Acupuncturists in Palos Verdes Peninsula, CA

Photo of Mahtab Ghajar, Acupuncturist, DAOM, LAc, Dipl OM
Mahtab Ghajar
Acupuncturist, DAOM, LAc, Dipl OM
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a California licensed acupuncturist and nationally certified diplomat of Oriental Medicine with over 22 years of experiences in the field. I studied Naturopathic Medicine in Germany where I began my studies in Eastern medicine with emphasis in Acupuncture and Chinese Medicinals/Herbology followed by 6 months of intensive studies in Beijing International University of Chinese Medicine. After earning master's and doctoral degrees in Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine in the US, I have expanded my clinical experiences in Japanese Acupuncture with an externship in Japan as well as Korean Acupuncture other than Chinese Acupuncture.
I am a California licensed acupuncturist and nationally certified diplomat of Oriental Medicine with over 22 years of experiences in the field. I studied Naturopathic Medicine in Germany where I began my studies in Eastern medicine with emphasis in Acupuncture and Chinese Medicinals/Herbology followed by 6 months of intensive studies in Beijing International University of Chinese Medicine. After earning master's and doctoral degrees in Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine in the US, I have expanded my clinical experiences in Japanese Acupuncture with an externship in Japan as well as Korean Acupuncture other than Chinese Acupuncture.
(310) 919-2638 View (310) 919-2638

More Acupuncturists Nearby

Photo of Brian Oh, Acupuncturist, PhD, LAc
Brian Oh
Acupuncturist, PhD, LAc
Newport Beach, CA 92660
I'm Dr. Brian Oh, the owner and operator of Newport Acupuncture Center. I grew up in S. Korea as part of a family that was heavily steeped in the traditions and practices of acupuncture. In 2003, I graduated from South Baylo University with a Master of Science in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine. I became CA Board Acupuncturist. And studied more and worked in Chang Chung University in China. I earned PhD in Oriental Medicine from ALU. Finally I was ready, and I've been practicing holistic medicine ever since. When you meet with us, we'll listen and treat you.
I'm Dr. Brian Oh, the owner and operator of Newport Acupuncture Center. I grew up in S. Korea as part of a family that was heavily steeped in the traditions and practices of acupuncture. In 2003, I graduated from South Baylo University with a Master of Science in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine. I became CA Board Acupuncturist. And studied more and worked in Chang Chung University in China. I earned PhD in Oriental Medicine from ALU. Finally I was ready, and I've been practicing holistic medicine ever since. When you meet with us, we'll listen and treat you.
(949) 629-4999 View (949) 629-4999
Photo of Min Hee Lee, Acupuncturist, PhD, OMDr, LAc
Min Hee Lee
Acupuncturist, PhD, OMDr, LAc
Anaheim, CA 92801
The main objectives of acupuncture treatment are relieving pain and other symptoms, strengthening the immune system, and balancing, harmonizing and integrating the functions of the internal organs with each other, making for a unified, healthy person, rather than a collection of fragmented, disharmonious parts. Oriental Medicine addresses and seeks to find the root or the cause of the problem rather than just merely treating the manifestations of various symptoms. Acupuncture increases the blood circulation to the area where the fine tiny needles are inserted. With increased circulation of blood the muscles relax, and they become tightened.
The main objectives of acupuncture treatment are relieving pain and other symptoms, strengthening the immune system, and balancing, harmonizing and integrating the functions of the internal organs with each other, making for a unified, healthy person, rather than a collection of fragmented, disharmonious parts. Oriental Medicine addresses and seeks to find the root or the cause of the problem rather than just merely treating the manifestations of various symptoms. Acupuncture increases the blood circulation to the area where the fine tiny needles are inserted. With increased circulation of blood the muscles relax, and they become tightened.
