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Aromatherapy training – what to ask!

December 14th, 2011 · Training

Thinking of training as a professional aromatherapist?

What might your investment be and what should you be looking for in a course?

Many professional aromatherapy diploma courses are part-time and take around a year to complete. Expect to spend at least four days per month in the classroom and 4-8 hours per week on home study. Commit yourself to at least 80% attendance.

All good courses require students to put together a portfolio of case studies (examples of practising on friends and family) and written course-work. The number of case studies required can vary from course to course – as the most time consuming element, it is worth considering when choosing the right course for you. Completion of the course should involve both written and practical examinations.

A good course will cover the following: in-depth learning on over 40 essential oils, application and blending, how oils are produced, essential oil science, clinical practice, professional business practice, anatomy and physiology and therapeutic massage. Always check that satisfactory completion of the course will equip you to practise professionally – it may be that you will have to study additional subjects to fully qualify.

Prices very considerably! Our research has found course fees ranging from £750 to £3500. Some courses offer savings for students who already have recognised qualifications in anatomy and physiology and/or massage. Distance learning courses are available which are often much cheaper, although you will miss out on the support of a classroom environment.

Hidden costs? When considering a course always enquire what additional costs will be incurred on essential equipment, course text books and exam fees.

Is there an Awarding Body? Many centres deliver courses with specialist awarding bodies such as the International Therapies Exam Council (ITEC) or VTCT. These courses meet certain standards and content criteria, and some boast international recognition if you were thinking of working abroad.

Who is accrediting the course? Courses can be accredited by a professional organisations such as the International Federation of Professional Aromatherapists (IFPA), the Aromatherapy and Allied Practitioners Association (AAPA) or the International Federation of Aromatherapists (IFA) – there are many more.

Do your research and find out whether your qualification will grant you membership to a professional organisation –  once qualified this will grant you access to support and resources, insurance, codes of conduct, standards and ethics, continuing personal development (CPD) and training.

Good luck!

 

Here’s some handy links: : IFPA: http://ifparoma.org

IFA: www.ifaroma.org

ITEC: www.itecworld.co.uk

VTCT: www.vtct.org.uk

AAPA www.aapa.org.uk

 

This guide is far from exhaustive – what would you add to it?

 

 

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What to ask an alternative therapist

December 12th, 2011 · A client's perspective

Thinking of visiting a therapist for the first time? Here are a few useful questions to ask before you book a treatment:

 About the Therapist:

“What qualifications do you have? Where did you study and when?”

This will give you a good idea of how long ago a therapist qualified. You may not have heard of the awarding body – there are many out there, so make notes, you can always look it up on the internet later.

“Do you have insurance?”

Public Liability Insurance is a core requirement. It covers the therapist whilst at work, for example should a client attempt to seek compensation against the therapist if they or their property are damaged. All practising therapists should have public liability insurance.

“Are you a member of any professional organisations?”

It is not compulsory for all therapists to be a member of a professional organisation, but it is often a good idea as it provides a therapist with support in their continuing professional development, keeps them up to date with the legal aspects of their work and also provides a strict code of conduct. There are many different bodies therapists can join such as the Holistic Healers Associations, the Federation of Holistic Therapists, or specific organisations relating to particular therapies such as The Shiatsu Society.

About your treatment:

“How much will it cost?”

Some therapists charge more for the first appointment as it tends to be longer and includes a consultation. Many therapists charge per treatment rather than by the hour, as treatments can very in length, though its fine to ask for a rough idea of how long a treatment can last for.

“How many treatments will I need?”

The therapist will have some questions to ask you about your condition, and they should be able to tell you roughly how many treatments would be appropriate. They will have a better idea after one treatment with you, however you are not obliged to continue having treatments with them.

The therapist, after talking to you about your condition, may tell you that their particular therapy would not be effective for you. It is always worth asking what else they would recommend, as many therapists know something about other therapies, even if they don’t practise them, they may even be able to recommend another therapist.

Are there any other questions you have found useful?

 

Get in Touch: Are you a therapist who works from home? Get in touch and share your top advice to give other therapists thinking of treating clients from home

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Finding the right alternative therapist for you.

December 8th, 2011 · A client's perspective

Going for a treatment with an alternative therapist for the first time can be a daunting experience. This simple guide may help give you the confidence you need to make the right decisions for you when choosing the right holistic therapist for you.

Finding the right therapist:

Maybe you have been recommended a therapist by someone you know, word of mouth is the most common way people find their therapist.

The internet is also an excellent way to look for a suitable therapist, many of whom have websites or listings on alternative therapy websites.

There may be a Healing Fayre in your local area, this is a great way to meet and speak to lots of different therapists, many of whom will offer low priced taster sessions, giving you chance to find out more about the therapist and the therapy they offer.

Before making an appointment:

You are not committing to anything just by making a phone call. Therapists are happy to receive your enquiry and discuss your individual needs over the phone. Call a selection so that you are able to get a sense of the range of therapies and therapists out there. It’s fine to call back once you’ve chosen the right one for you.

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