Why I Chose the NTP Program
In the fall of 2014, I got a sinking feeling in the pit of my stomach: I wasn’t doing what I wanted to do, and I knew major burnout was just around the corner. My intuition told me that I needed to make a big shift, career-wise, and that absolutely terrified me. After I graduated from college, I swore off post-grad education: School is just an expensive waste of time, I thought. I can learn anything I want to from books at a fraction of the cost.
But I’d been through whirlwind changes with my health and personal life that year, and as nutritionist-turned-coach Sarah Ramsden says, sometimes our life doesn’t quite feel right when we overcome a major health challenge. Long story short: I healed debilitating, lifelong depression and anxiety by changing my diet. (You can read the long version of the story if you’d like.) I threw myself into research on the connection between mental health and nutrition, and over the course of a few months, I felt like a walking encyclopedia. I wanted to share this information with others, but I felt stuck: No one will take me seriously because I don’t have any formal training in nutrition.
While this is a self-limiting belief that I no longer buy into, it put me in motion. I started quietly researching nutrition programs and seeing what my options were. It didn’t take me very long to land on the Nutritional Therapy Association’s (NTA) Nutritional Therapy Practitioner (NTP) Program, and honestly, after a cursory glance, I didn’t give other programs much thought. A lot of my “nutrition heroes” — people like Nora Gedgaudas, Liz Wolfe, and Diana Rodgers — had graduated from the program and were out in the world doing the things I so desperately wanted to do. (In a nutshell, changing the world.) I’d reviewed the curriculum, and it totally aligned with my personal philosophies. I was 90 percent sure I wanted to take the plunge.
Then, NTA made an announcement: For the first time, they were offering the program in Ann Arbor, Michigan.
Do you know where I live? ANN ARBOR, MICHIGAN.
I took it as a sign from the universe and enrolled. It felt like a big, scary step, and I knew it would be awesome, but I didn’t know just how much it would change my life (more on that later).
Maybe you’re in the same boat. Maybe you’re crazy-passionate about “real food” nutrition, but you’re not crazy-passionate about your current career path. Or maybe you’re cool with your career, but you just want deeper knowledge so you can help yourself and your family.
I’m here to help you make some decisions.
How much time will it take me?
I’m addressing this one right up front, because this was the most burning question for me. As a writer who worked 40+ hours a week — and as someone who was in the middle of trying to recover from adrenal fatigue — I needed an honest answer about whether the program was manageable for a busy, full-time professional.
It definitely is, but you WILL have to make some sacrifices. The program is nine months long. On average, I found myself devoting 15-20 hours per week to my NTP curriculum (sometimes more, sometimes less). There are a couple of breaks built into the program that give you time to relax and catch up if necessary.
I did some work in the evenings, and I did most of it on the weekends. This might seem like a lot, but I loved what I was learning SO MUCH that it didn’t seem like work. (And honestly, before I enrolled in the program, I was probably spending 15 hours a week reading nutrition blogs. But now, I was getting credentials for being a nerd. Yay!)
You will have to turn down more social invitations than you’d like. Your house might get messy. Your untended garden will go wild. But, if you’re anything like me, you’ll feel like you’re finally tapping into your purpose, and that feeling is totally worth nine months of manageable chaos.
I even managed to recover from adrenal fatigue in the process. (Partly because the program taught me how to address this condition, and partly because I was doing something that made my spirit happy, which is a very important part of recovery.)
What material is covered in the course?
The NTA teaches a foundational, functional approach to holistic nutrition. What does that mean?
