Why did you become an acupuncturist?
For almost a decade before becoming a TCM practitioner, I practiced as a massage therapist specializing in injury and chronic pain, and “Bodywork for the Childbearing Year” for pregnant women. My clients were interested in herbs, acupuncture, and other natural methods for health, but I lacked the education and skills to teach and treat them with anything more than massage. And as a young woman, I also had personal experience with acupuncture and Chinese herbs curing my very heavy and painful menstrual periods. Since women’s health was my interest, and because Chinese medicine was the only medicine that finally cured me, I knew that medical school was no longer the path for me, and that studying Chinese medicine was the way to go.

What distinguishes you from other acupuncturists?
My private practice was founded in 2001. I’ve taught and lectured at professional colleges for Chinese medicine and for massage therapy. In 2007 I authored a book, Acupuncture, Chinese Medicine & Healthy Weight Loss. You won’t be rushed. These days, many healthcare practitioners (acupuncturists included) rush patients in and out of treatment, leaving you feeling uncared for and leaving your questions unanswered. That won’t happen here. I’ll take my time with you: one-and-a-half hours in the first visit and 45-minute follow ups. You’ll be educated. You’ll learn what’s wrong, why and how it can be healed according to Chinese medical principles, and what self-care techniques you can use. You’ll get value. When you get acupuncture treatments, I offer the following therapies on an as need basis, at no extra charge: nutritional counseling, herbal consulting, cupping, moxibustion, tuina massage, myofascial bodywork, hot stone massage, assisted stretching, and aromatherapy.

What do you enjoy most about your work?
My passion drives me to teach and to write about all types of healthy stuff, about living a naturally fit and healthy lifestyle in body and mind, about instinctual mothering and attachment parenting, about optimal fertility, and about health activism. Over the years, through teaching patients in my private practice and teaching workshops for professionals and families, I’ve learned that patients and students prefer to leave my office, or my seminar, with practical information that they can immediately integrate into life. Learning to take care of ourselves should be fun and active, so my teaching style is lively and interactive, incorporating group activities and learning games.

What is the biggest misconception you hear about acupuncture?
Many people think that acupuncture is a magic bullet and that only one or two visits will cure years of ailments. Really, it may take 8-10 visits, and sometimes more. With Chinese medicine, I aim treatment at the symptoms of disease and the underlying cause of disease because symptoms tend to reoccur if underlying health issues are ignored. Instead of trying to fit you into a rigid treatment model, I tailor your treatment to fit your unique set of signs and symptoms. As your health develops and changes, so will my treatments. That dynamic progression of energetic evolution manifests as healthy balance in body, mind, and spirit.

How do you stay healthy in your own life?
Laughter is the best medicine! I love to laugh and to be around fun and funny people, to spend time with my family, to cook, to dance, to practice yoga and mediation, and of course I receive acupuncture and take herbs as needed.

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healthystuffu.com
frontdesk@healthystuffu.com
(212) 894-0767
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41 Union Square West, Suite 519, New York, NY 10003

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Why did you become an acupuncturist?
I became an acupuncturist, herbalist, and author of health and wellness books because I have a passion and desire to help people reach their own individual optimal health and fertility.

What distinguishes you from other acupuncturists?
As well as practicing for almost a decade, I am a published author of health, wellness, and fertility focused books. I am an avid professional who is considered one of the nation’s leading alternative health, wellness, and fertility experts.

What do you enjoy most about your work?
Helping my patients find peace, joy, and optimum health in a way that works for them.

What is the biggest misconception you hear about acupuncture?
Acupuncture to me is much more than just needles—it is a way of life, as acupuncture is just one facet of Traditional Oriental Medicine. I work with my patients on a much deeper emotional, spiritual, and nutritional level. Acupuncture is just one of my many tools.

How do you stay healthy in your own life?
I practice what I preach. I eat clean. I meditate. I find joy in my every day. I get acupuncture. I am constantly tuned in to the environment around me. I am always eager to learn more.

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aimeeraupp.com
aimee@aimeeraupp.com
(845) 988-6913
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928 Broadway, Suite 1001, New York, NY 10012
15 North Broadway, Nyack, NY 10960

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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?
Before becoming an acupuncturist, I worked with horses. I was amazed at how much better my horse felt after his acupuncture treatments, so I decided to try it for myself. As time went on, training and competing became less of a priority, and holistic medicine became a deeper interest. I wanted to learn more. Now, I am very happy to be able to share my knowledge and my skills with my patients. Nothing brings more satisfaction that knowing you’ve helped someone feel better!

