A career in the health field used to be of limited choices consisting of doctors, nurses, phlebotomist, X-ray technician, pharmacist and dietitian.
From these, the possibilities expanded mostly in what is considered as traditional Western medicine.
Indeed, times have changed and a more holistic approach is being sought not only by those in search of a career but by patients as well.
Oftentimes, depending on the health concern, integrating both Western and Eastern medicine may provide the best outcome. Consider a team approach for your health and choose wisely.
When a patient seeks the educational knowledge and advice regarding a symptom or a variety of symptoms, one size (medication or approach) does not fit all. If you discussed with your provider with symptoms of allergies, a single protocol for allergy does not fit the bill. The patient needs to be asked a multitude of questions and possibly testing before remedy can be provided. The patient does not necessarily fit into a “protocol” for relief. The provider after discussion is not to simply prescribe the same medication for allergy to everyone seen. Critical thinking needs to be put into place.
When in search of the best approach to your health, you need to do your research, not only for the best type of provider that fits you the patient but the type of care you need. There is not a one size approach.
Health coaches and counselors have been beneficial for many in search of a holistic approach that will look at you, the whole person, and help you determine the direction care is needed. Health coaches will delve into your nutrition, sleep patterns, career, relationships, exercise, family dynamics, self-care, community, and more. Health coaches are aware of their abilities and refer to other providers as needed and may work with a number of providers depending on the circumstances.
Other holistic health careers to consider:
• Homeopath — based on the theory of “like treating like”
• Reiki practitioner — a subtle form of energy therapy
• Therapeutic touch (TT) — a form of energy therapy of body, mind and emotion
• Ayurvedic practitioner – native to India with treatment options including yoga, acupuncture, massage therapy, and dietary changes
• Herbalist — practitioner using plants for healing
• Cranial sacral therapy (CST) — a hands-on technique enhancing the function of the cranial system
• Yoga instructor — consists of physical postures connecting body, breath and mind
• Nutritionist — uses nutrition for a healthier lifestyle and improved eating habits
• Emotional freedom technique (EFT) — a “tapping” method helpful in managing emotions
• Acupuncturist — improves the flow of blocked or stagnant qi
• Art and music therapy – treatment methods to express oneself promoting an inner perception
• Chiropractic — hands-on therapy aiding the musculoskeletal system
These are just a snippet of what is available for a career in the health field. There are many programs available for a health career of your choice. Be sure to check with your state regarding requirements, what programs are accepted, and once graduated, what title you may be able to use depending on the education. Also, there are so many wonderful avenues to explore when in search of a health career today both traditional and non traditional. These few that I mention above are for those in search of a holistic approach, and is only the tip of the iceberg with so many more possibilities.
The whole body is interconnected therefore a career treating the mind, body, and spirit should be your focus and lead to more positive outcomes. Eating whole nutrient dense foods, proper sleep, proper physical movement, self-care, relationships, education, community, and more are all involved when led towards a holistic health career direction.
Deborah Dittner is a family nurse practitioner and health consultant. Her mission is to transform as many individuals as possible through nutrition and lifestyle changes. www.debdittner.com