Why did you become an acupuncturist?
After months of back pain with no relief from various Western treatments, I saw a flier from a nearby acupuncture clinic. I decided to give it a try, hoping for relief from my pain, and got so much more out of it. The experience transformed my life and I became so fascinated with the process that I enrolled in acupuncture college—at the age of 60!—to find out more. This has become my passion. I am thrilled to be able to introduce new patients to the healing powers of Chinese medicine.

What distinguishes you from other acupuncturists?
For me, acupuncture is about nurturing the community. I treat my patients in a peaceful group setting, and I welcome all who come to my door. My sliding scale fees allow me to treat a wide variety of people who normally would not have expected to be able to afford acupuncture. By removing the barrier of cost, I am able to provide healing for any who desire it.

What do you enjoy most about your work?
It makes my heart happy to look out into my clinic and see a room full of peaceful, sleeping people! Patients are so appreciative, and often pleasantly surprised at acupuncture’s effectiveness. My work inspires me to be a better person, and I am so grateful to be able to help others.

What is the biggest misconception you hear about acupuncture?
There are two major misconceptions that I hear. The first is that it hurts. There might be a sense of heaviness or mild achiness around the needles, but it rarely causes pain. In truth, most people sleep right through a treatment! The second misconception is that acupuncture is only affordable for people with high-paying jobs, or a lot of disposable income. But acupuncture does not need to be expensive in order to be effective. The community acupuncture model makes acupuncture accessible to the entire community.

How do you stay healthy in your own life?
I integrate the concepts and practices of Chinese medicine into my everyday life. I receive regular acupuncture treatments and massage therapy. I also meditate and practice qigong.

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desertwindsacupuncture.com
info@desertwindsacupuncture.com
(505) 554-1381
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6911 Taylor Ranch Drive, NW C-8, Albuquerque, NM 87120

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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 living abroad in Japan, my own health journey had a life-altering course correction by a Japanese acupuncturist. I knew I wanted to share this powerful medicine with those in the West and pay my good luck forward!

What distinguishes you from other acupuncturists?
I worked at an investment bank in New York to put myself through school for Asian medicine. I understand first hand how stress can wreak havoc on the body. I also believe that dis-ease is a blessing and a lesson in disguise—it puts us out of our comfort zone, which is the sweet spot for growth.

What do you enjoy most about your work?
My patients are my greatest teachers and sources of inspiration. They continually leave me in amazement of the human spirit. I love the journeys I’m privileged to witness on a daily basis.

What is the biggest misconception you hear about acupuncture?
That you need to “believe” in acupuncture in order for it to work. Acupuncture calls on your body’s own innate ability to heal, despite your mind. Some of the most responsive patients are animals and children, neither of which “believe” in it.

How do you stay healthy in your own life?
Kundalini yoga and qigong have become vital staples in my daily health practices. As someone with autoimmune, diet is absolutely critical for me, as is regular acupuncture.

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ancienthealingformodernliving.com
acuheidi@gmail.com
(917) 207-9715
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928 Broadway, Suite 1200, New York, NY, 10010

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Why did you become an acupuncturist?
Chinese Medicine has been a significant part of my life since about 2004. I was looking at a somewhat dismal medical diagnosis and felt compelled to try something different from pharmaceuticals. I found an acupuncturist/Chinese herbalist and six months later I found myself without symptoms. I knew that I had found something worth sharing and decided that pursuing my own formal training was one of the best ways I could give back.

What distinguishes you from other acupuncturists?
I’ve worked with a wide variety of populations throughout my life and I’ve shared and learned from all of them. The one thing that everyone seems to need, regardless of what they do or how they live their life, is a safe and comfortable healing space where physical, mental and emotional experiences can be expressed and resolved. I do my best to provide that kind of space to everyone who I support with acupuncture.