What distinguishes you from other acupuncturists?
I am very comfortable talking to people, so they generally feel very comfortable with me. I am happy to work with a patient on any level, whether it’s physical pain, emotional imbalance, or spiritual seeking. I have done much personal exploration into these areas, and my life experience allows me a unique perspective on whatever my patients might bring to the table.

What do you enjoy most about your work?
I love the interaction with the patient. The trust my patients place in me is something I never take for granted. I also love that each day is different, and that I get to witness the positive changes that happen in patients’ lives.

What is the biggest misconception you hear about acupuncture?
The biggest misconception I hear is that it “doesn’t work.” This statement is often made by people who only tried one treatment, or one practitioner, or expected acupuncture to “heal” them without taking any responsibility for their health.

How do you stay healthy in your own life?
I do my best to eat healthy, get enough sleep, get outside daily (weather permitting!), and stay engaged in activities that I love. Meditation, qigong practice, growing my own food, and walking in the woods with my dog are all activities that contribute greatly to my physical and emotional wellbeing.

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fullheartacupuncture.com
abby@fullheartacupuncture.com
(508) 341-3481
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494 Union Avenue, Framingham, MA 01702

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Why did you become an acupuncturist?
Just like the gentleman on the razor commercials, I was a satisfied customer. I first received acupuncture more than 20 years ago and loved the benefits I could see and feel in body, mind, and spirit. I had been preparing to begin my studies to become a certified nurse midwife, but soon realized that a career in acupuncture would allow me to serve a greater variety of clients in a greater range of circumstances. I loved discovering that I could help the body self-heal rather than becoming another provider of procedures and pills.

What distinguishes you from other acupuncturists?
I understand and like science, and I am able to explain the sometimes mystical-sounding world of acupuncture in clear non-mystical language. I continue to receive acupuncture treatment regularly and know what it is like to be on the patient side of the equation. I’ve thought a lot and written a lot about the policy side of the field.

What do you enjoy most about your work?
I love working with people of all ages and circumstances. I enjoy getting to know what makes people tick. I enjoy seeing people thrive and regain good health, often after years of illness or just not feeling well.

What is the biggest misconception you hear about acupuncture?
That it is primarily used for pain.

How do you stay healthy in your own life?
I take a long walk with Buford, the dog, every day and I make an effort to get a reasonable amount of sleep. I eat three mostly healthy meals per day. I take yoga three times a week. And I try to laugh and spend time with family and friends regularly, and I get outside as much as I can.

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siriusacupuncture.com
elaine@siriusacupuncture.com
(703) 642-8404

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5021 Backlick Road, Annandale, VA 22003

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Why did you become an acupuncturist?
To help people! I love working with all kinds of individuals. What makes my job rewarding is the success they feel as they make improvements to their health through my treatments.

What distinguishes you from other acupuncturists?
I am patient. I utilize many tools employed by Oriental medicine to provide the most effective treatment while still providing comfort, respect and emotional support tailored to each individual client. I am mentally flexible and find ways to work through physical and emotional blockages that cause disease.

What do you enjoy most about your work?
The best thing about my work is that success translates into real changes in quality of life for my clients. I happen to thoroughly enjoy performing cupping, gua sha and trigger point therapy. These are among the tools of Oriental medicine that illicit almost immediate changes. That’s always nice to see when working with a gentle and gradual art such as acupuncture.

What is the biggest misconception you hear about acupuncture?
1) Acupuncture is just for back pain. This medicine can never be pigeonholed. It can do amazing things for all sorts of folks. 2) It can “mess with” medications. Acupuncture is not contraindicated for those on Western medications. Giving medical history is important, but acupuncture will not interfere with your meds. It can actually improve your response to them and hinder side effects.

How do you stay healthy in your own life?
I routinely practice qigong to clear my energy, and I practice Pilates to strengthen my spine and core. Diet is my number-one source of balance. If and when I get sick, I see my acupuncturist and take Chinese herbal formulas.

How many treatments are typically required for patients to meet their goals?
For problems that are under a week old, two or three treatments may be all that is needed. For issues that are chronic—months or years old—I say that eight to 12 treatments may be needed to even see progress. Sometimes receiving treatments two or three times a week is necessary for severe issues.

