Acupuncturists in Clarksville, MD

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 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 Hanbiao Cao, Acupuncturist, LAc, DiplAc
Hanbiao Cao
Acupuncturist, LAc, DiplAc
Serves Area
My medical career began at Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). My studies included training in both Western and Traditional Chinese medicine. After completed my Acupuncture Master degree study in the post-graduate school of the University, I was assigned to an research position in Shanghai Research Institute of Acupuncture & Meridian. I worked there for 3 years in the field of study of Chinese Acupuncture Schools & Doctrine and attended Outpatient Clinic Center to treat patients at the same time.
My medical career began at Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). My studies included training in both Western and Traditional Chinese medicine. After completed my Acupuncture Master degree study in the post-graduate school of the University, I was assigned to an research position in Shanghai Research Institute of Acupuncture & Meridian. I worked there for 3 years in the field of study of Chinese Acupuncture Schools & Doctrine and attended Outpatient Clinic Center to treat patients at the same time.
(301) 617-0700 View (301) 617-0700
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

More Acupuncturists Nearby

Photo of Denise C Tyson - Advanced Integrative Health Group, Acupuncturist, DOM, LAc, ADS
Advanced Integrative Health Group
Acupuncturist, DOM, LAc, ADS
Gambrills, MD 21054
We treat adults and children individually and as a family. We focus on empowering you with the tools for wellness. Our practitioners help you with alleviating stress, pain, fatigue, digestive imbalances, sleep difficulties and conditions which affect our well-being.
We treat adults and children individually and as a family. We focus on empowering you with the tools for wellness. Our practitioners help you with alleviating stress, pain, fatigue, digestive imbalances, sleep difficulties and conditions which affect our well-being.
(410) 941-2727 View (410) 941-2727
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 Jie Chen - JC Acupuncture and Chinese Herb Center, Acupuncturist, LAc, CMD, MS
JC Acupuncture and Chinese Herb Center
Acupuncturist, LAc, CMD, MS
Silver Spring, MD 20904
I graduated from Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) in China with a medical degree in 1987, and received a Master Degree in Human Nutrition in University of Bridgeport, Bridgeport, CT in 1993, I have been practicing and teaching Chinese medicine in China and USA over the last 25 years. I am currently a clinical supervisor in the Chinese herbology program at Maryland University of Integrative Health. With the knowledge and experience in Eastern and Western Medicine, I am providing high quality service to my clients.
I graduated from Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) in China with a medical degree in 1987, and received a Master Degree in Human Nutrition in University of Bridgeport, Bridgeport, CT in 1993, I have been practicing and teaching Chinese medicine in China and USA over the last 25 years. I am currently a clinical supervisor in the Chinese herbology program at Maryland University of Integrative Health. With the knowledge and experience in Eastern and Western Medicine, I am providing high quality service to my clients.
(301) 637-4573 View (301) 637-4573
Photo of Noah Samuels, Acupuncturist, LAc, DiplOM
Noah Samuels
Acupuncturist, LAc, DiplOM
Serves Area
Noah is a licensed acupuncturist, herbalist and Functional Nutritional Medicine Consultant. Noah graduated magna cum laude from Emperor’s College of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Los Angeles in 2007. He did an acupuncture residency at UCLA, working alongside medical doctors of various specializations. He is board certified by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine.  Acupuncture  Lab Testing  Vitamin Injections  Traditional Chinese Medicine
Noah is a licensed acupuncturist, herbalist and Functional Nutritional Medicine Consultant. Noah graduated magna cum laude from Emperor’s College of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Los Angeles in 2007. He did an acupuncture residency at UCLA, working alongside medical doctors of various specializations. He is board certified by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine.  Acupuncture  Lab Testing  Vitamin Injections  Traditional Chinese Medicine
(202) 998-3672 View (202) 998-3672
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 Guang Xu, Acupuncturist, LAc, OMD, PhD, DiplAc
Guang Xu
Acupuncturist, LAc, OMD, PhD, DiplAc
Rockville, MD 20850
Dr. Guang Xu, L.Ac,, OMD, Ph.D., graduated from Heilongjiang University of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) in China in 1984. After five years study and training in Chinese and western medicine, she received her Doctor of Medicine degree. She then practiced at the University Hospital as a physician of TCM (acupuncture, herb medicine etc.) for 10 years. She specializes in the treatment of pain, women’s health, immune disorder, stress, depression, insomnia and paralysis. She studied ShuangJinHua (herbs) on immune functions, that earned the First Place of TCM Science Advanced Technology Award in Heilongjiang Provence, China in 1996.
Dr. Guang Xu, L.Ac,, OMD, Ph.D., graduated from Heilongjiang University of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) in China in 1984. After five years study and training in Chinese and western medicine, she received her Doctor of Medicine degree. She then practiced at the University Hospital as a physician of TCM (acupuncture, herb medicine etc.) for 10 years. She specializes in the treatment of pain, women’s health, immune disorder, stress, depression, insomnia and paralysis. She studied ShuangJinHua (herbs) on immune functions, that earned the First Place of TCM Science Advanced Technology Award in Heilongjiang Provence, China in 1996.
