Talia West
BMedsMgmentProfHonsCM, BSc (Health & Env),
Adv Dip Nat, Adv Dip WHM, Adv Dip Nut, MNHAA
Naturopath, Herbalist and Nutritionist
The Hawrelak Gut and Microbiome Clinic - Associate
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Talia’s passion for gastrointestinal health and the gut microbiome was inspired by her own personal health breakthrough. After years of chronic IBS-like symptoms, she remained unwell despite seeing many health practitioners. Determined to recover, she embarked on a path of naturopathic study in 2013, and soon discovered Dr. Hawrelak’s outstanding educational courses. By applying his insights, Talia was able to successfully heal her long-standing gut issues and enjoy balanced gut health once again.
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After years of following his work, Talia was elated to accept a position in Dr Hawrelak’s Gut and Microbiome Clinic Team in late 2019. Under his expert mentorship over a period of three years, she advanced her clinical experience and finely tuned her knowledge of gastrointestinal health. In 2023 Talia focused on study, completing a postgraduate degree coordinated by Dr Hawrelak (UTAS) as well as his specialist training in Naturopathic and Functional Medicine Approaches to Gastrointestinal Disorders (2024). In late 2024 she returned to clinical practice in Dr. Hawrelak's gut team.
Exceptional research skills and a keen eye for detail are the cornerstones of Talia’s approach. Her extensive postgraduate studies in evidence-based research methods (Bachelor of Medicines Management with Professional Honours) enable her to critically evaluate and translate complex findings into practical and effective treatment plans. By bridging traditional naturopathic principles with the latest gut science, she provides comprehensive and holistic healthcare to her patients.
Talia is fascinated by the profound impact the gut microbiome can have on the health of the whole body. Her clinical experience has shown that balancing this vital internal ecosystem can lead to significant improvements in other areas. Patients may experience positive changes in thyroid, immune, reproductive, and nervous system function, as well as better energy levels, sleep quality, mood, and mental health.
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Committed to providing compassionate care, Talia values attentive listening and building trust. Her patient-centered approach ensures that individual values and goals are respected and help guide the decision-making process.
Talia lives in the sunny coastal city of Fremantle (Walyalup), Western Australia. In addition to gut health, her research interests include environmental health, psychology, and attachment science. She finds balance and tranquility with daily yoga and qigong. A dedicated cat lover, Talia is actively involved in cat rescue and shares her home with two adorable fluffy felines.
Areas of Experience
Chronic Gastrointestinal Conditions
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Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO)
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Constipation
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Diarrhea
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Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
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Intestinal permeability (leaky gut)
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Crohn’s disease
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Ulcerative colitis
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Intestinal methane overproduction (IMO)
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Gastrooesophageal reflux (heartburn and indigestion)
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Gastroparesis (delayed gastric emptying)
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Coeliac disease and gluten sensitivity
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Flatulence (excess or bad-smelling gas)
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Diverticular disease
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Helicobacter pylori
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Food intolerances including FODMAPs
Acute Gastrointestinal Conditions
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Bacterial infections (E. coli, C. difficile, Salmonella spp., Klebsiella spp., etc.)
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Intestinal parasites (protozoa and worms)
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Blastocystis spp. - achieving symbiosis with Blastocystis
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Traveller’s diarrhea - prevention and treatment
Gut Microbiome Health
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Restoring and optimising microbiome health
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Dysbiosis (imbalanced microbial ecosystem)
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Reducing bowel cancer risk
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Colonoscopy support (before and after)
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Oestrogen metabolism and the oestrobolome
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Neuroinflammation and the gut microbiota-brain axis
Mental Health and the Nervous System
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Anxiety
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Depression
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Insomnia
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Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adults
Environmental Health
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Creating a low-tox home environment
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Advice on water filters, indoor air quality, safe cookware, etc.
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Minimising exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs)
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Assessing intake of heavy metals, Bisphenol-A (BPA), phthalates
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Light and health - blue light, LED light, full spectrum light
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​Professional and Academic Background
Summary of Qualifications and Academic Achievements
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Bachelor of Medicines Management with Professional Honours in Complementary Medicine (UTAS, 2023), coordinated by Dr Hawrelak
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Included in the University of Tasmania’s ‘Roll of Excellence 2023’ for outstanding academic performance
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Advanced Diplomas in Naturopathy, Western Herbal Medicine, and Nutritional Medicine (AIHM, 2017)
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Awarded Dux of Naturopathy by the Australian Natural Therapists Association (ANTA)
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Bachelor of Science in Health and Environment, minor in Sustainable Development (Murdoch, 2008)
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Awarded the Vice Chancellor’s Commendation for Academic Excellence in 2003 and 2006 (top 2% of students)
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Summary of Recent Professional Development Courses
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Advanced Microbiome Manipulation (2024), with Dr Hawrelak - in progress
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Naturopathic & Functional Medicine Approaches to Gastrointestinal Disorders (2024), with Dr Hawrelak
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Chronic Kidney Disease – Causation and Course Correction (2024), with Rachel Arthur
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Identifying Neurodivergence for Medical and Allied Health Professionals (2023), with Dr Michelle Livock
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Better Sleep for Adult ADHDers, with Jules Galloway (2023)
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Oestrogen Metabolism, with Filomena Trindade MD (2021)
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