What do you enjoy most about your work?
There’s nothing better than seeing someone get off the table feeling more like themselves, whether that be without pain, without stress or simply more like their “usual, happy self.” It’s so humbling and rewarding to support others as they begin to see and engage in their own healing and overall wellbeing, and to see those positive effects trickle into all other areas of their life as well.

What is the biggest misconception you hear about acupuncture?
While the overall impression of the power behind acupuncture continues to change, many people still believe that it really only can help them with pain, specifically musculoskeletal pain. Acupuncture is really more about promoting life. This can be understood in a literal sense, as it does improve fertility in both men and women, but it also means that instead of dealing with seasonal allergies, emotional turmoil or digestive issues as permanent aspects of your existence, acupuncture can bring about bigger change so that you can bring your focus away from what ails you and back to the life you want to live.

How do you stay healthy in your own life?
Staying healthy involves many areas of your life. I maintain a “nutritionally balanced life” by keeping things in some kind of balance. I do my best to eat more vegetables than carbs or meats, incorporate meditation and either tai chi, yoga or qigong into my daily routine to keep me focused and centered, and get outside and play as often as I can. I also set aside time to laugh and feel supported by the people I love as well as time to support them. Life can be crazy, but making sure that you give yourself the best chance to feel balanced will allow you to take part in what really matters to you.

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metta-acupuncture.com
erika.lyn.lac@gmail.com
(503) 662-2815
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2706 SE Lincoln Street, Portland, OR 97214

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Why did you become an acupuncturist?
I suffered for most of my life with chronic conditions for which conventional medicine seemed to have no treatment or explanations. I was allergic to everything, my immune system was shot, I had major digestive problems and at 23 years old, I hadn’t had a period in two years. Despite seeing multiple specialists, taking fistfuls of medications, and spending thousands of dollars, I had no relief and soon realized that conventional medicine offered no answers to why I felt the way I did or what could be done to resolve it.

I began experimenting with several different alternative medicine modalities, including acupuncture. After my first acupuncture treatment, I started my period the next day! With continued therapy, my entire body began to recover! My health was returning and it made such an incredible difference in my life that I decided to go to acupuncture school myself so that I could provide people with the compassionate and root-cause-centered treatment that had literally changed my life.

What distinguishes you from other acupuncturists?
Whereas many acupuncturists utilize mostly acupuncture, Chinese herbs and other TCM therapies, I have found that the vast majority of conditions that I treat involve, to some degree or another, nutritional deficiency or toxicity. In these cases, I have found the best results come from first determining any dietary sensitivities or other sources of toxic influence that are interfering with their body’s natural ability to heal, and then focusing on re-educating my patients on what constitutes a biologically appropriate human diet.

Healing in the body cannot occur without adequate nutrition! Your body intends to use the nutrients obtained from your diet to create the building blocks for the repair and maintenance of all of your body systems. Without adequate nutrition—nutritional deficiency being a major problem in our society as a result of incorrect dietary information and our nutritionally bankrupt food supply—your body systems are unable to function as they should.

I combine the time-tested therapeutic benefits of acupuncture and other TCM modalities with a teach-a-man-to-fish philosophy in healthcare, educating my patients on how to set the stage for optimal nutrition and therefore optimal healing.

What do you enjoy most about your work?
How did I ever get so lucky to have my dream job?! I get to work every day in a soothing, relaxing, spa-like setting. I get to make my own hours, bring my dogs to work with me, and continuously feed that eternal student inside of me. I’m blessed to form close relationships with new and fascinating people who are willing to step outside the proverbial “box.”

I get to play a role in transforming people’s lives and bodies for the better, helping them regain the body they used to know, but thought they had lost. Their frustration and discomfort turns to gratitude and joy and I get to be a witness to that transformation. I get to turn worst-case-scenario diagnoses and suggested invasive procedures into relaxing, successful acupuncture treatments. As if the gratitude that comes my way isn’t rewarding enough, I get paid for it as well! Best job in the world!!!

