Internships are an excellent way to gain hands-on experience, build your professional network, and apply your academic knowledge in a real-world setting. ACHS students have access to a wide range of opportunities to explore holistic health career pathways. Whether your interests lie in aromatherapy, herbal medicine, nutrition, or integrative health, there’s an internship out
there for you.
A great starting point for your journey is the ACHS Roadmap to Expertise: 4 Paths in Integrative Health Sciences. This complimentary guide provides inspiring student success stories, valuable insights into professional opportunities across diverse fields, and an in-depth overview of each pathway’s structure and content to help you identify the best fit for your goals. Once you have a clearer idea of your desired career path, you can begin exploring related internship opportunities. Continue reading for practical tips on finding and securing the internship of your dreams.
Companies and Organizations That Use Holistic Health Experts
Holistic health experts are in demand in various sectors. Here’s a diverse range of organizations that value your expertise:
- Wellness Centers and Spas
Many wellness centers offer holistic health services, including aromatherapy, massage therapy, and nutrition consultations. Look for local or national wellness brands that integrate holistic practices. - Integrative and Functional Medicine Practices
Clinics that combine traditional and holistic medicine often seek interns to assist with patient care, research, or administrative tasks. - Hospitals and Rehabilitation Centers
Some medical facilities have started incorporating holistic approaches like aromatherapy and meditation into patient care programs. - Natural Product Companies
Brands specializing in organic skincare, essential oils, herbal supplements, and natural food products often have internship opportunities in research, marketing, or product development. - Fitness and Yoga Studios
These businesses sometimes offer internships that involve holistic health education, nutrition guidance, or mindfulness programs. - Nonprofits and Community Organizations
Look for nonprofits focusing on mental health, wellness education, or environmental health—many value holistic approaches to healthcare. - Corporate Wellness Programs
Companies with a strong focus on employee well-being may hire interns to support their wellness initiatives, including stress management and nutrition programs. Some examples of top companies with employee wellness programs can be found here. - Educational Institutions
Schools, colleges, and community centers may offer opportunities to teach or develop holistic health curriculums.
Steps to Find and Secure an Internship
- Define Your Goals
Determine the area of holistic health you’re most passionate about. Are you interested in herbal medicine, aromatherapy, or wellness coaching? Clarifying your focus will help you target the right opportunities. - Utilize the ACHS Alumni & Career Services Center
ACHS provides career support through our Alumni & Career Services Center. Be sure to take full advantage of the Center to:- Access to Timelycare resources, including student success and career coaching services.
- Seek career counseling, networking guidance, or cover letter and résumé review services.
- Join the Professional Mentorship Program to get 1:1 mentorship guidance and support from ACHS Alumni.
- Learn about Essential Employability Qualities.
- Research Potential Employers
Make a list of companies and organizations that align with your interests. Explore their websites to learn about their mission, services, and internship opportunities. Don’t limit yourself to organizations explicitly advertising internships—sometimes, you can create your own opportunity by reaching out directly. - Network Within the Holistic Health Community
Attend holistic health conferences, webinars, and local meetups to connect with professionals in the field. Follow up with meaningful conversations by adding these contacts to your network on LinkedIn. - Reach Out Directly
Once you’ve identified organizations of interest, craft a compelling cover letter explaining why you’re passionate about their work and how you can contribute as an intern. Follow up with a personalized email or phone call. - Leverage Online Platforms
Use websites like LinkedIn, Indeed, and Handshake to search for internships. Join holistic health-related groups and forums to stay informed about potential opportunities. - Be Proactive in Securing References
Ask ACHS professors or mentors to write letters of recommendation or provide references for your applications. - Prepare for the Interview
Research the organization thoroughly, practice common interview questions, and be ready to explain how your ACHS education has prepared you for the role. - Follow Up After Applying
After submitting your application, send a polite follow-up email to express your continued interest and enthusiasm for the position.
Building Your Holistic Health Career Path
Finding an internship in holistic health requires a combination of research, networking, and persistence. By leveraging the resources provided by the ACHS Alumni & Career Services Center and exploring opportunities across a variety of sectors, you can find an internship that aligns with your career goals and passions.
Pursuing a great internship not only enhances your education but also builds the foundation for a rewarding career pathway in holistic health. Ready to get started? Schedule a meeting with Career Services today or email [email protected].
This article is for informational purposes only. Please contact ACHS Admissions at [email protected] or 800-487-8839 for additional information and to apply for admission. Graduation from any ACHS program does not confer a license to practice medicine. ACHS graduates do not claim to treat, diagnose, cure, or prescribe. Please note that professional success is achieved by a number of factors beyond education and experience, including soft skills, work ethic, integrity, and other skills that may not be developed through education and training alone. Not all graduates will achieve the career outcomes provided as examples in this article and other ACHS marketing materials.
