Holistic Healing Schools

When it comes to choosing a career in holistic healing, the options are practically limitless. From the ancient practices of midwifery and acupuncture, to more controversial studies, such as iridology, there is something for everybody in this field. Three major fields that attract up to 70% of students; chiropractic, herbalism, and Chinese medicine. All three fields are extremely popular in the U.S. and provide good chances for employment right after graduation or completion of an apprenticeship.

Chiropractors

Chiropractors must attend college for at least four years before they are certified to practice. Of all the holistic careers, this one requires the most investment, both in time and in money, as the education expenses can be high. Once graduated however, chiropractors can expect to make up to $80,000 a year right from the start.

Herbalist

Herbalist don't enjoy the same prestige that other holistic practitioners, at least not in the U.S. There is no official educational requirement in order to start practicing herbalism. The American Herbalist Guild points out that the best way to get an education is to look for an herbal training program that offers a mix of theory and hands-on practice and on-site practice.

Long-distance programs are a good way to get started, but to get a comprehensive understanding of how herbs work in the body, a program should:

• Run at least two years
• Have a minimum of 1,600 study hours
• Include courses in:
  • Botany
  • Plant identification
  • Anatomy
• Biochemistry
• Medical terminology
• Nutrition
• Pathology

There are also several divisions within herbalism (Western botanical medicine, Ayurveda, Chinese herbalism) and shorter programs usually focus on only one.

Chinese Medicine

Chinese medicine sometimes refers to the use of herbs in healing, but more frequently focuses on acupuncture and acupressure. Bachelor's degrees are available, although shorter courses are more common, especially for those who are just getting involved in the field.

Graduates can expect a starting salary of about $30,000, although experience (and location) can easily push the numbers up into the six figures. Some states regulate acupuncture while others do not, so what is required to practice legally depends a lot on where you live. In states such as Arkansas and Colorado, a minimum of four years of academic study, followed by 500-800 hours of clinical practice are required before a license is issued.

For those looking for something more unique, there are other holistic career options available. Midwifery has made a comeback over the past decade, as lots of women are looking for more personal attention and a private environment during childbirth. Massage therapy, reiki, flower essences, and the Alexander technique are all popular forms of holistic medicine that have lots of followers and for which serious educational options are available.