Homeopaths can be medical doctors, and in the United States, many homeopaths are also chiropractors, naturopaths, osteopaths, nurse practitioners, dentists and veterinarians.
There also are many unlicensed homeopathic practitioners who offer their services as consultants. They usually are persons without an accredited medical education or live in a state that does not allow licensing.
The skills and experience of homeopaths vary. Some start practicing after a few introductory courses, others start only after many years of training.
The best way to find a homeopath is a referral by a happy patient. You may be surprised at how many of your friends have been into homeopathy – once you ask them to help you find one!
You may also contact one of the homoeopathic study groups in your area. Their members know the practitioners and will be happy to assist you with any information you may need.
There also are directories with listings of homeopaths. Those directories are not complete as many homeopaths don’t bother to get listed, especially if they are much frequented.
What to Look For in a Homeopath
Questions to ask could be:
- Where are you located? It helps if the homeopath is in your area so you can visit him in person. You may, of course, also decide to accept a very qualified homeopath far away and take a trip for a first visit. Many times, follow-ups can be done by phone or Skype.
- Are you a classical homeopath?
- Do you prescribe single remedies?
- How much time do you allow for a first visit? (It should be a minimum of 1 to 2 hours).
- Do you collaborate with medical doctors?
- Where did you get your professional training?
- Did your training include an internship with an experienced homeopath or in a homeopathic hospital abroad?
- Are you taking supervision of your work?
- How long did you study homeopathy? (500 to 600 hours should be the minimum.)
- What is your experience?
- Are you specialized in a particular area?
If you seek treatment of a specific condition, you could ask him about his experience with this problem.
What to Consider with a Physician
Ask how much of his work is homeopathy. This is the most important question. It should be his main or sole treatment method.
Homeopathy is a very sophisticated method. It is impossible to master it unless you concentrate your practice on homeopathy.
So anyone who practices a lot of different therapies including homeopathy cannot be expected to be a skilled homeopath.
It is most important to find a practitioner who is qualified and experienced in homeopathy regardless of his background.
