How To Become A Holistic Health Practitioner

by CB Staff

When you're a holistic health practitioner, you're devoted to taking a natural approach to health and well-being and believe that physical and mental wellness play into each. Holistic health isn't just about alternative medicine; it is about treating the person as a whole through mind, body, and spirit.

Holistic Health Practitioners are Diverse
A holistic health practitioner is actually a catch-all term that can refer to a number of different professions and specializations within the field of holistic health. While some holistic health practitioners may be trained in bodywork exercises and massage techniques such as tui na, lomi lomi, acupressure, and massage therapy, others may be well versed in alternative medicines and treatments such as traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), acupuncture, and polarity therapy.

Becoming a Holistic Health Practitioner
Because a holistic health practitioner can train in a variety of fields, the process for becoming a professional cannot be generalized. For example, a holistic health practitioner who specializes in massage therapy and bodywork will need to undergo months of training and attain certification and/or licensing in his or her state to legally practice. Depending on the area in which you choose to specialize, and the laws in the state you wish to work, you may be required to attain a certificate, degree, and/or license, before becoming a paid professional.

Holistic Health Practitioner Programs
Today, holistic health programs are offered in a variety of forms and at a number of levels. From online courses and community colleges, to specialized schools and traditional colleges, holistic health programs dedicated to subjects such as massage therapy, TCM, nutrition, and more can be found nearly everywhere. However, before you enroll in a program or place confidence in your newfound credentials, it's a good idea to check with accrediting bodies in your state and nationwide.

Some holistic health practitioner programs do not provide enough of an education and/or credentials to let you start a career, but they do serve as great source of supplementary education for licensed health care workers who wish to learn new skills or offer new services.

The Future of Holistic Health
Although exact numbers and statistics are unavailable, it is fairly safe to say that as interest in natural medicine and holistic health methods increase, so too will employment and job opportunities in this field.