Acupuncturists in Baltimore City County, MD

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Photo of David B. Meredith, Acupuncturist, DAc, MAc, DiplAc, LAc
David B. Meredith
Acupuncturist, DAc, MAc, DiplAc, LAc
Baltimore, MD 21210
I enjoy working with all sorts of people: men and women, adults and teenagers, straight and gay, people just starting to find their way in the world, overworked employees, busy executives, entrepreneurs, students, artists and creative people of all sorts. The common denominator is people who want to live, learn, grow, move to the next level of their lives - free of pains, illnesses, anxieties, stresses, and other symptoms. My patients have had success in overcoming body pains, backaches, headaches, insomnia, emotional issues, depression, anxiety, digestive disorders, and addictions. They've learned how to live well so they need me less.
I enjoy working with all sorts of people: men and women, adults and teenagers, straight and gay, people just starting to find their way in the world, overworked employees, busy executives, entrepreneurs, students, artists and creative people of all sorts. The common denominator is people who want to live, learn, grow, move to the next level of their lives - free of pains, illnesses, anxieties, stresses, and other symptoms. My patients have had success in overcoming body pains, backaches, headaches, insomnia, emotional issues, depression, anxiety, digestive disorders, and addictions. They've learned how to live well so they need me less.
(443) 898-9786 View (443) 898-9786
Photo of Grant Guoqiang Zhang, Acupuncturist, PhD, CMD, LAc
Grant Guoqiang Zhang
Acupuncturist, PhD, CMD, LAc
Baltimore, MD 21211
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) 274-0614 View (410) 274-0614
Photo of Lina Hu, Acupuncturist, OMD, PhD, LAc, DiplAc
Lina Hu
Acupuncturist, OMD, PhD, LAc, DiplAc
Baltimore, MD 21211
Lina Hu, L.Ac., OMD, Ph.D., Dipl.Ac , graduated from Heilongjiang University of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). After five years of training in Chinese and western medicine, she spent three years focusing on acupuncture and obtained an MSc degree from Shanghai University of TCM. After receiving her master's degree, she worked as an instructor in Heilongjiang University of TCM and practiced as a physician of acupuncture in the affiliated hospital. During her time at the hospital, extensive training and experience in acupuncture applied to different diseases allowed her to gain a broad knowledge base and ability to confidently manage her clinical practice.
Lina Hu, L.Ac., OMD, Ph.D., Dipl.Ac , graduated from Heilongjiang University of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). After five years of training in Chinese and western medicine, she spent three years focusing on acupuncture and obtained an MSc degree from Shanghai University of TCM. After receiving her master's degree, she worked as an instructor in Heilongjiang University of TCM and practiced as a physician of acupuncture in the affiliated hospital. During her time at the hospital, extensive training and experience in acupuncture applied to different diseases allowed her to gain a broad knowledge base and ability to confidently manage her clinical practice.
(410) 514-8448 View (410) 514-8448
Photo of Shahrzad Taavoni - Acupuncture In Towson, Acupuncturist, LAc, MACHM, Dipl OM, BS
Acupuncture In Towson
Acupuncturist, LAc, MACHM, Dipl OM, BS
Serves Area
Shahrzad Taavoni, L.Ac, Dipl OM, MACHM, B.S. trained and excelled in the one of the most rigorous Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal programs in the country. She received her dual Masters degree in California which has the highest standards for education and examination in the country. She completed her 4 years Masters degree from Yo San University of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Los Angeles, California in 2006. She is a Diplomat in Oriental Medicine NCCAOM. She has received her Bachelors of Science in Psychology from UMCP.
Shahrzad Taavoni, L.Ac, Dipl OM, MACHM, B.S. trained and excelled in the one of the most rigorous Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal programs in the country. She received her dual Masters degree in California which has the highest standards for education and examination in the country. She completed her 4 years Masters degree from Yo San University of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Los Angeles, California in 2006. She is a Diplomat in Oriental Medicine NCCAOM. She has received her Bachelors of Science in Psychology from UMCP.
(443) 234-9144 View (443) 234-9144
Photo of Zhaobo Li, Acupuncturist, LAc, MD, PhD
Zhaobo Li
Acupuncturist, LAc, MD, PhD
Serves Area
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 Rongjuan Sun, Acupuncturist, CMD, LAc
Rongjuan Sun
Acupuncturist, CMD, LAc
Serves Area
Dr. Rongjuan Sun graduated from Nanjing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine(TCM) with a medical degree in 1985. She has practiced TCM in China for more than 10 years before she came to the United States. Dr. Sun has worked in many different medical facilities from Maryland to New York. She has helped thousands of patients with various pains, allergies, PMS, and infertility with her comprehensive knowledge in both western and eastern medicine. Dr. Sun's caring and friendly attitude has earned her much respect with her patients.
Dr. Rongjuan Sun graduated from Nanjing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine(TCM) with a medical degree in 1985. She has practiced TCM in China for more than 10 years before she came to the United States. Dr. Sun has worked in many different medical facilities from Maryland to New York. She has helped thousands of patients with various pains, allergies, PMS, and infertility with her comprehensive knowledge in both western and eastern medicine. Dr. Sun's caring and friendly attitude has earned her much respect with her patients.
(410) 948-3577 View (410) 948-3577
Photo of Diane Kane, Acupuncturist, MAc, LAc
Diane Kane
Acupuncturist, MAc, LAc
Serves Area
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 Helen H. Liu, Acupuncturist, LicAc, CMD
Helen H. Liu
Acupuncturist, LicAc, CMD
Serves Area
I have been practicing medicine since 1986. I practiced and taught medicine in Hunan, China after training in Western and Traditional Chinese medicine for 8 years. I also worked in Chinese Medicine practices in Edmonton and Montreal, Canada and in Maryland. 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 girl's colic, a 9-month-old boy's prolonged cough or a 40-year-old woman's recurrent bladder infections.
I have been practicing medicine since 1986. I practiced and taught medicine in Hunan, China after training in Western and Traditional Chinese medicine for 8 years. I also worked in Chinese Medicine practices in Edmonton and Montreal, Canada and in Maryland. 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 girl's colic, a 9-month-old boy's prolonged cough or a 40-year-old woman's recurrent bladder infections.
(410) 346-5069 View (410) 346-5069
Photo of Jill Ellen Smith, Acupuncturist, LAc, MAc, NCCAOM, RN, MSN
Jill Ellen Smith
Acupuncturist, LAc, MAc, NCCAOM, RN, MSN
Serves Area
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

