Ali Shapiro, Holistic Health Counselor

My friend Ali Shapiro has graciously agreed to be the first wisdom-sharer (that’s a technical term) in this little Careers in Holistic Health series. I first met Ali when she spoke at a holistic health seminar the Holistic Health Junkie and I organized back when we were on the board of a non-profit in Philly centered on empowering young women and helping them make meaningful connections. Ali impressed me with her personal story and approach to health, and we’ve kept in touch ever since.

I strongly encourage everyone to check out her website. It’s chock full of great tips, recipes, and, of course contact information if you’d like to work with her to achieve your personal health goals. Ali studied at the Institute of Integrative Nutrition and is currently pursuing her Masters at the University of Pennsylvania, so I think it’s safe to say the woman knows her stuff.

Finally, I want to extend a giant thank you to Ali for all her help and encouragement as I work to define and realize my own goals.

Now, for the interview.

1.     What is the most rewarding aspect of this career?

Helping others heal. I love seeing how people feel so free once they understand their eating and health challenges.

2.     What are the biggest drawbacks? What frustrates you about this work?

I wish healing were faster! And I think my clients do too. It’s one thing to say it’s all about the process but when you are in it, it’s hard to swallow. I feel the process is worth it but if it is a frustration. I don’t consider it a drawback because I’m not interested in working with people who want a quick fix. I like those you want to get to the truth.

3.     What sort of training is required?

It depends upon what your niche. I like working with people who want to heal their relationship with their food and bodies. So for me, I use my personal experience, client experiences (they teach me so much), holistic health education and then the coaching skills from my Masters at Penn. But the learning is never done. The bottom line is if you get results for your clients.

4.     How did you know this career was right for you?

First, I learned what wasn’t right for me. When I first experienced helping others through nutrition, it was the first time in my life I felt truly alive. It was this feeling of “Wow. Life can be great if I get to do this “work”. It may sound cheesy but having been frustrated by my corporate career, this was such a new found feeling.

5.     Do you like the atmosphere created by most of your colleagues in the industry?

It’s hard to say because I work mainly by myself. Some of my collegues are amazing…truly walking their talk. I do think at times, the holistic community can be just as judgmental as the western medical community. There are no absolute answers, no matter what side you are on so I like to talk a middle approach.

6.     Would this career work well as a part time gig?

Yes. It is like any business – it is what you make of it. As more people become aware of the benefits of preventative medicine, I’m sure there will be more opportunities than being a solo practitioner.

7.     In your opinion, is this a good career for a working mother?

Yes if you build up your practice 3-5 years before getting pregnant. Then it can be wonderful but I would never try to start building a practice while also being pregnant. It takes time to build a full practice.

8.     Generally speaking, how is the earning potential?

I’m an optimist so I believe again, what you put into it. It’s hard because for me, I’m so much more driven by the lifestyle. But I know if you really hone the art and science of healing, it can easily be six figures. Most practitioners don’t study the marketing side and end up making between 20-50K a year.

9.     Any words of wisdom for someone interested in following this path?

Helping people heal is the most rewarding experience I can think of. Before officially being a health coach, I had informally been counseling/coaching people forever without realizing that is what I was doing. If you find this too, then this field is probably a great fit. However, you do need to make a living and so it’s important to understand the business side and make sure you are being respectfully paid for your gifts. Go for it – it’s never been a better time to do this. People are smart – they are catching on. And it’s so fun to watch.

10. Anything else you’d like us to know?

It’s so cliche but life really is short. Nothing is irreversible when it comes to trying on a career. How you treat people, if you have integrity, yes, each of those decisions matter. But a career, nope! Use that freedom to find some excitement.

If you want even more Ali–and don’t we all–you can order a copy of her book, follow her on Twitter and Facebook, or check out her spots on NBC’s The 10! Show. Here’s one to get you started.

Is this a career that seems interesting to you? Would you consider working with a holistic health counselor? What other professions would you like to see showcased in this series?