(213) 674-4152 View (213) 674-4152
Photo of Melanie Laura Kaplan - Melanie Kaplan LAc, Acupuncturist, LAc, MT
Melanie Kaplan LAc
Acupuncturist, LAc, MT
Los Angeles, CA 90049
Acupuncture + Oriental Medicine is a time-tested path that helps in rebuilding and maintaining your health. Acupuncture is able to treat a vast number of ailments by utilizing highly individualized treatment plans. Through the use of thin needles, moxibustion, massage, nutritional + herbal counseling, aromatherapy + meditation, Melanie is able to bring your body into balance and create a reservoir of strength + energy to help maintain your health. Strong in the belief that optimal health is achieved when we integrate all parts of our being, physical, emotional + spiritual, Melanie believes that by educating + empowering her patients they can find their path to wellness.
Acupuncture + Oriental Medicine is a time-tested path that helps in rebuilding and maintaining your health. Acupuncture is able to treat a vast number of ailments by utilizing highly individualized treatment plans. Through the use of thin needles, moxibustion, massage, nutritional + herbal counseling, aromatherapy + meditation, Melanie is able to bring your body into balance and create a reservoir of strength + energy to help maintain your health. Strong in the belief that optimal health is achieved when we integrate all parts of our being, physical, emotional + spiritual, Melanie believes that by educating + empowering her patients they can find their path to wellness.
(310) 340-2845 View (310) 340-2845
Photo of Jae Hong Yoon, Acupuncturist, LAc, PhD
Jae Hong Yoon
Acupuncturist, LAc, PhD
Buena Park, CA 90621
I enjoy the process of assisting my patients on the road to healing. In my practice, I use many clinically proven therapies such as acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, homeopathy, and also modern therapies such as ElectroMagnetic and Acu - Touch. Depending on your condition, I may use one or a combination of therapies to augment their effectiveness. For the patient, the bottom line is to experience health improvement. I treat every person with honesty, integrity, and care because my greatest joy is seeing my patients smile with ease.
I enjoy the process of assisting my patients on the road to healing. In my practice, I use many clinically proven therapies such as acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, homeopathy, and also modern therapies such as ElectroMagnetic and Acu - Touch. Depending on your condition, I may use one or a combination of therapies to augment their effectiveness. For the patient, the bottom line is to experience health improvement. I treat every person with honesty, integrity, and care because my greatest joy is seeing my patients smile with ease.
(562) 539-4044 View (562) 539-4044
Photo of Erika Maria Barrantes, Acupuncturist, LAc
Erika Maria Barrantes
Acupuncturist, LAc
Torrance, CA 90505
Word of mouth is the main form of advertisement for this serene center located in the Torrance, CA. Once you walk through the door, your worries from a stressful day or anxiety about aches and pains are completely put to ease by the caring and confident hands of Erika Barrantes. As a practitioner of Oriental Medicine which includes Acupuncture, Herbology, diet, nutrition, lifestyle counseling as well as Tai Qi, Qi Gong (physical exercise and Tui'na (manual therapies), Erika is dedicated and committed to assisting you in reaching & maintaining a state of balance & health.
Word of mouth is the main form of advertisement for this serene center located in the Torrance, CA. Once you walk through the door, your worries from a stressful day or anxiety about aches and pains are completely put to ease by the caring and confident hands of Erika Barrantes. As a practitioner of Oriental Medicine which includes Acupuncture, Herbology, diet, nutrition, lifestyle counseling as well as Tai Qi, Qi Gong (physical exercise and Tui'na (manual therapies), Erika is dedicated and committed to assisting you in reaching & maintaining a state of balance & health.
(562) 250-5470 View (562) 250-5470
Photo of John B Barrett, Acupuncturist, LAc, DAc
John B Barrett
Acupuncturist, LAc, DAc
Los Angeles, CA 90067
With over 20 years clinical experience, Dr. Barrett provides a most comprehensive form of Acupuncture and East-West Functional Medicine. Trained in the US & China, he is affiliated with Cedars Sinai and practices in Century City. His treatments are unique and begin with a consult when your condition, etiology and treatment will be explained in detail. As a treatment natural herbal prescription, diet & nutrition, therapeutic exercises, and stress management will be discussed. His philosophy is to minimize office visits by teaching you how to accelerate the healing process and maintain excellent health on your own.