Keep your mind open. If you have not had acupuncture before, get ready for an experience that can reform you from the inside out. Some of my clients come every week for life. They have learned that this is what they need in order to live optimally.

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2ndnatureacu.com
acupuncturesther@gmail.com
(917) 414-3831
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1050 East 18th Street, Brooklyn, NY 11230

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Why did you become an acupuncturist?
I was living in Hong Kong in 1996, and a couple of acupuncture visits got me out of some serious pain. That caught my interest and led to a career change. I practiced privately until 2009, when I learned about the community acupuncture model. I restructured my practice and never looked back! Brenna Lewis and I opened Toronto Community Acupuncture (ToCA) in 2011 to serve Toronto’s east end.

What distinguishes you from other acupuncturists?
At Toronto Community Acupuncture (ToCA) we treat in a group setting. We try to make it easy for people to take care of themselves with acupuncture. We charge affordable rates, and we take online bookings and accept walk-ins whenever possible. People can stay as long as they like for their treatments because we have plenty of comfortable recliners.

What do you enjoy most about your work?
I love the community acupuncture model because I get to see and treat a lot of people from many backgrounds, with a wide variety of complaints. I love working in a space where people arrive to take care of themselves and take a break from their busy lives. It is so rare in our society that we stop and take time to be still, and there’s nothing quite like being around that kind of peacefulness whenever you go to work!

What is the biggest misconception you hear about acupuncture?
Sadly, most people considering acupuncture assume that they won’t be able to afford it. We are glad to provide accessible treatments, because in most cases, acupuncture needs to be received regularly to make an impact on your health. For an acute problem, a few sessions might be enough, but for chronic health issues, regular treatment can make all the difference to one’s quality of life. People are not going to do that unless they can afford it.

How do you stay healthy in your own life?
Daily walks in Toronto’s ravines with my dog, stretching, and regular meditation. Quality time with my family. I try to have fun and see the world through my kids’ eyes. And regular acupuncture, one of the perks of my job!

What do you love about acupuncture?
I love that acupuncture can do so much with so little, and it really just reminds your body how to heal itself. It’s inexpensive to administer and, no matter what you are getting treated for, it’s calming and helps you to digest and sleep better. It helps us to manage stress, and who doesn’t need that?

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tocacu.ca
info@communityacupuncturetoronto.ca
(416) 405-8222
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Toronto Community Acupuncture (ToCA): 27 Davies Avenue, main floor, Toronto, Ontario, M4M 2A9, Canada

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Why did you become an acupuncturist?
I was pursuing an education in dietetics when I saw a seminar on acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine. I was completely fascinated by the information presented which compelled me to change my course of education to follow a career in acupuncture and holistic health. Now I can combine my love of food and its natural healing abilities with the amazing process of acupuncture and TCM.

What distinguishes you from other acupuncturists?
I strive to maintain a gentle touch during an acupuncture treatment. Many people are apprehensive about the usage of needles or “pins,” causing them to be uneasy about receiving acupuncture. I always give a complimentary half-hour consultation for clients to ask any questions they may have as well as get a chance to look at the needles and experience having a needle inserted. I believe that if you are tense during a session then you are not receiving the full benefits of an acupuncture treatment. I work with the client to maintain a level of relaxation while still achieving the required amount of stimulation to get the desired results.

What do you enjoy most about your work?
I love being able to help people overcome their ailments before they turn to more drastic options. I can’t help but beam when a client tells me after a session that they feel relaxed and calm or that their pain is gone. More and more people are becoming aware of acupuncture and other holistic therapies and making them a part of their every day healthcare. I am proud to be a part of that movement.

What is the biggest misconception you hear about acupuncture?
One of the biggest misconceptions is that it only treats pain. Acupuncture definitely has great results with pain and muscle tension but I have also had wonderful results treating digestive disorders, nerve damage, anxiety and so much more. Often regular clients enjoy coming for a relaxing “tune up” treatment to maintain their general health and wellbeing.

How do you stay healthy in your own life?
I try to practice what I preach. I encourage my patients to follow through with their acupuncture treatment plans to achieve the desired results and I do the same. I receive acupuncture once a week and I love it. It gets to the point that you feel a difference when you miss a session and you can’t wait to go back. For physical activity I do high intensity circuit training and hikes. I strive to maintain a diet of fruits, vegetables, proteins and whole grains but I do love to sneak in an ice cream treat every once in awhile.