(240) 213-4842 View (240) 213-4842
Photo of Sung Up Hong, Acupuncturist, LAc, MAc
Sung Up Hong
Acupuncturist, LAc, MAc
Chevy Chase, MD 20815
At Chevy Chase Acupuncture, my mission is to provide you with the best possible care of your acute and chronic pain. I believe in comprehensive management. As a 3rd Generation Acupuncturist, I have learned to appreciate both traditional medicine and Western medicine which can enhance the treatment effect in patients. I specialize in pain control, sport medicine, spinal rehabilitation and balancing treatments.
At Chevy Chase Acupuncture, my mission is to provide you with the best possible care of your acute and chronic pain. I believe in comprehensive management. As a 3rd Generation Acupuncturist, I have learned to appreciate both traditional medicine and Western medicine which can enhance the treatment effect in patients. I specialize in pain control, sport medicine, spinal rehabilitation and balancing treatments.
(301) 656-3746 View (301) 656-3746
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 Jian Madesen, Acupuncturist, DAOM, LAc, MD (CN)
Jian Madesen
Acupuncturist, DAOM, LAc, MD (CN)
Columbia, MD 21044
My ideal client values the importance of prevention and regulation in achieving long-term health. They are seeking relief from pain, emotional or mental challenges, infertility, or complex health issues that have not responded well to conventional treatments. These may include musculoskeletal pain, anxiety, depression, hormonal imbalances, or post-surgical complications. They are looking for a holistic, natural approach that supports both mind and body, promoting overall well-being and balance without heavy reliance on medication.
My ideal client values the importance of prevention and regulation in achieving long-term health. They are seeking relief from pain, emotional or mental challenges, infertility, or complex health issues that have not responded well to conventional treatments. These may include musculoskeletal pain, anxiety, depression, hormonal imbalances, or post-surgical complications. They are looking for a holistic, natural approach that supports both mind and body, promoting overall well-being and balance without heavy reliance on medication.
(240) 237-9231 View (240) 237-9231
Photo of Nikki Richman, Acupuncturist, MAc, LAc
Nikki Richman
Acupuncturist, MAc, LAc
Rockville, MD 20852
I am passionate about health & wellbeing and helping people feel their best. Prior to training as an acupuncturist I worked in the field of psychology with adults and adolescents with mental health and emotional issues for over 10 years. Observing how a person's emotional health affected their physical health and how a person's physical health affected their well-being I wanted to retrain in a modality that could address both issues. I began my Acupuncture training in England and studied there for three years, before moving to the US and training for a further three years.
I am passionate about health & wellbeing and helping people feel their best. Prior to training as an acupuncturist I worked in the field of psychology with adults and adolescents with mental health and emotional issues for over 10 years. Observing how a person's emotional health affected their physical health and how a person's physical health affected their well-being I wanted to retrain in a modality that could address both issues. I began my Acupuncture training in England and studied there for three years, before moving to the US and training for a further three years.
(301) 563-9865 View (301) 563-9865
Photo of Shahrzad Taavoni - Acupuncture In Towson, Acupuncturist, LAc, MACHM, Dipl OM, BS
Acupuncture In Towson
Acupuncturist, LAc, MACHM, Dipl OM, BS
Towson, MD 21204
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 Lina Hu, Acupuncturist, OMD, PhD, LAc, DiplAc
Lina Hu
Acupuncturist, OMD, PhD, LAc, DiplAc
Arnold, MD 21012
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
Zhong-Mei Acupuncture
Acupuncturist, LAc, DiplAc, NCCAOM
Clinton, MD 20735
Trained in Beijing, China at the China Academy of TCM and Beijing Jing Hua Medical University. Accepting most insurance plans. Located near Andrews Air Force Base. Our goal is to provide an alternative form of medicine to patients who are tired of the side effects associated with prescription medications. Acupunture is a natural way to help fine-tune the greatest machine ever made... your body. Helping you achieve your health goals is our number 1 priority. We believe good health is your most important asset. Without it you have nothing. Please visit our website at www.zhongmeiacupuncture.com.
Trained in Beijing, China at the China Academy of TCM and Beijing Jing Hua Medical University. Accepting most insurance plans. Located near Andrews Air Force Base. Our goal is to provide an alternative form of medicine to patients who are tired of the side effects associated with prescription medications. Acupunture is a natural way to help fine-tune the greatest machine ever made... your body. Helping you achieve your health goals is our number 1 priority. We believe good health is your most important asset. Without it you have nothing. Please visit our website at www.zhongmeiacupuncture.com.
(240) 351-5791 View (240) 351-5791
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 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 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
FAQs - About Acupuncture

How can I find an acupuncturist in Clarksville?

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.