Acupuncturists in 21228

Photo of Jill Ellen Smith, Acupuncturist, LAc, MAc, NCCAOM, RN, MSN
Jill Ellen Smith
Acupuncturist, LAc, MAc, NCCAOM, RN, MSN
Catonsville, MD 21228
Having worked in the healing arts for 40 years, I have effectively treated disorders such as insomnia, irritable bowel, colitis, psoraisis, fibromyalgia, menopausal and menstrual disorders, TMJ infertility, migraines and back/neck/shoulder pain, just to name a few. My experiences in Medical nursing at the Johns Hopkins Hospital honed my knowledge and skill in Western Medicine, allowing me to maximize my comprehension of Eastern Medicine in the acupuncture treatment room. My psychiatric nursing background has proved extremely helpful when I treat my patients with anxiety, depression and phobias.
Having worked in the healing arts for 40 years, I have effectively treated disorders such as insomnia, irritable bowel, colitis, psoraisis, fibromyalgia, menopausal and menstrual disorders, TMJ infertility, migraines and back/neck/shoulder pain, just to name a few. My experiences in Medical nursing at the Johns Hopkins Hospital honed my knowledge and skill in Western Medicine, allowing me to maximize my comprehension of Eastern Medicine in the acupuncture treatment room. My psychiatric nursing background has proved extremely helpful when I treat my patients with anxiety, depression and phobias.
(410) 925-9759 View (410) 925-9759
Photo of Maureen Gary, Acupuncturist, MAc, LAc, SEP Cer
Maureen Gary
Acupuncturist, MAc, LAc, SEP Cer
Serves Area
Maureen is a licensed acupuncturist; holds a BA degree from New School of Social Research, NY., Masters of Acupuncture degree from TAI/MUIH, Columbia, Maryland. Previousely she spent 20 years in the field of Mental Health counseling adults, young adults and children. She is Board Certified by NCCOM and NADA, certified for working with addictions, and certified with Somatic Experiencing Trauma Institute to work with trauma. She previously was on faculty at MUIH, Columbia, Md. She practiced acupuncture with mentally disabled in Baltimore City, and has a private practice in Columbia, Md.
Maureen is a licensed acupuncturist; holds a BA degree from New School of Social Research, NY., Masters of Acupuncture degree from TAI/MUIH, Columbia, Maryland. Previousely she spent 20 years in the field of Mental Health counseling adults, young adults and children. She is Board Certified by NCCOM and NADA, certified for working with addictions, and certified with Somatic Experiencing Trauma Institute to work with trauma. She previously was on faculty at MUIH, Columbia, Md. She practiced acupuncture with mentally disabled in Baltimore City, and has a private practice in Columbia, Md.
(443) 731-6964 View (443) 731-6964
Photo of Helen H. Liu, Acupuncturist, LicAc, NCCAOM
Helen H. Liu
Acupuncturist, LicAc, NCCAOM
Serves Area
I started practicing and teaching medicine in Hunan, China after accomplished 8 years of Western and Chinese medicine program. I also worked in Chinese Medicine practices in Edmonton and Montreal, Canada. In 1997, I established my current practice. I approach patients' conditions with a comprehensive understanding of both Western and Chinese Medicine, which enables me to provide the most suitable treatment and recommendations, whether the ailment is a 5-week-old baby's colic, a 9-month-old baby's prolonged cough or a kid's or adult's lingering headaches, aches, pain, bladder infections, irritable bowel issues or simply malaise.
I started practicing and teaching medicine in Hunan, China after accomplished 8 years of Western and Chinese medicine program. I also worked in Chinese Medicine practices in Edmonton and Montreal, Canada. In 1997, I established my current practice. I approach patients' conditions with a comprehensive understanding of both Western and Chinese Medicine, which enables me to provide the most suitable treatment and recommendations, whether the ailment is a 5-week-old baby's colic, a 9-month-old baby's prolonged cough or a kid's or adult's lingering headaches, aches, pain, bladder infections, irritable bowel issues or simply malaise.
(410) 346-5069 View (410) 346-5069
Photo of Chengzhang Shi, Acupuncturist, CMD, LAc, DiplAc, NCCAOM
Chengzhang Shi
Acupuncturist, CMD, LAc, DiplAc, NCCAOM
Serves Area
I am a certified Chinese Medicine Doctor(CMD). I have been practicing Traditional Chinese Medicine for over 38 years. For the past 23 years, I have had a growing practice in Maryland . I am a 3rd generation practitioner of TCM in my family.
I am a certified Chinese Medicine Doctor(CMD). I have been practicing Traditional Chinese Medicine for over 38 years. For the past 23 years, I have had a growing practice in Maryland . I am a 3rd generation practitioner of TCM in my family.
(410) 497-6109 View (410) 497-6109
Photo of Grant Guoqiang Zhang, Acupuncturist, PhD, CMD, LAc
Grant Guoqiang Zhang
Acupuncturist, PhD, CMD, LAc
Serves Area
I have been extensively trained at undergraduate and graduate levels in the field of Traditional Chinese Medicine, and modern science. I have been active in many TCM research projects; among them are the acupuncture on osteoarthritis, and infertility. I have held various faculty/researcher positions at many academic institutes including, Shanghai University of TCM, Maryland Institute of TCM, Johns Hopkins Medical School, and currently, the University of Maryland School of Medicine. I am a contributing author to two books on TCM. In addition, I have also authored many papers published on peer-reviewed professional journals.
I have been extensively trained at undergraduate and graduate levels in the field of Traditional Chinese Medicine, and modern science. I have been active in many TCM research projects; among them are the acupuncture on osteoarthritis, and infertility. I have held various faculty/researcher positions at many academic institutes including, Shanghai University of TCM, Maryland Institute of TCM, Johns Hopkins Medical School, and currently, the University of Maryland School of Medicine. I am a contributing author to two books on TCM. In addition, I have also authored many papers published on peer-reviewed professional journals.
(410) 997-3691 View (410) 997-3691

