Why I trained to become a Naturopath.
Recent Wellpark College Naturopathy Graduate Verity Vincent discusses why she trained to become a naturopath and tells us how she plans to use her qualification in the future.
Why did you decide to study for a Bachelor in Naturopathic and Herbal Medicine?
I was inspired to retrain as a natural health practitioner after turning to herbal medicine and other natural therapies and seeing the beneficial impact on my family’s health. I decided I wanted to create the possibility of empowering and educating others on their own wellness journeys, and supporting people to restore to their natural rhythms.
Since Graduating how have you used your qualification?
I was fortunate to be offered a position at House on Health on finishing the course. I’m practising with a team of naturopaths and currently conduct client consultations one day a week. The clinic has a special focus on digestive dysfunction and offers SiBO breath testing services. Part of my role is to interpret these test results and prepare reports
In 5 years’ time where would you like to be in your career?
With more experience and confidence I would like to increase my practice days. I hope to allocate one day a week out in the community seeing clients who don’t have the financial means to see a naturopath/nutritionist. I have a special interest in empowering young people, so this could extend to some form of community education.
What are your hopes for the future of Integrated Natural Health, do you think Wellness and Natural Health is a growing industry?
The current healthcare model is clearly not sustainable and the burden of long-term conditions is growing. In my lifetime I would like to see the transformation towards an integrated and holistic approach to healthcare; one with a focus on prevention and one that is accessible to all. A holistic medical system will consider the health and safety of our people, environment and planet. The natural health industry is certainly growing, however naturopaths and medical herbalists face challenges in this fast modern world where people seek quick solutions, and where technology has paved the way for self-diagnosing and self-prescribing of supplements. To help better supports students to make the transition into the industry, I would like to see more in the way of internships being offered.
What did you most enjoy about studying for your Bachelor of Naturopathic and Herbal Medicine?
The final year was challenging but rewarding. Student clinic provided the opportunity to consolidate the theory and learning from the previous years and put this all into practice. It was a great privilege to have those one-on-one interactions with clients, and hold space while they shared intimate details of their lives. Seeing the power of the therapeutic relationship unfold, and building some beautiful friendships with my student colleagues were the most enjoyable parts of the course.
