What does an aromatherapist do?
Aromatherapy is a holistic treatment that uses essential oils from plants and flowers to improve health and well-being. Aromatherapists apply these oils with the aim of healing, relaxing, or energising both the body and mind. This can be applied via massages, inhalations, bath soaks and blending oils into lotions or creams.
Many people decide to become aromatherapists because they have a strong desire to help others. Aromatherapy can heal a wide range of physical and mental symptoms, including headaches, muscle pain, anxiety, insomnia and depression. Practitioners work with clients to identify the issues they are facing and create customised treatment plans (and a suitable concoction of essential oils) for the individual.
Useful skills and attributes to have include:
- knowledge and understanding of essential oils
- listening and communication skills, including the ability to provide clear explanations
- attention to detail
- compassion and empathy
- ability to work independently
For an in-depth look into aromatherapy, what it can help with and what clients can expect in a session, visit our aromatherapy information page.
Where do aromatherapists work?
Aromatherapists have the flexibility to work in a variety of different settings, depending on their preferences and clientele. Practitioners may choose to work from home, in a rented space such as a salon or a clinic/spa or as a mobile therapist travelling to clients' homes. Some aromatherapists also work in hospitals or other medical environments, where they can offer additional care to patients, including within the NHS.
What qualifications do I need?
Aromatherapy is a voluntarily regulated therapy with a Core Curriculum and National Occupational Standards (NOS). This means that aromatherapists must hold a qualification approved by a professional association or follow the guidelines established by the National Occupational Standards. This ensures that students gain the required skills and knowledge to practise professionally and safely.
The minimum level of qualification required to practise aromatherapy in the UK is a Level 3 Diploma in Aromatherapy. This qualification provides in-depth training on the history, principles and techniques of aromatherapy, including the use of essential oils, safety in the industry and general client care. You can further your training by pursuing additional certifications, such as a Level 4 qualification. This provides further knowledge in advanced aromatherapy techniques and applications, with more focus on the clinical use of aromatherapy for treating various health conditions, including how to safely use essential oils in a healthcare setting.
Do I need to join a professional body?
As an aromatherapist, you are not legally required to register with a professional body. However, registration is strongly encouraged. Joining a professional body allows you to prove your professionalism to clients and employers and helps you stay up-to-date with industry techniques and trends.
The International Federation of Aromatherapists (IFA) provides a voluntary register for therapists who meet specific practitioner requirements. Registering with the IFA allows aromatherapists to demonstrate they meet national practice standards and provides access to valuable industry updates, resources, and guidance.
Find out more about the role of professional bodies and decide which one may be right for you.
What happens after I’ve qualified?
After qualifying as an aromatherapist, you may initially work part-time alongside another job to gain experience and build your client base. With time, you may choose to join an established practice or shift to full-time self-employment. It’s important to make sure you secure public liability insurance and address any legal requirements, such as registering your business, to protect both yourself and your clients.
How can I market myself as an aromatherapist?
Working for yourself means it's up to you to encourage clients to get in touch so it’s beneficial to have some kind of marketing knowledge. The first step to marketing yourself is creating a professional website so clients can find out more about you and your work.
Having a social media presence can be helpful too as it allows you to interact with more people and showcase your services. Creating regular content, whether that’s blogs, videos or podcasts, on your area of expertise is also encouraged. For example, you could write about the benefits of aromatherapy and what clients can expect from a session, this is a great way to create a more personal connection with potential clients whilst also helping to promote your business.
Joining Therapy Directory is an additional option you may want to consider. With a well-established site that ranks well in search engines, the ability to share articles and events, and help from our dedicated membership team, we make it easier for clients to find you. Additionally, we offer networking opportunities, a supportive member community, and access to valuable marketing tools. Explore how joining us can benefit you and your practice.
What is Continuing Professional Development? (CPD)
Continuing Professional Development (CPD) refers to the enhancement and development of the skills you gained from your initial training. This ensures your skills and knowledge are up to date with the latest techniques, rules and regulations of the industry so that you can practise safely. CPD opportunities can either be found through our events section or through other organisations (such as professional bodies and training organisations).
All professional organisations require practitioners to complete CPD after the first year of joining. The International Federation of Aromatherapists (IFA) requires aromatherapy practitioners to earn 12 CPD points per year, with eight of those points specifically related to aromatherapy. The remaining four points can be related to other aspects of professional development, such as first aid training. Keep in mind that CPD does cost money, so it’s a good idea to plan and budget for the expense.
Useful resources
If you want to learn more about how to become an aromatherapist, the following resources may be useful:
