Holistic practitioners are often highly trained, with some pursuing bachelor’s degrees and completing residency programs. They focus on treating the mind, body, and spirit and may study anatomy, energy healing systems, nutrition, massage therapy, and natural remedies. Licensing requirements vary.
Because holistic medicine incorporates natural remedies in treating patients, some people may assume that holistic practitioners don’t go to school or complete training. However, this is a misconception as holistic practitioners are often highly trained. Some may enroll in educational programs that last a few years and cover things like human energy systems and anatomy, while others may pursue bachelor’s degrees in the field. An individual who wants to become a holistic physician can earn a college degree and study medicine before completing a residency program, which is hands-on training for physicians.
A person who wants to become a holistic practitioner is usually committed to extending their practice beyond what people get from traditional medical practice. He decides to provide care that focuses on the mind, body and spirit, rather than just the body. He typically learns not only important concepts about natural healing, but also the science of how the body works and common treatments for a variety of disorders.
A person who wants to become a holistic practitioner can enroll in a certificate or degree program to do this. Among the subjects that a person interested in this field might study are anatomy and physiology, energy healing systems, nutrition, massage therapy, bodywork, stress management, spirituality, and a wide range of natural remedies. The specific courses a person can take depend on the specific program they enroll in. In some cases, a person may decide to specialize in one technique, such as massage therapy, and spend more time studying bodywork than others.
If a person wants to become a holistic doctor, also called a naturopathic doctor, they might spend about four years in college working towards a bachelor’s degree. He can choose a pre-med or special course in biology or chemistry. As he wants to become a holistic practitioner, he can also opt for electives that involve holistic healing. For example, he might study psychology, massage therapy, and nutrition in preparation for his holistic career.
After college, a person who wants to practice as a holistic physician typically enrolls in a medical school that offers holistic healing programs. Some schools, for example, combine traditional medicine with holistic medicine. Others may offer traditional medical degrees but include courses in natural healing.
A residency program usually follows medical school for a person who wants to become a holistic medical practitioner. He has worked for about three years in a program that gives him paid training on the job. An individual who wants to practice as a holistic practitioner may also have to pass an exam and seek licensure in the field. However, licensing requirements vary from place to place.
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