Lessons from the clinic

Lessons from the clinic

Within the field of Herbal medicine, there is a wide variety of skill sets that define the practitioner. Plant identification, medicine making, and clinical expertise are three areas where every Herbalist from the least to the most experienced has a differing level of knowledge. Each of these skill sets requires practice to develop more than any other factor. Not to overlook the plethora of reliable resources yet experience still triumphs here as the greatest teacher.

When it comes to working as an Herbal Clinician this assertion could not be truer. When sitting in front of the client there is a tendency to hide behind one’s knowledge, as well as a meticulously composed script. It may take some time before being able to relax, become vulnerable, and simply follow the trail of breadcrumbs. Starting at the manifestation of pathology, and slowly unearthing its root. However, this is not a simple pursuit as the client is yet to let down their psychological defenses. I find it ironic how often the most important detail is the last to be spoken. Drowned, sometimes in a sea of arbitrary details, one must act as both private eye, and nurse when in the clinic.

In my time practicing as a clinical herbalist, I have gathered a few insights that could help aspiring clinicians in their future prospects. The 1st is to take the client’s statements with a grain of salt. This is not to say that the client doesn’t intend to be truthful, or that they don’t know their own situation well, but rather they are unable to see with the clarity of the practitioner. Of course, this is natural, However, being new to clinical work it is easy for an Herbalist to overlook their own credentials leaving too much to the interpretation of the client. Therefore, trusting one’s instinct is absolutely vital, even in the presents of clients who may be overbearing or well researched.

Next, is to know your scope of practice, and know it well. One’s scope of practice could be likened to an animal’s niche in its ecosystem. When acting within the scope of practice you are in your element completely, allowing one to feel the most confidence and do the best work. It is the times when a practitioner expands far beyond their scope that unfavorable outcomes can develop. Not only mistakes in herbs dispensed, or practices recommended, but also may deteriorate healthy boundaries. This can lead to a practitioner doing more emotional labor then they intended to do or are comfortable with.

Anyone who has worked in public health regardless of the field will understand the crucial necessity of healthy boundaries. It is the balance of giving to our clients, and to ourselves that allows the herbalists longevity in their practice. Expect clients to have unreasonable requests that ask you to sacrifice your own wellbeing, or desires. Furthermore, the illegality of therapists having relationships with their clients is no coincidence. Although we as alternative healthcare practitioners are not viewed in the same way by the nation, that is not to say we do not often hold similar responsibilities especially when it comes to interpersonal relationships. When playing the role of herbalist, it is important to be aware of the types of bonds and attachments that may unconsciously form.

The clinic is an extremely integral, and nuanced place for herbal practitioners, The skills that are gained here cannot be overstated. Although, clinical practice is not an easy thing to simply begin apothecaries will often have a spare room used for consultations. Check with these places, and see if you can be of any use, and if nothing else leaving a business card or selling herbal products on their shelves is a great place to start.