Naturopath job description

A naturopath uses natural therapies and remedies to treat their patient’s concerns. They aim to promote an overall healthy wellbeing and lifestyle through treating the mind, body and soul. Naturopaths look to treat the root of an illness or problem, not merely the symptoms. They will examine their patient first, asking questions about their health and lifestyle habits, and will then create a personal health plan to best suit their patient’s needs.

Tasks and responsibilities for a naturopath

Naturopaths work with patients to diagnose and address health concerns, promote emotional and physical wellbeing and combine natural remedies and science to treat people holistically.

So, what does a naturopath do? A naturopath’s duties can include:

Identify health problems and underlying causes
Develop and carry out treatment plans
Treat using natural therapies
Provide lifestyle advice
Monitor patient progress and keep records

How to become a naturopath

The majority of naturopath job opportunities require qualifications in the industry. Here are some steps you can take to ensure you are in an excellent place to get a position as a naturopath.

Study

Complete a qualification in naturopathy, like a Bachelor of Health Science (Naturopathy) or an Advanced Diploma in Applied Science (Naturopathy). A naturopathy course arms you with the essential skills and knowledge to work within the industry confidently.
Register with (ARONAH)

The Australian Register of Naturopaths and Herbalists is a regulatory body that ensures the minimum standards for naturopathy and Western herbal medicine in Australia. Membership with the ARONAH provides credibility and encourages confidence from both consumers and other health professionals.

Pathway options

A career in naturopathy could be your launchpad into further job opportunities. With experience in the industry and potential further study available, you could travel down many career paths.

Some career pathways could be:

Junior

Remedial massage therapist

Most common qualification: Diploma of Remedial Massage (HLT52015)
Aromatherapist

Most common qualification: Diploma of Clinical Aromatherapy (HLT52315)

Mid

Nutrition assistant

Most common qualification: Certificate IV in Allied Health Assistance (HLT43015)

Senior

Naturopath

Most common qualification: Bachelor of Health Science (Naturopathy)

Bachelor of Health Science (Naturopathy)

Study method In-class Online

This bachelor degree qualification provides the skills and knowledge in natural health to work as a naturopath in a clinical environment or as an independent practitioner at a private practice. It covers biological and social sciences, nutrition, botany, herbal medicines, diagnostic techniques and clinical skills.

The course takes four years full-time or the equivalent part-time duration. You have flexibility in time and location, and payment options are available.

The Australian College of Physical Education

Australasian College of Health and Wellness

Related subjects

A role in alternative therapies and natural medicine is not limited to naturopathy. If you would like to explore other subjects in this industry, job opportunities are diverse and plentiful.

Some other subjects to explore:

A job in naturopathy might sound pretty perfect for you right about now. Access the resources below for more information into the industry, and discover how this role plays a huge part in the community.

Reviews

All
Positive
Negative

Chelsey

Sep 10 2021

Helping people address issues they're struggling with in a natural way is very rewarding.

What are the best parts of the job?

Being able to help people address their health issues on a daily basis. Whether it is helping people clear their acne, improve their digestive system, mental health, cycle regularity or fall pregnant. Every day is new and exciting. Most naturopaths don't work a standard 9-5 and generally work 2-3 days per week so it is great for a work-life balance.

What's the most challenging part?

Having an appointment based job can be stressful because some patients might need to reschedule last minute, so your day can change around sometimes. Most naturopath positions aren't salary based but are contractor positions. So, you only get paid for the patients you actually see. In the beginning, when you are building up a patient base, this can be stressful, but it improves with time and experience.

Qualification Bachelor’s degree

Experience 1-3

Organisation size 5-19 employees

Specialisation Women's health

Natasha

Sep 09 2021

Rewarding career where I can see I'm transforming people's lives.

What are the best parts of the job?

Working with clients on an individual level, watching their health transform and knowing I helped them gives me great intrinsic satisfaction - its very rewarding.

What's the most challenging part?

The clients that essentially 'suck you dry' that are in any service industry are the most challenging. I've had a few clients over the years who have contacted me at all hours of the day or night with a simple question as if I am on call 24/7. I've learned with this type of client that no matter what I do for them it is never good enough, so I've had to put some boundaries in place. Boundaries are important also when running your own business as it is challenging to stick to business hours in order to maintain a balanced work/home life.

Qualification Advanced Diploma

Experience 5-10

Organisation size Self-employed

Specialisation Adrenal fatigue/burnout

Jasmine

Sep 05 2021

Improving clients' lives and helping them become healthier.

What are the best parts of the job?

Helping people to get better with healthy lifestyle choices.

What's the most challenging part?

Dealing with depression in clients and trying to help them.

Qualification Diploma

Experience 10+

Organisation size Self-employed

Specialisation Massage

1 2

How to Become a Naturopath: An Intellectual Job That Makes a Difference

Naturopath job description

Tasks and responsibilities for a naturopath

How to become a naturopath

Study

Register with (ARONAH)