Why did you become an acupuncturist?
During my first acupuncture treatment, I remember experiencing such a profound state of relaxation and sense of comfort within my body that I was awe struck. Before this, I hadn’t realized how good I could feel. Acupuncture transformed my life by helping me feel better than I had ever felt before. During the course of my treatments, I also experienced the effectiveness of Chinese herbal medicine in treating conditions for which Western medicine had no treatment or cure. For many years, I had been practicing qigong and yoga, as well as studying Western herbalism, holistic philosophies, and how our environment affects human health. The decision to become an acupuncturist and herbalist seemed like a natural progression. I wanted to be able to relieve pain for others and help them reach their highest potential, just as acupuncture and herbal medicine had done—and still does—for me and my family.

What distinguishes you from other acupuncturists?
I listen to patients. I believe that what patients’ bodies are telling them, and what they tell me, is valuable information. At a time when Western medicine fails to see the whole person, I find myself being both a holistic practitioner and a medical advocate—helping patients understand when they must pursue a Western medical diagnosis, a second opinion, surgery, or pharmaceutical, and when they are best treated with acupuncture or herbal medicine. I practice Balance Method style acupuncture, which can treat most issues without needling directly into the problem area. This style of acupuncture often provides amazingly instantaneous results. Additionally, I am an herbalist as much as an acupuncturist. Many practitioners do not practice herbal medicine and this is a disadvantage to patients with chronic health problems. By using herbs in addition to acupuncture, I can achieve the best results for all my patients.

What do you enjoy most about your work?
Hands down, the best part of my job is helping relieve pain and suffering for people. I feel that it is truly a gift to be able to ease someone’s suffering. As a general practitioner, I have had the unique opportunity to treat patients of all ages, from infants to elders, and I enjoy the diversity this brings to my practice. I enjoy helping patients with the health challenges that present at each stage of one’s life. This allows me to stay connected to the progression and cycles of human life. Each patient’s health problems are a unique puzzle. I am never bored. I spend my days solving these puzzles and that makes each day different—it always teaches me something. I love this. I feel very grateful to be able to learn and practice this ancient and profound medicine.

What is the biggest misconception you hear about acupuncture?
I find that one of the more unfortunate misconceptions that people have about acupuncture is that it is only covering up the pain or problem—not actually fixing it. I have had many patients who were getting excellent results with acupuncture and then stopped treatment because they felt that they were just masking the problem. On the contrary, acupuncture can correct the problem by helping the body heal itself. This is a powerful concept. One needs to understand that the body has an innate ability to heal itself. Trauma, stress, poor diet, and overwork inhibit this process, so we sometimes need a little help to move us in the right direction. Acupuncture has been shown to improve circulation, speed healing, relieve pain, balance hormones, reduce stress, and improve the immune system. Very few problems cannot be helped or resolved with that sort of track record!

How do you stay healthy in your own life?
My husband, my daughter, and I stay healthy by cooking all our own meals using fresh, unprocessed, organic, or non-GMO ingredients. We follow the dietary principles of Chinese medicine, eating a diversity of fresh and unprocessed foods, and supplementing or eliminating certain foods in order to help balance each of our individual constitutions. I stretch and exercise gently, enjoy moderate sunshine and fresh air, and use acupuncture for stress reduction. When my family or I do get sick, we use acupuncture and herbs to get better quickly and avoid complications.

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concordcenteracupuncture.com
info@concordcenteracupuncture.com
(978) 369-9400
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676 Elm Street, Suite 100, Concord, MA 01742

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Why did you become an acupuncturist?
There was a difficult period of my life—a five year span—when I lost many people, including my parents, who I loved dearly. Regular acupuncture treatments helped me maintain my physical and mental health during this challenging time. It became clear to me that death can come at any time and you better not waste any time. My dream was to be of direct service and to facilitate healing for others. My parents were wonderful people who contributed to the world in many ways, and I felt a responsibility to carry on this legacy in a purposeful way. My father, an allopathic doctor, was described as a “mensch” by his colleagues, and I aspired to make him proud. He was always interested in Eastern thought and medicine and would be absolutely delighted to see me following in his footsteps providing loving care for those in need.

What distinguishes you from other acupuncturists?
My ongoing training with a Chinese master acupuncturist has increased my knowledge, confidence, and determination to share this incredible medicine. When looking for an acupuncturist to add to your health team, it’s important to find someone you trust and resonate with. That connection is an important factor in the healing process. I am accessible by phone or email prior to making an appointment to see if we are a good fit.

