Question:

Dear Donna,

I am a student nurse at the University of Pittsburgh working towards my BSN. I am very interested in holistic health, nutrition, and basically treating one’s body right. I am curious as to what occupations are available for a nurse in this field.

Laura

Dear Donna replies:

Dear Laura,

For starters, research the specialty of holistic nursing. Start with the American Holistic Nurses Association (www.ahna.org). Nurses are working in many ways (both employed and self-employed) in this specialty and in many different places. Here are just a few examples: corporate health/wellness director, nurse massage therapist, health/wellness coach, and fitness nurse. Search the Nurse.com site with the above search terms for related articles, information, previous related Q&As, etc. Google them as well. You can even become a holistic nurse practitioner, although that is not necessary to work in this field.

You should join AHNA now as a student member and start attending local meetings and conferences, receive the publications, and even become eligible for scholarship money! Find out more www.ahna.org/Membership/ForStudents/tabid/1177/Default.aspx. It will be empowering and enlightening to get up close and personal with other nurses working in this arena. You will start to formulate a plan for your own future career and increase your learning curve.

My best wishes,
Donna