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nicolelongstaff.ca
info@nicolelongstaff.ca
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Vital Health: 1855 West 4th Avenue, Vancouver, British Columbia V6J 1M5, Canada

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Why did you become an acupuncturist?
I became an acupuncturist because I felt so much better after being treated myself, beyond what I sought treatment for. My practitioners were attentive, kind and compassionate, and that inspired me. I discovered that this medicine contained a web of connections from body to mind to spirit that spoke to me more profoundly than anything I’d experienced before, except for yoga. I became certified as an Iyengar Yoga teacher before I made the transition to Chinese medicine. Acupuncture presented an opportunity to take energetic bodywork to a deeper level.

What distinguishes you from other acupuncturists?
The most important reason someone chooses me is that I listen to them, address their questions and concerns, and then—based on that initial chemistry—they decide to trust me. I care deeply about my patients, take them seriously, and they connect with that. I give them my full attention and frequently stay in the room with them the entire treatment. I find techniques, protocols and tools with which they resonate. If someone is too sensitive for needles, I might apply essential oils on acupuncture points. Someone might need a blood test, or a referral to another medical professional, or dietary suggestions. I have a gentle touch. I treat my patients according to what they need, not according to a style of treatment.

What do you enjoy most about your work?
When a new patient explains their health history and I am able to explain the unique pattern of their disharmony, they are grateful that I understand, and I enjoy that moment of connection. I am thrilled when someone steps off the table and exclaims “wow!” when we both see the immediate impact of their treatment. When someone has a stubborn or chronic condition, they might not be able to hold the initial results for more than a day, but they get a sense of where we can go with this, and that motivates them to continue with treatment. That moves me deeply. I enjoy offering solutions and options that they feel are workable. I am very happy when a patient returns after a successful course of treatment for support in another area, and then chooses to come in for a seasonal “tune-up.”

What is the biggest misconception you hear about acupuncture?
I hear two big misconceptions: acupuncture only treats pain and that it has to hurt in order to work. First, ours is a comprehensive medical system and has the potential to treat many conditions (the World Health Organization lists 30 conditions with research to back the efficacy of treatment, and up to 40 additional ones, with research caveats). Second, there are many styles of needling, plus effective acupressure techniques. I can achieve results with techniques appropriate to my patient, without alienating them. And usually, once the first few needles are in, the patient becomes more relaxed and then we find the appropriate way forward together.

How do you stay healthy in your own life?
I try to stay healthy by taking a moderate path and trying to make good choices. When life becomes out of balance, as it invariably does from time to time, I try to lighten up and go with the flow until I can correct course. I need fresh air and a walk with my dog, a bowl of soup, a few yoga poses and a steady dose of New Yorker cartoons. I like to laugh. I listen to music. I believe in the power of a cup of tea. And, of course, I take herbs and receive acupuncture.

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kathleenport.com
kathleen@portfamily.com
(310) 230-0280
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2211 Corinth Avenue, Suite 202, Los Angeles, CA 90064

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Why did you become an acupuncturist?
I embarked on my journey to practicing Traditional Chinese Medicine in 2009. The holistic approach of TCM provides me with the opportunity to treat the entire patient—mind, body and spirit.

What distinguishes you from other acupuncturists?
With dual Bachelor of Science degrees in sports medicine and nutrition from Colorado State University, I am able to incorporate my knowledge of Western medicine into my practice. This provides me with a greater understanding of the patient and the ability to treat from a dual perspective. With four years of outpatient rehabilitation experience, I am passionate about getting my patients out of pain and back to their optimal health.

What do you enjoy most about your work?
I love that I have found a career that allows me to help people in every aspect of their life. Chinese medicine is often a last resort for many people and it is amazing to give them the results they are hoping for.

What is the biggest misconception you hear about acupuncture?
The largest misconception about acupuncture is that it is still experimental. There are numerous studies behind acupuncture points and the effects of acupuncture. It is a proven medicine.

How do you stay healthy in your own life?
I like to stay healthy by following the seasonal diet, getting regular exercise, and of course using Chinese herbs and acupuncture on a regular basis.

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zenlifeacu.com
charleen@zenlifeacu.com
(303) 351-2427
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8101 East Bellevie Avenue, Suite I, Denver, CO 80237
9116 West Bowles Avenue, #10, Littleton, CO 80123

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