Pediatric Care, ENT Expertise, and a Lifelong Commitment to Teaching
For nearly 40 years, Richard Barrett, ND, has helped care for patients while teaching future generations of naturopathic physicians. Whether he’s treating a child’s recurring ear infection or mentoring medical students in the clinic, his approach remains the same: listen carefully, practice thoughtfully, and always put the patient first.
Dr. Barrett completed his residency in naturopathic family practice at NUNM, where he later joined the faculty. Over the years, he has served in multiple roles, including clinician, educator, and academic leader. Today, his work remains centered on patient care and teaching future clinicians.
A Focus on Pediatrics and ENT Care
While Dr. Barrett provides full-spectrum primary care, pediatrics is a particular area of focus. He regularly sees children for common concerns such as ear infections, sinus issues, colds, and sore throats.
He also has a long-standing connection to ENT education. He has taught naturopathic ears, eyes, nose, and throat coursework for more than 30 years. This experience shapes his clinical practice and helps him guide complex cases involving recurring infections or chronic symptoms.
In the clinic, he often collaborates with students, residents, and other providers. This team-based model gives patients the benefit of multiple perspectives while maintaining continuity of care.
His Approach to Patient Care
Dr. Barrett describes his approach as grounded in careful listening, thoughtful examination, and individualized care.
A typical visit includes a full history and physical exam. Patients are seen within a teaching clinic environment, which means care is collaborative and supported by a team. While students and residents may be involved, Dr. Barrett remains closely involved in all decisions.
He emphasizes prevention, lifestyle, and nutrition as key parts of care. When appropriate, he uses natural therapies, and when needed, he also prescribes pharmaceuticals. His approach is not one or the other. It is about using the right tool at the right time.
Common Conditions He Sees
In pediatric ENT care, Dr. Barrett frequently sees:
- Ear infections
- Sinus infections
- Frequent colds and upper respiratory infections
- Allergies and asthma
He notes that ear infections are especially common in younger children due to their anatomy and developing immune system. The structure of the Eustachian tube in children makes it easier for infection to develop, especially during frequent viral exposure.
Treating with Evidence and Care
Dr. Barrett is careful to align treatment with current evidence. Not every ear infection requires antibiotics, and not every child benefits from the same approach. He uses age, symptom severity, and clinical findings to guide decisions.
He also emphasizes antibiotic stewardship. While antibiotics are essential in some cases, they are not always necessary. This balanced approach helps reduce side effects and supports the long-term effectiveness of treatment.
A lifelong connection to naturopathic medicine
Dr. Barrett’s path to naturopathic medicine began during his undergraduate years, when he became interested in food as medicine and whole foods nutrition. That interest led him to explore natural health practices and eventually attend NUNM.
He has been part of the NUNM community since the early days of his training and has spent decades teaching and mentoring students. He is especially passionate about helping students develop clinical confidence and strong reasoning skills.
Life outside the clinic
Outside of work, Dr. Barrett enjoys hiking, camping, and cycling. He values time in nature and often explores the Oregon coast, Mount Hood, and the Columbia River Gorge. He shares his home with his wife, who is also a naturopathic physician, along with their dogs and cat.
A lasting commitment to teaching and care
For Dr. Barrett, one of the most rewarding parts of practice is working with students and patients together. He sees each visit as both a learning opportunity and a chance to provide thoughtful, patient-centered care.
At NUNM Health Centers, his work reflects the clinic’s broader mission: to provide integrative, evidence-informed care while training the next generation of naturopathic physicians.