More Acupuncturists Nearby

Photo of Houng K King - Tri-Service Clinic, Acupuncturist, LAc, CMD
Tri-Service Clinic
Acupuncturist, LAc, CMD
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
Winner of 2008-2009 Lifetime Medical Achievement Award, 40+ experience and one of the leading acupuncturist in MD,DC and VA. With a family tradition rooted in generations of esteemed Chinese medicine doctors. Under the tutelage of his parents, grandparents, and other masters, Houng King began his professional training in China in early childhood. His expertise in traditional Chinese acupuncture as well as his proficiency in formulating customized herbal remedies are powerful tools used to help his patients heal. Houng King holds a doctorate in Traditional Chinese Medicine and for over 20 years has had great success in treating chronic or acute pain, fatigue, stress, insomnia, allergies, respiratory and gastrointestinal conditions, migraine headaches, sexual disorders, weight management as well as addiction.
Winner of 2008-2009 Lifetime Medical Achievement Award, 40+ experience and one of the leading acupuncturist in MD,DC and VA. With a family tradition rooted in generations of esteemed Chinese medicine doctors. Under the tutelage of his parents, grandparents, and other masters, Houng King began his professional training in China in early childhood. His expertise in traditional Chinese acupuncture as well as his proficiency in formulating customized herbal remedies are powerful tools used to help his patients heal. Houng King holds a doctorate in Traditional Chinese Medicine and for over 20 years has had great success in treating chronic or acute pain, fatigue, stress, insomnia, allergies, respiratory and gastrointestinal conditions, migraine headaches, sexual disorders, weight management as well as addiction.
(301) 987-2588 View (301) 987-2588
Photo of Zhaobo Li, Acupuncturist, LAc, MD, PhD
Zhaobo Li
Acupuncturist, LAc, MD, PhD
Dr. Zhaobo Li received his medical training in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Sports Medicine in China. He completed a 5-year fellowship in neuromuscular diseases at The School of Medicine of the Johns Hopkins University in the United Sates. He has practiced acupuncture and sport medicine for 25 years and published 39 research papers in peer-reviewed scientific journals. Dr. Li's approach to integrative health draws from TCM, but is grounded in modern medicine. With over a decade of practice in acupuncture and neuromuscular diseases, he has developed unique methods to treat various symptoms of chronic diseases.
Dr. Zhaobo Li received his medical training in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Sports Medicine in China. He completed a 5-year fellowship in neuromuscular diseases at The School of Medicine of the Johns Hopkins University in the United Sates. He has practiced acupuncture and sport medicine for 25 years and published 39 research papers in peer-reviewed scientific journals. Dr. Li's approach to integrative health draws from TCM, but is grounded in modern medicine. With over a decade of practice in acupuncture and neuromuscular diseases, he has developed unique methods to treat various symptoms of chronic diseases.
(443) 892-6404 View (443) 892-6404
Photo of Zhisong Chen, Acupuncturist, OMD, PhD, LAc
Zhisong Chen
Acupuncturist, OMD, PhD, LAc
Potomac, MD 20854
I specialize in management of pain, allergy, infertility, side effects of cancer chemo-radiotherapy, and more. I received my O.M.D. from Beijing University of Chinese Medicine in 1995, completed my residency in the First Hospital of Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine in 1997 and my fellowship in Chinese and Western Integrative Medicine in Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences in 2000. I have been the Director of the Outpatient Department in Haidian Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China, and a Senior Lecturer at the Institute of Chinese Medical Studies, Singapore.
I specialize in management of pain, allergy, infertility, side effects of cancer chemo-radiotherapy, and more. I received my O.M.D. from Beijing University of Chinese Medicine in 1995, completed my residency in the First Hospital of Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine in 1997 and my fellowship in Chinese and Western Integrative Medicine in Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences in 2000. I have been the Director of the Outpatient Department in Haidian Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China, and a Senior Lecturer at the Institute of Chinese Medical Studies, Singapore.
(301) 637-6418 View (301) 637-6418
Photo of Eric Zhang - Holistic Acupuncture, Acupuncturist, LAc
Holistic Acupuncture
Acupuncturist, LAc
North Bethesda, MD 20852
