Acupuncturists in Santa Monica, CA

Photo of Neil R Gumenick, Acupuncturist, MAc(UK), LAc, DiplAc
Neil R Gumenick
Acupuncturist, MAc(UK), LAc, DiplAc
Santa Monica, CA 90401
I have practiced and taught Classical Five-Element Acupuncture exclusively for 42 years. I focus on the unique individual patient before me, not labeled diseases or symptoms, which are only the expression of a deeper imbalance. My aim is to identify and resolve the core imbalance, whether it be at the physical, emotional, mental, spiritual, or all of the above. In this way, symptoms resolve naturally and effortlessly.
I have practiced and taught Classical Five-Element Acupuncture exclusively for 42 years. I focus on the unique individual patient before me, not labeled diseases or symptoms, which are only the expression of a deeper imbalance. My aim is to identify and resolve the core imbalance, whether it be at the physical, emotional, mental, spiritual, or all of the above. In this way, symptoms resolve naturally and effortlessly.
(310) 453-2235 View (310) 453-2235
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 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
Photo of Mahtab Ghajar, Acupuncturist, DAOM, LAc, Dipl OM
Mahtab Ghajar
Acupuncturist, DAOM, LAc, Dipl OM
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405
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
Photo of Doann Tsuneo Kaneko, Acupuncturist, PhD
Doann Tsuneo Kaneko
Acupuncturist, PhD
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Many of my patients have sports injuries, occupational conditions, auto related injuries, stress related disorders, mental and emotional issues and psychosomatic conditions. Their symptoms are acute inflammation, chronic pain and flare-ups of both. I treat carefully after referring specialists for acute severe cases. Then one of my goals is to get results as soon as possible and as much as possible. All of us expect faster and certain recovery with less treatment. If I'm not treating pain, my patients enjoy oriental medicine for the transformation of the body, mind and spirit, including karmic issues.
Many of my patients have sports injuries, occupational conditions, auto related injuries, stress related disorders, mental and emotional issues and psychosomatic conditions. Their symptoms are acute inflammation, chronic pain and flare-ups of both. I treat carefully after referring specialists for acute severe cases. Then one of my goals is to get results as soon as possible and as much as possible. All of us expect faster and certain recovery with less treatment. If I'm not treating pain, my patients enjoy oriental medicine for the transformation of the body, mind and spirit, including karmic issues.
(310) 319-1111 View (310) 319-1111
Photo of Min Hee Lee, Acupuncturist, PhD, OMDr, LAc
Min Hee Lee
Acupuncturist, PhD, OMDr, LAc
Serves Area
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
Serves Area
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 Sharon Xiuxia LI, Acupuncturist, PhD, LAc
Sharon Xiuxia LI
Acupuncturist, PhD, LAc
Serves Area
Dr. Sharon Li has the PhD. in Neurosciences/physiology. She knows the western and Eastern medicines well and has the experiences in the both fields. She is a expert in neurological disorders includes pain, Parkinson's disease, stroke and Dementia. Now she offers her knowledge and skills to her patients with the natural healing. Email to: app@acumother.com, call or text to: (310) 699 - 1028
Dr. Sharon Li has the PhD. in Neurosciences/physiology. She knows the western and Eastern medicines well and has the experiences in the both fields. She is a expert in neurological disorders includes pain, Parkinson's disease, stroke and Dementia. Now she offers her knowledge and skills to her patients with the natural healing. Email to: app@acumother.com, call or text to: (310) 699 - 1028
(310) 928-9263 View (310) 928-9263

More Acupuncturists Nearby

Photo of Jeiran Lashai, Acupuncturist, DAOM, LAc, MS, FABORM
Jeiran Lashai
Acupuncturist, DAOM, LAc, MS, FABORM
Los Angeles, CA 90027
My main objective is to help others feel a renewed sense of energy & focus in their day-to-day lives and to help you achieve your maximum health potential. I believe that medicine is a partnership between Doctor and Patient and I will be available to you at every step of the journey to better health and wellbeing. My focus is on Women's Health & Anti-Aging Medicine. I am a member of The American Association of Oriental Medicine (AAOM); The American Acupuncture Council and The American Society of Reproductive Medicine.
My main objective is to help others feel a renewed sense of energy & focus in their day-to-day lives and to help you achieve your maximum health potential. I believe that medicine is a partnership between Doctor and Patient and I will be available to you at every step of the journey to better health and wellbeing. My focus is on Women's Health & Anti-Aging Medicine. I am a member of The American Association of Oriental Medicine (AAOM); The American Acupuncture Council and The American Society of Reproductive Medicine.
