There are a few things to consider when choosing a natural healing college. The accreditation of the college, the courses offered, the length of study, and the college's approach to natural healing should be considered first. Additional considerations are the costs involved and whether the college offers placement programs.
Each state in the US may have different requirements for allowing someone to practice as a natural healer, so look into those requirements if you are US based or wish to practice in the US. A good natural healing college should be accredited by at least one governing body, and if you want to practice internationally you should verify that the courses are internationally recognized. Some natural healing colleges offer examination by an external body, such as International Therapy Examination Council (ITEC), to enable students to practice internationally.
You should consider the qualifications you need since a natural healing college may offer certificate courses, short courses, or three-year diploma courses. It is also worth considering whether you'd like to specialize in just one form of natural healing or if you would prefer to include other therapies. Some diploma courses include a variety of therapies, while others focus on just one. A good example of this would be a diploma in holistic massage, which could include modules on reflexology and Indian head massage along with more traditional methods, such as Swedish massage.
The length of study is another important consideration when choosing a natural healing college. The program you choose will determine the amount of time spent studying. Certificate courses might be completed in a matter of days, but diploma courses might require up to three years of full-time study.
A natural healing college can approach training in one of two ways. It may take either a science-based or a holistic approach, and the college you choose should match your perspective and individual philosophy. This will help to ensure that the methods taught and the focus of the training match your own outlook.
The costs associated with qualifying as a natural healer will vary based on the courses taken, but the fees are generally fairly high when compared to the costs of obtaining other qualifications. Prepare for the costs involved beforehand, and look into any extra expenses. Some natural healing colleges offer financial aid, and it is a good idea to ask about this before committing to a specific college.
Most natural healing colleges will require practical training. Some colleges offer placement programs, and some even have their own centers where students offer treatments to the public at a discounted rate. This is a good way for students to gain experience while studying.
