Dr. Eric Yarnell, ND

NATUROPATHIC PHYSICIAN | URINARY, PROSTATE & KIDNEY HEALTH

Dr. Eric Yarnell, naturopathic physician of Ballard's Health Collective

Meet Dr. Eric Yarnell

I’m Dr. Eric Yarnell (he/him), a naturopathic physician with 30 years of experience caring for people with urinary tract, prostate, male reproductive, and kidney concerns. My practice centers on complex, chronic conditions and helping people understand their options when they still have questions about their health.

I really listen, and I work hard to understand what may be causing your symptoms. That starts with taking time to hear your story and understand what you’ve already been through. Together, we develop a plan that draws on herbal medicine, nutrition, and lifestyle changes, with conventional treatments when needed. I want you to feel comfortable asking questions and understand the reasons behind the care we choose.

Who I Serve

I work primarily with men for prostate and reproductive concerns, and with people of all genders for urinary tract and kidney conditions.

Common concerns in my practice include:

  • Enlarged prostate

  • Recurrent urinary tract infections

  • Chronic pelvic pain

  • Kidney disease

  • Male reproductive health concerns

  • Bladder and bowel problems associated with spina bifida

Many of my patients have been living with symptoms for years. Some have felt rushed or dismissed in previous appointments; others want a fuller understanding of their condition or additional treatment options. I welcome people whose health concerns need time, careful attention, and an individualized approach.

My Clinical Philosophy

Traditional herbal medicine is my primary guide in developing an individual treatment plan, informed by research and what I’ve learned over 30 years of caring for patients.

My goal is to understand and address underlying causes wherever possible while also helping you manage symptoms and improve your quality of life. The possibilities are different for each person, and I believe in being clear about what we know, what remains uncertain, and what we hope to achieve.

I aim to choose treatments that fit your needs, using the least intensive approach appropriate to your situation. Herbal medicine, nutrition, medications, and surgery each have a place. Part of my role is helping you understand your options and supporting you as you decide what feels right for your care.

Our work begins with a thorough medical history. I want to understand what you’ve experienced, what has already been tried, and what matters most to you.

From there, we agree on a plan for any testing and treatment. My primary tools are herbal medicine, nutrition, and lifestyle medicine. When appropriate, I also prescribe medications or recommend evaluation for surgery.

Education is an important part of every visit. I explain what may be contributing to your symptoms, why I’m recommending a test or treatment, and how it relates to your goals. Your questions are always welcome and encouraged throughout our work together.

How I Approach Care

Training & Experience

I earned my Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine degree from Bastyr University in 1996 and completed a two-year residency with herbalist Silena Heron, ND, RN, in Sedona, Arizona. I am licensed as a naturopathic physician in Washington and California.

Over the past 30 years, I have taught thousands of students in botanical medicine, urology, and nephrology at naturopathic medical schools across North America. I am also the author or co-author of numerous textbooks used by naturopathic medical students and practicing physicians.

My clinical experience includes free clinics, multidisciplinary practices, and private practice. Teaching, writing, and research remain important parts of my work and continue to inform how I care for patients.

What Keeps Me Joyful

Outside of practice, I’m an amateur linguist and an active member of Seattle’s Scottish community. I study and speak Scottish Gaelic, sing in a local Gaelic choir, and enjoy Scottish and English country dancing with my wife.

I also love plant walks—the botanical equivalent of birding—and gathering around a board or card game.

have questions?

Frequently Asked Questions —

INTERESTED IN WORKING WITH DR. JENNA?

Work with Dr. Yarnell

•

Work with Dr. Yarnell •

Get Started With Dr. Yarnell

Call The Health Collective to schedule an appointment.

If you’d like to meet before deciding, I offer a free 15-minute introductory consultation. It’s a chance to meet, see if we click, and hear about my experience with concerns like yours. This conversation does not include treatment recommendations.