How to Become a Naturopathic Nurse

Naturopathic medicine has become increasingly popular in recent years, leading to an increase in demand for both doctors trained in naturopathy and nurses familiar with the field. While there is generally no legal distinction between a "naturopathic" nurse and other certified and licensed nursing professionals, nurses or nursing students may want to seek out specific training in naturopathic medicine. Be careful that the programs you select are well-regarded, since those programs may cost quite a bit of money and may not always offer significant career benefits.

Instructions

• 1

  Be specific about your goals as a nurse.

  Write a list of your goals in studying naturopathic medicine and becoming a nurse with a background in naturopathic medicine. Your goals will determine your next steps, since naturopathy is still a relatively new field in the eyes of national and state licensing authorities. You need to decide whether you want to pursue one of the limited number of nursing courses with a specific focus in holistic medicine, or if you want to obtain a traditional nursing education and supplement it with further self-education in naturopathy. If your eventual goal is to become a naturopathic doctor, it may be more advantageous to seek out a specialized holistic medicine nursing program after you obtain your traditional nursing education. If you want to work in traditional nursing but with the option of later applying to assist naturopathic doctors, self-education may best serve your goals.

• 2

  Carefully research current holistic medicine programs.

  List and research the available programs in holistic nursing. Licensing authorities do not recognize a specific certification for "holistic" or "naturopathic" nursing. However, a small number of nursing colleges or other educational facilities offer programs in holistic nursing. These programs, such as the "Holistic Nursing CE" program offered by the New York College of Health Professions, are often designed for people who are already licensed as RNs. Since programs are added or modified frequently, carefully consider factors such as the cost of the program, your distance from the training facility, student reviews of the program, the reputation of the school offering the program and complaints registered with consumer bureaus or medical oversight agencies. Do not assume that such courses will result in a near-term financial benefit.

• 3

  Local naturopaths may be able to give you advice.

  Talk to naturopathic doctors and professionals in your area, or the area where you wish to work. Before enrolling in any further courses or programs to bolster your credentials in naturopathic medicine, build up a portrait of the job market you will face. A limited number of positions may be available for nurses with a holistic medicine specialty in your area, and you may need to relocate to find such a job. Local naturopathic doctors may be willing to offer you advice in terms of the qualifications they seek in a nursing assistant. It is important to seek out this advice before you spend time or money on holistic medicine training.