(310) 601-7482 View (310) 601-7482
Photo of Gilli Wellness- Gilli Stuppel, Acupuncturist, LAc
Gilli Wellness- Gilli Stuppel
Acupuncturist, LAc
Los Angeles, CA 90035
Gilli holds Doctors degrees in Naturopathic Medicine and a Master's Degree in Traditional Oriental Medicine. She is certified by the State of California to practice Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine. Gilli has a unique Acupuncture style. In her treatment, she encompasses her wide variety of knowledge and techniques for body, mind and spirit. In her practice, she uses Chinese herbs, diet therapy, vitamins and minerals for better results when treating her patients. Gilli treats many varied symptoms including: Fertility issues, Women's Health, Pain Management, and more.
Gilli holds Doctors degrees in Naturopathic Medicine and a Master's Degree in Traditional Oriental Medicine. She is certified by the State of California to practice Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine. Gilli has a unique Acupuncture style. In her treatment, she encompasses her wide variety of knowledge and techniques for body, mind and spirit. In her practice, she uses Chinese herbs, diet therapy, vitamins and minerals for better results when treating her patients. Gilli treats many varied symptoms including: Fertility issues, Women's Health, Pain Management, and more.
(562) 250-5156 View (562) 250-5156
Photo of Simon Nelson - Green Lotus Welness center, Acupuncturist, LAc, DAOM, DipAcup, Dip, Herb
Green Lotus Welness center
Acupuncturist, LAc, DAOM, DipAcup, Dip, Herb
Studio City, CA 91602
Great experience in diagnostic skill and treating an acute and chronic pain syndromes Very respectful to the patient condition we are taking carefully history and listen to the patient pulses and look at the patient tongue and palpate neck, shoulder upper and low back. refer patient for massage therapy, X-Ray and Blood tests if needed. I like to cooperate with patient prime care doctor. I do ear, scalp and body acupuncture and also use Abdominal Acupuncture and Gua sha (scraping therapy). Cosmetic Acupuncture and Microneedling for Hair loss and Acne. Facial rejuvenation with Microneedling and herbal stem cells.
Great experience in diagnostic skill and treating an acute and chronic pain syndromes Very respectful to the patient condition we are taking carefully history and listen to the patient pulses and look at the patient tongue and palpate neck, shoulder upper and low back. refer patient for massage therapy, X-Ray and Blood tests if needed. I like to cooperate with patient prime care doctor. I do ear, scalp and body acupuncture and also use Abdominal Acupuncture and Gua sha (scraping therapy). Cosmetic Acupuncture and Microneedling for Hair loss and Acne. Facial rejuvenation with Microneedling and herbal stem cells.
(747) 239-7691 View (747) 239-7691
Photo of Jing Wu, Acupuncturist, LAc
Jing Wu
Acupuncturist, LAc
Buena Park, CA 90620
With 20+ years of practice in China and US, Dr. Wu has accumulated sophisticated experience on diagnosis and treatment of a variety of diseases. Been practicing since 2001 as a licensed acupuncturist, She is a 1999 master alumna of Samra University of Oriental Medicine, NCCAOM Diplomat in Acupuncture & Herbal medicine, and research staff at UCLA. She started career as an attending physician in 1987 after graduating from Hubei University of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Jing's considerate personality and flexible hours make patients willing to discuss their concerns, allowing her to make comprehensive treatment plans
With 20+ years of practice in China and US, Dr. Wu has accumulated sophisticated experience on diagnosis and treatment of a variety of diseases. Been practicing since 2001 as a licensed acupuncturist, She is a 1999 master alumna of Samra University of Oriental Medicine, NCCAOM Diplomat in Acupuncture & Herbal medicine, and research staff at UCLA. She started career as an attending physician in 1987 after graduating from Hubei University of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Jing's considerate personality and flexible hours make patients willing to discuss their concerns, allowing her to make comprehensive treatment plans
(657) 279-4827 View (657) 279-4827
Photo of Denise Marie Estrada - Infinite Wellness Acupuncture, LB, Acupuncturist, MTOM
Infinite Wellness Acupuncture, LB
Acupuncturist, MTOM
Long Beach, CA 90803
Denise Marie Estrada, began her holistic wellness practice in 2014, in Long Beach, CA. Denise's health coaching approach is based on concepts stemming from western medical science, ancient Chinese Medicine theory, yogic philosophy, and traditional practice of Ayurveda. Key principles and healing methods from these disciplines inform diagnosis and help form customized, thorough treatment, and self-care plans. Chinese herbal formulas, natural organic foods, and herbal supplements support the proper flow of blood, lymph, and qi, and are often a necessary component of healing and wellness courses.
Denise Marie Estrada, began her holistic wellness practice in 2014, in Long Beach, CA. Denise's health coaching approach is based on concepts stemming from western medical science, ancient Chinese Medicine theory, yogic philosophy, and traditional practice of Ayurveda. Key principles and healing methods from these disciplines inform diagnosis and help form customized, thorough treatment, and self-care plans. Chinese herbal formulas, natural organic foods, and herbal supplements support the proper flow of blood, lymph, and qi, and are often a necessary component of healing and wellness courses.
