There are quite a few Professional Bodies/ Associations in Australia - here are just a few as listed on the Natural Therapy Pages
Do I need to join one?
Short answer, no. It isn't essential.
Why should we join one?
- Mostly it's for professional recognition. It is a way of saying "I am qualified and have achieved that qualification through a reputable source". This is important in the eyes of potential clients who don't know anything about you!
- Health care rebates - health funds need to know that they are paying out money for a therapist who is qualified to do the work that they say they do. Some bodies such as ATMS and ANTA create a link with most health funds so that you don't have to.
- Insurance deals - always a goodie! Most professional bodies have an alliance with an Insurer.
- The professional body represents its members in parliament and may have influence in creating health policies which will benefit you and your clients.
- Provide CPE events regularly which make it easy to gain that continuous education.
- To form networks with other professionals in your industry.
Which one should I go with?
Well, it depends on your chosen profession and your own preferences.
Some people like to join a body which covers a broad range of therapies (particularly if your training covers a range of therapies) and others will like to just join their professions body. You can always join more than one.
I suggest that you do your research and pick a body which aligns with your values and which you feel will represent you and your chosen profession well.
Associations that cover a broad spectrum of therapies:
- Australian Traditional Medicine Society (will link to most health funds for you)
- Australian Health Professional Regulation Agency - AHPRA
- Australian Natural Therapists Association
- International Institute for Complementary Therapists
Some of the bodies which provide services to a particular field:
- Australasian Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine Association
- Osteopathy Australia
- Chiropractors Association of Australia
- Australian Counselling Association
- Australasian Podiatry Council
- Australian Registrar of Naturopaths and Herbalists
- Australian Association Massage Therapists
- Australian Kinesiology Association
- Australian Homeopathic Association