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Aromatherapy is not currently subject to any statutory regulation and therefore
anyone, either with or without qualifications, may claim to be an "aromatherapist".
The profession is working towards SSR (Statutory Self Regulation) and has set up
the ARWG (Aromatherapy Regulatory Working Group) to work with the Department of
Health and the Prince of Wales's Foundation for Integrated Health to achieve
this objective. Progress has been painfully slow to date due to disputes between
the various professional associations.
When choosing an
Aromatherapist, don't be afraid to ask about their qualifications and
experience. The following
qualifications are in common use:
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MIFPA |
Member of the
International
Federation of Professional Aromatherapists. This is the largest
professional aromatherapy body. To attain membership, a student will have
completed a course of study at an accredited school, and passed their
examinations, or will have provided
other acceptable evidence of suitable training and examination.
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MIFA |
Member of the
International
Federation of Aromatherapists
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TDHA |
Tisserand Diploma of
Holistic Aromatherapy. A diploma awarded by the
Tisserand Institute to
students who have completed their training course. This does not
constitute membership of a professional body, but is generally recognised
as being of an equivalent standard.
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ITEC |
Diploma issued by
The International Therapy
Examination Council. ITEC covers mainly beauty therapy work but also
offers a diploma in Aromatherapy.
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Information within this WCCT section is authored by Craig Vassie, a Clinical
Aromatherapist at Chiltern Aromatherapy, in Hazlemere, High Wycombe.
You can contact him for advice on 01494-816651.
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