--- title: "Patient Care" entity: "page" canonical_url: "https://www.drlovink.com/patient-care" markdown_url: "https://www.drlovink.com/llms/page/patient-care" lastmod: "2026-09-18T18:59:57.170Z" --- # Naturopathic Care for Chronic Constipation, IBS, and Gut-Brain Symptoms ## Personalized care for constipation, bloating, unpredictable bowel movements, and symptoms that deserve a deeper look. Virtual appointments across British Columbia, or in-person in Victoria. Book an Initial Consultation ## When You Know Something's Off, But No One's Listening Maybe you've been told your labs are normal, or that it's "just IBS." Maybe you've tried elimination diets, SIBO testing, and every approach that was supposed to help, and nothing has stuck. You're more restricted around food than you've ever been, and it feels impossible to plan your life around a gut that runs the show. You're starting to wonder if you're overreacting, or if something real is being missed. You may be experiencing: Being told your labs are "normal" while symptoms continue An IBS diagnosis with no real plan attached SIBO testing, elimination diets, or other approaches with no lasting change Feeling more restricted around food than ever Struggling to plan your life around unpredictable symptoms A growing sense that something is being missed ## Areas of Clinical Focus ### Chronic Constipation & IBS Personalized care for constipation, IBS, and unpredictable bowel patterns, including medication and laxative strategy. ### Bloating & Gut-Brain Symptoms A deeper look at nervous system patterns, digestion, and other factors often missed in standard care, especially when labs come back normal. ### Hormones & Your Gut Support through PMS, perimenopause, and menopause, and how hormonal shifts influence gut symptoms. Most patients are women, and hormones are often part of the picture. ## How We Work Together Not sure if this is the right fit? Book a free Gut Clarity Call to ask questions and learn more about my approach, or go straight to booking your first visit. Book a Free Gut Clarity Call Book Your Initial Visit ### Initial Assessment Your first visit is a thorough review of your history, symptoms, prior testing, and what's already been tried. We look at your bowel patterns, diet, sleep, stress, and daily routine to build a full picture. ### The Gut Care Roadmap From there, care follows a clear, four-stage path: - Stage 1: Clarity & Baseline — Understand your diagnosis and what's driving your symptoms. - Stage 2: Stabilization & Relief — Reduce symptom unpredictability and build early relief. - Stage 3: Sustainable Structure — Build the daily habits that support long-term gut-brain regulation. - Stage 4: Expansion & Confidence — Broaden your life, reduce food fear, and prepare for real-world ups and downs. ### Ongoing Support Most patients complete the Gut Care Roadmap across 5 to 6 visits over about 4 months. Every plan starts with an initial visit, and your follow-up visits and timing are determined by your diagnosis and individual needs. ## Ways to Work Together ### 1:1 Naturopathic Care BC Residents Only Ongoing personalized care through the Gut Care Roadmap, in-person in Victoria or virtual across BC. Book a Consultation ### VIP Gut Care Intensive In-Person in Victoria, BC A focused, in-person intensive for those who want to fast-track their plan. Open to BC residents and those willing to travel to Victoria. Learn More ### Coaching For Individuals Outside BC Personalized coaching to help you understand your symptoms and build a plan, with guidance grounded in real physiology. Learn More ## Why Work With Dr. Rachael Lovink, ND Dr. Rachael Lovink, ND is a Naturopathic Doctor with over 10 years of clinical experience focused on chronic constipation and Disorders of Gut-Brain Interaction. After navigating her own IBS-C diagnosis, she developed a deeper understanding of the gap so many patients experience between real symptoms and clear answers. Her approach is thoughtful, evidence-informed, and built around listening closely to each patient's full story. Book Online Now ## Frequently Asked Questions #### Do I need a diagnosis to book? No. Many patients book because they suspect a gut-brain component or are dealing with symptoms without clear answers. #### Can I book if I'm already using laxatives or other treatments? Yes. Many patients want a more complete plan even while already using medications, supplements, or other tools. #### Are appointments virtual or in person? Both. Virtual appointments are available across BC, with in-person visits in Victoria. #### Is this covered by insurance? Many extended health plans cover naturopathic care. Check with your provider directly. ## You Deserve Clear Answers and a Plan That Works If chronic constipation, IBS, or gut-brain symptoms have taken over your life, support is available. Book Your Initial Consultation