Jessica Welsford

Jessica Welsford – ND
Functional Medicine Practitioner

My name is Jessica Welsford and I am a qualified Naturopath and Functional Medicine practitioner.

I am passionate about sharing the principles of functional and integrative medicine, helping my patients understand the profound connections between diet, lifestyle, environment, and health.

My practice focuses on a holistic approach to health, combining the wisdom of naturopathy with the rigor of modern science. I specialise in family medicine, paediatrics, and women's health, offering personalised care that addresses the root causes of illness and promotes optimal wellbeing.

My extensive background in pharmacy and psychology, coupled with advanced training in naturopathic and functional medicine and biomedical science, equips me with a unique perspective and skill set to support my patients on their journey to health.

My Health Story

My journey with chronic eczema was challenging and transformative. Looking back, the frequent use of antibiotics in my childhood for persistent ear infections, and later in my teenage years for skin issues, had a profound impact on my health. These interventions disrupted my gut health and weakened my immune system, setting the stage for chronic conditions.
As a teenager, I was also prescribed the oral contraceptive pill to manage skin problems. This treatment compounded the damage to my gut health and microbiome, leading to hormone imbalance and ultimately a diagnosis of endometriosis. These experiences underscored the limitations of conventional treatments and the importance of addressing the root causes of health issues.

A pivotal encounter with a natural medicine physician transformed my understanding of health. This practitioner introduced me to the critical link between gut health, mental health, hormone balance, and overall vitality.

For the first time, I felt heard and understood as my practitioner delved into the root causes of my symptoms rather than simply treating them superficially. This revelation sparked my passion for integrative and functional medicine, motivating me to explore natural and holistic approaches to healing.

As a mother, I understand the profound impact that health has on the entire family. My stepdaughter's diagnosis of coeliac disease has deepened my appreciation for the challenges faced by those with chronic conditions and food sensitivities. These personal experiences further inspire my commitment to helping families achieve balanced, healthy lives.

Journey to Functional Medicine

My professional journey started with a solid foundation in pharmacy and psychology, which provided a deep understanding of both the chemical and psychological aspects of health. Driven by a desire to offer more comprehensive and effective care, I pursued studies in Naturopathic Medicine and Biomedical Science. Upon graduation, I sought mentorship and advanced training from leading experts in functional and integrative medicine.

I gained invaluable clinical experience at a renowned integrative hormone clinic and a dynamic multidisciplinary wellness centre.

These settings allowed me to refine my skills and expand my knowledge, particularly in the areas of family medicine, paediatrics, and women's health. My love for science and the intricate workings of the body-mind system continues to fuel my commitment to providing evidence-based, patient-centred care.

Integral to this approach is the use of functional medicine testing, which has proven invaluable in uncovering the underlying causes of illness and tailoring precise treatment strategies.
Qualifications

• Adv Dip of Health Science – Natural Medicine – Naturopathy
• Bachelor of Biomedical Science – in progress
• NET Certification (Dr D Walker)
• Theta Healing
• Interclinical Laboratories Mentorship (HTMA)
• Australian Traditional Medicine Society – Fellow Member

Special Interests

• Gut & microbiome health – IBS, IBD, food Intolerances, SIBO, SIFO, ‘leaky gut’, parasites
• Women’s health and hormones – PMS, dysmenorrhoea, amenorrhoea, PNDD, perimenopause, menopause
• Fertility, preconception care, IVF support, pregnancy & postnatal support
• Thyroid and adrenal disorders
• Children’s health
• Learning difficulties
• Autoimmune conditions
• Mental health – stress, anxiety, depression
• Fatigue and sleep problems
• Skin issues
• Longevity, DNA, methylation and detoxification

Mission to Help Others

My mission is to empower individuals to reclaim their wellbeing and reach their health potential.

My goal is to create a collaborative and nurturing environment where patients feel heard, respected and motivated to take control of their health journey.

My vision is to transform healthcare by integrating the best of conventional and functional medicine, to see a future where holistic health is embraced and utilised by all.