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Discussion

Difference Between Holistic and Naturopathic

Good evening,

I'm a nursing student, and I'm doing my research on specialties. Holistic nursing sounds great, and I definitely agree in the philosophy. I then stumbled upon the word naturopathic medicine. Doing some research, I'm getting the impression that holistic is the philosophy of using various practices and naturopath is actually putting this philosophy into practice. At the same time, I'm not seeing much on naturopathic nursing or even naturopathic nurse practitioners; I did find something on naturopathic doctors. I'm finding several resources on holistic nursing including AHNA organization. My question, if I'm interested in this type of training, do I look for information on naturopathic nursing, holistic nursing, are they the same thing in the nursing world? I hope my question makes sense. I just don't see much on naturopathic nursing, so I assume I look for information on holistic nursing? I believe in the concept of integrating Western and Eastern medicine. I'm also interested in possibly going for nurse practitioner integrating both concepts (if this is possible and within the scope of practice). I'm just confused on if I would try to find something in naturopathic or holistic. Sorry for my confusion, and I hope this isn't a silly question.

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    These are great questions! I'm currently a second-career nursing student and got into this field because of my interest in Integrative Medicine. As far as nursing goes, you will want to focus on the term "Holistic Nursing" to get the best information. To the best of my knowledge, Naturopathy is used exclusively for doctors that get an "N.D." as opposed to an M.D. The problem with this term is that Naturopaths often have trouble with accredited educational programs and often have to operate their own private practice to get any return on their investment. They can both practice Integrative Medicine techniques (blending of East and West), but Holistic Nursing also focuses on wellness and looking at all aspects of the individual for healing.

    Also, I just joined AHNA last summer and think its a great resource to learn more. Hope that clarification helps!

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    These are great questions! I'm currently a second-career nursing student and got into this field because of my interest in Integrative Medicine. As far as nursing goes, you will want to focus on the term "Holistic Nursing" to get the best information. To the best of my knowledge, Naturopathy is used exclusively for doctors that get an "N.D." as opposed to an M.D. The problem with this term is that Naturopaths often have trouble with accredited educational programs and often have to operate their own private practice to get any return on their investment. They can both practice Integrative Medicine techniques (blending of East and West), but Holistic Nursing also focuses on wellness and looking at all aspects of the individual for healing.

    Also, I just joined AHNA last summer and think its a great resource to learn more. Hope that clarification helps!

    That's actually perfect and makes perfect sense! Thank you sooo much for taking the time to explain that to me.

    I did notice the AHNA website, and I'm strongly considering joining as a student. I just wanted clarification on my question before pursuing in case there was something naturopathic that I should have looked into. Now I know, and I know to continue with AHNA and the holistic path!

    Thanks again so much and have a good one!

    Jesse

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    Your question makes sense. From what I understand, holistic nursing is more the nursing approach of treating the whole person mind, body, and lifestyle while naturopathic medicine is more its own type of medical practice usually done by naturopathic doctors.

    If you want to stay in nursing and combine Western and Eastern approaches, holistic nursing is probably the path you're looking for.

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