Frequently Asked Questions.

All consultations are conducted online via secure video, accessible from anywhere. Here's how it works:

Initial Consultation (75 minutes) We take a full, detailed look at your health history, current symptoms, past testing, and goals. You'll leave with a clear plan that includes testing recommendations, dietary guidance, lifestyle support, and tailored prescriptions if needed.

Follow-Up Consultations (45 or 15 minutes) These are for ongoing care. We review your progress, interpret new test results, refine your treatment plan, and make adjustments as needed.

Between Sessions Brief email check-ins are welcome for simple questions or clarifications. I don't offer ongoing coaching or treatment changes via email between appointments.

Other Appointment Options: In addition to full consultations, there are two shorter stand-alone options available if appropriate:

Acute Immune Consultation (20–30 minutes) This is for support with acute issues such as colds, flu, UTIs, thrush, traveller's diarrhoea, and similar short-term infections. It is not suitable for recurring or chronic issues, which require a full initial consultation to address root causes.

Microbiome Report Consultation (40–60 minutes) If you have already completed a microbiome test and would like professional interpretation without entering full naturopathic care, this stand-alone session focuses purely on reviewing your results and providing clear, evidence-informed guidance. This option is available even if you are not an ongoing patient.

Note: Full prepayment is required for both stand-alone services.

Yes! The Microbiome Restoration Group Appointments are an intimate online series designed for people navigating IBS, SIBO, dysbiosis, histamine intolerance, post-antibiotic recovery, or ongoing digestive symptoms.

Each session runs for 90 minutes via Zoom and includes a group educational theme, a check-in round, and dedicated individual consultation time with Chantel for each participant. You'll also benefit from hearing others' questions and experiences - many people find this collaborative learning genuinely valuable.

Sessions are held in small groups of 4-6 people, run over 6 months (8 sessions total), and are priced at $90 per session - a more accessible investment than a 1:1 consultation, without compromising on personalised care.

Group appointments are not eligible for Medicare rebates but may be claimable through private health insurance depending on your cover.

→ More about group appointments

Yes - future group series are planned around topics that come up most in the community. Areas currently in development include:

• IBS Group Appointments - focused support for irritable bowel syndrome, including symptom management, diet, and microbiome restoration

• Perimenopause Group Appointments - exploring the gut-hormone connection and navigating the changes of perimenopause with evidence-based natural medicine

• IBD Group Appointments - gentle, informed support for people living with Inflammatory Bowel Disease, including Crohn's disease and Ulcerative Colitis

If any of these resonate with you, reach out at hello@chantelyates.com.au to register your interest - groups are shaped by the community, and your expression of interest helps them happen.

Not at all. While some people come with a diagnosis like Crohn's disease, Ulcerative Colitis, SIBO, IBS, histamine intolerance, or coeliac disease, others come with vague symptoms - bloating, fatigue, food fear, or long-term gut discomfort - and a sense that something just isn't right. Either way, we begin with a comprehensive intake and build your care plan from there.

Not at this time. All sessions are delivered online so I can work with people from anywhere - including Australia, NZ, the UK, US, Canada, and Europe.

Absolutely. I often collaborate with other health professionals and am trained in safe prescribing alongside medications. I'm happy to communicate with your GP or specialist where needed to ensure continuity of care.

Testing is always tailored. I may recommend:

• Functional microbiome testing (e.g. Microba, TinyHealth, or Biomesight)

• SIBO breath testing

• Standard blood tests

• PCR, faecal calprotectin, H. pylori, etc. (if clinically indicated)

We decide together - based on your needs, symptoms, budget, and timeline. You won't be pushed into unnecessary or expensive testing.

No - in fact, it's best to book your initial appointment first so we can determine which tests to prioritise and guide you through the proper testing process to avoid inaccurate or inconclusive results. If you already have tests completed, we will review those at your initial consultation.

Yes. I create tailored prescriptions using high-quality, practitioner-only herbal medicines and prebiotic supplements. All recommendations are based on current evidence and your unique presentation. Herbal formulas are posted directly to your door.

Naturopathic care is not currently covered by Medicare. Some private health funds may provide rebates - please check with your insurer.

This varies. Some clients feel shifts within weeks; others take months to see deep change - especially if their symptoms are long-standing. My job is to support your progress in a way that's sustainable and respectful of your body's pace. There's no pressure to "heal fast."

No. In fact, a big part of this work is helping people move away from extreme dietary restriction. We work gently to reintroduce foods, rebuild microbial diversity, and reduce food fear - at your own pace.