naturopath

The work

Naturopathy is a holistic approach based on the idea that the human body seeks balance and can heal itself. This form of therapy combines several healing techniques which aim to restore the natural energy flow within the body and return it to its natural state of good health and well-being.

Naturopaths will often begin a consultation by taking a detailed history from their client. They aim to discover more about areas such as the clients health problems and lifestyle choices, exercise regime and stress levels. They may follow this up with a series of tests on, for example, blood pressure, urine, hair, muscles, sweat and irises. 

When they have the information they need, the naturopath may provide advice and information on diet, supplements, remedies, exercise and rest. They might also use psychological techniques, counselling and hydrotherapy.

Naturopathy is thought to be particularly useful for conditions such as asthma, arthritis, high blood pressure and IBS.

Hours and Environment

There are no set working hours. Naturopaths are likely to work unsocial hours, to accommodate their clients.

Naturopaths work in a consulting room, although they might treat some patients in their own homes, so a driving licence would be useful.

Their work could involve standing and bending, although most time is spent sitting down.

Skills and Interests

As a naturopath, you should:

• have a genuine desire to help people
• be able to develop an empathy with clients
• have good listening skills to determine the best treatment for your client 
• have the ability to motivate clients to change their lifestyle
• be logical in working through and solving a problem
• have strong observational skills
• be interested in science - human biology and chemistry are useful
• know when to refer clients to a qualified medical doctor.

Entry

There is no regulatory body for this field, however, there are several professional organisations which represent naturopaths.

The General Council and Register of Naturopaths (GCRN) accredit training courses, including:

• a Diploma in Naturopathy 
• a Degree in Osteopathic Medicine - both the diploma and degree are offered by the British College of Osteopathic Medicine
• a Degree in Health Sciences specialising in Naturopathic Medicine - run by the University of Westminster
• a postgraduate diploma, aimed at registered medical practitioners, osteopaths and chiropractors among others - offered by the College of Osteopaths Educational Trust.

The Institute for Complementary Medicine (ICM) administers the British Register of Complementary Practitioners, and holds a database of approved courses on their website; check Further Information for details.

The Complementary Medical Association (CMA) also oversee a professional register and hold information regarding a range of therapies; check Further Information.

The entry requirements for a degree course are usually five GCSEs (A-C)/S grades (1-3) or equivalent, including English and a science subject, plus two or three A levels/H grades at grade C or above including biology and chemistry.

An Access to Higher Education qualification may also be accepted for entry to certain courses. Please check with colleges or universities for exact entry requirements.

Registration with the GCRN brings automatic membership of the British Naturopathic Association that run continuing professional development courses. Check the GCRN website for details of membership and accredited courses; see Further Information.

Training

As a student on a degree or diploma level course you will gain clinical experience, develop practical skills and an understanding of the theory of naturopathy. Increasingly you will take on more clinical responsibility and train alongside qualified Naturopaths.

You will study areas including:

• pathology and clinical diagnosis
• anatomy
• physiology 
• nutrition
• other medical practices such as pharmacology and radiology.

Although there are no formal requirements, most naturopaths apply for registration with one of several organisations such as the GCRN or CMA. Membership usually involves further study on accredited courses combined with observed professional practise. Please contact the relevant association for further details.

Opportunities

Interest in complementary medicine has grown dramatically over the past few years. Although still relatively small, naturopathy is a growing profession.

Most naturopaths are self-employed. Some work from home. Others practise in natural health clinics, sharing with other practitioners of complementary medicine. To succeed, you need to be prepared to work long or flexible hours at first to build up your list of clients and your reputation.

Annual Income

Figures are intended as a guideline only.

Most naturopaths are self-employed and usually charge an hourly rate, which could vary from £25 - £45 per hour.
When the practice is well established, naturopaths may earn around £30,000.

Further information

PO Box 194
London
SE16 7QZ
Tel: 020 7237 5165
Goswell House
2 Goswell Road Street
Somerset
BA16 0JG
Tel: 08707 456984

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