Our Doctors

Dr. Loreen Dawson, BSc, ND

I can’t imagine more rewarding work than that of a naturopathic physician. From the first moment I learned about naturopathic medicine, I knew that this was exactly what I was meant to do. Naturopathic medicine perfectly combines my interests in medicine, health, nutrition and plants with a career that is always challenging and rewarding. I love listening to people’s stories, working with them to improve their health and vitality.

I grew up in Victoria BC, attended high school and did my pre-med studies in Ottawa, then graduated from the University of Manitoba with a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture, and a minor in Food Science; a background which has been surprisingly useful in my work as a naturopathic physician. I graduated from the National College of Naturopathic Medicine, in Portland Oregon in 1997, and have been practicing in Sechelt since 1998.

In addition to my work at the Hummingbird Clinic, I taught at Boucher Institute of Naturopathic Medicine for 9 years, and served on the Boucher board for 3 years. I am a past president and have served 4 terms as a board member of the BC Naturopathic Association. I love living on the Sunshine Coast where I enjoy snowshoeing on Dakota Ridge, hiking on Mt. Elphinstone and puttering in my garden. I look forward to working with you on your journey to health.

Dr. Vanessa Yu, BA, ND

Across the globe, I’ve seen first-hand how different cultures view health, the role of the healthcare system, and the healing power of nature. I believe that there is not one right approach and strive to continually grow as both a doctor and a person. Naturopathic medicine provides an ideal platform blending 3000+ years of traditional knowledge with the latest advances in research and technology to create a plan that is customized and evolving with you.

I draw not only from my academic training (B.A. in Environmental Studies & Fine Arts from Mt. Allison University, NB; 4-year Naturopathic Program at Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine (FKA The Boucher Institute of Naturopathic Medicine), New Westminster, BC) but also experiential learning to develop thoughtful and effective treatments. My approach is inherently blended and balanced: East & West, Arts & Science, Prevention & Cure. I provide options for your needs and preferences – and, whenever suitable, also try to incorporate a Traditional Chinese Medicine home cure, urban homesteading hack, or pun!

My areas of interest include fatigue, digestive and skin issues, detoxification including heavy metal chelation, female hormones, mental-emotional health, and Bowen Therapy. No matter your current situation, I believe creating the right conditions for health in the mind-body are essential for healing and, ultimately, thriving. My goal is to empower patients to manifest a state of wellbeing that radiates outwards, benefiting families and their community. I want people to have more – health, happiness, and the kinds of experiences that matter most – with the time, energy, and freedom to do what their hearts’ desire!

Dr. Karen Mitteregger, ND

I am a licensed naturopathic doctor with clinical interests in women’s health, mental health, and skin health. My approach is integrative and evidence-informed, combining modern medical science with traditional healing systems. I hold a Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine from the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine – Boucher Campus in Vancouver, and an Honours Bachelor of Kinesiology from Lakehead University.

I enjoy using botanical medicine, acupuncture, and lifestyle counseling to support individualized care. My practice is rooted in compassion and a respect for each person’s unique health journey. Ongoing mentorship with experienced clinicians and early leaders in the naturopathic profession continues to inform and evolve my work.

Before entering clinical practice, I gained a wide range of international experience in health and education. I volunteered on a field study sailboat in the Bahamas, completed a youth development internship in Jamaica, and spent 4 years teaching in Korea, China, Hong Kong, and Thailand. I also lived in Europe for 4 years, where my husband is from and where both of our children were born. These global experiences continue to shape my holistic view of health, healing, and the human experience.

I live with my husband and our two children in Sechelt on the Sunshine Coast. We feel fortunate to call this community home and spend as much time as we can outdoors—especially by the water.