What is naturopathy?
Naturopathy is a system of medicine that provides a holistic and safe approach to the treatment, management and prevention of various ailments. The main philosophy behind naturopathic practices is to stimulate the body's innate healing processes so that it may heal itself naturally. This means depending less on medications and surgeries, which could cause unwanted side effects. Another aspect of naturopathy relates to promoting healthy lifestyles by suggesting adequate sleep patterns, exercise regimens, stress reduction methods and a healthy diet. A naturopathic doctor can help treat a wide range of conditions, including:
- Allergies
- Stress
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Hormonal imbalances
- Psoriasis and other skin conditions
- Cardiovascular disease
- Fibromyalgia
- Digestive issues
- Musculoskeletal pain
- Respiratory conditions
- Type 2 diabetes
- Infertility
- Cancer
Naturopaths working in the Griffith University area can join the professional organisations below to boost their credentials and stay current with industry developments:
- Australian Natural Therapists' Association (ANTA)
- Naturopaths & Herbalists Association of Australia (NHAA)
- Australian Traditional Medicine Society (ATMS)
- Australian Naturopathic Practitioners Association (ANPA)
- Complementary Medicine Association (CMA)
- International Institute for Complementary Therapists (IICT)
Should you study naturopathy?
As a naturopath, you will be able to provide information to your patients about their condition and teach them how they can improve and maintain their own health via lifestyle changes and other natural means. Naturopaths possess a set of personality traits that help them succeed in their chosen profession, which include:
- Excellent listening and communication skills to learn about the patient's health and to be able to propose a treatment approach tailored to their specific needs.
- Highly empathetic and are able to build a strong rapport with their patients so they can understand what they may be going through on a personal level.
- Genuine interest in health and wellbeing issues, which is key to facilitating effective naturopathic treatments.
- A caring nature and desire to help others as will motivate them to not give up until they have restored their client to optimal health.
If you have a strong inclination towards natural health practices and can relate to these personal attributes, then naturopathy is no doubt the path for you. Read on to learn about the courses you can take to earn your qualification.
What are the course and study options for naturopathy at Griffith University?
Several naturopathy colleges and universities in Griffith University have a well-established track record of producing naturopathy graduates who are highly employable. It boasts industry experts on its staff and advisory board members to give students world-class access to the latest information and real-world experience in the field of naturopathy.
Taking a bachelor's degree in naturopathy will provide you with thorough training in this growing profession, as well as the opportunity to gain real-world experience working with local communities facing health challenges. The four-year course introduces students to the key principles of naturopathy, as well as holistic therapies such as aromatherapy, homoeopathy, massage therapy, and iridology, which naturopaths utilise to support the body's natural healing mechanism and combat disease.
A postgraduate course also provides graduates with additional business acumen alongside their naturopathic knowledge so they can successfully launch their own practice or company after graduation.
Naturopathy courses can be taken on campus or online, with the latter providing students more flexibility as they can attend class and complete compulsory projects at their convenience. With such an emphasis on student independence, combined with online support from academic staff, graduates of a naturopathy degree find it easy to transition into the workforce and become successful natural therapists.
The top of the page contains a comprehensive list of naturopathy courses and schools available around the Griffith University area. If you are interested in learning more about their naturopathic program, including their fees and delivery method, you may contact the school directly.
What happens after you complete your naturopathy course at Griffith University?
Once you have earned your qualification in naturopathy from any of the schools within Griffith University, you may seek employment at a multidisciplinary clinic, community health centre, pharmacy or aged care facility, among other healthcare settings. You can also get into the field of research and help advance the profession.
It is also possible to work in private practice and have full control over your schedule, rates and client list. Getting your services listed on the practitioner listing page of Natural Therapy Pages is a great way to boost your business and get more clients, including your online naturopathy services if you offer them.
Besides working as a naturopath, your qualification may also open doors for further training and education to broaden your skillset and take your career to the next level. Check out some options below: