What is a Naturopathic Acupuncturist?

Acupuncture is a core element of Chinese Medicine and is based on the understanding that there is an energy flow (Qi) in living organisms, which, if blocked, results in diseases. A Naturopathic Acupuncturist resolves this energy flow by placing needles in appropriate acupuncture points. A course of acupuncture treatments is usually needed to achieve lasting results.

The Naturopathic Acupuncture Consultation.

A Naturopathic Acupuncturist follows Naturopathic principles when treating a patient. They look at the whole person, knowing that a symptom is not the disease, and, in addition to acupuncture needles, they use tools such as dietary and lifestyle interventions to support health. Traditional acupuncturists placed great emphasis on the body’s own healing power. Rather than forcing out illness using strong drugs, Chinese doctors stimulated the body’s own innate healing power. This approach is followed by Naturopathic Acupuncturists. They
know about the importance of nutrition as Qi is produced by the food one eats. If the diet is poor, the acupuncturist has much less Qi to work with. Patients who follow the dietary advice tend to get well quickly, whereas those who ignore it get better more slowly. In fact, those who do not change their diets often hit a kind of ceiling on their wellness. They cannot get beyond a certain point without dietary changes. A good diet is, therefore, one of the fundamental aspects of the Naturopathic approach to full health.

Another key aspect of Naturopathic Acupuncture is the promotion of wellness. All too often health is defined merely as an absence of disease. One feels unwell, goes to the doctor, and has a variety of blood tests and scans done. The results often show no abnormalities. The patient is told there is nothing wrong with them. The Naturopathic Acupuncturist understands these feelings of not being well as being signals (symptoms) of the body and is able to do something about it.

How long does a treatment take?

A Naturopathic Acupuncturist will normally consult with a new client for 60 to 90 minutes. During this time, thorough case notes are taken which include family and medical history, diet and lifestyle. The Naturopathic Acupuncturist will also look at the tongue, the nails and the skin and take the pulse. Iridology as an additional diagnostic tool is often employed. Once the consultation is completed, a treatment plan is provided.

A treatment often involves several sessions which can vary depending on the complexity of the health condition.

A Naturopathic Acupuncturist focuses on:

• Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and acupuncture.
• Treating the whole person, not a symptom.
• Applying additional Naturopathic therapies such as nutrition, first aid homeopathy, Bach Flowers, tissue salts, iridology and herbs.

Naturopathic Acupuncturists registered with the ANP follow a Code of Ethics which includes client confidentiality.

How much does the treatment cost?

The fees for a Naturopathic Acupuncture treatment vary. It is best to get clarity right from the beginning.

The Naturopathic Acupuncturist qualification.

Becoming a Naturopathic Acupuncturist takes approximately 3 to 5 years.

Acupuncture Professional Development.

Members of the ANP have gone through an intensive 3 to 5-year training. They are required to continuously further their training to stay abreast of the latest developments in the field of natural therapies. ANP members meet regularly to exchange experiences via Zoom sessions or in-person meetings.

What can Naturopathic Acupuncture help with?

Common complaints for which a Naturopathic Acupuncturist is consulted are:

• Digestion.
• Weight loss / gain.
• Pain.
• Migraine.
• Hormones.
• Fertility.
• Skin.
• Musculoskeletal discomfort.
• Immunity.
• Stress.

Find a Naturopathic Acupuncturist.

Professional, qualified Naturopathic Acupuncturists can be found via the ANP Practitioner Directory.

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