Foundational: NTA teaches that there are six foundations, or “bedrocks” to optimum health. When these foundations are in balance, you create a solid platform for wellness, longevity, and vitality. Those foundations are:
- Properly prepared, nutrient-dense diet (in line with the teachings of Weston A. Price and Francis Pottenger — tends to fit very well with “real food” and paleo ideologies)
- Digestion
- Blood sugar regulation
- Fatty acid balance
- Mineral balance
- Hydration
The course goes into great detail about each of these foundations and how they’re interrelated. It also teaches the consequences of what can happen when these foundations aren’t in balance. Consequences are the chronic health problems that are devastating our nation, and include things like:
- Immune/allergy issues
- Endocrine imbalances
- Cardiovascular issues
- Joint issues
- Mental health
- Infertility
- Etc.
In a nutshell, you learn how to support the foundations so that you’re getting to the root of the consequences.
Functional: A “functional” approach means that we aren’t diagnosing diseases, chasing and masking symptoms, or putting people in boxes based on their conditions. We are looking at them from a holistic perspective and asking, “What changes can I help this person make so that they can restore optimum function? How can I address the root cause of this person’s issue(s) so that they can truly heal and make progress?”
In addition to deep study of the foundations and consequences, you will learn basic anatomy and physiology, client consultation and motivational interviewing skills, and the basics of setting up and running a private practice. You will also learn how to use Nutri-Q, which is a web-based software program designed to help you pinpoint your clients’ nutritional needs.
If you take the NTP Program, you will spend a great deal of time learning and mastering the functional evaluation (FE). This is a series of hands-on palpations and reflex points that coordinate with different organs and systems in the body. It is a proven technique, and many of the test points are borrowed from pioneering chiropractors and holistic physicians. The FE gives you amazing insight into your clients’ underlying health challenges.
Along with the FE, you will also learn a complementary skill called lingual-neuro testing (LNT). With lingual-neuro testing, you put an appropriate supplement on your client’s tongue, then re-palpate the FE test point that had a significant tenderness rating. If the body’s innate intelligence determines that the supplement would be helpful, the tenderness rating will go down, or even go away. This is not kinesiology — it is based on the hardwired connection between the tongue, the brain, and the entire central nervous system. It is such a cool phenomenon to experience, and it’s so useful in practice!
NTA students are trained on the Biotics Research supplement line, and are allowed to open accounts with many other supplement companies upon graduation. If you are a healthcare provider and currently have accounts with other supplement companies, your instructor may let you practice these techniques with different lines, if you choose to do so. The FE and LNT process is universal and can be used with any supplement or food.
Finally, if your class is anything like mine was, there will be LOTS of super-interesting “bonus conversations” and recipe sharing along the way!
I haven’t been in school for a long time and I don’t feel confident about my academic abilities. Will I be OK, or will I be eaten alive?
There were so many different kinds of people in my class, all at different places in their lives and careers. The younger students in the class (our youngest was 21) expressed anxiety about being “too young,” and the older people in our class (in their 50s and 60s) all thought they were “too old.” But you know what? We all did just fine, and we all got certified.
Some people had been out of school for 40 years. Others said they were never “good students,” and they were so worried about their grades. Honestly, everyone could have left their anxieties at the door, and they probably would have had more fun in the process.
Despite coming from different walks of life, we were all united by one thing: crazy-pants passion about what we were learning. No, the NTP curriculum is NOT easy. You’ll be learning about complex systems and processes in the body, and you’ll have to recite the difference between gluconeogenesis, glycogenolysis, and glycogenesis. (Say whaaaaa?)
This isn’t a walk-in-the-park, cutesy certification: it’s an immersive, crash course in the foundational principles of functional medicine. But if you bring your passion and put in the effort, you’ll do just fine, no matter who you are. I promise.
Getting “pinned” at graduation by my beautiful instructor, Caroline Barringer.
How do I know if I should take the NTP or NTC Program?
The NTC (Nutritional Therapy Consultant) Program is very similar to the NTP (Nutritional Therapy Practitioner) Program, but it does not teach the functional evaluation. There is also only one in-person workshop weekend.
