BECOME AN
Ayurvedic Health Counsellor
The Ayurvedic Health Counsellor Program
Embark on a transformative journey in which ancient wisdom meets modern holism.
The RASA Ayurveda AHC Program is more than just a certification—it’s a deep initiation into living, embodying, and offering Ayurveda in its wholeness.

This isn’t just a Program.
It is a Truth Path.
It is a Sacred Remembering.
It is a Coming Back to Life.
The AHC Program’s Monthly Modules
How We Learn Together:
1 Year
- 12 Weekend Modules (Live + Online)
- 50 Evening Sessions (Live + Online)
- 7-Day Internship Intensive (In-Person)
- 100x Online Yoga Sadhana Sessions
- 50 Clinical Practicum Sessions
- Independent Projects & Case Studies
- 1:1 Educational Coaching & Support
Join Our Program Today
Embark on a transformative journey with our Ayurvedic Health Counsellor Program. Gain the skills and knowledge to make a meaningful impact in the world of holistic health. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from experts and connect with a community of like-minded individuals.
Ayurvedic Philosophy & Foundations (Padartha Vijnana): July 12-13, 2025
In this first module, we will be introduced to the deep and beautiful foundation that Ayurveda is based upon.
We will explore the purpose of life and health, Purushartham, the roots of human suffering and healing, and the timeless wisdom found in Ayurveda’s classical texts.
Through the lens of Samkhya philosophy, we will begin to understand the Bhutas (elements), Manas (the mind), Indriyas (the senses), and your unique nature — all as part of a greater whole.
This is where your journey of truly living Ayurveda begins.
Ayurvedic Anatomy (Rachana Sharira): Aug. 2-3, 2025
In this module, we will explore the structure and composition of the human body through the lens of Ayurveda.
The foundational concepts of Gurvadi Gunas (the qualities that govern matter) and the role of the Tridosha (three doshas) in maintaining balance, in addition to the Subdoshas, Dhatus (tissues), Upadhatus (secondary tissues), Malas (waste products), and the dynamics of Vrddhi (increase) and Kshaya (decrease) in these elements will make up the main topics of this anatomical overview.
This module will provide you with a thorough understanding of the body’s anatomical systems from an Ayurvedic perspective, empowering you to better assess health, disease and treatment.
Ayurvedic Physiology (Kriya Sharira): Sept. 6-7, 2025
In this module, we will learn how Prakruti (your unique constitution) and Vikruti (current imbalances) shape the health and expression of every living being. This foundational knowing will be extensive as it will come to inform all of our later diagnostics and therapeutics as Ayurvedic Health Counsellors.
Discover how Srotamsi (the channels) allow for the interelation of physiological systems and help to further deepen our understanding of the sites of Disease. We will further explore the flows of Prana (life force), Tejas (radiance), and Ojas (vital essence) through the body and how these can be sustained and enlivened.
Further, we will come to understand how Triguna (the three qualities) influence your physiological and mental states, empowering you to recognize the rhythm of balance within yourself and others.
Assessment (Pariksha) & Shamana Therapies, 7-Day Module: Oct 14-21, 2025
In this immersive 7-day module, you’ll experience hands-on learning in Ayurvedic assessment techniques, including session intake, diagnostics, assessment strategies & a selection of hands-on Shamana Therapies.
You will learn the three-fold, eight-fold, and ten-fold Pariksha (Diagnosis) methods, including pulse, tongue, body-mapping, etc. used to understand a person’s health.
Learn how to assess the state of Agni (digestive fire), Ama (toxins), and Mala (waste products), and how these elements reflect overall well-being.
You will also be immersed in hands-on learning of Shamana (Pacifying) treatments such as Shiroabhyanga (head massage)
Pathogenesis & Disease (Samprapti & Roga/Vikruti Vijnana): Nov. 15-16, 2025
In this module, you will uncover the deep wisdom behind disease and healing in Ayurveda by understanding how Samprapti (the progression of disease) and Nidana (its root causes) are understood in the Ayurveda.
You will learn the three main causes of disease and the 13 natural urges that our bodies express in addition to Ayurveda’s three main approaches to healing: spiritual (Daivavyapashraya), rational/medicinal (Yuktivyapashraya), and psychological (Sattvavajaya).
With a focus on Ahara (diet), Vihara (lifestyle), and Aushadhi (medicine), this module empowers you to understand and guide holistic healing for body, mind, and spirit.
Digestion & Dietetics (Agni & Ahara Cikitsa): Dec. 6-7, 2025
In this module, you will explore the vital role of Agni (digestive fire) in health and healing by learning the 13 types and 4 states of Agni and how it relates to Ama (toxins), and how the balance of your digestive system influences overall well-being.
