What is an Aromatherapist?
If you’ve been following me for a while or are one of my massage clients, then you’ve heard me
call myself a Certified Aromatherapist. What, though, is an aromatherapist? More importantly–
what does it mean to be “certified?”
Getting Aromatherapy Right
The increase in popularity of essential oils has added to the somewhat confusing amount of
information found on how to use these beautiful ingredients. It’s important to know the most
useful, safe, and current information. That’s where an aromatherapist can help.
AIA and NAHA
The professional organizations in the United States that monitor and have created standards and
requirements schools must teach to recognize someone as an aromatherapist are Alliance of
International Aromatherapists (AIA) and National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy
(NAHA). Other countries have their own professional oversite and organizations that are
similar.
Aromatherapy Training
In the United States, a minimum of 200 hours is required to be recognized as a Professional
Aromatherapist, and 400 hours to be recognized as a Clinical Aromatherapist. These hours
include Safety, Ethics, Anatomy & Physiology, Chemistry, many Case Studies and a Research
Paper. 200 hours is also the minimum required to sit for the Registered Aromatherapist exam
which is held twice a year and is conducted by the Aromatherapy Registration Council – my goal
is to sit for this exam in the Fall 2023! The required continuing education keeps me up-to-date
with important information, and is also one of my favorite things to do.
My Certification
My studies have included the Basic and Advanced Graduate Programs at Aromahead Institute
(400+ hours) and I am currently enrolled in the Certified Master Aromatherapist Program at
Essence of Thyme College of Holistic Studies (330 hours). I am a Professional Member of both
the AIA and NAHA and currently sit on the Conference Committee for AIA’s 2024 Conference.
FDA Disclaimer
All statements made have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The efficacy
of these statements has not been confirmed by FDA-approved research. These statements are not
intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. All information presented here is not
meant as a substitute for or alternative to information from health care practitioners. Please
consult your health care professional about potential interactions or other possible complications
before using any product.
To find out more about me or how I can help you navigate the world of essential oils, please
reach out to me through my website www.mollymessmermassage.com.