Here’s the deal: I’m really, really biased toward the NTP Program, because the in-person interaction is absolutely priceless. The camaraderie you build is like nothing else. You will meet other super-nerds, and you will never see so many bottles of kombucha in the same room at once. (As my classmate Maya Gangadharan proclaimed, I HAVE FOUND MY PEOPLE.) You will say to yourself, this is home. Plus, I feel like the FE is a valuable, insightful tool that you should learn if you can.
But, if there’s absolutely no way you can swing the NTP Program, and your gut is telling you that NTC would be a better fit, by all means, do it! You will still get to meet your classmates and instructor(s) once, and you will still have access to most of the same curriculum (aside from the FE portion). Many people choose the NTC program because they want to practice online or run group programs. If you change your mind after obtaining your NTC, you can take additional training to learn the functional evaluation, and you will then be designated as an NTP.
Can I order and interpret labs when I’m certified?
NTA does not provide this training. However, some NTPs pursue training in lab work after graduation. You will learn about different kinds of continuing education opportunities toward the end of the course.
I’ll say this: the tools that NTA gives you are beyond what you need to get started as a practitioner. If you want to learn how to interpret labs, you can absolutely pursue that after graduation, but there is so much you can do that doesn’t require this skill set.
Is it expensive?
You’ll want to figure the costs of tuition (check the NTA website), plus books and supplies (these ran me about $500, and I saved by buying used copies on Amazon). You’ll also have to factor in any travel or lodging expenses that might apply in your situation.
Let me say this: Though the costs for tuition have gone up since I attended, the program is still an absolute steal. I got WAY more value from it than I did from my four-year college degree, which had a much heftier price tag. Even if it was $10,000, I would still think it was a steal. (But I’m glad it wasn’t, because I was able to afford it!)
How is it different from other nutrition programs?
While this is not an exhaustive list, these are some of the main differences that I appreciate about NTA:
- Respects bioindividuality: You’re not given a one-size-fits-all dietary template to hand to every client. You’re given the tools to help your clients discover the best diet for their body.
- Is based on the teachings of nutritional pioneers: Much of the curriculum is based on the teachings of Weston A. Price and Francis Pottenger, two of the greatest nutritional scientists in history. You’ll learn about REAL FOOD, and your classes aren’t sponsored by big food companies.
- Teaches the functional evaluation: You won’t learn this valuable skill set in any other program.
- Is not focused on weight loss or fad diets: Yes, you’ll learn how to help clients lose weight, but NTA approaches this topic with a “health-first” perspective. You learn long-term strategies, not short-term quick fixes.
Do you feel anything was lacking from the program?
I’ll shoot straight: The “Business Fundamentals” portion of the program is quite dated, but NTA is aware of this, and they are working to update it. I’m fortunate that I’ve freelanced for several years and that I came from an entrepreneurial family. I’ve also worked in marketing and advertising for quite some time, so I don’t feel uncomfortable in this area.
BUT, if you feel like a total newb when it comes to business stuff, the “Business Fundamentals” material (as it stands currently) is not going to be a huge confidence booster. However, there are several affordable, post-grad courses in business practices designed just for NTPs. About a year after I graduated, I did the NTP Business Class, and it was a serious game-changer for my practice. Sadly, this program has been discontinued — however, there are others available that will teach you similar skills.
There’s also a ton of free, cutting-edge info out there about business and marketing tools for wellness professionals. (Podcasts, people! If you’re not into podcasts yet, you’re seriously missing out. Start with The Wellpreneur Podcast.)
I will also say that I don’t feel like I had enough hands-on training with the Functional Evaluation (FE) in class, and I would have liked more. The FE takes lots of practice, but I also think FE training could be more consistent between different instructors (some use different palpation techniques, and it gets quite confusing; the techniques can also be hard to discern in the videos). However, my confidence with this skill continues to grow the more I practice.
