Dr. Ben,

I am interested in many aspects of holistic medicine, and would like to pursue a career in the field. I’m not sure how far I want to delve, but I would definitely like to begin somewhere specific and build from that point.

For instance, I want to become a master herbalist. In your naturopathic database blog, you state that the schools listed there are the only ones accredited. I think you mean accredited by a national certifying body. I suppose when you graduate from the school, your certification really is only the certificate they give you..there isn’t a higher level accrediting it. I find it so confusing. The only option I have is home-course study programs for the most part, because I do not live near any of the accredited schools (nor do many mention distance learning).

The people I have spoken to regarding their education (well-known and reputable holistic health practioners, that is) have sometimes received their education from schools like Clayton College. Are they practicing illegally?

Are any naturopathic study programs (such as becoming an herbalist, holistic health practioner, etc.) legitimate outside of the schools you mentioned? I just want to know that I am truly making an investment in the future of others and myself when I choose my next course of action regarding education.

Any information you can share relating to these questions would be very helpful. Thank you.

Hello,

That is a loaded and common question people have.

It depends on what you would like to do and as you say, how far you want to delve.

If you want to treat patients and act as a primary care provider, then you need to go to an accredited naturopathic medical school such as Bastyr, NCNM, Southwest or Bridgeport in the USA.

If you simply want to learn some form of holistic healing or art form, then that is a huge sea of schools and online courses.
If you want to be a master herbalist, then you should consider schools which are accredited for that. I know the American Herbalist Guild is the leader in their field.

The American Association of Naturopathic Medicine (AANP) is a great resource for you. They know all the legalities, accreditation, practice guidelines, educational aspects and more.

The graduates from Clayton College are not illegal to practice if they ‘practice’ in unlicensed states. That is why the AANP is pushing for licensure for naturopathic physicians. Many states now require licensure to practice as a ND. So, depending on what state you live in, if you graduate from Clayton, you may not be able to ‘practice’.

I put the word ‘practice’ in quotes as the graduates from Clayton College are not primary care physicians. They do not have near the amount of training that naturopathic physicians have yet they call themselves ND’s. That is a big problem for the public.

I am not sure of the full program at Clayton College for the naturopathic degree – I believe it is 6 months online or around there. At an accredited naturopathic college, licensed ND’s receive a minimum of 4 years post-graduate education in medicine.

The school I graduated from, Bastyr University, is listed in the Princeton Review for medical schools. That says something.

Again, the AANP is your best bet to clarify all these points for you. Ask to speak with someone there if you need more direct information.

If you’ve more questions, please do ask.

In health,
Dr Ben