Do you long for a career in healing but prefer a more holistic approach? If you avoid traditional medicine, don’t despair. There are lots of interesting jobs in the field of alternative medicine–and the demand for workers is growing.
Here are some of the many calls you can choose from. All are attractive, offer reasonable salaries and offer good expectations beyond a “three year career.”
1. Acupuncturist
An ancient form of holistic medicine that originated in China, acupuncturists apply needles to pressure points to treat a wide variety of ailments. According to Healthcare Salaries.com, the average salary for an acupuncturist is $46,520 and they usually charge $40-$60 per session.
A career in acupuncture does require a large educational investment with most completing a Masters degree. You must then be certified by the National Acupuncture Certification Commission and licensed in your state.
If you are a compassionate individual who loves working with people, excels in science, and has strong ethical standards, this may be the alternative medical career for you.
2. Massage Therapist
If you are known among your peers as the person with the “magic touch” who provides the best neck massages in town, you may be the perfect candidate for a career in Massage Therapist. Massage Therapists use touch to heal their patients by applying different techniques to manipulate soft tissues. It can be used to reduce pain, repair sports injuries, require relaxation, and relieve discomfort associated with pregnancy.
To become a Massage Therapist, you must first check your state’s licensing requirements as they can vary. Most require you to complete a program at a college or community college. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for Massage Therapists in 2010 was $34,900.
If you don’t mind having direct physical contact with your clients, have physical strength and stamina, and are very empathetic, this may prove to be the ideal career choice for you.
3. Aromatherapy
A newcomer to the health field, aromatherapy is an emerging form of healing. It involves using essential oils and other aromatic substances to treat various conditions including headaches, body aches, insomnia and stress. Most work in spas or health clubs, but there are specialized branches such as those treating skin conditions, working with acupuncturists, incorporating aromatherapy into massage therapy, or operating an aromatherapy retail outlet.
According to careers.stateuniversity.com, the average income of an Aromatherapist is $30,000 per year. To work in aromatherapy, one has to get special education from a holistic care institution.
If you enjoy working with people, love smells, have a passion for body science, and a loving heart, this might be a great career choice.
4. Chiropractors
Chiropractors are the most recognized and accepted practitioners in the field of holistic medicine. Specializing in the musculoskeletal system, they are usually called on to treat pain related to the back and neck. Some work in group practice, while others work independently.
You have to start a rather long education, to enter this field. But at least it’s a Bachelor’s degree who can pay well. First, you must complete three to four years of undergraduate study, including courses in biology, chemistry, and physics. You must then go on to complete a four-year Doctor of Chiropractic Degree. When you have received your education, you must obtain a license from the state where you will practice. You will be rewarded for your efforts with an average annual salary of $67,200, according to 2010 Bureau of Labor Statistics figures.
If you have excellent people skills, attention to detail, excellent manual dexterity, and a healthy dose of empathy, you can become a successful chiropractor.
The holistic healing industry is growing all the time as people disenfranchise with traditional medicine, seek more eco-friendly treatments, and want to get back to basics. If you dream of a career that enhances the quality of life of others, enjoy interacting with other people and like to work with your hands, this may be the career path that will provide you with a happy and healthy life. If you’re still considering a more traditional career, here’s some career advice from experienced nurses.
What did you love about your career in holistic healing?
