Dr. Shawn Yakimovich ND studied Human Nutrition at McGill University before earning his Naturopathic Doctor designation at the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine in 2006. He has been in private practice ever since, first in Ottawa and since 2010, in Kemptville, Ontario. In his general family practice he confidently blends herbal medicine, hydrotherapy, homeopathic medicine, acupuncture and nutritional counselling to help people feel better as gently and quickly as possible. He has been offering his services at Newgate 180 since September 2018.

“Dr. Shawn”, as he is known to Newgate 180 residents and staff, brings a holistic approach, acknowledging the importance of sleep, stress reduction and nutrition for health and recovery. Every week, he presents a discussion on a unique aspect of health, with topics including restorative sleep, aromatherapy, demonstrating how to make a herbal healing salve and teaching general principles of immunity and detoxification. Participants then have the option to experience acupuncture or cupping therapy, which are very effective for pain relief, stress reduction, emotional balancing and sleep promotion.

During these sessions there is also the opportunity for more individualized one–on–one discussions where residents can receive additional naturopathic treatments and guidance for acute and chronic health issues. It is Dr. Shawn’s goal that Newgate 180 residents return home feeling better, with some practical skills to take charge of their own health and with a greater awareness of healthcare options available to them in the community.

“I began working at Newgate in 2018 and loved it immediately! I enjoy the warmth and enthusiasm of the clients there, and especially love it when a client has a good response to cupping or acupuncture, resulting in less pain, better sleep or reduced anxiety. I really like the questions I get when teaching about topics such as liver health, stress reduction or aromatherapy. I am always amazed at the amount of camaraderie and laughter shared by the clients, despite the challenges they are experiencing. In my work at Newgate I hope I can play a small role in helping clients take a proactive role in their healthcare and help them feel better as they begin the next steps in their recovery journey.”