My treatment philosophy is rooted in my passion and clinical study of the classic Chinese medicine, and is supported with the latest scientific findings. This philosophy allows me to take the holistic approach designed to treat body-mind-spirit as a whole person, therefore tapping into the amazing healing power of each patient. My treatments are individualized by applying the classical methods and techniques passed down in my family for generations, and by applying the modern advancement in the field.
My treatment philosophy is rooted in my passion and clinical study of the classic Chinese medicine, and is supported with the latest scientific findings. This philosophy allows me to take the holistic approach designed to treat body-mind-spirit as a whole person, therefore tapping into the amazing healing power of each patient. My treatments are individualized by applying the classical methods and techniques passed down in my family for generations, and by applying the modern advancement in the field.
(240) 230-3150 View (240) 230-3150
Photo of In Soon Cho, Acupuncturist, LAc, MSOM, LMT
In Soon Cho
Acupuncturist, LAc, MSOM, LMT
Bethesda, MD 20814
From head to toe - Headache, neck pain, Frozen shoulder, lower back pain, Sciatica, Tennis elbow, Golfer's elbow, knee pain, any type of joint pain, Plantar Fasciitis and more. From puberty to menopause - PMS, menstrual cramps, stress, hot flushes, night sweats, mood swings, Insomnia, weight gain, and fatigue. Whiplash - muscle, ligament, and tendon injuries, back and neck pain, herniated discs, leg and knee pain, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
From head to toe - Headache, neck pain, Frozen shoulder, lower back pain, Sciatica, Tennis elbow, Golfer's elbow, knee pain, any type of joint pain, Plantar Fasciitis and more. From puberty to menopause - PMS, menstrual cramps, stress, hot flushes, night sweats, mood swings, Insomnia, weight gain, and fatigue. Whiplash - muscle, ligament, and tendon injuries, back and neck pain, herniated discs, leg and knee pain, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
(301) 517-6318 View (301) 517-6318
Photo of Chenxi Yang, Acupuncturist, LAc , CMD, DiplAc
Chenxi Yang
Acupuncturist, LAc , CMD, DiplAc
Gaithersburg, MD 20879
I have over 30 years of clinic experience in acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine, and graduated with a master's degree in 1987. I am a member of the third generation of a family of specialists in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TC M ). I have deep expertise for treating common and complicated diseases. We provide personalized acupuncture treatment to help patients to relieve pain and enjoy life. We provide individualized/personalized treatment plan with defined treatment goal, treatment frequency and duration for each patient. We also use combination treatment strategy with multiple approaches to deliver the best possible care.
I have over 30 years of clinic experience in acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine, and graduated with a master's degree in 1987. I am a member of the third generation of a family of specialists in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TC M ). I have deep expertise for treating common and complicated diseases. We provide personalized acupuncture treatment to help patients to relieve pain and enjoy life. We provide individualized/personalized treatment plan with defined treatment goal, treatment frequency and duration for each patient. We also use combination treatment strategy with multiple approaches to deliver the best possible care.
(301) 275-9958 View (301) 275-9958
Photo of Jinfang Ma - Dr. Ma Acupuncture, Acupuncturist, CMD, PhD, LAc
Dr. Ma Acupuncture
Acupuncturist, CMD, PhD, LAc
Ellicott City, MD 21042
Dr. Ma is a Maryland-licensed acupuncturist with a strong foundation in both traditional and modern medicine. She earned her medical degree from Beijing University of Chinese Medicine in 1998, followed by a master’s degree in Oncology and a Ph.D. in Genetics from Peking Union Medical College. Dr. Ma later conducted postdoctoral research at Johns Hopkins University combining deep scientific knowledge with the wisdom of traditional Chinese medicine.
Dr. Ma is a Maryland-licensed acupuncturist with a strong foundation in both traditional and modern medicine. She earned her medical degree from Beijing University of Chinese Medicine in 1998, followed by a master’s degree in Oncology and a Ph.D. in Genetics from Peking Union Medical College. Dr. Ma later conducted postdoctoral research at Johns Hopkins University combining deep scientific knowledge with the wisdom of traditional Chinese medicine.
(410) 376-5433 View (410) 376-5433
Photo of Jessica Liberman, Acupuncturist, LAc, MAc, MOM
Jessica Liberman
Acupuncturist, LAc, MAc, MOM
Bethesda, MD 20815
