Career of the Month: Sleep Therapist
Do you have family or friends who have vowed to kickstart the new year by shaking up their habits? Maybe they’re planning to spend less time glued to their phones, cut down on the late-night Netflix binges, or perhaps they’re aiming for one of the most popular resolutions – getting eight hours of sleep each night. It seems fitting, then, that January brings us the ‘Festival of Sleep Day’ – an acknowledgment of our collective quest for better sleep.
In the spirit of well-intentioned resolutions, this month, we are exploring a career dedicated to enhancing sleep quality: the Sleep Therapist. This role is not just about understanding the mysteries of sleep but also about helping the sleep-deprived among us (and let’s face it, that’s many of us) find a way back to those sweet dreams.
Job Description
Salary Range: £25,000 to £40,000
Working as a Sleep Therapist is a rewarding role for those passionate about health and wellbeing who get a sense of achievement in helping others. They play a crucial role in diagnosing and treating sleep disorders, working closely with patients to understand their sleep patterns, identify issues, and develop treatment plans. These professionals typically operate in hospitals, clinics, and private practices, providing a holistic approach to sleep health. With the increasing recognition of sleep’s importance in overall health, the demand for skilled Sleep Therapists is on the rise.
Qualifications and Skills
Becoming a Sleep Therapist generally requires a degree in psychology, neuroscience, or a related field, followed by specialised training in sleep medicine.
Alternatively, if you’re interested in a career focused on sleep and wellbeing that requires more practical training, becoming a Sleep Consultant is an excellent option. Sleep Consultants usually complete specialised training programmes, concentrating on guiding people, particularly children and infants, towards better sleep habits without delving deeply into the medical aspects.
What you can be doing now
If becoming a Sleep Therapist sounds like something you would enjoy, there are plenty of steps you can take to prepare for this career path. Attending events or webinars hosted by organisations like the British Sleep Society would be beneficial. These events often provide insights into the industry, offer advice on education paths, and sometimes even provide networking opportunities with professionals in the field.
Additionally, you could gain practical experience by volunteering in settings related to health and wellbeing, such as care homes, hospitals, or wellness centres. This hands-on experience will provide a clearer picture of what working in the field of sleep health might entail. It’s not just about adding a shiny line to your CV; it’s about getting a taste of what it’s like to make a real difference in people’s lives!
