Aromatherapy Associations
In most parts of the world, aromatherapy is a self-regulating profession and there are no requirements for anyone to join an aromatherapy association. A valid business license issued by the local authorities is the only legal requirement you have for opening a business as an aromatherapist. Professional Liability Insurance is often a requirement for membership in an aromatherapy association, however, whether one is a member of an association or not, it is something that I recommend everyone working with clients and the general public should have. Just as Product Liability Insurance is something I recommend everyone creating a product line to be sold over the counter to the general publich should have.
Benefits of Membership in an Aromatherapy Association
These are fairly similar across the associations, although they may differ a little in what is offered and include:
- A Title specific to their Members
- A Journal or Newsletter issued usually quarterly
- Webinars and other Continuing Education opportunities
- A community which helps you stay up-to-date with new information coming out on aromatherapy and essential oils.
Canada
CAOA
Canadian Alliance of Aromatherapy
www.bcaoa.org
CFA
Canadian Federation of Aromatherapists
www.cfacanada.com
United States
AIA
Alliance of International Aromatherapists
www.alliance-aromatherapists.org
NAHA
National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy
www.naha.org
Associated Bodywork and Massage Professionals
Canada
NHPC
Natural Health Practitioners of Canada
www.nhpcanada.org
United States
NCTMB
National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork
www.ncbtmb.com