With over 20 years clinical experience, Dr. Barrett provides a most comprehensive form of Acupuncture and East-West Functional Medicine. Trained in the US & China, he is affiliated with Cedars Sinai and practices in Century City. His treatments are unique and begin with a consult when your condition, etiology and treatment will be explained in detail. As a treatment natural herbal prescription, diet & nutrition, therapeutic exercises, and stress management will be discussed. His philosophy is to minimize office visits by teaching you how to accelerate the healing process and maintain excellent health on your own.
(310) 277-7179 View (310) 277-7179
Photo of Karen Hearn-Abbott, Acupuncturist, OMD, LAc, DiplAc
Karen Hearn-Abbott
Acupuncturist, OMD, LAc, DiplAc
Toluca Lake, CA 91602
I have been in Chinese Medical Practice since 1986 after graduating from California Acupuncture College. I then enrolled in the Doctorate program at Samra Univ. of Oriental Medicine and received my credential in August 1988. I was licensed by the NCAA until 2007 and participated in their testing & licensing program. In 1996, I had the pleasure of being part of a group to study acupuncture in a hospital setting at the XiYuan Hospital of PRC and attend the 2nd International Symposium on Medical Qi Gong. The group was present for the opening ceremonies of the first government sponsored Medical Qi Gong Academy where we also underwent a rigorous course of training. In January 2006 I completed the Acupuncture Orthopedics course given by Lerner Education and received my credential to become a Diplomate of Acupuncture Orthopedics (NBAO).
I have been in Chinese Medical Practice since 1986 after graduating from California Acupuncture College. I then enrolled in the Doctorate program at Samra Univ. of Oriental Medicine and received my credential in August 1988. I was licensed by the NCAA until 2007 and participated in their testing & licensing program. In 1996, I had the pleasure of being part of a group to study acupuncture in a hospital setting at the XiYuan Hospital of PRC and attend the 2nd International Symposium on Medical Qi Gong. The group was present for the opening ceremonies of the first government sponsored Medical Qi Gong Academy where we also underwent a rigorous course of training. In January 2006 I completed the Acupuncture Orthopedics course given by Lerner Education and received my credential to become a Diplomate of Acupuncture Orthopedics (NBAO).
(818) 253-9884 View (818) 253-9884
Photo of Jing Shu Zheng, Acupuncturist, LAc, OMD, PhD
Jing Shu Zheng
Acupuncturist, LAc, OMD, PhD
Lomita, CA 90717
I have been in practice in the Torrance Lomita area for many years I enjoy successfully treating all of my patients. I specialize in Acupuncture, Cosmetic Acupuncture and Weight Loss. I also make my own Herbs based upon your personalized health needs. Please contact me so that we may discuss your health challenges. I work Monday thru Friday from 9AM to 7PM and Saturday from 9AM to 2PM, If you need to have a special appointment at another time please contact me.
I have been in practice in the Torrance Lomita area for many years I enjoy successfully treating all of my patients. I specialize in Acupuncture, Cosmetic Acupuncture and Weight Loss. I also make my own Herbs based upon your personalized health needs. Please contact me so that we may discuss your health challenges. I work Monday thru Friday from 9AM to 7PM and Saturday from 9AM to 2PM, If you need to have a special appointment at another time please contact me.
(310) 299-7432 View (310) 299-7432
Photo of John Park - AcuRelief, Acupuncturist, LAc, PhD, DiplOM
AcuRelief
Acupuncturist, LAc, PhD, DiplOM
Serves Area
Acurelief is an acupuncture and herbal medicine clinic in Montrose, California. My goal is to help patients who pursuit for wellness in natural ways. My primary service is providing the combination of Asian acupuncture treatments and western physical therapies for pain management and overall wellness as well. We carry a full line of Asian herbal products and raw herbs for each individual.
Acurelief is an acupuncture and herbal medicine clinic in Montrose, California. My goal is to help patients who pursuit for wellness in natural ways. My primary service is providing the combination of Asian acupuncture treatments and western physical therapies for pain management and overall wellness as well. We carry a full line of Asian herbal products and raw herbs for each individual.
