Naturopaths provide holistic treatment to patients. They opt for more natural procedures than medicinal or surgical treatments. Massage, herbs and acupuncture are just some of the options they use to cure or make their patients feel better. Patients who have a need for invasive procedures or medication are referred to doctors. Some Naturopaths are practising Physicians as well and they use their training to diagnose and treat their patients.

A Naturopath usually performs many of the following tasks:

• Consulting with patients
• Treating illnesses
• Researching for new medicinal practices
• Preparing herbal treatments
• Counselling patients
• Doing massage therapy
• Managing a clinic
• Doing acupuncture
• Giving nutrition advise

• Communication and listening
• Understanding the human anatomy
• Comprehensive knowledge of plants
• Being self confident
• Being professional
• Being patient and understanding
• Time management
• Being genuine and trustworthy

Pursuing a career as a Naturopath requires extensive training but also allows you to seek a number of qualifications that can lead to obtaining your licence. Courses of study may include learning about psychology, sociology, inorganic chemistry, organic chemistry, medical sciences, non-traditional medicine, botanical medicine, nutrition, homoeopathy and biology. When choosing a school, it is advisable to check if it is accredited by the Council on Naturopathic Medical Education. Organisations that can provide further information about this career are the American Naturopathic Medical Accreditation Board and the American Naturopathic Medical Association.