Online Acupuncturists

Photo of Pamela Howard - Vitality Natural Therapies, Acupuncturist, LAc
Vitality Natural Therapies
Acupuncturist, LAc
Silver Spring, MD 20904
Traditional Chinese Medicine treats many chronic and emergent issues. These range from autoimmune issues (allergies, asthma, arthritis, and more) to viral issues with shingles or herpes to post-viral issues such as long Covid. Digestive disorders such as IBS, ulcerative colitis, and Crohn's can respond to TCM herbal formulas. We treat stress, anxiety, mild depression, emotional trauma and PTSD. With herbs alone, we can treat dermatological issues such as acne, rosacea, eczema, & psoriasis. With acupuncture, look your best with weekly beauty-enhancing cosmetic treatments for a natural glow that is non-chemical and non-invasive.
Traditional Chinese Medicine treats many chronic and emergent issues. These range from autoimmune issues (allergies, asthma, arthritis, and more) to viral issues with shingles or herpes to post-viral issues such as long Covid. Digestive disorders such as IBS, ulcerative colitis, and Crohn's can respond to TCM herbal formulas. We treat stress, anxiety, mild depression, emotional trauma and PTSD. With herbs alone, we can treat dermatological issues such as acne, rosacea, eczema, & psoriasis. With acupuncture, look your best with weekly beauty-enhancing cosmetic treatments for a natural glow that is non-chemical and non-invasive.
(301) 965-6594 View (301) 965-6594
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 Jiajie Zheng, Acupuncturist, LAc
Jiajie Zheng
Acupuncturist, LAc
Serves Area
My patients are aged from 2 month-old to 91 year-old. Mostly of them feel symptom relieved, more relaxed, more energetic and healthier in general well being.
My patients are aged from 2 month-old to 91 year-old. Mostly of them feel symptom relieved, more relaxed, more energetic and healthier in general well being.
(202) 559-4213 View (202) 559-4213
Photo of Gang Peng, Acupuncturist, CMD, PhD, LAc
Gang Peng
Acupuncturist, CMD, PhD, LAc
Bethesda, MD 20814
I graduated from Beijing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine 1982 (Bachelor of Medicine) and practice acupuncture in Rockville and Bethesda, Maryland. I also do acupuncture at National Institutes of Health as a member of pain and palliative care team. My main interests have been on pain management, sport injury, inflammation (such as arthritis, tendonitis, gastrointestinal problems) and neurological diseases (essential tremor, Parkinson's disease, dementia and ADHD). I am also an immunologist researching on inflammatory and infectious diseases. I was NIH research fellow and has a Ph.D. in biochemistry (Wayne State University 1992).
I graduated from Beijing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine 1982 (Bachelor of Medicine) and practice acupuncture in Rockville and Bethesda, Maryland. I also do acupuncture at National Institutes of Health as a member of pain and palliative care team. My main interests have been on pain management, sport injury, inflammation (such as arthritis, tendonitis, gastrointestinal problems) and neurological diseases (essential tremor, Parkinson's disease, dementia and ADHD). I am also an immunologist researching on inflammatory and infectious diseases. I was NIH research fellow and has a Ph.D. in biochemistry (Wayne State University 1992).
(301) 531-5876 View (301) 531-5876
Photo of Stephanie Mwangaza Brown, Acupuncturist, LAc, Reiki, Herbs
Stephanie Mwangaza Brown
Acupuncturist, LAc, Reiki, Herbs
Hyattsville, MD 20782
Do you want to address your health concerns with a natural process? Do you want to know what is going on and how to prevent problems from recurring? Do you want to reap the multitude of benefits that being in balance brings? If yes, then let me partner with you to take care of your health. I am a licensed acupuncturist (2006), an herbalist (2017), a Reiki master (2000) and a certified color therapist (1998). I have dedicated my practice to physical health care: pain management, women's health, et al.; mental health care: stress, anxiety, depression and more, and facial rejuvenation.
Do you want to address your health concerns with a natural process? Do you want to know what is going on and how to prevent problems from recurring? Do you want to reap the multitude of benefits that being in balance brings? If yes, then let me partner with you to take care of your health. I am a licensed acupuncturist (2006), an herbalist (2017), a Reiki master (2000) and a certified color therapist (1998). I have dedicated my practice to physical health care: pain management, women's health, et al.; mental health care: stress, anxiety, depression and more, and facial rejuvenation.