Despite these two shortcomings, I still cannot stress how much value I got from this program. My heart is filled with gratitude every single day. One of the most important things that really hit home for me during this program is that I will be a lifelong student, and I find that SO exciting. It would be impossible for NTA (or any program) to teach you everything you need to know about nutrition and business in nine months. But they do a damn fine job of teaching you “how to fish,” and if you feel like you’re lacking in an area of knowledge when you graduate, you’ll know exactly what you need to do to build your skills and grow your confidence.
Is there ongoing support after graduation?
I have been blown away by the support of this community. As an NTP, you’re part of an incredibly tight-knit, welcoming, passionate group of folks who want nothing more than to help each other. We have a very active private Facebook group where people ask for support, a phenomenal annual conference, and many local/regional meet-ups and groups. (I’m waiting for the first NTP commune. It’s bound to happen sooner or later. I’m only halfway kidding.) The main NTA office is always happy to answer your questions. There are so many ways to stay connected!
Real food and real friends for life! Me and fellow NTP, Karen.
What can you do with an NTP or NTC certification?
NTA graduates are absolute powerhouses, and we’re all working our butts off to change the world. Here are some of the things others have done, but the sky is the limit!
- Open a private practice
- Open a virtual, online practice
- Join a functional medicine or integrative medicine clinic
- Teach group programs, classes, and seminars
- Become a corporate wellness professional
- Become an instructor for NTA
- Write books and e-books
- Become a blogger
- Start a podcast
- Develop your own programs
- Insert your plan for world domination here
My official certificate from NTA.
I’m ready to do this! How do I sign up?
I highly recommend you participate in an informational webinar, where you’ll be able to talk with a representative from NTA. If you’re all ready to sign up, you can find everything you need here. NTA now offers scholarships, too!
If you found this post helpful, I’d REALLY appreciate it if you listed me as a referral on your registration paperwork! Just list “Holly Higgins” in the space provided. I do receive a commission, which I use to help cover website expenses.
Now it’s your turn. Did I miss anything? Do you have a burning question? Let me know in the comments!
Hi Holly!
My name is Charlene and I was involved with NTA many years ago when they were in the pioneering stages of their enterprise. Your review is quite honest and in line with what I remember about the program. I am inspired to contact them again and look into completion of the NTP program, as I was more than half way to having my certificate when I needed to leave due to a friend’s acute health issue.
I took with me what I had already learned and applied it to helping her heal and we are both incredibly grateful to this day for that knowledge.
You are inspiring and I hope enjoying a life of fulfillment as you wished!
Thank you so much, Holly! I will mention your name if I do enter the program again.
Charlene Eppich
Hi Charlene,
I’m glad you found the post helpful! I am sorry you had to leave the program early, but it was clearly for a good reason. I am aware of a couple of people who have had similar things happen. NTA is usually willing to work with people. I wouldn’t hesitate to contact them! Best of luck. I am a group leader now in Toronto and am loving going through the program a second time. Let me know if you have any questions … I love talking about this program!
I noticed the certificate expires in two years from graduation date. What are the expenses/requirements to stay certified?
Hi Ellen, you need 24 CEUs every two years (continuing education, book reports, conferences, etc.). There is also a fee to remain a member of NTA, but it is not bad at all. I don’t want to publish it here in case it changes. It does require some work on your part to stay certified, but it is definitely doable! I don’t feel overwhelmed or pressured about it at all.
Hi,
In order to stay certified do you have to do any in person courses? I am looking into doing the program but live abroad so continuously having to travel to maintain my certification would be pricey
Hi Riyana,
You can certainly do in-person courses for CEUs, but they are not required. You can do online programs and courses, book reports, webinar reports, etc. NTA gives you plenty of options for CEUs.
Hi Holly,
Do you mean you are a group leader in Toronto, Ontario?
Hi Maritza,
Yes, I am currently a group leader in Toronto, Ontario. My last workshop weekend is this November, 2016.
Hi Holly
Your above information is very helpful to say the least -THANK YOU!!
My question is please: I believe I read another past students comments stating that she highly recommends getting a jump on the reading material-mainly the books-is this your thought too? This way one can really buckle down and really have an idea what’s to be expected. I’m considering the NTC program. Is there a list of required books to be read?