What is the biggest misconception you hear about acupuncture?
“Oh, I could never do acupuncture. I’m terrified of needles.” Uh, hello, I’M terrified of needles! When I have to get blood drawn, I’m that girl who turns pale white, throws up and passes out all at the same time. Hypodermic needles, however, are completely different from acupuncture needles. Ten acupuncture needles can fit into the hole of a hypodermic needle and you can curl an acupuncture needle like a ribbon with just your fingertip. If I can needle myself, anyone can get acupuncture and feel totally comfortable and relaxed.

How do you stay healthy in your own life?
By eating a biologically appropriate diet, daily nutritional supplementation, exercise, lots of time spent out in nature, and acupuncture as needed!

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turningpointacupuncture.net
melanie@turningpointacupuncture.net
(480) 219-1237
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8591 E. Bell Road, Suite 103, Scottsdale, AZ 85260

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Why did you become an acupuncturist?
After eight years of practice as a massage therapist, I moved to Seattle to study acupuncture and herbal medicine. I wanted to better help my patients and myself. I have overcome physical injuries of my own. Acupuncture and herbal medicine fascinate me. I love helping people achieve their greatest potential.

What distinguishes you from other acupuncturists?
I have eight years of massage therapy experience. I am certified in reflexology. I have studied Five Element acupuncture with Lonny Jarrett. I have graduated from Bastyr University with a masters in acupuncture and Oriental medicine and bachelor’s in science. I understand first-hand chronic pain due to injuries sustained in a car accident. I am committed to my own health in order to help my patients find their path to health and wellness.

What do you enjoy most about your work?
I am passionate about herbal medicine. Understanding how the herbs work together in a formula is beautiful medicine. I enjoy everything about my work! I love meeting people and helping them achieve their greatest potential.

What is the biggest misconception you hear about acupuncture?
Acupuncture is safe—and no, it doesn’t hurt. You will feel the qi, but it is nothing like getting a shot or a tattoo, waxing, laser hair removal, or dental work. Most of my patients fall asleep during treatment. And this isn’t a magic bullet. It is natural medicine. It promotes our bodies’ awesome ability to heal.

How do you stay healthy in your own life?
I train in Pilates two times a week. I also go to the gym two-to-three hours a week for cardio training. I have regular craniosacral treatments, massage, acupuncture, and chiropractic care. I take my herbs and multi vitamins. I meditate and read daily. I spend time with friends and family weekly. I enjoy time with my dog, gardening, cooking, and blowing glass.

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tamaratcm.com
tamarawillingham@ymail.com
(419) 345-4996

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27068 Oakmead Drive, Perrysburg, OH 43551

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Why did you become an acupuncturist?
My journey with Chinese medicine stemmed from my own complaints that were not addressed by the medical community. I sought the help of a local acupuncturist. He was able to help me eradicate these issues and work toward better health and happiness by making positive changes. Now, I work to do the same for my patients. Acupuncture works!

What distinguishes you from other acupuncturists?
With a compassionate hand and a focused mind, I am hands-on and attentive with my patients. I integrate massage and essential oils into every treatment and tailor dietary and herbal recommendations to fit each patient’s needs. All of my treatments are delivered with a sense of humor and a smile!

What do you enjoy most about your work?
The people! Connecting in a real way with people is a gift that I treasure every day. Holding the space for my patients to take a breather, be listened to and cared for is my passion. Seeing health bloom in my patients is very gratifying!

What is the biggest misconception you hear about acupuncture?
That it only works for pain and that it is painful! No way! Acupuncture works for almost everything that ails you and it is a very relaxing and pleasant experience, once you get past the initial apprehension. I am very good at putting my patients at ease and allowing them to see the full potential of acupuncture.

How do you stay healthy in your own life?
I am a practicing yogi of 11 years. I also do Nia and hike as often as I can. I eat very well, with lots of home-cooked meals and fresh-made juices. I practice compassion for my fellow human beings and myself.

