Alternative Therapist: Job Duties & Career Info

Job Description

Alternative therapy is a broad title that refers to health care workers who perform complementary and alternative health duties as part of their daily routine as nurses, doctors or other health professionals. Alternative therapists may also offer alternative health treatments as solo practitioners independent of other medical training. They may work in a doctor's office, hospital, holistic health center or private practice. Alternative therapists use methods that are often considered outside the realm of traditional medicine, most often to provide palliative care.

Educational Requirements

Alternative therapists must attend college, extension, vocational or technical programs, depending on their specialty. For example, chiropractors must earn a doctoral degree in chiropractic medicine; to do so, they must complete 4-5 years of postsecondary education and clinical work. Massage therapists may complete their training in less than a year. Acupuncturists may earn a master's degree. Alternative therapists must study the principles, theory and practice of their specialty, as well as anatomy and physiology. Alternative therapists who are interested in running independent, private practices are encouraged to become learned in business as well.

Licensing Requirements

In addition to formal education, therapists must complete state licensing and certification tests that are required by their field of choice. Licensing requirements vary by state and may require very specific qualifications, as well as continuing education.

Required Skills

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that successful alternative therapists held the following qualities:

• Excellent people skills in order to encourage new business and retain current patients
• High level of professionalism
• Business and networking skills
• Compassion and empathy
• Speaking, writing and listening skills
• Strong sense of ethics