Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the questions people ask most about working with Dr. Joy Sturgill, a naturopathic doctor in Pittsburgh, PA, with more than 21 years of clinical experience.
About Dr. Joy and Naturopathic Medicine
What is naturopathic medicine?
Naturopathic medicine is a system of care focused on finding and addressing the root causes of health concerns, using natural therapies such as nutrition, herbal medicine, homeopathy, mind-body approaches and targeted lifestyle changes. Naturopathic doctors complete pre-medical studies followed by a four-year doctoral program at an accredited naturopathic medical school, then must pass the Naturopathic Physicians Licensing Examinations (NPLEX), the national board exams administered by the North American Board of Naturopathic Examiners. Naturopathic doctors who graduate from accredited programs like Bastyr University are trained as primary care providers. In states that license naturopathic doctors, such as Washington and Oregon, they practice as primary care providers.
What makes Dr. Joy’s approach different?
Dr. Joy earned her Doctorate in Naturopathic Medicine from Bastyr University in 2004 and has been in practice for more than 21 years. Rather than using natural remedies to cover up symptoms, she looks for the patterns underneath them, combining a thorough health history, functional lab testing and bioenergetic assessment to build a plan specific to you. Learn more about Dr. Joy.
Is Dr. Joy a primary care provider?
No. Dr. Joy’s naturopathic medical education at Bastyr University trained her to serve as a primary care provider, and after graduating she was licensed as a naturopathic doctor in Washington State, where naturopathic doctors practice as primary care providers. Pennsylvania does not currently license naturopathic doctors as primary care providers, so here Dr. Joy works alongside your primary care physician and other providers, focusing on uncovering and addressing the root causes of your health concerns. She does not replace your conventional medical care.
What health concerns does Dr. Joy help with?
Dr. Joy works primarily with women and their families who want to move from “getting by” to truly thriving. Common concerns include hormone imbalance, digestive and gut health, low energy and fatigue, brain fog, detoxification and chronic health concerns that haven’t resolved with other approaches. She also sees children and offers naturopathic support for pets.
What tools does Dr. Joy use?
Dr. Joy combines your health history with functional lab testing, including blood, stool, saliva and urine tests, and bioenergetic assessment, including AO Scan and Zyto. Bioenergetic assessment is a non-invasive tool she uses to identify patterns, guide recommendations and track your progress over time.
Getting Started
How does care work for new patients?
New adult patients begin with the 5-Month Comprehensive Care Program. It includes five one-on-one consultations with Dr. Joy (including your initial visit), regular AO Scans between visits, a personalized protocol that is updated as your body responds, functional lab testing as needed, and messaging support through a secure patient portal. See care options and pricing.
Why a 5-month program instead of single visits?
Lasting change takes time. Most health concerns develop over months or years, and the body needs consistent support and adjustments to respond. A 5-month program gives you the continuity to find what’s driving your symptoms, act on it and see real progress.
What happens at the first visit?
Your initial consultation lasts 60 to 75 minutes. Dr. Joy reviews your health history, current concerns and goals, performs a bioenergetic assessment and recommends lab testing if needed. You leave with a clear understanding of her findings and a personalized plan, which may include supplements, homeopathic remedies, herbal medicine and specific diet and lifestyle changes.
What happens after the 5-month program?
Dr. Joy reassesses your progress and recommends next steps. Many patients continue with the 6-Month Continuing Care Program, which includes three follow-up consultations and ongoing bioenergetic support at a less intensive pace.
Does Dr. Joy offer virtual appointments?
Yes. Dr. Joy sees patients in person in Pittsburgh, PA, and virtually by Zoom or phone, so you can work with her from anywhere.
Can I talk with someone before I book?
Yes. Schedule a free 15-minute call with Dr. Joy to ask questions and see if her approach is a good fit. You can also call 412.921.8329 or email info@drjoysturgill.com.
Cost and Payment
What does care cost?
The 5-Month Comprehensive Care Program is $2,500, or three monthly payments of $950. Pricing for children, returning patients and pets is listed on our Care Options & Investment page. Full terms, including cancellations, are in our Billing & Financial Policy.
Do you accept insurance?
Dr. Joy is not in-network with any insurance plans, and naturopathic services are generally not covered by health insurance in Pennsylvania. We accept cash, check, all major credit cards, and HSA and FSA cards.
Are supplements and lab tests included in the program fee?
No. Remedies, supplements and laboratory testing are an additional cost. Dr. Joy recommends professional-grade products, available through her online dispensaries.
Children and Pets
Does Dr. Joy see children?
Yes. Dr. Joy has extensive experience supporting children, including those with neurodevelopmental and sensory concerns. Children begin with an initial comprehensive consultation, and ongoing care is tailored to each child’s needs.
How does Dr. Joy work with pets?
Dr. Joy uses bioenergetic assessment to look for underlying factors affecting your pet’s health, then designs a custom plan. Your pet doesn’t need to be present for the appointment.
Still Have Questions?
Send Dr. Joy a question or call 412.921.8329.