I combine multiple styles of acupuncture, which I have studied in the U.S. as well as overseas. I tailor my treatments based on pulse diagnostics and the individual needs of each patient. My mission is to help each of my patients heal physically, mentally, and emotionally. I have successfully treated:
I combine multiple styles of acupuncture, which I have studied in the U.S. as well as overseas. I tailor my treatments based on pulse diagnostics and the individual needs of each patient. My mission is to help each of my patients heal physically, mentally, and emotionally. I have successfully treated:
(301) 910-1995 View (301) 910-1995
Photo of Changping Yao, Acupuncturist, LAc, CMD, DiplAc
Changping Yao
Acupuncturist, LAc, CMD, DiplAc
Rockville, MD 20852
As a longtime acupuncture practitioner and brain research scientist in the Greater Washington DC Area, besides treating acupuncture indications, Changping Yao provides innovative therapies to treat PTSD, Parkinson's disease, cancers and the other complications.
As a longtime acupuncture practitioner and brain research scientist in the Greater Washington DC Area, besides treating acupuncture indications, Changping Yao provides innovative therapies to treat PTSD, Parkinson's disease, cancers and the other complications.
(240) 205-8851 View (240) 205-8851
Photo of Diane Kane - Diane Kane Acupuncture, Acupuncturist, MAc, LAc
Diane Kane Acupuncture
Acupuncturist, MAc, LAc
Towson, MD 21204
Clients have more freedom in their lives to be more active, vital and/or well. Many appreciate the drug-free relief for various concerns, including pain, fatigue, allergies, digestive distress, fertility, sleep disorders, emotional distress, and many other symptoms. In addition to symptom relief, there are more subtle ways patients improve. "I feel lighter," "I am less irritable," "I am less rushed," and "I feel more compassionate" are some recent comments. Joy, contentedness, awe, stillness and clear thinking are all potential outcomes in addition to clients' initial concerns.
Clients have more freedom in their lives to be more active, vital and/or well. Many appreciate the drug-free relief for various concerns, including pain, fatigue, allergies, digestive distress, fertility, sleep disorders, emotional distress, and many other symptoms. In addition to symptom relief, there are more subtle ways patients improve. "I feel lighter," "I am less irritable," "I am less rushed," and "I feel more compassionate" are some recent comments. Joy, contentedness, awe, stillness and clear thinking are all potential outcomes in addition to clients' initial concerns.
(410) 346-5681 View (410) 346-5681
Photo of Qin Gao - Tracy Acupuncture , Acupuncturist, LAc, DiplOM, PharmD
Tracy Acupuncture
Acupuncturist, LAc, DiplOM, PharmD
Rockville, MD 20851
Many people turn to acupuncture for natural, effective, and personalized care. Whether you are dealing with pain, stress, or simply want to feel your best, acupuncture can help restore balance and experience improved overall health, greater mental clarity and a heightened sense of emotional wellbeing. Although acupuncture involves the insertion of needles, the procedure is considered minimally invasive and very safe. Unlike hypodermic needles used for injections, acupuncture needles are extremely thin, flexible, and solid, making them much less likely to cause tissue trauma.
Many people turn to acupuncture for natural, effective, and personalized care. Whether you are dealing with pain, stress, or simply want to feel your best, acupuncture can help restore balance and experience improved overall health, greater mental clarity and a heightened sense of emotional wellbeing. Although acupuncture involves the insertion of needles, the procedure is considered minimally invasive and very safe. Unlike hypodermic needles used for injections, acupuncture needles are extremely thin, flexible, and solid, making them much less likely to cause tissue trauma.
(240) 387-8093 View (240) 387-8093
Photo of Dr. Brittany Freet, Acupuncturist, DAc, LAc, DiplAc
Dr. Brittany Freet
Acupuncturist, DAc, LAc, DiplAc
Mount Airy, MD 21771
Acupuncture can help on the body, mind, and spirit level. I strive to help people who have felt that they have not received the attention or help they have sought elsewhere. My clients range from children to elderly individuals, from those looking to maintain their wellness to those looking to manage a specific situation. I specialize in treating immune conditions, infertility, pregnancy, menstrual issues, pain management, migraines, back pain, allergies, and general overall health and wellness.
Acupuncture can help on the body, mind, and spirit level. I strive to help people who have felt that they have not received the attention or help they have sought elsewhere. My clients range from children to elderly individuals, from those looking to maintain their wellness to those looking to manage a specific situation. I specialize in treating immune conditions, infertility, pregnancy, menstrual issues, pain management, migraines, back pain, allergies, and general overall health and wellness.
