Amy Castle naturopath supporting chronic gut issues with herbal, nutritional, and functional testing strategies

Frequently Asked Questions

Real Care. Clear Answers.

When you’re navigating complex health challenges, it’s normal to have questions.
Here’s everything you might want to know about working with me - before, during, and after your consultation.

Before Your Consultation

  • I offer face-to-face consultations at Peninsula Herbal Dispensary (Shop 1, 84 Main Street, Mornington VIC 3931).

    I also offer telehealth consultations via video or phone for clients Australia-wide.

  • No referral is needed. You can book directly with me whether you're a first-time naturopathic client or seeking a fresh perspective on your health.

  • Our first session (60 minutes, $200) is a deep-dive into your health story, symptoms, and goals.

    I'll assess any pathology or testing you've already completed and may recommend specific functional tests to guide your treatment plan.

  • I specialise in chronic and complex conditions, particularly:

    • Gut health (IBS, SIBO, IBD, GORD, constipation)

    • Genitourinary health (recurrent UTIs, BV, microbiome imbalances)

    • Cardiometabolic health (mild hypertension, insulin resistance, CVD)

    • Sensitive systems and multi-symptom cases

    Optimising wellbeing for those following plant-based/plant-predominant diets.

  • You can call book online or call (03) 5977 0117 for assistance.


  • You'll receive a confirmation email, an intake form to complete, and practical information about what to expect during your consultation.

Services & Testing


  • I recommend testing when clinically appropriate, including:

    • Hydrogen/methane breath testing (for SIBO & IMO)

    • Co-Biome gut microbiome testing

    • Intestinal permeability testing

    • Juno Bio vaginal microbiome testing

    • MicrogenDX UroKEY urine microbiome testing

    • Cardiometabolic health markers such as HOMA IR (Insulin Resistance Index) & ApoB

  • No - testing is an additional cost. I’ll clearly explain any recommended tests and pricing before proceeding.

  • Yes, absolutely. I have extensive experience supporting patients who are on pharmaceutical medications & poly-pharmacy and I always ensure a safe, well researched, complementary approach.

  • Yes, I have experience working with those with high sensitivity & reactivity.

    I work with a low-and-slow philosophy to gently support healing at a pace that suits your body.

  • Not necessarily. My focus is on targeted, essential supplementation - not overwhelming protocols.

    You’ll also receive detailed dietary and lifestyle recommendations where appropriate.

  • Yes. I use ethically sourced, practitioner-grade herbal medicines tailored to your needs, available via Peninsula Herbal Dispensary.

  • Yes! I offer telehealth appointments across Australia and can arrange postage for supplements and testing kits as needed.

  •  Follow-up timing varies depending on your case. Typically:

    • First follow-up: 4–6 weeks after your initial consultation

    • Subsequent reviews: Every 6–8 weeks, or as clinically indicated

After Your Consultation

  • You'll be emailed a clear, written care plan - summarising treatment approach, recommendations, and next steps.

    You’ll also have access to your care notes & any additional information such as handouts or recipes through the patient portal at Peninsula Herbal Dispensary.

  • We take a step by step approach, prioritising and spending time reviewing previous assessments, safety reviews with pharmaceutical medications and liaising with your medical team if appropriate.

  • Supplements and herbal medicines can be collected from Peninsula Herbal Dispensary or posted directly to you after your consult, there is an online ordering option available through your patient portal. 

  • Yes - I offer Initial Children's Consultations (30 minutes, $135) for gut and general health concerns. Nb. children with a complex health history and/or over the age of 14 may require a 60 minute initial consultation.

  •  I’ll be honest and transparent. If I feel your case would be better managed by another practitioner or needs collaborative care, I’ll refer you appropriately.

  •  Yes. I'm happy to communicate with your wider healthcare team where appropriate, ensuring you receive cohesive and respectful care.

Philosophy and Values

  • I don't rush to patch symptoms. I take time to find and address root causes, using scientifically validated methods.

    Every plan is tailored; no one-size-fits-all protocols here. 

  • Yes—my clinical approach is grounded in current research, professional guidelines, and over a decade of experience. I also value traditional knowledge, including the use of herbal medicines with a long history of safe and effective use, even where modern research is still emerging.

  • Absolutely - food and lifestyle form the backbone of sustainable health.
    You'll receive individualised dietary advice and strategies alongside any supplement recommendations.

  • At this stage, consultations and testing are billed per appointment. Packages and programs may be introduced in the future.

Extra Information

  • It's okay. My role is to guide you through this - at a pace that feels manageable.

    Together, we’ll create a step-by-step plan that feels realistic and supportive.

  • Testing is always recommended within the context of a thorough consultation and case review, to ensure you get meaningful, clinically relevant results.

  • Yes - I’m currently developing a range of online resources and programs to make evidence-informed support more accessible.

Still have a question I haven't answered here?

 I'd love to hear from you.

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