(202) 559-4248 View (202) 559-4248
Photo of Maureen Gary, Acupuncturist, MAc, LAc, SEP Cer
Maureen Gary
Acupuncturist, MAc, LAc, SEP Cer
Columbia, MD 21045
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 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
Photo of Vladimir Liss, Acupuncturist, LAc , MAc
Vladimir Liss
Acupuncturist, LAc , MAc
Gaithersburg, MD 20886
I deeply believe that only a holistic approach to person’s health can get the reliable changes. Whether you are coming for, is chronic or acute pain, fertility issues, stress, insomnia or digestive problems, it is important to understand every aspect of imbalance and how it affects your Body, Mind and Spirit.
I deeply believe that only a holistic approach to person’s health can get the reliable changes. Whether you are coming for, is chronic or acute pain, fertility issues, stress, insomnia or digestive problems, it is important to understand every aspect of imbalance and how it affects your Body, Mind and Spirit.
(347) 701-3433 View (347) 701-3433
Photo of Heejin Kim - Good Acupuncture & Herbs Clinic, Acupuncturist, LAc
Good Acupuncture & Herbs Clinic
Acupuncturist, LAc
Rockville, MD 20850
Heejin Kim L.Ac. 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 (CCAOM) in Clean Needle Technique and she is state-licensed as a Licensed Acupuncturist in VA and MD. She has more than 15 years of clinical practice in Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine in China and the U.S.
Heejin Kim L.Ac. 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 (CCAOM) in Clean Needle Technique and she is state-licensed as a Licensed Acupuncturist in VA and MD. She has more than 15 years of clinical practice in Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine in China and the U.S.
(301) 321-7864 View (301) 321-7864
Photo of Dr. Rachel S Strass, Acupuncturist, DOM, LAc, DiplOM
Dr. Rachel S Strass
Acupuncturist, DOM, LAc, DiplOM
Annapolis, MD 21401
The focus of Rachel’s practice is to see each person as a whole and work together to find their way to good health. We look at each person’s history and carefully design a plan that is unique to their needs. Whether a person has numerous physical issues and a great deal of pain, or they are relatively healthy and wish to handle stress and live in better balance with their world, she is here to help.
The focus of Rachel’s practice is to see each person as a whole and work together to find their way to good health. We look at each person’s history and carefully design a plan that is unique to their needs. Whether a person has numerous physical issues and a great deal of pain, or they are relatively healthy and wish to handle stress and live in better balance with their world, she is here to help.
(410) 941-8731 View (410) 941-8731
Photo of Dr. Sherry Hamilton, Acupuncturist, DACM, LAc
Dr. Sherry Hamilton
Acupuncturist, DACM, LAc
Leonardtown, MD 20650
I've been involved with Oriental Medicine for more than 25 years. I am constantly reminded how remarkable our bodies are. I feel the body has it's own intelligence and knows how to heal itself but sometimes it forgets or needs a little impetus to get started in the healing process. I provide said impetus. I have an eclectic practice and have treated people for a wide variety of things, such as severe 3rd/4th degree burns [enabling patient to avoid skin graft], Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, osteoporosis, food allergies, facial rejuvenation, Chronic Lymes, Alpha-Gal and Dementia. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l7d1H9P61r0
I've been involved with Oriental Medicine for more than 25 years. I am constantly reminded how remarkable our bodies are. I feel the body has it's own intelligence and knows how to heal itself but sometimes it forgets or needs a little impetus to get started in the healing process. I provide said impetus. I have an eclectic practice and have treated people for a wide variety of things, such as severe 3rd/4th degree burns [enabling patient to avoid skin graft], Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, osteoporosis, food allergies, facial rejuvenation, Chronic Lymes, Alpha-Gal and Dementia. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l7d1H9P61r0
(240) 339-3967 View (240) 339-3967
FAQs - About Acupuncture

How can I find an acupuncturist in Baltimore City County?

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.