What do you enjoy most about your work?
Everything! Seriously! I am doing work that I love—spending time with people, listening, being hands-on, and facilitating healing with acupuncture, herbs, and other modalities. I always strive to deeply listen and offer support on the physical and spiritual level. I love doing hands-on work (Reiki, craniosacral, etc.) to enhance the needles and feel that I receive benefit from this as well. I keep my rates reasonable to make acupuncture accessible to those who need it.

What is the biggest misconception you hear about acupuncture?
Most people aren’t aware of the vast scope of conditions I can effectively treat in my practice. These include anxiety, bone fracture, common cold, constipation, cramps, diarrhea, headaches, fatigue, insomnia, hip and low back pain, knee issues, muscle strain, general pain, PMS, postpartum issues, sprains, and stress. If my patients have a new health concern, they know now to call me and ask, “Can acupuncture help with this?” The answer is usually, “Yes!” Acute issues can often be addressed in two-to-four treatments, while chronic issues may take longer.

How do you stay healthy in your own life?
I need regular exercise or I get really crabby. Having a daily spiritual practice is also a key. I try to regularly schedule time off to renew myself. I follow the 80-20 rule with food and try to eat a simple healthy diet 80 percent of the time. When I splurge on something every once in a while, I bless it and then fully enjoy it. Laughter is a great way to reduce stress, and thankfully my goofy dog keeps me from getting too serious. Being connected with nature is essential for me.

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feelbetteracu.com
mbenforado@gmail.com
(831) 212-3090
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630 Frederick Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95062
1288 Kifer Road, Suite 202, Sunnyvale, CA 94086

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Why did you become an acupuncturist?
My family was saved by acupuncture tremendously—with my lower back, during our daughter’s birth, and my husband with a spinal cord injury. I was thankful and inspired by those who helped us when we were facing challenging times. I felt like I was missing something meaningful and useful to share with the community.

What distinguishes you from other acupuncturists?
I only treat one patient at a time. I have two reasons for this: to build rapport and trust with each of my patients, and to allow extra time for other modalities, such as tuina massage or moxa therapy, in addition to acupuncture. These lead to speedy recoveries. Additionally, I specialize in pediatrics. As a mother myself, I can understand parents’ concerns over children’s health issues. I also love treating children. I use non-needle methods for treating them. I also speak Japanese fluently.

What do you enjoy most about your work?
Every time my patients say they are doing/feeling better after a treatment, I feel very warm inside. Witnessing proud happy expressions from little ones when they get needled for the first time brings me big smiles. Getting referrals from my patients also make me really happy. Also, getting to know my patients and laughing together is special.

What is the biggest misconception you hear about acupuncture?
There are two: 1. “It hurts!” Acupuncture needles are very thin. Many feel a little prick with a needle is inserted. After that, feelings of warmth, ache, and fuzziness are common. If you feel a sharpness lingering, let your acupuncturist know right away, and he or she can adjust the needles.

2. “I tried it and it didn’t work” Acupuncture is a cumulative therapy for some conditions. As you receive more treatments, greater effectiveness is expected. It’s important to give it faith and find an acupuncturist you can trust.

How do you stay healthy in your own life?
Cooking and eating real food, especially miso soup (almost daily). Having relaxation time is important, too. I love reading books/magazines in a nice, warm bath. Watching silly Japanese shows and laughing out loud is relaxing to me as well. Gardening, dancing, singing, and doing tai chi and yoga all keep me happy and healthy. I believe getting massage and acupuncture regularly is crucial to healthy living.

You mentioned using non-needle methods for treating children. Can you explain that?
I needle kids only when they feel okay and give me permission to do so. I show them the needles before hand. The youngest person I’ve needled was three years old. He was so curious after seeing his mom being needled and wanted to give it a try. In addition to the needles, I often use a laser pen (microcurrent) to treat younger kids. These pens don’t cause any sensation, and often kids are fascinated by red light. I also use pediatric tuna massage, moxa heat therapy, shonishin (another non-needle technique), acupressure, and Chinese formulas in tincture form. In general, children respond more quickly than adults to acupuncture treatments.

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eugenefamilyacupuncture.com
eugenefamilyacupuncture@gmail.com
(541) 525-9580
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492 W. Broadway, Eugene, OR 97401

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Why did you become an acupuncturist?
I studied biology and literature as an undergraduate, and then after graduation moved to my mother’s homeland, Japan. I went there to teach English and experience living abroad. While I was there, I began taking acupuncture classes for fun at a branch of Beijing University. I loved it. Chinese medicine totally made sense to me and took a lot of information into consideration that I found was ignored in Western medicine. It seemed like a perfect combination of my interests and values. I excitedly moved back to Seattle to start Chinese medical school at Bastyr University.

