The Professional Herbalist Training Program™

Applications are now being accepted for the upcoming 2010 Professional Herbalist Training (PHT) Program. This 200 hour intensive program will meet from February 2nd, 2010 to June 3rd, 2010. Classes will be held on Tuesday and Thursday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. There will be summer fieldtrip in addition to the dates previously listed. Enrollment will be limited so be sure to register early to ensure your participation. Interviews will be arranged following the receipt of the application. The tuition for the PHT program is two thousand, three hundred and fifty dollars and it includes the course instruction, materials, samples, a physiology book, and a United Plant Savers Membership.

The Professional Herbalist Training Program provides students with a fundamental training in herbalism and the skills necessary to treat common and acute health conditions. It prepares students to address many of the health concerns presented while working in a retail environment. The PHT Program is the prerequisite for the Clinical Herbalist Training (CHT) Program, and it is the first portion of a two part herbalist training program. The CHT Program is designed for students who plan to practice herbalism and work with clients in a private setting, or for those who have existing practices and would like to refine their skills. The CHT Programs integrates, applies, and expands on the information and concepts covered in the PHT Program. Additionally, the CHT Program covers treatment strategies for chronic health problems, pathology, research skills. The course also trains students how to conduct a consultation, as well as an understanding of what it takes to establish a private practice and an herbal pharmacy.

Application Instructions for the 2010 Professional Herbalist Training (PHT) Program..

The Professional Herbalist Training Program Curriculum

PHT Class of 2008

Herbal Materia Medica Class covers numerous medicinal herbs that grow throughout the United States, with an emphasis on the west coast herbs. This class provides an in depth exploration of each plant discussed including the medicinal uses of the plant based on clinical observation, optimum extraction methods and doses, Latin and common names, and contraindications. Many plants will be covered in the field.

The Physiology and Anatomy class covers the functions of the organ systems. Students will gain a deeper understanding of the workings of the human body. This class assists students in making education decisions for their clients and also aids in their ability to communicate with medical practitioners. The physiology covered in the class is the foundation for the western constitutional diagnosis.

Herbal Therapeutics covers strategies for treating common health conditions and imbalances. Students gain an understanding of the energetic properties of the herbs and how they can be used to bring balance to an individual and their respective condition(s). Students will learn to address many of the health concerns presented while working in a retail environment, and with friends and family members. The Clinical Herbalist Training (CHT) Program will cover herbal therapeutics for more chronic health conditions.

Chandra pouring tinctures

Constitutional Medicine utilizes physiology and provides a holistic method for tailoring herbal treatments to the individual. This class will cover additional diagnostic tools as well.

Herbal Pharmacy is a hands-on class in which students learn the art and science of preparing herbal medicine. Many formulas and recipes will be shared in class. Students will have the opportunity to experiment with the medicines created in class.

Nellie at Redwood Roots Farm

Field Identification takes place in both the garden and in the field. The class will take herb walks and learn to identify many native and cultivated herbs. Students spend time with the plants in their natural habitat observing ecosystems.

Gardening 101 informs students about herbs which can be easily cultivated in Humboldt County, as well as basic soil building techniques and plant propagation. Students spend time in the garden harvesting edible and medicinal herbs and making medicines with them.

A Certificate of Completion will be awarded to participants who satisfactorily complete all course assignments and tests, have an attendance record of at least 90%, and have paid their tuition in full. Please note that this certificate does not declare a student as a "Certified Clinical Herbalist."

Weekly class schedule:

The class will meet on Tuesday and Thursday, from 11 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
The class will include a lunch break. Students are responsible for providing their own lunch.
There will be a one week spring break approximately half-way through the program.
There will also be a field trip in summer; the dates are yet to be announced.
Additional homework and work is required outside of the classroom.

Tuition:

The tuition fee for the PHT Program and materials is $2350. The non refundable deposit of three hundred and fifty dollars can be mailed in with the application. The remaining balance of two thousand dollars is due on or before January 15th, 2010. Credit card payments can be arranged via pay pal.

Location:

All classes are held at the Northwest School for Botanical Studies, in Fieldbrook, California. Directions will be sent once the student is accepted into the program.

NWSBS Garden (early summer-June)

Visit our Vocational Placement page or Student Testimonials page to find out what former PHT program students are doing with their herb training!

Please visit our School Policies page.

Disclaimer - the class material and dates described above are a general guideline and are subject to alteration.