(818) 330-9335 View (818) 330-9335
Photo of Atsuki Maeda, Acupuncturist, DAOM, LAc, Dipl OM
Atsuki Maeda
Acupuncturist, DAOM, LAc, Dipl OM
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405
I have over 39 years of practical experience and specializes in gentle and painless Japanese Acupuncture for all conditions, gender and age. Have you ever felt your symptoms come from somewhere else than physical and rather more psycho-emotional? Our emotions effect our physical condition greatly and vise versa. My approach is to see a person as a whole integration of mind-spirit-body. In Vedic medicine, it says “The primordial cause of disease (dis-ease) is forgetting that you are a spirit.” Celestial Acupuncture is for those who are striving on your spiritual path but little bit struggling with manifesting a true desire.
I have over 39 years of practical experience and specializes in gentle and painless Japanese Acupuncture for all conditions, gender and age. Have you ever felt your symptoms come from somewhere else than physical and rather more psycho-emotional? Our emotions effect our physical condition greatly and vise versa. My approach is to see a person as a whole integration of mind-spirit-body. In Vedic medicine, it says “The primordial cause of disease (dis-ease) is forgetting that you are a spirit.” Celestial Acupuncture is for those who are striving on your spiritual path but little bit struggling with manifesting a true desire.
(424) 317-9278 View (424) 317-9278
Jacklin Arastouzadeh
Acupuncturist, NBAO
Beverly Hills, CA 90211
My goal is to address the root cause of each patient’s condition, not just the symptoms. During your initial visit, we’ll take time to understand your full health picture and create an individualized plan that may include acupuncture, herbal formulas, and nutritional support to bring your body and mind back into balance.” With over 40 years of meditation practice alongside great masters, I bring a deep awareness of the mind–body connection into every session. I also hold certification from Acupuncture Without Borders and support patients in releasing trauma and restoring harmony on physical, emotional, and energetic levels.
My goal is to address the root cause of each patient’s condition, not just the symptoms. During your initial visit, we’ll take time to understand your full health picture and create an individualized plan that may include acupuncture, herbal formulas, and nutritional support to bring your body and mind back into balance.” With over 40 years of meditation practice alongside great masters, I bring a deep awareness of the mind–body connection into every session. I also hold certification from Acupuncture Without Borders and support patients in releasing trauma and restoring harmony on physical, emotional, and energetic levels.
(310) 807-6801 View (310) 807-6801
Photo of Dr. Hongyan Li, Acupuncturist, LAc, OMD, MD(CN)
Dr. Hongyan Li
Acupuncturist, LAc, OMD, MD(CN)
Encino, CA 91316
With 29 years of clinical & hospital practice in medicine and acupuncture, Dr. Li is an expert in pain management, infertility, eye diseases, skin and sinus problems, weight control etc. She has successfully treated thousands of patients with headache, neck/back/knee pain, sciatica, arthritis, digestive problems, insomnia, irregular painful menstruation, anxiety, depression and more. Dr Li received Medical Doctorate (MD) degree and extensive medical training. I have delivered high quality treatment to vast numbers of patients in China and US. I'm one of most recognized professionals in the field of Chinese Medicine & Acupuncture.
With 29 years of clinical & hospital practice in medicine and acupuncture, Dr. Li is an expert in pain management, infertility, eye diseases, skin and sinus problems, weight control etc. She has successfully treated thousands of patients with headache, neck/back/knee pain, sciatica, arthritis, digestive problems, insomnia, irregular painful menstruation, anxiety, depression and more. Dr Li received Medical Doctorate (MD) degree and extensive medical training. I have delivered high quality treatment to vast numbers of patients in China and US. I'm one of most recognized professionals in the field of Chinese Medicine & Acupuncture.