What distinguishes you from other acupuncturists?
I am not an extremist and feel that balance is a lifelong goal for all of us in this modern world. I feel that if one accepts that, it can ease a lot of pressure we put on ourselves. My diverse history has exposed me to a lot of experiences and people, and I have no judgement of others. I know that in each of us there is a place where we can feel whole and fulfilled, and I wish to guide my patients to that peaceful place.

What do you enjoy most about your work?
I love seeing one become more aware of their mind and body. It is such a special transformation and really a key to being present and living life fully. It is an awareness that can only enhance one’s life experience and I am constantly honored to be a part of that.

What is the biggest misconception you hear about acupuncture?
That it doesn’t work. Humans are intelligent enough to abandon ideas and philosophies when they don’t hold up. Anything that has a 3,000 year old history and still exists clearly has some substance and value.

How do you stay healthy in your own life?
Accepting that balance is always a goal. Exercise, enjoying food, living life honorably, finding inspiration, having passion, being respectful and honest, and not being too hard on myself.

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leonamarrs.com
leonamarrs@gmail.com
(206) 383-6746

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3542 Hollydale Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90039

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Why did you become an acupuncturist?
Acupuncture is the medicine I was looking for my whole life. Health has always been my interest and priority, but acupuncture resonated with me, and it made me feel better than I had in years. Acupuncture opened my eyes to how my job, my relationships, and my lifestyle were all connected and impacting my health. I craved that “balance” my practitioner spoke of, and I realized I knew many people who felt the same way. After acupuncture, I felt so hopeful about the power of the human body to heal, and I wanted to share that with others.

What distinguishes you from other acupuncturists?
You will feel cared for when you come to me for treatment. I work very hard for my patients, and understand the challenges they face in their everyday while trying to live a healthy lifestyle. Just like most people, I also strive to find balance in my life. We can’t always control our circumstances, but I have seen this medicine do amazing things for people. The human body is capable of tremendous healing. I believe in taking an integrated approach, utilizing both Western and Eastern medicine, in order to give patients the most comprehensive care possible, and make them feel wholly taken care of. Many people search for the right thing to help them with their health, and often they end their search here.

What do you enjoy most about your work?
My interactions with patients are the best part of my job. Working with people to improve their quality of life is an incredible way to invest energy. I am inspired by the people I meet, and filled up by the stories and strength of the patients who come in my door. We are all trying to get through life in the best way that we can, and to be able to help someone along that road makes this a most rewarding profession.

What is the biggest misconception you hear about acupuncture?
People often believe acupuncture does not work because they did not “get better” in one or two treatments. We might spend years pushing our bodies and neglecting our health, yet we expect to be symptom-free overnight. There are certainly times you will see amazing results after just a few treatments. More often than not, it takes time for our bodies to come back into balance, as well as commitment from the patient to the treatment plan.

How do you stay healthy in your own life?
Running, spinning, and climbing make me feel stronger both physically and mentally. Music, travel, and people inspire me and make me happy. I spend time outdoors and with the people I love. I get acupuncture. Eating whole foods keeps me energized, and finding a good Pinot noir keeps me from being too serious.

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acupuncturenwpdx.com
acupuncturenorthwest@gmail.com
(503) 493-9389
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2262 N. Albina Ave, Suite 110, Portland, OR 97227

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Why did you become an acupuncturist?
I first stumbled upon acupuncture through a book I read in the 70s. It made so much sense to me, that there was a blueprint for maintaining health, rather than just managing disease. Practicing acupressure and reflexology on myself, I learned to recognize the warning signs of injury and illness. It has been a remarkable experience, witnessing the results of acupuncture on myself, and my family and friends. When the opportunity arose to enroll in a training program to become an acupuncturist, I jumped at it. This has been the most interesting and rewarding profession, learning how the body, mind, emotions, and psyche work together to maintain us.

What distinguishes you from other acupuncturists?
I believe that wellness is about what kind of relationship we have with ourselves as well as how well we adapt to change. Learning self-care techniques and learning to recognize signs of imbalance in the ways we use our energy—these are as important as the treatments themselves. My role is to create the space where healing happens, and teach that to my clients. In addition to my private practice I also conduct wellness clinics, where groups of people get the tools they need for self- care as well as a mini-treatment.

