Naturopath

Career path and progression

With experience and through marketing your service you could build your client base.

You could specialise in a particular type of treatment or work with people with specific health problems.

You could also move into teaching or promoting naturopathic techniques or doing research into naturopathic therapies.

What it takes

Skills and knowledge

You'll need:

• knowledge of how the human body works and the causes of diseases
• excellent verbal communication skills
• counselling skills including active listening and a non-judgemental approach
• analytical thinking skills
• knowledge of psychology
• sensitivity and understanding
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• the ability to understand people’s reactions
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

Restrictions and Requirements

You'll need to:

• have insurance
• pass enhanced background checks

Related subjects

Most relevant

• Biology - Naturopaths need a thorough understanding of how the human body works, including its systems, processes, and the causes of disease. They carry out physical examinations, take blood samples, and interpret test results – all of which require solid knowledge of human biology and physiology.
• Chemistry - Naturopaths work with natural substances, herbal remedies, and nutritional supplements, so they need to understand how different chemicals interact with the body. Knowledge of biochemistry helps them assess how dietary changes and natural therapies affect a client's health at a cellular level.
• Food Preparation and Nutrition - Naturopaths advise clients on diet as a core part of their treatment plans, so understanding nutrition, food groups, and how the body processes different nutrients is essential. They design dietary programmes tailored to individual health conditions and lifestyle needs.
• Psychology - Naturopaths use counselling skills and a non-judgemental approach to understand their clients' emotional wellbeing and lifestyle habits. Understanding how mental health, stress, and behaviour affect physical health helps them design holistic treatment plans that address the whole person.

Also relevant

• Physical Education - Naturopaths advise clients on exercise and physical activity as part of a healthy lifestyle. Understanding how the body responds to different types of exercise, and how fitness relates to overall health, helps them recommend appropriate activity plans for their clients.
• Sociology - Naturopaths discuss clients' social history and lifestyle habits as part of their consultations. Understanding how social factors – such as family circumstances, work pressures, and community – influence health and wellbeing helps them take a more rounded approach to treatment.
• Business - Naturopaths often work as self-employed practitioners, so they need to manage their own finances, market their services, and build a client base. Understanding how to run a small business is important for those setting up or growing their own practice.
• English Language - Naturopaths need excellent communication skills to discuss sensitive health topics with clients and keep detailed written notes. Being able to explain complex ideas about health and treatment clearly – both in conversation and in writing – is central to building trust with clients.