You will understand Jatharagni (digestive fire) and how it expresses through elimination and what to look for in the signs of altered Agni to improve digestive capacity.
We will come to see the importance of Ahara (diet), including how it is personalized based on Prakruti (constitution), Vikruti (imbalance), and seasonal changes.
This module introduces you to food qualities, spices, and the principles of kitchen medicine for supporting balanced digestion, with an emphasis on pathya (healthy foods) and Vruddha Ahara (foods to avoid).
Lifestyle Medicine (Vihara Cikitsa): Jan. 10-11, 2025
This module teaches you how to create a lifestyle that nourishes and sustains health, in which you will explore Dinacharya (daily routines), with a focus on practices for Sensory Health and the importance of Ritucharya (seasonal routines) and Ratricharya (nighttime routines).
You will delve into Svasthavrtta (Health Maintenance & Prevention) and Sadvrtta (aligned living), which are key to a balanced life.
Learn (in addition to practicing with Tiffany, 2x per week) AyurYoga and Meditation practices, and their role in harmonizing mind, body and spirit for deep healing and vitality.
Herbalism & 5 Sense Therapy (Aushadhi Cikitsa): Jan. 31-Feb. 1, 2026
In this module, you will dive into the world of Ayurvedic herbs and their therapeutic properties.
Learn about Dravyaguna (the science of herbal properties) and how herbs affect Agni, Ama, Doshas, and Srotas.
You will become familiar with a basic list of standalone herbs and simple formulas with a focus on key qualities like Rasa, Virya, Vipaka, and Prabhava.
Learn the importance of Matra (dosage), Kala (timing), and Koshta (digestive strength) when applying herbal remedies.
You will also be introduced to 5-Sense Therapies—using aromatherapy, color therapies, nature gazing, and touch therapies to restore balance in the body and mind.
Ayurvedic Psychology (Mano Vijnana): Mar. 7-8, 2026
In this module, you will learn the Ayurvedic understanding of the mind and emotions through Mano Vijnana and discover how Manodoshas (mental doshas) and the Triguna (three qualities) influence mental health and emotional states.
We will dive deep into the layers of the mind with the Panchamayakosha (five sheaths) and gain insight into the roles of Manas (mind), Citta (attention), Buddhi (intellect), and Ahamkara (ego) in shaping our experience of reality.
You will also study Manasa Roga Vijnana (mental health science – Ayurvedic psychology) and learn Mano Chikitsa (mental healing techniques) to help balance and nurture mental well-being through Ayurvedic practices.
Disease Management (Chikitsa Vijnana): Apr. 11-12, 2026
This module will tackle the Ayurvedic principles of disease management through both preventative and curative approaches.
In so doing, you will develop your understanding of Svastha (health) and Vikruti (imbalances), and learn the foundational framework of Chikitsa Chatuspada (fourfold pillars of treatment).
The powerful practices of Langhana (lightening therapies) including Shamana (pacifying treatments), and Brihmana (nourishing therapies), for each dosha, as well as Sapta Chikitsa—the seven therapies for supporting digestion, detoxification, and nourishment, will be explored and covered.
Disease Management Part 2 (Chikitsa Vijnana): May 30-31, 2026
In this module, you will continue your deepening into the Ayurvedic approach towards preventative and curative care, learning how to apply the Ayurvedic medicines of diet, herbs, oils, and lifestyle practices for various Vyadhi (Diseases) specific to certain Dhatus (Tissues) & Srotas (Channels).
Through case-based learning and exploration of classical texts, you will learn to discern patterns of doshic disturbance within tissues and systems and refine your ability to choose appropriate dravyas (substances) and chikitsa (therapies).
This module empowers you to move confidently from theory into applied therapeutic design.
Fine Tuning & Review: June 2026 (TBD)
This session offers an opportunity to revisit, refine, and deepen your understanding of the Ayurvedic principles and practices you’ve learned throughout the year.
It is a time to clarify concepts, share insights, and address any questions that have arisen during your applied learning journey.
You will have the chance to fine-tune your skills, integrate the teachings more fully into your clinical practice, and prepare for the next steps in applying Ayurvedic wisdom in your personal life and in service of others.
1-Time Payment
- All online classes
- 7-day immersion (including food/accommodations)
- Course materials
- Vedic Vision Mentorship
- Sadhana Membership
- Ongoing 1:1 Support
12 Months
- All online classes
- 7-day immersion (including food/accommodations)
- Course materials
- Vedic Vision Mentorship
- Sadhana Membership
- Ongoing 1:1 Support
24 Months
- All online classes
- 7-day immersion (including food/accommodations)
- Course materials
- Vedic Vision Mentorship
- Sadhana Membership
- Ongoing 1:1 Support
How Our Program Stands Apart:
Rooted in an Authentic Lineage
Study classical Ayurveda as it’s been preserved and practiced for thousands of years, honoring the depth of its Vedic and spiritual roots.
