, 50s and beyond through perimenopause, menopause and midlife health changes.

“Many of the women are exhausted by ‘normal’ blood tests but persistent symptoms. This can include heavy or erratic periods, hot flushes, night sweats, sleep problems, mood changes, and weight gain and they are seeking a calmer, clearer path through this transition.” – Catrina Bleicher, Naturopath (BHSc), Essencia Wellbeing.

We may work with nutrition, herbal medicines, stress and sleep strategies, and, where helpful, hormone or metabolic testing to help refine and target treatment.

Jump to our Perimenopause & Menopause section to find out more about how I support you through this, and to our Hormones & Metabolism Tests page for information around some popular recommended hormone tests.

Yes. Gut and digestive health, including IBS type symptoms, bloating, reflux, constipation or diarrhoea, and suspected food sensitivities are core to my clinical work.

“Clients may have had years of on and off gut symptoms, a flare after antibiotics, infections, or major stress. We work together to identify triggers, calm inflammation, and support the microbiome and gut barrier step by step.” – Catrina Bleicher, Naturopath (BHSc), Essencia Wellbeing.

CSIRO reports that at least 50% of Australian adults experience unpleasant gut symptoms such as bloating, gas and constipation, and around 1 in 7 experience symptoms they find distressing, which shows how common these problems are and why a personalised approach beyond generic advice can be so valuable.

Jump to our Gut Tests page for more details around some popular tests I recommend.

Essencia Wellbeing offers advanced gut microbiome and digestive function testing for people with ongoing IBS type symptoms, bloating, reflux, food reactions and related concerns.

“I work with comprehensive stool and microbiome panels to assess digestion, dysbiosis, inflammation, gut barrier function and beneficial species, then translate those findings into a practical, phased plan rather than just a long list of supplements.” – Catrina Bleicher, Naturopath (BHSc), Essencia Wellbeing.

According to CSIRO, more than half of adults in Australia report unpleasant gut symptoms and so many are looking for deeper answers beyond basic tests.

​If you’re unsure whether you need testing or can start with diet and lifestyle changes alone, we’ll explore that together in your initial consultation.

Yes – when it’s planned carefully and your full medical picture is considered. Renowned cancer centres in the USA such as Cleveland Clinic and Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center confirm that integrative oncology programs can reduce common treatment‑related symptoms like fatigue, pain, nausea, anxiety and sleep disturbance, and improve quality of life when used alongside standard cancer treatment.

“In my practice, safety comes first. I always ask about your diagnoses, medications and medical treatment regime, and avoid or adjust herbs and supplements that could negatively interact with your prescription medicines, surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy or targeted therapies.” – Catrina Bleicher, Naturopath (BHSc), Essencia Wellbeing.

Essencia Wellbeing offers naturopathic cancer support care in Sydney and online, with a strong emphasis on safety and collaboration with your oncology and medical team.

“As a naturopath, my role is to support quality of life, easing side effects where possible, supporting nutrition and digestion, improving sleep and energy, and helping you feel more resourced emotionally and within the boundaries set by your oncologist.” – Catrina Bleicher, Naturopath (BHSc), Essencia Wellbeing.

If you’re considering integrative support during or after treatment, we’ll always discuss timing, safety and communication with your doctors before making any change.

Jump to our Cancer care page to see how I support my clients through this challenging phase.

Essencia Wellbeing is a Sydney based naturopathic clinic focused on helping women over 50, age well by supporting gut, hormonal and metabolic health, as well as bone, heart and brain health.

“In midlife I see healthy ageing as something we build through everyday choices – food, movement, stress, sleep and connection – and my role is to translate those into a personalised plan that fits your real life, not a rigid ideal.” – Catrina Bleicher, Naturopath (BHSc), Essencia Wellbeing.

Long‑term research in women shows that midlife lifestyle factors like smoking, physical activity and weight have a big impact on the chances of living well into older age.

If you’re thinking more about how you want to feel in 10 years than just about today’s symptoms, an initial consultation can help clarify your priorities and next steps.

You can bring almost any health concern to a naturopathic consultation, from everyday fatigue and stress to more complex gut, hormonal or immune issues.

“In my clinic I most often support women through digestive discomfort, IBS and bloating, perimenopause and menopause symptoms, metabolic and thyroid issues, autoimmune and inflammatory conditions, and recovery after major health events such as cancer treatment.” – Catrina Bleicher, Naturopath (BHSc), Essencia Wellbeing.

My role is to complement your medical care by joining the dots between symptoms, lifestyle and test results, and then designing a practical, stepwise plan that fits your real life and goals.