(562) 379-5553 View (562) 379-5553
Photo of Dr. SA EUN SONG - Dr Song Acupuncture Clinic, Acupuncturist, L.ac., DACM, CMT
Dr Song Acupuncture Clinic
Acupuncturist, L.ac., DACM, CMT
Serves Area
My ideal clients are individuals seeking a natural, integrative approach to health challenges that often feel overwhelming. I work best with those navigating the complexities of modern stress—whether it manifests as persistent anxiety, sleepless nights, or chronic physical discomfort. I also welcome those on their fertility journey who are looking for a supportive, holistic partner to complement their reproductive health goals. My clients are typically proactive individuals who value a personalized, patient-centered approach to wellness.
My ideal clients are individuals seeking a natural, integrative approach to health challenges that often feel overwhelming. I work best with those navigating the complexities of modern stress—whether it manifests as persistent anxiety, sleepless nights, or chronic physical discomfort. I also welcome those on their fertility journey who are looking for a supportive, holistic partner to complement their reproductive health goals. My clients are typically proactive individuals who value a personalized, patient-centered approach to wellness.
(657) 571-6227 View (657) 571-6227
Photo of Foster Ryan, Acupuncturist, LAc, MTCM, DiplAc
Foster Ryan
Acupuncturist, LAc, MTCM, DiplAc
Los Angeles, CA 90066
My ideal client is interested in returning themselves to optimal health, and is interested in doing what it takes to achieve that. I use acupuncture and Functional Medicine- science based herbalism and nutrition- to help them achieve these goals. I specialize in treating orthopedic pain conditions, Hashimotos's thyroiditis, Metabolic Syndrome, Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue, autoimmune, digestive, inflammatory, and chronic ill health conditions. The mechanisms behind these are one and proper identification of the underlying issues and proper treatment and lifestyle modification can have a dramatic impact. I use modern lab work along with traditional methods to identify these issues.
My ideal client is interested in returning themselves to optimal health, and is interested in doing what it takes to achieve that. I use acupuncture and Functional Medicine- science based herbalism and nutrition- to help them achieve these goals. I specialize in treating orthopedic pain conditions, Hashimotos's thyroiditis, Metabolic Syndrome, Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue, autoimmune, digestive, inflammatory, and chronic ill health conditions. The mechanisms behind these are one and proper identification of the underlying issues and proper treatment and lifestyle modification can have a dramatic impact. I use modern lab work along with traditional methods to identify these issues.
(310) 773-4269 View (310) 773-4269
Photo of Woo And Soon Chung - J.J. Acupuncture & Herb Clinic / Brain Lab Center, Acupuncturist, PhD, LAc
*They provide patients with a unique experience combining traditional, esoteric acupuncture and herbal medicine to achieve overall health and wellness such as disease improvement and anti-aging. They had been engaged in the study of herbal medicine for over twenty years in Korea. Dr. Woo Chung has taught herbology at the oriental medicine university after getting his Ph.D degree in oriental medicine from ALU. Dr. Soon Chung was a pharmacist in Korea and has worked as a Diabetes instructor for patients at the hospital of ChungAng University in Korea. They have practiced around 10 years at Newport Beach and Irvine also.
*They provide patients with a unique experience combining traditional, esoteric acupuncture and herbal medicine to achieve overall health and wellness such as disease improvement and anti-aging. They had been engaged in the study of herbal medicine for over twenty years in Korea. Dr. Woo Chung has taught herbology at the oriental medicine university after getting his Ph.D degree in oriental medicine from ALU. Dr. Soon Chung was a pharmacist in Korea and has worked as a Diabetes instructor for patients at the hospital of ChungAng University in Korea. They have practiced around 10 years at Newport Beach and Irvine also.
(213) 805-8826 View (213) 805-8826
Photo of Guru Dev Kaur Khalsa - Guru Dev Kaur Khalsa L.Ac., Acupuncturist, LAc
Guru Dev Kaur Khalsa L.Ac.
Acupuncturist, LAc
Beverly Hills, CA 90211
With over 5 decades of experience in various forms of holistic healing Gurudev has a vast reservoir of knowledge from which to draw on to help her patients empower themselves. Trained both in analytical and intuitive comprehension she uses practical methodologies, as well as western medical analysis, in both examination and treatment. Internal medical, emotional and structural issues are all addressed and treated in order to re-balance and restore a a patients whole system in a holistic and natural manner. Acupuncture can also used with much success for releasing past trauma.
With over 5 decades of experience in various forms of holistic healing Gurudev has a vast reservoir of knowledge from which to draw on to help her patients empower themselves. Trained both in analytical and intuitive comprehension she uses practical methodologies, as well as western medical analysis, in both examination and treatment. Internal medical, emotional and structural issues are all addressed and treated in order to re-balance and restore a a patients whole system in a holistic and natural manner. Acupuncture can also used with much success for releasing past trauma.
(310) 486-2786 View (310) 486-2786
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 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 Santa Monica?

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.