(818) 538-2237 View (818) 538-2237
Photo of Dr. Chianni Lin - Center for Acupuncture & Anti-Aging Medicine, Acupuncturist, DAOM, LAc, Dipl OM
Center for Acupuncture & Anti-Aging Medicine
Acupuncturist, DAOM, LAc, Dipl OM
Santa Monica, CA 90404
My goal is to help you achieve your health goals and improve your overall quality of life. As a Doctor of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine, I integrate acupuncture, herbal medicine, nutrition and movement (yoga, qigong) to improve your health in a sustainable way. At the Center for Acupuncture & Integrative Medicine, we use this integrated approach in a beautiful, serene setting to address a range of health issues: Women's Health, Anti-aging, Facial Rejuvenation, and Cosmetic Acupuncture, Chronic Back, Neck and Joint Pain, Stress and Anxiety, Digestive Health and Skin Disorders. Thank you! Dr. Chianni Lin
My goal is to help you achieve your health goals and improve your overall quality of life. As a Doctor of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine, I integrate acupuncture, herbal medicine, nutrition and movement (yoga, qigong) to improve your health in a sustainable way. At the Center for Acupuncture & Integrative Medicine, we use this integrated approach in a beautiful, serene setting to address a range of health issues: Women's Health, Anti-aging, Facial Rejuvenation, and Cosmetic Acupuncture, Chronic Back, Neck and Joint Pain, Stress and Anxiety, Digestive Health and Skin Disorders. Thank you! Dr. Chianni Lin
(310) 340-1774 View (310) 340-1774
Photo of Katherine Ej Cheon - Healing Tree Acupuncture & Wellness Center, Inc, Acupuncturist, LAc, PhD, Herbali
Healing Tree Acupuncture & Wellness Center, Inc
Acupuncturist, LAc, PhD, Herbali
Fullerton, CA 92833
Her mission statement from Holistic Treatment is "Together We Are Creating A Better Tomorrow." In South Korea her parents owned a holistic organic herb farm. While growing up she learned about a wide variety of herbs, and became natural to gaining extensive knowledge about herbal medicine from her families' business. She has a passion for Holistic treatment and she studied at South Baylo University, where she received her Ph.D degree specializing in Fertility. During her internships, she was awarded with a best internship award, and service award. In 2015 she was awarded patients choice Best Practitioner in the Inland Empire.
Her mission statement from Holistic Treatment is "Together We Are Creating A Better Tomorrow." In South Korea her parents owned a holistic organic herb farm. While growing up she learned about a wide variety of herbs, and became natural to gaining extensive knowledge about herbal medicine from her families' business. She has a passion for Holistic treatment and she studied at South Baylo University, where she received her Ph.D degree specializing in Fertility. During her internships, she was awarded with a best internship award, and service award. In 2015 she was awarded patients choice Best Practitioner in the Inland Empire.
(951) 351-2377 View (951) 351-2377
Photo of Dr. Yifan Feng, Acupuncturist, LAc, OMD
Dr. Yifan Feng
Acupuncturist, LAc, OMD
Encino, CA 91316
Dr. Yifan Feng is a top-notched California Board Certified Acupuncturist with extensive academic and clinical experiences. Dr. Yifan Feng did his undergraduate study at UCLA, prior to pursuing studying medicine at Touro University. Intrigued by the opportunity of Oriental Medicine and Eastern Medicine, he pursued studying Oriental Medicine at Dongguk University of Los Angeles. He graduated at top 1% of his class with Summa Cum Laude Honor. He helped more than thousands of patients at UCLA Ronald Reagan Hospital, UCLA Santa Monica Hospital, and Beijing Traditional Chinese Medical Hospital.
Dr. Yifan Feng is a top-notched California Board Certified Acupuncturist with extensive academic and clinical experiences. Dr. Yifan Feng did his undergraduate study at UCLA, prior to pursuing studying medicine at Touro University. Intrigued by the opportunity of Oriental Medicine and Eastern Medicine, he pursued studying Oriental Medicine at Dongguk University of Los Angeles. He graduated at top 1% of his class with Summa Cum Laude Honor. He helped more than thousands of patients at UCLA Ronald Reagan Hospital, UCLA Santa Monica Hospital, and Beijing Traditional Chinese Medical Hospital.
(818) 736-7365 View (818) 736-7365
Photo of John Zimmerman, Acupuncturist, DC, LAc
John Zimmerman
Acupuncturist, DC, LAc
Serves Area
Thank you for considering using our services to help you with your particular health problem! I've been studying and using a wide variety of complementary health care approaches for over 20 years and have personally treated thousands of patients with success. I'm confident I can help you, too! Please feel free to schedule a free, no obligation, phone or face to face consultation. If I don't think I'm the right person for the job, I'll let you know that too and help you find where to turn for answers.
