About Aranka

Just in case you want to know how to pronounce my name, it’s “AHH-run-kuh“. If you can roll your R’s, feel free to show it off when you say my name keeping in mind that I won’t be offended if you botch the pronunciation. Call me Dr. Jones if you would like to be formal, or call me “AJ” if you would rather not.

I grew up in Blue Mountain and Collingwood, Ontario, where my favourite memories involve skiing, sailing on Georgian Bay, riding my bike, camping and exploring the great outdoors. Surrounded by artists and endless material for inspiration, I spent a lot of time drawing and painting. I left this paradise for the University of Guelph, not knowing exactly what I wanted to do when I grew up but feeling strongly that it would be related to medicine.

During my time at university, I saw a naturopathic doctor for help with women’s health issues. Even though I had a wonderful family doctor, I desired a more holistic approach that included time to learn what the heck was going on in my body and how to be proactive in my healthcare. It didn’t take long for me to realize that this profession was a natural fit. I went on to attend the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine in Toronto. Four years later I completed the Doctor of Naturopathy program, moved back to my hometown and opened a naturopathic practice. Fast forward to present day and I have been serving Collingwood and the communities of Southern Georgian Bay for over 15 years.

My practice focuses on women’s health, menopause, mental health, digestive disorders and prevention/longevity. As an evidence-based practitioner, I help people steer clear of natural and alternative therapies that are rooted in pseudoscience. After all, the wellness industry is full of misinformation and deceptive practices. Serving as a supportive ally and advocate, I help people navigate their healthcare options, become more discerning when consuming health and wellness information, and feel confident in their decision making.

Outside of work, you can find me skiing, riding my bike to the farmers’ market, hugging trees, forest bathing on the Bruce Trail and exploring Georgian Bay on my paddle board. If you cannot find me, I am probably in my kitchen preparing handmade pasta, tending to my large collection of houseplants, gallivanting around the Mediterranean with my husband, learning to surf in the Pacific Northwest, or picking up beach trash.