What do you enjoy most about your work?
Watching the process of healing, and especially when I see the look of curiosity and surprise as acupuncture changes the way clients perceive their body’s responses. People go from “please fix me” to “oh, that’s why this is happening.” Most importantly, the satisfaction I get from teaching people to see the connections between our thoughts and our feelings, and our body. I view acupuncture as a systems review, like having a schematic diagram of how the body is supposed to work when all systems are a go. Except unlike a machine, this process is organic, and acupuncture is both a science and an art.

What is the biggest misconception you hear about acupuncture?
One of the biggest misconceptions is that it is outside the mainstream. That was true 20 years ago. But over these last 20 years, it’s gained acceptance. It’s offered in hospitals, for example, most often for pain. And that leads to another misconception, which is that it is primarily for pain. Because East Asian medicine focuses on balance, it releases muscles. As the muscles release, pain is alleviated—and digestion, breathing, and mental focus all improve. So pain relief is only the beginning of what acupuncture offers. Like so many modalities, people sometimes come to acupuncture with the attitude that all they need to do is passively receive treatment. That couldn’t be further from the truth. Healing is achieved, no matter what the treatment, when we participate in the process. Without that, real change can’t be maintained.

How do you stay healthy in your own life?
I try to synchronize my life with the seasons, and in times of change I make organic chicken soup with lots of roots and veggies (and a small shitake mushroom). It also helps me to look at the night sky regularly, for perspective and inspiration. And when I am having trouble, I beat a drum to remind myself of who I am.

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elenlauperlac.com
elenlauper.lac@gmail.com
(818) 459-4953
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3171 Los Feliz Blvd, Suite 211, Los Angeles, CA 90039

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Why did you become an acupuncturist?
While receiving acupuncture treatments for a hip problem during a particularly stressful time, I realized I was much calmer and focused, so I continued treatments even after the hip pain was addressed. I was surprised when allergy season arrived that I had no symptoms. The concept of addressing imbalance before it manifested in symptoms of illness was thrilling. It became clear that my greatest source of imbalance was my work as a CPA. I was more concerned about my secretary’s neck pain or the office manager’s acid reflux than my clients’ millions. Upon telling friends and family that I intended to pursue a degree in Oriental medicine, I received choruses of approbation. This surprised me. But I soon realized that others had been seeing for a long time what it had taken me much longer to realize—that I was meant to share my passion for wellness.

What distinguishes you from other acupuncturists?
Who I am distinguishes me. That is what distinguishes every acupuncturist first and foremost. Acupuncture is an energy-based treatment, so it is important to resonate with the energy and personality of your acupuncturist. Listening was an important part of my prior careers as an actress and then as an accountant in wealth management. Many patients have told me I have kind eyes, but what I think they are really saying is that they feel heard and they see it in my eyes. I am trained in several styles of acupuncture: TCM, Traditional Japanese, Kiiko Matsumoto, and Acupuncture Physical Medicine. As a result, I can choose the style or styles best suited to a particular patient or situation. I allow 90 minutes for the first session and 75 minutes for follow-up sessions, so I am never rushed and am always able to fully focus on each patient.

What do you enjoy most about your work?
I enjoy helping others on their path, whether physically, spiritually, or emotionally. Acupuncture is an amazing medicine. I find that I leave my office each day rejuvenated because people are being helped in ways that they never even imagined were possible. How many professions can say that?

What is the biggest misconception you hear about acupuncture?
There are two main misconceptions: one, that it hurts, and two, that it is a magic bullet. Acupuncture needles are incredibly fine and people experience a variety of sensations, but not usually pain. Also, acupuncture is very powerful and people may see amazing changes immediately, especially in acute situations. The effects, however, are cumulative and may require several sessions to see real improvement, particularly with chronic complaints.

How do you stay healthy in your own life?
While I view health and wellness as a continuing process, I also like to compare it to a three-legged stool. The three legs are physical, emotional, and spiritual—and external. On the physical side, diet and nutrition, exercise, and sleep all are important. I walk, do yoga and pilates, bicycle, kayak, and ski. I eat whole, local foods, and I try to go to bed at the same time every night. On the emotional and spiritual side, I practice a gratitude meditation, spend time with my husband, friends, and my cats, and I sing with a group that performs for hospice patients. On the external side, I get regular massage, acupuncture, and chiropractic treatments, and I go for an annual Western medical wellness exam (physical). When I do not pay attention to any one of these areas, I feel it, in much the way that a stool is crooked or falls over if one leg is shorter or missing!

