Aromatherapy Requirements in the U.K.

Last week I wrote a bit about how to become a registered aromatherapist in the U.S; although I've spent the last 3 years practicing aromatherapy in the U.S., I initially did my aromatherapy training in the U.K.  Personal circumstances brought me to the U.S., where I had to try to figure out the best way of practicing aromatherapy in what, to me, was a 'foreign' country.  I've learned a few things along the way, and although I'm not as in touch with U.K. regulations as I once was, I'll attempt to outline what I do know/have experienced.

As in the U.S., there a many aromatherapy 'courses' on offer to the aspiring aromatherapist from on line courses, weekend courses and full year diploma courses.  Aromatherapy is sometimes offered as part of a 'natural therapies' diploma course at a local college.  To practice as an aromatherapist your aromatherapy course must be benchmarked to the National Occupational Standards (NOS).   Of course, if you just want to learn a bit about aromatherapy to treat yourself, family and friends a shorter course may be more appropiate for you.

In May 2009, the Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council launched a register, endorsed by the Department of Health, in attempt to 'formalize' and regulate the aromatherapy profession to some degree.  Registration is voluntary but as it has official governement backing, being on the register, will undoubtly put an aromatherapist in 'higher standing'.  For details on registration visit The Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council.

Another organization which is a voluntary self-regulatory body for the aromatherapy profession in the U.K. is the Aromatherapy Council. On the Aromatherapy Council's web site, you can find information on:

• aromatherapy organizations which give links to aromatherapy schools which meet the NOS standards
• tips on how to choose an aromatherapy course
• how to recognize if an aromatherapist holds full credentials and qualifications
• many other useful links and information.

In my opinion, aromatherapy training is more 'formalized' in the U..K. than the U.S. but it is also a more accepted practice of complementary medicine; the use of essential oils is used in the National Health System in the U.K., something which is a long way from being achieved in the U.S. (where the whole issue of health care is managed entirely differently).  Many people do not really know what aromatherapy is in the U.S. (based on my experiences) or how powerful it actually is; aromatherapy is often confused with fragrance oils in the U.S. (which is something entirely different).

I took my aromatherapy training with Penny Price in the U.K. which I would highly recommend to others; in fact, I would like to continue further training with Penny Price - but distance (and subsequently cost) is an issue with me at the moment!  I know if I ever do move back closer to the U.K., I would have no hesitation in taking further training with Penny - and no doubt I would have to continue practicing aromatherapy in the U.K./Europe!  Of course, the U.S. may catch up in the mean time - perhaps :) - otherwise an advanced distance learning course is looking good - and that's what I'll discuss next time!

If you are a U.K. aromatherapist, I would love to know your comments on aromatherapy training and requirements in the U.K.; please post me a comment below!

How to Become a Registered Aromatherapist in the U.S.

I posted about the Professional Aromatherapy Training in the Use of Essential Oils last year and stated that becoming a registered aromatherapist was an option, but not a requirement in the U.S. Registration to become a registered aromatherapist in the U.S. is done through the Aromatherapy Registration Council; although this is not something I have done during my time in the U.S. here are some further details about it, if you want to take your aromatherapy training/recognition one step further.

The Aromatherapy Registration Council was established in 1999 to assess independently aromatherapists who apply for membership; the Aromatherapy Registration Council is a non-profit organization which is not affilated with any aromatherapy training provider or school.  Applicants who apply for membership are required to take a four hour, 250 question, multiple choice exam, held in many local cities throughout the U.S.  Exam dates are set twice a year, approximately in March/April and September/October.  Once the applicant has successfully passed the exam, aromatherapy registration with the Aromatherapy Registration Council is valid for five years (at which time a new exam is required to be taken).

Applicants to the Aromatherapy Registration Council need to have completed at least a one year Level 2 aromatherapy program which is in compliance with NAHA Educational Guidelines; there is also an application fee (currently $275).  Successful registered aromatherapists are expected to complete continuing education to maintain their membership; registered aromatherapists with the Aromatherapy Registration Council are listed in a directory too.

As there are currently no minimum requirements to set up as an 'aromatherapist' in the U.S., registration with the Aromatherapy Registration Council adds more weight and credibility to an aromatherapist's qualifications and expertise.  However, it depends on what area of aromatherapy you intend to practice in, and personal choice, in order to make a decision whether the registration would be of benefit to you.

I have not chosen to become a registered aromatherapist in the U.S as yet due to a number or reasons; some of those are personal ones.  However, should my situation change it may be something I will consider in the future.

Next time I'll look at aromatherapy registration requirements in the U.K.!

If you have any comments on How to Become a Registered Aromatherapist in the U.S. please post below!