- Image by NYCTCM via Flickr
Always dreamed of a satisfying career path working with patients who need help? Looked into medical school, but turned off by the somewhat cold and robotic practices and treatments taught in Western medicine? If you think you might have an interest in practicing Eastern forms of therapy for physical and emotional ailments ranging from indigestion to depression, a career as an Acupuncturist or another type of alternative medicine practitioner might be a perfect fit for your future. Although in most cases, studying to become a certified Acupuncturist does not require medical school, the training is strict and demands a student devote himself entirely to learning the reasons behind the ancient practice. Like any discipline, training to become an Acupuncturist requires a deep interest in the field and in helping patients – but also a firm understanding of anatomy and physiology, and sacred Chinese techniques that lie at the heart of the procedure.
Since Acupuncture and alternative medicine is relatively new in this country, training programs vary greatly among different academic institutions. Programs can last anywhere between six months to two years – and although all programs teach the fundamentals of the ancient treatment, many differ in level of business training. Many Acupuncturists plan to own their own practice, especially if they live in an area where alternative medicine is still a new concept. Many training programs today teach accounting, business acumen and certain aspects of marketing so students can graduate fully prepared. With that level of training, combined with a true love for the practice, Acupuncturists are able to live exciting lives with a wonderful life balance.
Still need convincing? Consider that over the past two decades, Acupuncture has consistently been on of America’s fastest growing niches in healthcare. Couple that with the fact that healthcare in itself is the fastest growing industry in our country, and the job outlook for skilled and properly trained Acupuncturists is exceedingly secure. In this economy, job security and a firm future mean everything.