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Living Wisdom, Not Just Theory
Ayurveda is not something you’ll just learn—it’s something you’ll live. Our training weaves the teachings into your everyday life for lasting embodiment.
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Integration of Ayurveda, Yoga & Self-Inquiry
We uniquely blend Ayurvedic wisdom with Yogic Sadhana and inner contemplation, guiding you into holistic personal and professional transformation.
Sattvic, Heart-Centered Learning Environment
Our program nurtures Sattva (inner peace, clarity, harmony) in its approach and community.
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Clinical Mentorship & Professional Development
Experience professional mentorship with your master teachers through supervised immersion & clinical practicums, for longevity of your practice and profession.
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Ongoing Support & Community
You are held throughout the program by your loving teachers, who not only impart wisdom and inspiration, but also help to foster a strong sense of community to support your dharma.
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Sacred Wisdom through RASA Ayurveda
Our approach at RASA Ayurveda reclaims this pathway of learning Ayurveda as a sacred, life-honoring journey of healing and deep contemplation, and welcomes each of us to return to the inherent wisdom of life.
Our Faculty:
Tiffany Nicholson-Smith
Tiffany Nicholson-Smith, AHP & E-RYT 500, is an Ayurvedic Health Practitioner, Yoga and Meditation Teacher, and the founder of RASA Ayurveda’s Ayurveda Health Counselor program. With over two decades of experience, she offers and imparts holistic, modern guidance rooted in classical wisdom.
Dr. Abilash Anand
Dr. Abilash Anand, BAMS, PGDY, is a classically trained Vaidya rooted in the Guru-Shishya Kerala lineage with over 20 years of experience, particularly with Western patients. Specializing in Kaya Chikitsa, Panchakarma, Rasa Shastra, & Yoga Vedanta, he blends traditional Ayurvedic depths with a deeply intuitive healing presence.
Dr Dhanushree Mohan
Dr. Dhanushree Mohan, BAMS, is a dedicated Ayurvedic doctor with deep training in classical Ayurveda, Rasa Shastra, and women’s health. With over a decade of clinical experience, she emphasizes personalized healing through traditional therapies, diet, and yoga chikitsa.
Dr. Narayanan Nambi
Dr. Narayanan Nambi, BAMS, MD (Ayu), PhD, is a distinguished Ayurvedic physician from Kerala’s Ashtavaidya lineage, renowned for his clinical mastery, classical education, and global contributions to Ayurveda.
Mary Thompson
Mary Thompson, CAS and PK Specialist, is a pioneering Ayurvedic educator with over 30 years’ experience. Known for her clarity, wisdom and heartful teaching, she’s helped shape Ayurveda’s growth and integrity in the West.
Dr. JV Hebbar
Dr. JV Hebbar is an Ayurvedic physician and educator with over 20 years of experience. He specializes in herbal formulations, Ayurvedic treatments, and education, while writing at easyayurveda.com
Prof. Vandana Baranwal
Vaidya Vandana Baranwal, BAMS, MD, is a renowned Ayurvedic doctor, author, and educator with over 25 years of experience, specializing in women’s health, fertility, clinical care, and research.
Ram Vakkalanka
Acharya Ram Vakkalanka is a Sanskrit scholar and Vedic astrologer who teaches Jyotish and Sanskrit, helping students deepen their connection to Ayurvedic philosophy and spiritual wisdom.
Jennifer Ayers
Jennifer Ayers, NAMA-certified Ayurvedic Doctor, specializes in women’s wellness and trauma recovery. A longtime student and teacher for Dr. Vasant Lad, she mentors practitioners and leads retreats, trainings, and consultations.
Dr. Sukumar Sardeshmook
Vaidya Sukumar Sardeshmukh, BAMS, MBA, is a 11th generation Ayurvedic physician, researcher, and teacher rooted in the classical Gurukula tradition, known for his deep clinical expertise and pioneering cancer care work.
Panditji Bhavani
Panditji Bhavani, a Maharishi Vedic Pandit shares various forms of Vedic knowledge, such as chanting, prayers, and Vedic Astrology through his inspired and gracious presence.
Alexander Bon-Miller
Alexander Bon-Miller, M.Ed., is an educator and educational coach focused on creating liberatory learning spaces that bridge timeless wisdom and modern insight into transformative, practical understanding
Dr. Sisira
Dr. Sisira K. Amarasinghe, Ph.D., AWP, is an Ayurvedic Practitioner, Vedic and Medical Astrologist, and Biomedical Engineer. With expertise in cardiac tech and robotic surgery, he also holds ACVA’s Jyotish Navaratna and offers Vedic Counseling & Life Coaching.
