AboutTandi Hartle Expertise I can answer questions about the staff, quality of education, studying and testing requirements, and accreditation of the school. I can also provide you with information about what you can do with the degree you earn through the college.
Experience I recieved a Bachelor of Natural Health through Clayton College of Natural Health.
Organizations NCH- National Center for Homeopathy
Coalition for Natural Health
Question QUESTION: I am trying to decide whether to enroll in the ND program or the Doctor of
Natural Health program. Is one more prestigious than the other? The only
difference in the two at Clayton is a couple of classes. Clayton seems like a
great fit for me and I love the student support. It's everywhere. Is it like that
at the other correspondence schools? It just didn't seem as easy to access
their support program. Also, have you found that not having the DOE accreditation has affected your career. Thanks so much for your help Tandi.
ANSWER: In my experience dealing with clients and teaching seminars, most people are impressed with the doctorate degree no matter what it is. But, I will give you one little tip.
The naturopathic physicians are trying to get rid of traditional naturopaths. They have now made it illegal in many states for traditional naturopaths to use the initials N.D. They are acting basically like high school bullies trying to make an exclusive 'club' for themselves.
If you get your N.D. just be prepared for the fight. You may also want to keep up on the legislation in your state because you will have to fight for the legal right to use your N.D. initials when this legislation hits your state if it hasn't already.
You will not have the same problems with the Doctor of natural health program. It really is a personal choice though, I know a lot of people want to obtain that N.D. title, so it really is up to you. I don't think credibility wise it makes any difference.
As far as not having DOE accreditation. I don't really care. I'm not looking for government approval, I'm looking for a good education. The government does not and probably never will recognize any school that teaches so strongly in herbs, homeopathy and other natural therapies. That's okay with me, I know inside myself that the things I have learned are invaluable and I have no less an education just because it doesn't have the government stamp of approval.
Sometimes I think people put so much emphasis on some authority giving them approval to do something that they miss out on learning things that are truly important. Health in this country is spiraling downward fast, obesity is rising, diabetes is sky rocketing and doctors have no real answers or cures. Naturopathic physicians are becoming increasingly prescription happy as well. This country NEEDS traditionally trained naturopaths, don't concern yourself with what the government says or does.
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QUESTION: Thank you so much for you time Tandi!!! Here's the thing, today I found out
that with the degree from Clayton or the fact that it is not accredited, a ND is
unable to attend seminars such NET (Neuro Emotional Technique) or to order
vitamins from companies because they are not a certified or licensed
practitioner. Is this true in all cases? I live in Colorado and was hoping to get
my degree, my N.E.T. certification and open a practice. What do other ND's
do if they can't order exceptional products to sell to their patients? I have a
call in but have yet to hear back.
Answer These companies unfortunately cater to naturopathic physicians. Our country is almost religiously embedded in conventional medicine and those who do not conform are shunned. I am not familiar with the laws of each state so I don't know what others face, I'm almost certain it is very similar everywhere.
I know some traditional naturopaths who practice but do not use supplements or products produced by these companies. There are many ways to practice without interacting with these narrow minded companies but that is beyond the scope of this forum.
As far as the ND goes, you really to have to fight to be a traditional naturopath because the world revolves around conventional medicine. The naturopathic physicians who decided to join the ranks have now made it difficult for those who haven't sold out.
You will find red tape a lot, but you can still practice. There are specific legal guidelines you have to follow. I would recommend purchasing the book, legal guidelines for unlicensed practitioners by Larry Wilson. That will give you the legal information you will need.
I'm not familiar with NET, but I'm afraid it may be something that legally you cannot practice as an unlicensed practitioner. The laws in this country are very restrictive. Other countries embrace alternative practitioners but here they are shunned. I wish I could help you more to understand how to practice without supplements but I'm sure as you go through your education you will learn. I wish you the best.