Again THANK You!!
I look forward to hearing back from you
PS -CONGRATULATIONS!!
Sincerely
Scott Belanger
Hi Scott,
Glad you found my post helpful! Whether or not you get a head start on the reading material depends upon your learning style and your schedule. I did NOT get a head start on the reading material, and while I did have to work extra hard to finish certain books, it was still manageable, in my opinion. You do have to write reports on many of the books you read, so for me, it was helpful to have the information fresh in my head. That being said, I know that many people do get a head start on the reading material, and they’re glad that they did. So, take your schedule and your learning style into consideration.
The list of reading material for NTCs is included on this page (the “Reading List and Assignments” link): http://nutritionaltherapy.com/ntt-programs/ntc-classes/
By the way, did you know that the NTA is now offering scholarships? You can apply here through November 20th: http://nutritionaltherapy.com/ntt-programs/scholarships/
My best,
Holly Higgins, NTP
Hi Holly!
The above links had 404 errors. I am interested in this information. Can you redirect me?
Thanks!
Laura
Hi Laura,
I just double-checked all of my links and am not getting a 404 on any of them. Can you let me know specifically what you are looking for? You can also try a quick Google to see if you can find what you need. Thanks!
Hi!
I am very interested in the NTP program… I am from Canada and would take the Toronto location.
I am wondering about certification and having membership / liability insurance.
Can you register with CAHN-Pro? Or any other organization?
Thanks 🙂
Hi Sarah,
I am not familiar with the insurance in Canada. Even though I was a group leader there, I live in the states. Just to be sure, I would call NTA, and they can definitely answer your question (or point you to someone who can). They are SO helpful! Here is the number: Toll Free: (800) 918-9798
Best wishes!
Holly
Hi Sarah,
I’m looking for holistic nutrition programs and came across this review (BTW, thanks Holly) and your comment. I’m from Toronto too. I was wondering which program you end up choosing and if you can share any insights. As much as I would love to do in class, working full time online seems to be the best option.
Any information you can share would be greatly appreciated!
Thanks,
Valeria
Hi Holly!
I needed to read this post! I am currently a student in the NTP program; our first workshop is at the end of April and we’re just finishing up Module 4 (digestion). I have had my panic moments already of “what if I don’t pass?! Is it possible to do all the work and still fail?!” I’m afraid I won’t retain all the information. But I do love the course!
-Chelsea
You’ve got this, Chelsea! The course load lightens significantly after the first half of the program. You’ll have plenty of time to revisit material and catch up. And I highly recommend being a group leader after the program is finished! Don’t stress … you’ll make it, I promise. 🙂
Hi! I am very interested in the NTC program as I have a family
And wouldn’t be able to do multiple workshop weekends. My question is, is it required to have a college degree before entering the program? I have searched online and haven’t come up with any answers.
Hi Bree,
Nope! It isn’t required at all!
Holly
Thanks for your article. I am currently in another program and realizing it is not a good fit for me. Does NTP do a good job of preparing the learner on coaching itself? What doe the community outreach requirement entail?
Thanks,
Polly
Hi Polly,
Yes, it does provide a good foundation for coaching. As far as the community outreach project, the possibilities are endless. I chose to write a short e-book. Many people host classes in their community, give talks, or teach cooking classes. This would be a good question to ask on one of the live informational calls hosted by NTA — an instructor can give you a more in-depth explanation.
