The healing power of natural health

Naturopath Lexie McPhee shares her journey through the world of natural health and how her time at Endeavour helped shape her perspective on self-care and make her career dream a reality.

Do you a recall the moment you were first interested in natural health?

My interest in natural health began when I started to apply my love of nature to my fascination with biology and human health. It made sense to me that everything we need as humans to be healthy already existed in nature. I spent a lot of times outdoors as a child, which helped me develop an appreciation for the inherent wisdom of the natural world. I was also lucky that healthy food was always a priority for my family, which really set the tone for my interest in food and nutrition. I felt a real pull to learn more, especially about plant medicine — herbs can be very alluring in that way.

What did you study at Endeavour College of Natural Health?

I studied a Bachelor of Health Science in Naturopathy at the Melbourne Campus.

Why did you choose to study at Endeavour?

I attended the open days at a couple of different universities but chose Endeavour for the friendly, welcoming and warm atmosphere I felt as soon as I walked in. I liked that it was a small campus and I could tell that there was a great dynamic between students and lecturers — something that was missing at the much larger universities.

What did you love the most about your degree?

I loved the courses in herbal medicine and nutrition the most. I especially loved the small class sizes and the clinical experience that the lecturers shared. It made me really excited to get practising as a naturopath! Their anecdotes and professional knowledge added a lot more than just learning the theory alone. Discussions were encouraged and I really got to know my classmates and lecturers. The Melbourne Campus also has an incredible library with some amazing resources for extracurricular reading.

Did you face any challenges while studying and how did you overcome them?

Studying a Bachelor of Health Science is a marathon event. It took me more than five years to complete the degree. As many graduates will attest, it is usually the juggle of classes, assignments, part-time jobs and attempting to maintain a semblance of a social life that is the hard part! I had to really prioritise what was important to me. As a recovering perfectionist, I learned that it is much better to get everything done and submitted rather than agonise over perfecting one assignment to the detriment of the others. I also realised the importance of taking care of myself first and then my studies. This gave me the energy to apply to my course work.

What are three tips you would give someone looking to start a career in natural health?

1. If you hear the call, follow it! I hear a lot from potential students about the fear that you can’t make a career or an income out of natural health. This is old news. The natural health industry is booming and will continue to grow.
2. Ask for help when you need it, whether that is from lecturers or from your loved ones during exam time. People love to help but they can’t read your mind, so just ask.
3. Keep an open mind about your future. There are so many options and opportunities out there. Your career can look however you want it to. It doesn’t have to be limited to clinical practice if you find that is not your passion.

What does your career in natural health look like now?

I have my own practice called Naturopathy with Lexie. I support women with acne towards clearer skin so that they can reclaim their self-confidence and love what they see in the mirror. I run my practice completely online, which has given me the location independence to take my work anywhere. This has been a huge goal of mine, and last year I was able to move to a beautiful seaside town without disturbing my work life. Working online also means I am able to help clients all over the country and even overseas, with the flexibility of working for myself from home.

What’s next for you?

Right now, I am focused on building my practice through Instagram as well as continuing my education. I plan on completing some postgraduate study and heading for sunnier weather come winter. I am also working on an online course for students and graduates who would like to learn more about treating acne through naturopathy. Keep up to date via my website lexiemcphee.com.

For more, visit endeavour.edu.au or @EndeavourCollege on Instagram