Do you have a passion for food? Do you enjoy helping people live their best lives? Why not combine these interests into one rewarding career?
In this article, we'll talk about how to become a certified holistic nutritionist. We'll discuss the job description and give you a step-by-step process you can follow to attain your career dreams.
What is a Certified Holistic Nutritionist?
A certified holistic nutritionist is someone who provides health guidance and suggestions based on diet.
Holistic healthcare providers focus on the body as a whole and all of its interconnected parts. With that in mind, holistic nutritionists look at how diet affects health and offer suggestions tailored to each individual person.
In many states, nutritionists practice without licensure or certification; however, even if you live in one of these states, receiving higher education and getting certified will not only help you stand out from the crowd, but provide better care and guidance as well.
Certified holistic nutritionists sometimes work in outpatient clinics and holistic care centers; however, many of them start their own businesses and work for themselves. They may work out of the home or out of an office.
Those who run their own business will need to have a solid understanding of business practices as well as holistic nutrition. They will have to find their own clients, handle legal matters, and manage their own finances.
Most certified holistic nutritionists receive some form of higher education. Many complete certificate or associate degree programs, while others pursue a bachelor's degree.
Some even obtain graduate certificates and master's or doctoral degrees.
Certified holistic nutritionist salaries vary depending on whether they work for themselves or a clinic, as well as the amount of formal training they have received.
Generally speaking, nutritionists and dietitians who have received a bachelor's degree earn a median income between $61,000 and $62,000 a year.
Steps to Becoming a Certified Holistic Nutritionist
Does this sound like a job for you? Keep reading to learn the steps you can take to become a certified holistic nutritionist.
Step 1: Enter a Training Program
There are many different training options for those pursuing a career in nutrition.
Depending on where you live and the type of certification you are seeking, you may only need to enter a certificate program. Holistic Nutritionist certification programs require the least amount of credits and, as such, require the least amount of time to complete. They do not lead to a degree.
Most people who plan to become certified holistic nutritionists obtain an associate or bachelor's degree. These degrees are usually, but not always, required for certification. They also provide you with a well-rounded education and look good on a resume.
Students who want to pursue advanced career options or really stand out from the crowd may want to obtain graduate certificates or master's degrees. A few students may even decide to pursue a doctoral degree.
Regardless of your education level, you should enroll in a program that focuses on nutrition, dietetics, health and wellness degree, or holistic practices.
Step 2: Get Certified
National certification is not required to work as a holistic nutritionist, and state requirements vary. Research the type and level of certification required in your state to learn if you meet the eligibility requirements.
If certification isn't required in your state, then you are free to practice without a license or certificate. However, it's still okay to seek optional certification. In fact, doing so is recommended.
Consider sitting for the Certification Examination for Nutrition Specialists, a test administered by the Board for Certification of Nutrition Specialists. This certification may be required to work in some regions and is an excellent credential even if it isn't required in your area.
You may also want to seek board certification through the National Association of Nutrition Professionals. Though this level of certification is completely optional, it will help you stand out from the competition no matter where you plan to work.
Step 3: Work an Internship
On-the-job practice is an integral part of becoming a certified holistic nutritionist.
If you have completed the Certification Examination for Nutrition Specialists, you need to obtain 1,000 hours of internship or other work experience under the guidance of a certified professional.
For the National Association of Nutrition Professionals certification, at least 500 hours of practical experience will be required.
Other supervised work experience requirements may be necessary to complete state-level certification programs.
The best way to meet these requirements is to work an internship. Some internship opportunities may be available through your program of study; otherwise, check with local nutritionists and clinics to see what opportunities are available in your area.
Step 4: Apply for Jobs or Start Your Own Business
Working internships can have a valuable side benefit: you can meet other people in your field and learn about employment opportunities in your area.
After finishing an internship at a clinic, you may be offered a regular job if a position is available. You may also find out about other clinics or businesses who may be hiring certified holistic nutritionists.
It's also a good idea to check online job boards to see what openings are available. Be sure to send a professional resume and cover letter with every application, highlighting your education, certification, and internship experiences.
If you would prefer to work for yourself, begin researching requirements to start your own business. These will include identifying the type of business you plan to run, as well as local, state, and federal business licenses.
Once your business is set up, you will then need to find clients. You can do this in many ways, such as advertising your business online, leaving business cards at gyms and clinics, and asking friends and family to spread the word.
Step 5: Complete Continuing Education
As you continue in your career, you will need to stay up to date on the latest health findings and trends.
Though continuing education credits aren't always required to maintain certification, they can help you better serve your clients by increasing your knowledge base and making sure information stays fresh in your mind.
You can participate in continuing education by enrolling in courses through the National Association of Nutrition Professionals or a related organization.
You may also continue your education more informally by attending conferences and lectures or completing optional short-term training courses.
Become a Certified Holistic Nutritionist Today
There are many pathways to become a certified holistic nutritionist, and not everyone achieves this career in the same way. However, if you follow the information in this guide, you should be well on your way to attaining success in this rewarding career.
If you have any questions, reach out to Best Accredited Colleges today.
