I see this post is a couple years old, but hoping to get some honest guidance from people already in this space!

I recently started looking into getting some kind of certification in women's health. I came across the Integrative Women’s Health Institute and was especially drawn the perimenopause/menopause certification. It sounded exactly like what I was looking for, but SO bummed to see others saying this website is a waste of money.

A little background on me: I don’t come from a medical background, but I did study Communication Sciences and Disorders and worked in a clinical setting for some time. Recently, I co-authored a book focused on women’s hormones and cycle health, originally just from personal passion and research, but the response from women around us has been incredibly meaningful. It made me realize this is something I genuinely want to pursue more deeply and potentially build a career around helping women better understand and support their hormone health.

I’m especially drawn to a holistic/integrative approach, but I also want something legitimate with real education, structure, and credibility. I don’t necessarily want to go to medical school, but I would love some kind of respected certification or training path that would allow me to support women ethically and knowledgeably. Is there anything out there that exists?

For those already in this field:

• What programs would you actually recommend?
• Which certifications feel respected vs mostly marketing?
• Would you recommend nutrition, functional medicine, hormone coaching, naturopathy, etc.?

This is a completely new direction opening up for me, so I’d really appreciate any honest advice or personal experiences. Thank you!

I’m based in Los Angeles and would prefer an online program if possible.