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louisvilleacupunctureclinic.com
shelbyvancleve.com
shelbyvc@gmail.com
(502) 882-0545
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161 St. Matthews Avenue, Suite 15, Louisville, KY 40207

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Why did you become an acupuncturist?
I’ve always been athletic. Many years ago I developed heel spurs. My podiatrist told me that he could operate but that I might need several operations as well as physical therapy. He suggested I try acupuncture; my heel pain disappeared after a few treatments. Over the years I’ve learned that Chinese medicine is more effective than Western medicine for my pain. I was never interested in pain medication and rarely got relief with physical therapy. I became an acupuncturist after I had raised my kids. I had been a graphic designer for many years and wanted to do something else. I had been receiving regular acupuncture for years, happened to go to a new acupuncturist and asked her how she got into Chinese medicine. She told me she was older, she had to work while attending school, that it was very difficult but the best thing she’d ever done. I started grad school a couple of months later.

What distinguishes you from other acupuncturists?
In grad school we’re taught that 10 practitioners treating a headache can find 10 different causes and treatments for the headache. Practitioners are individuals—each bringing a different set of experiences and skills into the treatment room. I don’t think the question is which practitioner is better than the other, but which is the best fit for the patient. I encourage prospective patients to call or email me to determine if I am the best practitioner for them.

What do you enjoy most about your work?
Being an acupuncturist is the best! Each day I’m presented with a complex set of symptoms that I must analyze and formulate a treatment plan for. No mater how long I practice I will always have the opportunity to learn more. Each day brings a new challenge. I’m a people person so I enjoy interacting with patients. I work with some of the best people! Most of all, there is really no better feeling than working with someone and helping them heal.

What is the biggest misconception you hear about acupuncture?
Most folks are fairly knowledgeable about Chinese medicine. A few, however, are under the impression that acupuncture is some sort of magic art one must believe in for it to be effective. Chinese medicine has been used to treat physical ailments for thousands of years. In Chinese medicine our basic understanding of the human body is different than Western medicines’. Both conceptions are valid. Chinese medicine is not hocus pocus—no pun intended.

How do you stay healthy in your own life?
I am physically active—I row for River City Advanced Women’s team. I am very committed to eating well—organic, local, home cooked, including meat. I receive regular massage and acupuncture. I try to balance work and relaxation. I constantly work to maintain peace of mind. I absolutely insist on enjoying life.

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lvernasco@gmail.com
(916) 244-9363

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2011 P Street, Suite 305, Sacramento, CA 95811

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Why did you become an acupuncturist?
I was trying to make it as an artist in New York City. With all that was happening in the world after 9/11/01, making art by myself in my studio and trying to work the gallery scene wasn’t resonating. I wanted to contribute in a meaningful way. I considered pursuing journalism, but somehow ended up teaching English as a foreign language in Prague, where I met an art therapist. A lightbulb went off. She introduced me to a Shiatsu practitioner, from whom I learned about the Five Elements and so much more. Fascinated, I considered studying Shiatsu in Japan and learned that acupuncture had the same roots in Chinese medicine as Shiatsu. I remembered a few years back when one acupuncture treatment almost completely resolved a terrible cough I had for weeks. As things began to unfold before me, I knew I had stumbled upon the right path.

What distinguishes you from other acupuncturists?
Because I am a classically trained visual artist, I have a keen eye for structural imbalances in the body and a heightened sense of observation. I spent four years learning how to draw, paint and sculpt the human form with extensive training in anatomy for artists to help see the structural forms underneath the skin. When people hear that my first degree was in art, they often think it sounds like a drastic shift, but everything I learned in art school is directly applicable to what I do now. A developed observation helps not only to see the person structurally, but also to take in the experience of the person before you. I have also been practicing Yoga for more than 10 years. Through practice and trainings, I have done a considerable amount of self-work and discovery, which helps to hear and relate to what another person is experiencing.

What do you enjoy most about your work?
I love providing a space where people come and spend time for themselves. I also love it when people come out of an acupuncture treatment and have had a profound and transformative experience. I love listening to people and providing a platform for their concerns to be validated and addressed. I love when someone leaves feeling better than when they came in. I love providing these services and I love that I can share whatever qualities and attributes I have in a way that may somehow benefit another.

