Do I Need A Degree To Get A Job As A Homeopath?
"Hi, I am thinking about becoming a homeopath. What kind of training is required? Do I have to get a degree to practice homeopathy? What are some of the other requirements?"
asked by Priya from Novato, California
Specialized training is required to practice homeopathic medicine. Like most other careers, the training you need depends on your level of commitment and your desire for professional advancement. Specific requirements for being a practicing homeopath vary from state to state. But generally speaking, a degree is needed to become a homeopathic doctor.
If you are interested in simply practicing as a counselor who offers homeopathic treatments, a one or two year certification program may be sufficient. Some states allow people to practice homeopathy with this minimal amount of training, but many do not. Check the requirements in your area before making a decision on schooling.
In most states, homeopaths have a governing board that issues licenses to practitioners. In these states, this license is required to practice homeopathy. To be licensed, one must attend a school that is accredited to teach homeopathic medicine by the governing board. These schools sometimes have shorter and longer programs. It may still be possible to receive only one or two years of training and become a licensed homeopath through one of these programs. But this is such a specialized field that requires one to have a lot of biological, medicinal, herbal, and diagnostic information, that usually years of study are needed to integrate all the necessary knowledge.
To become a homeopathic doctor, or a naturopathic doctor that specializes in homeopathy, one must attend as much schooling as a regular allopathic doctor and receive a doctoral diploma. This means first receiving a bachelor’s degree in pre-med, biology, or science from an accredited university. Then attending a homeopathic or naturopathic medical school for two to four years.
There are distance learning online homeopathy programs available, but as this field involves so much personal interaction with patients it might be more beneficial to attend a school in-person to gain the experience needed to be a truly effective homeopath. Be certain that whichever school you choose is accredited by the local homeopathy governing body.
Also pay attention to whether you will be receiving a degree or only a certificate. Each state has different licensing requirements, and you want to be sure you meet the regulations to receive the license you are seeking.
After school one spends time as an intern or apprentice to hone the craft and observe practicing doctors. This process can take a few months or a few years depending on location on how quickly you become comfortable practicing. Then one could build a successful practice as a homeopathic doctor. It is advisable to continue training throughout one’s career, to ensure familiarity with the most current treatment protocols and remedy formulations. It is also recommended to join the professional organizations associated with homeopathy in your area.
This will attract more clients, as people usually feel more comfortable working with health care practitioners who are members of a larger organization that ensures accountability and integrity. Being a member of a professional organization also ensures that you are kept up to date with the wisdom of the industry as it evolves.
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