(410) 941-2098 View (410) 941-2098
Photo of Wei Z Zhao, Acupuncturist, Lic, MD, (China), DiplAc, NCCAOM
Wei Z Zhao
Acupuncturist, Lic, MD, (China), DiplAc, NCCAOM
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
Wei Zhao is a Chinese Physician having practiced Acupuncture, herb and Internal Medicine in Shanghai since 1988. She offers free initial consultation to people who have no health insurance. Wei Zhao graduated from Medical School in Shanghai and is a Board Certified Diplomate in Acupuncture from the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM). She is also certified by the Council of Colleges of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine in Clean Needle Technique. Wei Zhao teaches continuing education classes for Acupuncturists to renew their license. Her strong medical knowledge, experience, integrity and caring personality makes her practice safe and efficient.
Wei Zhao is a Chinese Physician having practiced Acupuncture, herb and Internal Medicine in Shanghai since 1988. She offers free initial consultation to people who have no health insurance. Wei Zhao graduated from Medical School in Shanghai and is a Board Certified Diplomate in Acupuncture from the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM). She is also certified by the Council of Colleges of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine in Clean Needle Technique. Wei Zhao teaches continuing education classes for Acupuncturists to renew their license. Her strong medical knowledge, experience, integrity and caring personality makes her practice safe and efficient.
(301) 233-6131 View (301) 233-6131
Photo of Carlos Durana, Acupuncturist, PhD, MAc, DiplAc, NCCAOM
Carlos Durana
Acupuncturist, PhD, MAc, DiplAc, NCCAOM
Bethesda, MD 20814
I enjoy caring for the well-being of my patients. I have been cited twice in Washingtonian Magazine as "amongst one of the most highly regarded practitioners in his field." I have provided practical, holistic, integrative services in acupuncture, body therapy, life/wellness coaching, Chinese herbal medicine, and counseling since the 1980s. My background also includes stress management, medical Qigong, meditation, nutrition, and exercise. I bring breadth and depth to my practice, offering comprehensive and integrative approaches to whole being wellness, treating a broad range of conditions. I also teach skills that enhance the healing process and inner resources for successful life management.
I enjoy caring for the well-being of my patients. I have been cited twice in Washingtonian Magazine as "amongst one of the most highly regarded practitioners in his field." I have provided practical, holistic, integrative services in acupuncture, body therapy, life/wellness coaching, Chinese herbal medicine, and counseling since the 1980s. My background also includes stress management, medical Qigong, meditation, nutrition, and exercise. I bring breadth and depth to my practice, offering comprehensive and integrative approaches to whole being wellness, treating a broad range of conditions. I also teach skills that enhance the healing process and inner resources for successful life management.
(301) 660-2539 View (301) 660-2539
Photo of Gina Edness, Acupuncturist, RN, BSN, MAc, LAc
Gina Edness
Acupuncturist, RN, BSN, MAc, LAc
Clarksville, MD 21029
I have over 23 years experience as a registered nurse and 14 years as acupuncturist. I received my Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Delaware in 1988, and a Master’s Degree in Acupuncture from MUIH, formerly known as Tai Sophia Institute, in 2007. I have practiced nursing at The Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, King Edward Memorial Hospital in Bermuda, and at The Johns Hopkins Hospital. Additionally, I was a research nurse with Johns Hopkins University, studying heart failure and cardiomyopathy. After completing a clinical internship at Tai Sophia Institute, I opened my private practice in 2007.
I have over 23 years experience as a registered nurse and 14 years as acupuncturist. I received my Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Delaware in 1988, and a Master’s Degree in Acupuncture from MUIH, formerly known as Tai Sophia Institute, in 2007. I have practiced nursing at The Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, King Edward Memorial Hospital in Bermuda, and at The Johns Hopkins Hospital. Additionally, I was a research nurse with Johns Hopkins University, studying heart failure and cardiomyopathy. After completing a clinical internship at Tai Sophia Institute, I opened my private practice in 2007.
(410) 346-5070 View (410) 346-5070
FAQs - About Acupuncture