Holly
Thank you Holly for a great review. I am hoping to enroll in the NTC program the first of the year. One thing that is somewhat holding me back is that it is illegal to practice in my state. 🙁
So I am looking for the loopholes so I can help people. Can you believe that it is illegal to be a NTC or NTP in any state?!!! Here is a link for your readers to see if they can legally practice in their state http://nutritionadvocacy.org/laws-state
Hi Lisa,
I understand your concerns, but there are many ways to be a successful NTP/NTC even if you live in a red state. It is not illegal to be an NTP/NTC in these states, there are just more restrictions put on how you practice and what you say about yourself. NTA is very helpful with this — I suggest giving them a call. They will likely be able to connect you with a graduate who can speak to you about this. Red/yellow states and practice legalities are not my specialty, since I am very fortunate to live in a green state. I wish you the best! You will love the program. -Holly
Hello Holly,
I am also looking into NTA. I have a particular interest in learning more about autoimmune issues. Do they only teach on paleo focused diets? I’m interested in serving vegetarian/vegans clients as well.
Hi Christine,
The NTA teaches bioindividuality and does not focus on one particular diet. Many of the students and instructors do have paleo/ancestral leanings, but different dietary theories are recognized. The emphasis is placed on real, whole, properly prepared, nutrient-dense foods. Many NTA grads work with vegetarian clients. Hope that helps!
I’m really interested in this program for my own benefit as a Type 1 Diabetic who follows a ketogenic lifestyle but I’m also interested in making this a potential second career. I am a high school teacher and if I dive into this program it may well take the place of my masters degree which I’ve been looking into getting since I began my career 7 years ago. I want to be sure there is true value in this program for a future career, particularly for a person whose degree is in music education. I appreciated your review, being someone who went into this while working on a degree in another field. Thoughts on this? Thanks in advance!
Hi Leigh,
There is immense value in this program, both for your personal and professional life. That being said, an NTP certification is what you make of it. If you are looking to make this a career with a full-time income (like I have), it’s best if you are entrepreneurially minded, or you are willing to learn how to be. Sometimes you can get positions with chiropractors or functional medicine doctors, but very few people are handing out jobs to NTPs. You have to pave your own road. There are NTPs making $0 and telling themselves there is no market for their services, and there are NTPs making well over 6 figures. How successful you can be with this certification ultimately depends upon your mindset and how hard you are willing to work. It’s totally possible. I spent 10 years as a professional writer and switched to doing this full-time in less than two years, but I busted my butt. The sky’s the limit.
Hi Holly,
I am a national athlete interest in this and found it by accident. I am trying to figure out career in the nutrition world. Thank you for this post as it helped quite a bit.
Kirsten
You’re welcome, Kirsten!
Hi,
Thanks for such a detailed review. Wuick question, will I be able to plan diets for the clients with difeerent backgrounds and medical history after this?
It sounds like you are asking about medical nutritional therapy. You have to have an RD or other appropriate license to provide that. If you have further questions, please contact the NTA.
Thanks Holly, I’ve really enjoyed reading your review and the flow of comments it has generaed to date.
You’re welcome, Barb!
246 hours and you become certified to provide nutritional therapy. I am a registered dietitian. In order to become a “real” nutrition professional, you need to complete an under-graduate degree in “nutrition”, then you must complete a one-year internship program, then you are eligible to sit for the RD exam, which you must pass. I have also completed a M.S. degree in Nutrition. I have over 20 years of experience. I still learn new things every day! The idea that people think they can practice nutritional therapy after 246 hours of training is terrifying.
Hi Sheree,
Wow — 20 years! It sounds like you are extremely proud of yourself and have every right to be. Way to go! I had no idea it took 20 years to become an Internet Troll. Fascinating!
I have to say that I have a medical background and recently found myself on the “other end” as the patient. After determining that I was having a major life threatening side effect from a “statin” that I now realize I probably did not need, I find it “terrifying” that physicians have so little education in nutrition or chose to ignore the harm that statins are causing their patients. They fail to provide sound “nutritional” options that could prevent the use of dangerous medication. While an inpatient, I was also appalled that the RD, I requested a consult with, was literally unable to offer me any nutritional advice other than try this “Ensure” shake and a liquid diet of jello and popsicles…with absolutely NO nutritional value. That is terrifying! Have you seen the food seriously ill and elderly patients are given in the hospital?! That is appalling! With your experience, I hope you are at the forefront of of using your knowledge to correct this atrocity. The rest of us with an interest in this field of study would probably agree. Your time is better spent “fixing” this problem, than chastising the rest of us who are not as far along as you.
