Do you like the idea of helping people heal and live healthy, happy lives? When many people think of careers that involve helping people, their mind automatically goes to therapy. 

But, what if a career in therapy doesn’t interest you?

Not to worry, as there are plenty of other careers in the holistic health field. If you’re looking for career alternatives to therapy, check out this guide to discover the top careers in holistic health. 

1. Massage Therapist

Talk therapy isn’t the only way to help people heal. As a massage therapist, you’ll get the opportunity to help your clients heal both physically and mentally. 

Many people think that massage therapy is just for working out knots in your back. But, studies show that massage therapy can actually reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. 

This means you’ll be able to help your patients two-fold as a massage therapist. To become a massage therapist, you must earn a certificate or diploma in massage therapy. Then, you’ll need to take the approved national exam and then apply for state licensure. 

2. Yoga Instructor

More and more people are practicing yoga than ever before. And, with all the benefits that yoga can provide, it’s no wonder why. 

Studies show that yoga can:

• Relieve stress and anxiety
• Reduce symptoms of depression
• Decrease lower back pain
• Stimulate brain function
• Prevent heart disease

If you’d like to share the healing powers of yoga with others, becoming an instructor is a great decision. To become an instructor, you’ll need to complete a teacher training course, register yourself, and earn continuing education credits.

3. Acupuncturist

Acupuncture is a type of Chinese medicine that involves inserting small needles into specific body parts to alleviate pain and other symptoms. 

People use acupuncture for:

• Relieve headaches
• Reduce stress
• Relieve joint pain, back pain, and neck tension
• Reduce eye strain
• Enhance mental clarity
• Reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression
• Treat insomnia and nausea

To become an acupuncturist, you’ll need to attend an acupuncture program, which usually takes around three years to complete. 

4. Reiki Practitioner 

Reiki has been a part of Eastern medicine for thousands of years, and it’s just now becoming popular in the Western world. 

Reiki is a type of energy healing that promotes stress reduction and relaxation. A Reiki practitioner transfers energy through the palms of their hands to the client in order to encourage emotional and physical healing. 

To become a Reiki practitioner, you’ll need to complete a Reiki training program, which can last anywhere from a few weeks to a few years. 

Many Reiki practitioners also choose to learn hypnosis and other healing techniques like quantum CEU. 

5. Chiropractor

Becoming a chiropractor requires significantly more schooling than the other careers on this list. However, you can make a very decent salary as a chiropractor, as well as a huge impact on your patients. 

Chiropractors diagnose and treat neuromuscular disorders. Their treatment usually involves manual adjustments as well as spinal manipulation. 

To become a chiropractor, you must first earn a bachelor’s of science degree. Then, you’ll need to attend chiropractor school, which takes four years to complete. After this, you’ll need to pass national exams and apply for state licensure. 

Alternatives to Therapy: Which One Suits You? 

As you can see, there are a lot of great alternatives to therapy available. 

If you have any questions about this article, comment below. Otherwise, be sure to check out this guide on what type of career change is right for you.