What is the biggest misconception you hear about acupuncture?
Most people aren’t aware that acupuncture is a branch of a system called Chinese medicine, which is an entire system of medicine that has been constantly developed and improved for over 2,000 years, much like modern biomedicine is constantly evolving and advancing. Many people believe that acupuncture is only good for pain, but because it’s been applied and refined over generations with human specimens as subjects, during a time when many illnesses were prevalent that we rarely even see anymore in the developed world, it has the potential to treat numerous conditions ranging from sleep to hormonal and emotional imbalances to digestive disorders and allergies. Of course today, while it isn’t a substitute for conventional healthcare, acupuncture should be considered a sophisticated and viable option for many diseases and conditions.

How do you stay healthy in your own life?
I understand the difficulties of maintaining a healthy lifestyle because I am a busy person in a busy world too. I try to live as closely by the principles of health in accordance with the philosophy of Chinese medicine as I can. I try to keep a regular sleep schedule and go to bed early, practice yoga and qigong (a form of exercise) and meditate. I also try to keep a fixed eating schedule and eat fresh foods that are local and in season. I know from experience that maintaining health involves a great deal of effort on my part outside of my weekly acupuncture sessions. My own state of happiness and health reflects how much of my life I dedicate to those things.

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seva-acupuncture.com
karen@seva-acupuncture.com
(347) 766-3075
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32 Union Square East, Suite 615 North, New York, NY 10003

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Why did you become an acupuncturist?
I chose to become an acupuncturist because I always wanted to help people live healthy and “disease-free” lives. I come from a family of clinicians. Initially, I chose to work in the field of molecular biology, thinking that all the answers to curing disease could be found in the DNA or genetic makeup. Eventually, I realized that to truly help people lead healthier lives, there has to be a holistic approach. I chose Traditional Chinese Medicine because it is a health system that has been practiced for thousands of years. In addition, it is safe, effective and natural.

What distinguishes you from other acupuncturists?
I have a research background and naturally, I am quite methodical and structured in my approach. I like to truly understand the causes of a person’s signs and symptoms and I enjoy the challenge of researching and uncovering each and every patients’ path to health. I also incorporate Reiki, essential oils and mind-body techniques to achieve a positive change in my patients’ health.

What do you enjoy most about your work?
I enjoy that every day, every patient and every visit is different. There are always new developments and I strive to meet these challenges with stride. I particularly enjoy building long-lasting relationships with my patients and getting to know their family and friends as well. I am honored by the trust my patients give me and every day I learn from my patients. It makes me very humble to see how my patients deal with their destinies, what paths of life they have chosen and to realize that I am a partner on their journey to better health.

What is the biggest misconception you hear about acupuncture?
The biggest misconception about acupuncture is that it is meant to be received only when there is a problem. Acupuncture is really about prevention. Right now, my regular patients are amazed that they are staying healthy and strong, while their family and friends are being struck by upper respiratory infections and the flu. Also, most people don’t realize that acupuncture can treat more than just a physical ailment, because it is a holistic approach to wellness. And wellness includes not just physical health, but also mental fitness, physical wellbeing, spirituality, relationships, family life, social interactions and work.

How do you stay healthy in your own life?
I try to strive for a balanced life, and certain days I’m good at it and sometimes I have a lot of room for improvement. I know that the human body and mind are truly a gift and with proper nutrition, exercise, rest, work and family and social life, we are rewarded with wonderful days in which we can contribute to making the world a better place for us and all that surrounds us. I receive regular acupuncture treatments, some massage and chiropractic adjustments as well. I also use essential oils several times a day and I never miss my dental cleaning appointments!

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redmountainacupuncture.com
nhf@redmountainacupuncture.com
(480) 331-2246

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3654 North Power Road, Suite 128, Mesa, AZ 85215

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