Thank you for considering using our services to help you with your particular health problem! I've been studying and using a wide variety of complementary health care approaches for over 20 years and have personally treated thousands of patients with success. I'm confident I can help you, too! Please feel free to schedule a free, no obligation, phone or face to face consultation. If I don't think I'm the right person for the job, I'll let you know that too and help you find where to turn for answers.
(909) 918-4738 View (909) 918-4738
Photo of Lucy M Cooper, Acupuncturist, LAc, OMD, DAOM, MS
Lucy M Cooper
Acupuncturist, LAc, OMD, DAOM, MS
Serves Area
Dr. Lucy Cooper, LAc, OMD, DAOM,MS is a Diplomate in Anti aging Medicine in Northridge California. She is focused mainly on helping the middle aged population to restore youthful biological age through detoxification, nutrition and life style changes. She helps restore energy, reduce stress and increase well being. Dr. Cooper uses multiple ways of testing the human body: via a computer bio screen; urine biological terrain test; (in her office) and also functional blood tests (via lab). She applies higher standard wellness perimeters on lab reports.
Dr. Lucy Cooper, LAc, OMD, DAOM,MS is a Diplomate in Anti aging Medicine in Northridge California. She is focused mainly on helping the middle aged population to restore youthful biological age through detoxification, nutrition and life style changes. She helps restore energy, reduce stress and increase well being. Dr. Cooper uses multiple ways of testing the human body: via a computer bio screen; urine biological terrain test; (in her office) and also functional blood tests (via lab). She applies higher standard wellness perimeters on lab reports.
(818) 583-6015 View (818) 583-6015
Photo of Kuang-Chen Yang, Acupuncturist, PhD, LAc, DilpAc
Kuang-Chen Yang
Acupuncturist, PhD, LAc, DilpAc
Glendale, CA 91205
Dr. Kuang Yang has extensive training in internal medicine, specializing in infertility and IVF /IUI treatments,Hormone balance, PMS,PCOS, weight loss,IBS,allergy,stress,skin disease,Face lift, and pain management especially in acute and chronic musculoskeletal dysfunctions and neurological disorders such as vertigo,Headache,Migraine,Arthritis, stroke,numbness,Bell's palsy,Multiple Sclerosis,Shoulder pain,back pain,knee pain,Sciatica pain, Fibromyalgia, ED.
Dr. Kuang Yang has extensive training in internal medicine, specializing in infertility and IVF /IUI treatments,Hormone balance, PMS,PCOS, weight loss,IBS,allergy,stress,skin disease,Face lift, and pain management especially in acute and chronic musculoskeletal dysfunctions and neurological disorders such as vertigo,Headache,Migraine,Arthritis, stroke,numbness,Bell's palsy,Multiple Sclerosis,Shoulder pain,back pain,knee pain,Sciatica pain, Fibromyalgia, ED.
(818) 396-8485 View (818) 396-8485
Photo of Xiaoxiong Shen - Shen Clinic, Acupuncturist, PhD, OMD, LAc, Prof
Shen Clinic
Acupuncturist, PhD, OMD, LAc, Prof
Gardena, CA 90248
Dr. SHEN is one of few outstanding professionals in the field of both Eastern and Western Medicine. He earned his Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine in China and obtained his Ph.D. in Medical School in Japan, and received post-doctoral fellowships from Tokyo University School of Medicine and Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, TN. Dr. Shen has also worked as a Medical Scientist at UCLA.
Dr. SHEN is one of few outstanding professionals in the field of both Eastern and Western Medicine. He earned his Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine in China and obtained his Ph.D. in Medical School in Japan, and received post-doctoral fellowships from Tokyo University School of Medicine and Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, TN. Dr. Shen has also worked as a Medical Scientist at UCLA.
(310) 845-6963 View (310) 845-6963
FAQs - About Acupuncture

How can I find an acupuncturist in Palos Verdes Peninsula?

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.