Are you passionate about bridging the gap between conventional medicine and holistic health? Are you eager to empower individuals to achieve optimal wellness by integrating evidence-based practices? If so, a career as an Integrative Health Professional might be the perfect fit for you. In this blog post, we'll explore what it means to be an Integrative Health Professional, the education required, and how you can apply to ACHS integrative health and wellness programs to embark on this rewarding journey.
An Integrative Health Professional serves as a vital link between conventional medical recommendations and holistic health approaches that consider the whole person. The specific role this professional may play takes many shapes, from being an aromatherapist or herbalist, to nutrition professionals and wellness coaches. Their primary responsibility is to support clients in their pursuit of optimal health and wellness while working in tandem with their physicians' medical assessments. Integrative Health Professionals focus on educating and empowering others and may work across the industry including directly with clients, in research, or in the development of dietary supplements and natural products.
"Integrative health professionals play a critical role in healthcare by employing a whole health approach that considers the individual and aims to support mental and physical wellness. Integrative health professionals seek to educate and empower clients to consider lifestyle habits that support optimal wellness. Through this approach, clients and communities are better equipped to understand their health and advocate for themselves in the traditional healthcare system," shares ACHS President Tracey Abell.
By implementing a balanced array of integrative health modalities, Integrative Health Professionals guide individuals toward understanding what well-being means to them.
To gain the necessary training and qualifications to become an Integrative Health Professional or Holistic Health Practitioner, it is essential to pursue an accredited credential such as an Associate's, Bachelor's, Master’s, or Doctorate degree in Integrative Health. This educational journey equips you with a deep understanding of various holistic health modalities, including aromatherapy, herbal medicine, lifestyle modifications, wellness coaching, and holistic nutrition. Furthermore, studying biological sciences such as anatomy, physiology, psychology, biology, and chemistry is crucial for developing a strong foundation in the field.
The highly anticipated new Doctor of Science in Integrative Health program was developed to provide a comprehensive terminal degree to train Integrative Health Professionals who will become future leaders in integrative health. This program is currently accepting applications. This program completes the professional integrative health education pathway at ACHS which now offers students the opportunity to go all the way from an Associate’s degree to the Doctorate in Integrative Health with ACHS.
At ACHS, we offer comprehensive wellness coaching programs that adhere to ethical and professional guidelines set by respected coaching organizations such as the National Board for Health and Wellness Coaching (NBHWC) and the International Coach Federation (ICF). These guidelines instill the values necessary to be an ethical and holistic certified wellness coach, ensuring that you are equipped with the necessary skills to support and guide clients effectively. Throughout your training at ACHS, you will learn to establish individualized client-support plans that focus on manageable and sustainable goals, fostering optimal success. Accredited credentials such as Certificates and Diploma programs are also a great foundation for advanced degree training and as an adjunct to existing healthcare practice.
The umbrella of integrative health encompasses a wide range of complementary and alternative medicine practices. These include aromatherapy, herbal medicine, holistic nutrition, exercise, and mind-body relaxation techniques. As an Integrative Health Professional, you will have the opportunity to explore these healing arts and sciences, incorporating them into your holistic approach to wellness.
“Nutrition is essential for life and a path to either superior or poor health. At ACHS you will become the conduit to educate and direct people as well as other healthcare professionals in the complex web of the food and healthcare systems.” Dr. Janet Ludwig, Ph.D. Dean of Integrative Health and Nutrition
"Unlock the power of holistic healing and embrace a future as an integrative practitioner. Become the bridge connecting ancient wisdom with modern science in a career that makes a difference in people's lives." Dr. Glen Nagel,ND, RH(AHG), Dean of Herbal Medicine
“Integrative health professionals are vital in our communities and our health systems. They help provide education on the health and balance of whole individuals; mind, body, and spirit. At ACHS we offer training in specialization areas in integrative health such as aromatherapy, herbalism, and nutrition. This empowers our graduates to fully participate in their own health journeys and their professional goals.” Amanda Lattin, BA, MAT, Dip. Aroma., MH, RA, Dean of Aromatherapy
“Our new doctoral program allows you to focus on the courses that best meet your career goals while giving you the opportunity to explore current research practices in integrative health.” Dr. Lori Holdren, BS, MA, Ph.D., Dean of General Education
If you're ready to embark on your journey towards becoming an Integrative Health Professional, applying to ACHS is straightforward with support from the ACHS Admissions team every step of the way. Start your application, then meet with an advisor to learn more and discuss your specific goals. Whether you're interested in pursuing a full online integrative health program or starting with a single course, ACHS offers flexible options to help you get started.
If you have questions or would like guidance during the application process, our dedicated admissions advisors are here to help. Schedule an appointment with an admissions advisor to discuss your aspirations, clarify any doubts, and receive personalized support.
Becoming an Integrative Health Professional allows you to make a positive impact on the well-being of individuals and communities. By integrating core health sciences knowledge with holistic health approaches, you have the power to transform lives and empower others to take charge of their wellness journey. Take the first step towards a rewarding career by applying to an ACHS Integrative Health Program today. We look forward to welcoming you into our community of passionate and dedicated wellness professionals.