What Our Students Say
Your program really has become a deep exploration of myself and Life. I do not have enough words to express my heartfelt gratitude for you and your sharing of this amazing gift. Your love and devotion to this wisdom, these practices, and our learning is palpable during our online sessions.
Brenda, 2024
I wandered into the oasis of these teachings from the barren vicissitude of life’s spiritual desert. I was forever changed by the generosity of teachings that Tiffany radiated. If you are conscious traveller, accept the invitation to drink deep.
Helder, 2023
I loved every minute of each day. Tiffany is an amazing teacher with a wealth of knowledge and she is a lovely human. She knows so much but is still humble and teaches it to us in such a simple, kind and patient way. She clearly loves what she does and cares about each person she interacts with.
Suha, 2024
Required Texts
The following texts are required:
– Textbook of Ayurveda – Volume 1 by Dr. Vasant Lad
– Ayurveda and The Mind: The Healing of Consciousness by David Frawley
– Acharya Vagbhata’s Ashtanga Hrdayam translated by
And, the following are suggested:
– Llewellyn’s Complete Book of Ayurveda by Dr. Hans H. Rhyner
– The Complete Book of Ayurvedic Home Remedies by Dr. Vasant Lad
– The Path of Practice: A Woman’s Book of Ayurvedic Healing by Maya Tiwari
FAQ
1. What is the Ayurvedic Health Counselor (AHC) Certification Program?
The AHC Certification Program is a one-year immersive journey into classical Ayurvedic study and practice (although you have 3 years to complete it). It is designed for individuals wishing to walk the Ayurvedic path both personally and professionally, cultivating the skills to counsel others in Ayurvedic diet, lifestyle and holistic wellness.
2. Who certifies the program?
Graduates receive an Ayurvedic Health Counselor Certificate from RASA Ayurveda. The program is also designed in alignment with the National Ayurvedic Medical Association (NAMA) standards of the USA.
3. What are the program dates?
The program runs from July 2025 to May 2026.
4. What is the schedule and time commitment?
- Weekend Modules: One weekend per month (Sat & Sun), 8:00am – 4:00pm EST
- Weekly Zoom Classes: Thursdays, 6:30 – 9:00pm EST
- Yoga Sadhana Sessions: Mondays, 6:00 – 7:30pm EST and Thursdays, 9:00 – 10:30am EST
- 7-Day In-Person Intensive: October 14-21, 2025 at Vichara Yoga Shala, Wakefield, Quebec
- Clinical Practicums: A total of 50 sessions (combination of collective and independent)
5. Where is the in-person intensive located?
The 7-day intensive will be held in Wakefield, Quebec, Canada.
6. What if I can’t attend the in-person intensive?
We offer the option to attend the intensive within 3 years of registration.
7. What is included in the program?
- 11 Weekend Modules
- 50 Weekly Evening Sessions
- 100 Yoga Sadhana Sessions
- 7-Day In-Person Internship Intensive – teachings, food and accommodations
- 50 Clinical Practicum Sessions – although supervision rates apply
- 1:1 Educational Coaching & academic support
- Independent projects, case studies, and structured assignments
8. What additional gifts and bonuses are included?
- Vedic Vision Mentorship throughout the year (Option 1)
- 20% RASA Ayurveda Discount Code (valid during the year of study)
- Sadhana Membership Access — 2x per week live yoga Sadhana sessions & library of recorded yoga and meditation sessions
9. What is the financial investment?
Three payment options are available:
- One-Time Payment: $10,800 CAD
- 12-Month Plan: $900/month
- 24-Month Plan: $500/month
Full payment details are provided upon acceptance.
10. How do I apply?
All prospective students must complete an application form to ensure readiness and alignment with the program’s intention and rhythm and pay a deposit of $500.
11. Who do I contact if I have more questions?
For questions or to discuss the program, please contact our Academic Coordinator:
Alexander Bon-Miller – support@rasa-ayurveda.com
12. What if I can’t attend every session live?
Slides and study guides are available after each session and the sessions are all recorded and available for a lifetime. While attendance is encouraged, we understand that life happens. The program supports students in catching up and integrating at their own pace while maintaining active participation.
13. Is this program right for me?
This training is ideal for:
- Aspiring Ayurvedic Health Counsellors & Therapists
- Yoga Teachers and Therapists
- Wellness Practitioners
- Seekers of personal transformation through Ayurveda
Graduation Requirements
The following are required to complete the 600 hour AHC Program:
– 80% of all weekend modules attended live online
– All homework and course assignments submitted within 3 years of registration
– All 50 clinical practicum sessions and assignment submitted within 3 years of registration
– All recorded evening and yoga classes completed online
– The 7-Day in-person intensive attended within 3 years of registration