Episode notes
In this episode of The Psyche Behind the Physique, host Maddy Michielssen sits down with naturopathic physician and founder of Naturopathic by Design, Dr. Corina Dunlap, for an honest and deeply educational conversation about what healing actually looks like when we stop chasing quick fixes and start addressing root causes.
After experiencing her own breaking point with chronic infections, digestive pain, hair loss, and debilitating fatigue, Dr. Dunlap discovered the transformative power of naturopathic medicine — a moment that reshaped both her health and her career. Today, she works with women across the country helping them reconnect physiology, nervous system safety, environment, and lifestyle as part of sustainable healing.
Together, Maddy and Dr. Dunlap unpack what naturopathic medicine truly is — beyond common misconceptions — and how it works alongside conventional medicine rather than against it.
In this episode, we explore:
• The difference between naturopathic and allopathic medicine — and where each excels
• Nervous system regulation, the HPA and HPO axis, and why stress physiology drives hormone dysfunction in women
• Female energy, play, nature, and connection as legitimate biological medicine
• Functional diagnostic testing including DUTCH hormone testing, GI Mapping, micronutrient panels, mold testing, mineral analysis, and food sensitivities
• How functional testing complements traditional bloodwork
• When prescriptions are necessary — and when root cause work matters most
• Supplements women actually benefit from (and the ones often overused)
• Whether there are conditions naturopathic medicine cannot address alone
🎙️ If you’ve ever felt dismissed, stuck between medical systems, or unsure where to start when your body stops responding the way it used to — this conversation offers clarity, compassion, and science-backed perspective.
If this episode resonated with you and you’re ready to build a healthier relationship with your body, your hormones, and your goals, my team and I would love to support you.
🎯 Join MPowered Coaching Collective for lifestyle & contest prep — where physique goals meet functional health and community.
📲 DM @madsmichiefitness with your biggest takeaway or topic requests and connect with Dr. Dunlap here