Homeopathy is a form of alternative medicine that uses extremely small amounts of natural substance to prompt the body to heal itself. Homeopathy applies the law of similars, often described as “like cures like,” which was developed by the German physician Samuel Hahnemann in 1796. Homeopaths use specially prepared dilutions to treat various kinds of diseases ranging from simple allergies and chronic illnesses to cancer. Increasingly, people are turning to alternative medicine for treatment for diverse ailments, and many rely on a homeopath to treat their medical problems.
The methods of preparing and prescribing homeopathic remedies are complex—and controversial. However, homeopaths do much more than prescribe remedies. A homeopathic intake begins with a detailed examination and interview of the patient’s physical, mental, and emotional state and history. The homeopath then refers to a repertory of symptoms before deciding which remedies will be most effective. Many patients prefer this holistic approach.
The training to become a homeopathic doctor is fairly rigorous, and it is recommended that you complete some form of traditional medical education before embarking on your training. Establishing a practice can take awhile, but if you are dedicated to the principles of the profession and to finding the best solutions to your patients’ health problems, you should be able to build a successful career.
Educational Background
Though it is not legally required, many homeopathic doctors have a graduate medical degree that allows them to diagnose and treat patients according to conventional medical practices. An undergraduate Bachelor’s Degree in science, math or psychology is a good foundation for further medical studies, though a pre-med concentration and high grade-point average will make you more eligible for medical school.
Homeopaths often begin by working towards one of the following graduate degrees:
- Doctor of Medicine, or M.D. Typically involves eight years of coursework in principles of standard medical practice and residency requirements.
- Doctor of Osteopathy, or D.O. Osteopathy combines standard medical practices with a holistic healing approach that relies on the body’s natural healing abilities; typically involves four years of coursework and three years of residency requirements.
- Doctor of Chiropractic, or D.C. Chiropractors treat neuromusculoskeletal problems by manipulating the spine and joints; typically involves four years of study and training.
- Doctor of Naturopathy, or N.D. Naturopaths employ alternative medicine alongside standard medical practices; typically involves four years of coursework and clinical training.
- Nurse Practitioner, or N.P. Nurse practitioners are qualified to practice primary medicine; typically involves having a four-year undergraduate nursing degree, followed by one to two years of graduate coursework.
These disciplines offer different opportunities for using homeopathic training and methods either in conjunction with a mainstream medical practice or within a holistic or alternative healthcare setting.
Homeopathic Schools
Courses in homeopathic medicine are offered at many levels, including weekend seminars. However, if you are planning on making this your career, you should enroll in a four-year course of study and clinical training at a recognized school. The Accreditation Commission for Homeopathic Education in North America (ACHENA) is a non-profit organization that accredits homeopathic training programs that meet their standards; thus far, there are only a handful of schools that have received this accreditation. You may find other institutions and online programs that offer training in homeopathy, sometimes as part of a broader program in alternative medicine.
Certification and Professional Organizations
There are only three states that require homeopaths to be licensed (Arizona, Connecticut and Nevada), though other states may require practitioners to have a healthcare provider license. It will benefit your career to become certified by the Council for Homeopathic Certification (CHC). To do so, you will need to meet their education requirements (including basic and classical homeopathy courses, specified medical education, and clinical training and presentation of cases) and then pass their examination.
In addition to getting your certification, you may want to join a professional homeopathy organization, such as:
- American Board of Homeotherapeutics (ABHt)
- Homeopathic Academy of Naturopathic Physicians (HANP)
- North American Society of Homeopaths (NASH)
Membership in one of these organizations offers valuable resources, such as conferences, seminars, reports on new findings, networking and inclusion in professional databases.
Salary and Job Opportunities
The average annual salary for a homeopathic doctor is $71,320. Practitioners who also have medical degrees may earn more and will have a wider range of job opportunities in hospitals, medical clinics, nursing homes and other healthcare facilities. Homeopaths who do not have medical degrees can open a private practice, or find employment in wellness centers or alternative health clinics. There is a growing interest in complementary medicine, and some homeopaths combine their training in this discipline with other types of healing practices such as yoga, acupuncture or herbal medicine. It is also possible to go into research or teaching.
Homeopathic doctors combine the extensive methodologies and techniques of this field with a holistic healing approach—and many patients prefer this individualized, personalized type of medical care. If this approach to caring for people is appealing, start researching your best educational and training options. It is an exciting discipline for those who are committed to helping people discover natural, alternative ways to fight disease and optimize their health and well-being.