Well said, Dena. Hospital food is indeed horrifying, for the most part. I agree that if RDs are so passionate about nutrition, they need to be out in the field educating, not on the internet and tearing people down. It amazes me how some people choose to spend their time.
I’m currently enrolled in the NTP program and just finished my first workshop weekend. Such an incredible experience! You described the course and the dynamic perfectly. So many times since I started I’ve felt in over my head, but the workshop weekend was a game changer. So many of my classmates already feel like family, and we’ve only spent three days together. I was going to try to write something to share with friend and family who wonder what in the world I’m doing, but homework keeps taking priority. Now I plan to share your article instead. Thank you!
I’m glad you enjoyed my review, Sandi! Congrats on working toward your NTP certification. All my best to you!
Hi holly,
I think this has been by far the most beneficial post I’ve read about the NTP career! Its crazy how much resources you put out here for us! I benefited so much and you answered every question on my mind that was keeping me from starting! Thank you!
That’s awesome! Thank you for letting me know it has helped you! 🙂
Hello Holly,
Wonderful post! Very informative! I have a question! I am a registered nurse with an ADN looking to get into this NTP program. I love hollistic nutrition. Do you think pursuing a degree in hollistic nutrition would be waisting time vs. going straight into the NTP program? Are the principles of hollistic nutrition taught in the program? Any advice is appreciated. Thank you!
Hi Ruby,
The entire program is all about holistic nutrition. I think this is the best holistic nutrition education available. The only degree I might personally consider in nutrition is a Master’s in Human Nutrition and Functional Medicine from the University of Western States. Short answer? Do the NTP program.
Hi Holly,
Thank you so much for this article, it really resonates with me. I’m in the same boat – looking to make a career change, passionate about helping the world, etc. and was looking at this school specifically. I think I’m sold on it now. Plus I think it’s cool they use Biotics Research (I use them already).
My only concern is the Workshops. I’m a single parent with not a ton of help with child care or finances… Living in St. Paul, MN it would require some travel time and expenses. Although, NTA mentioned that they might have workshops coming to Minneapolis in February, so maybe I’ll wait to see if that gets confirmed soon.
Thanks again for the well written article.
You’re so welcome! They regularly offer workshops in Minneapolis, so I would hold out for one of those.
Hi Holly,
Your article did a very good job of highlighting the NTP program and answering my questions and concerns. I would love some advice from you. I want to shift into a career in nutrition. But, I’m having trouble of what path I want to take. I want to become a Nutritional Therapy Consultant and I was wondering what kind of continuing education there is available post-program. I was thinking of getting a B.S. in nutrition at a CSU after the program. I don’t know how beneficial that would be though. I currently have an A.A. in Hospitality Management as well as a certificate in Dietary Management. Also, on the NTA website it says graduates from the program are paid $50-$150 per hour with education and experience being a factor. In your experience, is this accurate? It seems high for such a reasonably priced program and especially it only being a 9 month program. Thank you.
Hi there! I’m glad you found my article helpful. As far as continuing education after the program, the options are literally endless … it all depends on what direction you want to take your practice/business. And yes, $50-$150 per hour is very standard for NTPs … some even make more than that. The price of the program and the length of the training have nothing to do with how much you charge — it’s about the value you provide as a practitioner. Massage therapists also attend year-long programs that are reasonable, and they can make similar money. It’s very different than the 9-5 world.
Wow!! I’m a Holly Higgins, too!! That has to be a sign.
After getting married, it became Higgins-Smith, but still. I’m a Higgins to the core!