How can I find an acupuncturist in 21228?

To find an acupuncturist near you, enter your city, town, suburb, ZIP code, or the provider's name into the search bar at the top of the page. You can then filter results by provider specialty, treatment technique or style, and even gender to find an acupuncturist who best matches your needs.

When viewing an acupuncturist’s profile, take note of key details such as session costs, their area of specialty, treatment techniques, and location to determine if they’re a good fit. If a provider seems promising, you can reach out via email or phone using the contact information on their profile. During the conversation, assess your comfort level and their expertise in addressing your specific concerns. It’s also a good opportunity to ask about their overall approach to care and confirm any relevant acupuncture credentials they hold.

What can acupuncture help with?

Acupuncture is most commonly used to treat chronic pain, including pain caused by physical injuries, arthritis, or migraines. It may also help with autoimmune conditions, nausea, digestive issues, and behavioral health concerns such as anxiety, depression, or insomnia. Rooted in ancient Chinese tradition, acupuncture is based on the belief that illness results from an imbalance in the body’s energy, or “Qi.” Practitioners aim to restore the balance and flow of Qi by stimulating specific acupuncture points throughout the body, which is thought to alleviate pain and other symptoms associated with these conditions.

Acupuncture is typically used alongside medical treatment rather than as a replacement. It is important to note that acupuncture practitioners are not trained to diagnose or medically manage conditions, so it should not substitute regular care from a licensed medical provider.

Is a licensed acupuncturist a doctor?

No, acupuncturists are not medical doctors. To practice acupuncture, there is typically less training needed than that required for medical doctors. Acupuncture practitioners typically need to complete a master’s-level training program and meet a minimum requirement for clinical exposure before obtaining a license. However, licensing requirements vary by state. While most states have established minimum standards, some, such as Alabama, Oklahoma, and South Dakota, do not offer licensure for acupuncturists. In these states, there are no formal education or training requirements to practice acupuncture. The National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) oversees acupuncture training and certification. This organization administers the national certification exam, which is required in many states to obtain a state-issued acupuncture license.

How many acupuncture sessions are generally needed?

Acupuncture is typically a time-limited treatment lasting 3 to 6 weeks, with sessions occurring 1 to 2 times per week. However, the duration and frequency of treatment may vary depending on the severity of symptoms and the nature of the condition or injury being treated. Acupuncturists should regularly assess their clients' progress, monitoring changes in symptoms and adjusting the treatment plan as necessary. After completing the initial course of treatment, some practitioners may recommend periodic "tune-up" sessions to help maintain symptom relief and longer-term well-being.

How much does it cost to see an acupuncturist?

The cost of acupuncture sessions typically ranges from $75 to $150 per session, depending on factors such as location, the provider’s experience, and the type of service offered. Some insurance plans may cover a portion of these costs, so it’s worth checking your specific coverage details. Additionally, some acupuncturists offer session packages or discounts for clients who commit to multiple sessions upfront, providing a more cost-effective option for those seeking ongoing treatment.

Is acupuncture covered by insurance?

Insurance coverage for acupuncture varies depending on the client’s insurance provider and specific plan. In many cases, insurance will cover a limited number of acupuncture sessions if the client has a referral from a medical doctor. The growing focus on non-opioid treatments for chronic pain has increased interest in acupuncture and led to improved insurance coverage in some plans. However, coverage often comes with conditions, such as copayments, limits on the number of sessions, or restrictions on the types of conditions eligible for treatment. For example, Medicare Part B generally covers acupuncture only for chronic low back pain. Clients should review their insurance policy to understand the extent and specifics of their plan's coverage of acupuncture treatments.