Meet Dr. Kristen O'Dell
My medical career began in 1997 after graduating from Yale University. I entered the traditional medical field working in the NYC/metropolitan area as a Physician Assistant. It was common to see 15-25 plus patients a day in 15-20 minute increments. I gained an immense amount of clinical knowledge but also became acutely aware of the pitfalls of this model.
Within these brief encounters, it was difficult to offer complete care. Really, impossible. I needed more time with my patients. It seemed I was able to refill medications, check vital signs and make sure preventive care screenings were up to date.... but not much past that.
What were the stressors for my patients? What were their obstacles in getting better? Did they understand the basics about their medical condition? Were they eating properly? Sleeping well?
There was also a growing trend of patients asking my opinion on certain supplements, alternative protocols, and testing. I did not have the answers and felt compelled to find them. My patients had planted the seed. As with most things, if I am going to take on a new project, I am going to accomplish it to the best of my ability.
In order to get a full command on this field of medicine, I realized I needed to go back to school to earn a degree in Naturopathic Medicine. This equated to four additional years of medical school. In 2004, I went back to school to obtain my Doctorate from Bastyr University, Seattle, Washington.
Upon graduation in 2008, my family moved back east and I opened my practice, Bedford Natural Medicine. I am lucky to now be in a profession where I love what I do. Every day is gratifying and I continue to be challenged. Often people seek out Naturopathic Medicine after not finding answers elsewhere. Naturopaths often see complicated cases where patients have yet to find answers or feel better.
The basis of Naturopathic Medicine is that it attacks biochemistry, cellular behavior, genetics and how lifestyle choices add to heath and well-being. Naturopaths offer a different tool box. Tools that can be used alone or in combination with conventional treatments.
Bedford Natural Medicine is a small medical office that offers a very personal, individualized environment. When you come to BNM, you see me.
First, do no harm
We begin with the least invasive interventions—like lifestyle changes—and only move toward stronger therapies if necessary. Every treatment is designed to be safe, thoughtful, and effective.
The healing power of nature
Your body has an incredible ability to heal itself. Our role is to support that natural process through gentle, restorative therapies that work with—not against—your biology.
Treat the cause
Rather than just managing symptoms, we work to identify and reverse the root causes of imbalance. True healing happens when the source of illness is addressed.
Treat the whole person
We treat you, not just your diagnosis. That means considering your emotional well-being, genetics, environment, and lifestyle to create a plan that fits your unique health story.
Doctor as teacher
Empowerment is at the heart of healing. By educating and guiding you, we help you take ownership of your health and make confident, informed choices.
Prevention
We look ahead to protect your future health—by evaluating risk factors, lifestyle habits, and family history to guide smarter, proactive wellness decisions.
Our guiding philosophy
Six core principles of naturopathic care
Each principle reflects a deep commitment to personalized, safe, and effective healing. These core values guide how care is delivered—always with the goal of treating the root cause and empowering long-term wellness.
Naturopathic doctors are state licensed doctors who have attended 4-year accredited medical school. The curriculum consists of 4 didactic years, with the last two including clinical training. Our clinical experience is gained through patient contacts at area hospitals, private practices and clinics. Upon graduation, we must pass a national board examination. The exam is based on clinical cases and is administered over the course of three days. Once the applicant has passed the board exam they gain their license for the state where they wish to practice.