Your info was very in-depth and I appreciated reading this! But I was curious… Aside from this school, had you researched others, such as NTI in Colorado? It appears to be longer, more costly, but sounded really in depth, which I thought was cool. And there was an additional chef program that is really getting my attention. But I’m just starting this quest. Since none of these are actual accreditation, like state or federal, I suppose I’m looking for hearing personal stories of experiences along with HOW the school helped prepare you to manage this as your business going forward. Plus, I’d love to keep in touch with another Holly Higgins! How cool… Any thoughts would be great, either here or email me directly. Thanks a bunch! Holly power!
Hey there, fellow H2! It’s funny, I know we have more than one grad named Sara Russell, too. If you join the program, we will welcome you with open arms! I did briefly look at other schools, but felt confident in NTA because it was the school that most of my “nutrition idols” went to. I know there are other good options out there, but honestly, I haven’t researched them a ton. I went with NTA and have been happy with my decision. Their business-building curriculum has changed and improved since I left. They now have a separate “Career Development Course” that goes very in depth. You may also find my post about career advice helpful: https://www.hollyfisherhiggins.com/advice-resources-aspiring-nutritionists-coaches/
Take care!
Is there still an NTC program? I’m only finding the NTP program. Thanks, Kim
Hi Kim! They recently changed it. I believe it’s all online now, but you have the option to pursue the functional assessment training after graduation. NTPs are now “FNTPs,” and NTCs are now NTPs. The NTC credential has been eliminated and rolled into the NTP. I hope that helps!
What are your thoughts about the program. It being accredited? I am liking everything about it but hear accreditation hold more weight. What are your thoughts on this? Thank you.
Hi Autumn! To my knowledge, the program is not currently accredited, but many grads go on to receive board certification in holistic nutrition. This path is available to you after graduation from NTA. In terms of accreditation holding “more weight,” it really depends on your goals. If you would like to work in a wellness center where that might be mandatory, that’s one thing, and I understand that drive. But for me, I had a successful private nutrition practice for years (I’ve since moved on to hypnotherapy), and no one ever once asked whether or not I was accredited. In general, clients care whether or not you can help them, not how many pieces of paper you have, or where they are from. Those are my candid two cents. Hope that helps!
Hi there! Do you have any resources for finding out how to practice as an FNTP legally? I really want to pursue this program, but when I spoke to the NANP all they’d tell me is that FNTPs aren’t licensed to practice in any states or via telehealth. But obviously a lot do, so there must be a way! So do you have any tips for figuring out how to practice online legally? Thank you!
Do a search for Jonathan Posey and the Council of Holistic Health Educators. Best way to get the info you need!
Thanks so much for this thorough article; it’s extremely helpful! I’ve just graduated with my bachelor’s in health science and at one point in the past, I thought I’d go on and get a degree in dietetics. However as I see more and more B.S. being promoted by “real” registered dietitians, I’m leaning more towards the NTA. I have zero entrepreneurial skills or education though, so I’m just a little afraid that afraid that after completing the program, I won’t be able to reap the benefits because I won’t know how to market myself. I definitely will need to know the basics, like how to even seek out clients, how to establish my business, how to progress with clients and what my program for clients would be like… does the NTP program teach some of that?
They absolutely do! Things have changed a bit since I graduated, but now I believe there is a business development training integrated in their curriculum. Contact NTA for details. I know it’s still offered. Wishing you the best!
Hi Holly,
This information is so helpful . I am really interested in this course but am not able to take the plunge. I have a very well set career now in another field but I have lately developed a lot of interest in holistic nutrition and want to make a full time income out of it . Can you confirm what is the real earning potential with this ?
Hi there! There really is no cap on your income, as with any entrepreneurial venture. (That’s one thing to love about being an entrepreneur!) It totally depends on what kind of business model you set up and how you help people. There are health coaches with huge platforms making millions selling online courses, and there are others who do this part-time on the side to earn a bit of extra cash. It’s all about YOU and what you want. I personally built a six-figure practice, but that did not happen overnight.