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diannerbarclay@me.com
(802) 342-4880

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105 Center Street, Rutland, VT 05701

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Why did you become an acupuncturist?
While growing up in a family of Western medical doctors, I always believed there had to be another way to treat maladies besides using antibiotics and pharmaceuticals. With acupuncture, I found that way. Using your own body, acupuncture helps to bring you back into balance by treating not only the symptoms of your pathology but also the root of your imbalance. ​​I received my bachelor’s degree at University of California Santa Barbara and moved to Los Angeles in 2001. Having lived here for over a decade, I know the stressful demands that this city can put on your body and mind. Acupuncture has helped me to maintain a healthy, pain-free, and relatively stress-free lifestyle. My goal is to help you do the same!

What distinguishes you from other acupuncturists?
Attending the master’s program at Emperor’s College allowed me to see hundreds of patients in the college clinic, while affording the opportunity to work with patients outside the clinic at The Disney Cancer Center in Burbank, and at UCLA’s Arthur Ashe Medical Center. I have recently received training in the Mei Zen Facial Rejuvenation techniques of cosmetic acupuncture, which not only helps to reduce visible signs of aging but also strengthens the body’s immune system, thereby promoting longevity. ​​I am also a certified yoga instructor, having trained at Yogaworks Center For Yoga. I incorporate this training into my practice, using yoga as an adjunct to acupuncture as a healing modality.

What do you enjoy most about your work?
I love to help people. Helping people transform their lives through regular acupuncture and guided lifestyle changes is the most rewarding experience.

What is the biggest misconception you hear about acupuncture?
The biggest misconception about acupuncture is that it is painful. I myself suffered from a fear of needles growing up, but when you experience acupuncture, you realize how comfortable the experience can be. The needles are hair-thin, and the sensations that you experience are often quite pleasurable and relaxing.

How do you stay healthy in your own life?
I see an acupuncturist every week to maintain a healthy lifestyle. I also exercise three-to-four times a week, and I eat balanced meals with lean meats and vegetables and fruits daily. I practice yoga three-to-four times a week and meditate daily.

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jenniferhogeracupuncture.com
jenniferhogeracupuncture@yahoo.com
(323) 445-9048
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Why did you become an acupuncturist?
I had a premed degree and wanted to choose a profession from which I would not burn out, as each patient is totally different from any other. After using natural healthcare for my family for 20 years, this seemed like a perfect choice.

What distinguishes you from other acupuncturists?
I treat every patient as an individual, and take them from where they are to where they want to be. I continue learning in order to help increase my knowledge. I treat emotional issues, fertility, and more. I have a certificate in Oriental reproductive medicine, which requires increased knowledge in that area.

I using vibration and cold laser when needed, after many hours of study using them. I also use herbs and homeopathy as needed to increase resolution of problems more quickly. I help with symptoms in a natural way. I can help with almost any problem, and will refer out if needed. All ages benefit, as do problems from head to toe.

What do you enjoy most about your work?
I enjoy helping patients become pain free, have peace of mind, and resolve problems of all kinds. This is a fulfilling way to spend my time.

What is the biggest misconception you hear about acupuncture?
I do not hear misconceptions much.

How do you stay healthy in your own life?
I practice qigong as a certified instructor, eat well, exercise with my dog, and do Pilates. We all need exercise, to eat well, and to drink plenty of water. I could not function at work without doing so.

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miamiorientalmedicine.com
info@miamiorientalmedicine.com
(305) 323-3123
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195 Giralda Avenue, Coral Gables, FL 33134

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Why did you become an acupuncturist?
For many great reasons, I decided to become an acupuncturist and make these studies a huge part of my life. But the main reason was that I wanted to help people understand their bodies better. Our bodies have amazing abilities, and it important to understand how yours functions to the best of its ability.

What distinguishes you from other acupuncturists?
I have studied both Western psychology as well as Chinese medicine. This knowledge gives me a different approach to acupuncture than many other practitioners.

What do you enjoy most about your work?
It is such an amazing feeling to see the process of healing. There is no way to not enjoy your work when you feel that you are constantly helping people.

What is the biggest misconception you hear about acupuncture?
I constantly hear that acupuncture only works as a placebo. This truly is a misconception, and many facts and studies can prove that. Acupuncture works on many different levels, including physical, mental, and biological.

How do you stay healthy in your own life?
There are many ways to stay healthy, but personally, I have dedicated a lot of time to the study and practice of martial arts. I also enjoy spending time creating exercise programs that focus on health and maintenance for your body.

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oloacupuncture.com

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119 West 23rd Street, New York, New York 10011

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