What is an Aromatherapist?
An aromatherapist is a professional who utilizes essential oils for healing purposes in the practice of aromatherapy. The typical responsibilities of an aromatherapist include:
Most aromatherapists are self-employed, working full or part-time from home, from clients’ homes, a spa or from their own practice. Some aromatherapists provide additional therapies including massage and reflexology.
Training, certification, and National Vocational Qualifications (NVQ's) in aromatherapy can be obtained and are available at most further education colleges. You could also do a degree in aromatherapy. All aromatherapy courses have to adhere to the standards set by the National Occupation Standards for Aromatherapy.
- undertaking patient consultations to gain information about lifestyle, symptoms, current and previous physical/medical history and to select remedies
- identifying appropriate essential oils
- planning and explaining treatment requirements
- blending oils together
- applying oils (often via therapeutic massage) and undertaking treatment; creating blends of oils that can be used for at home use and/or inhaling
- advising clients about the use of remedies
- providing advice about diet, exercise and lifestyle
- keeping accurate confidential patient records
- keeping up-to-date with research and new developments in the profession
Most aromatherapists are self-employed, working full or part-time from home, from clients’ homes, a spa or from their own practice. Some aromatherapists provide additional therapies including massage and reflexology.
Training, certification, and National Vocational Qualifications (NVQ's) in aromatherapy can be obtained and are available at most further education colleges. You could also do a degree in aromatherapy. All aromatherapy courses have to adhere to the standards set by the National Occupation Standards for Aromatherapy.