Acupuncturists locate specific points on the body (meridians) and stimulate them with very fine needles. Acupuncture is one of the therapies that works with the natural vital energy inherent within all living things to promote the body’s ability to heal itself. Acupuncture has been used successfully to treat headaches, arthritis, anxiety disorders, substance addictions, and a variety of other health problems.
A session with a client runs between a half-hour and an hour. After diagnosing the patient and discussing treatment, the practitioner then performs the acupuncture. At the end of the session, the acupuncturist may prescribe herbal therapies for the patient to use at home.
Acupuncturists may work in naturopathic offices, health spas, and integrative health centers.
$84,400
According to the BLS, employment of acupuncturists is expected to grow 5 percent, slower than average between 2020-2030.
An acupuncturist must be either a medical doctor or a licensed acupuncturist to practice in most states. The National Accreditation Commission of Schools and Colleges for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NACSCAOM) accredits schools of acupuncture. An acupuncturist can receive a Master of Science in Acupuncture.
Licensure is required in the state of Connecticut.
Prerequisite: Sixty semester hours approved post-secondary education; approved acupuncture program; all portions of the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine written examination; Clean Needle Technique Course of the CCAOM.
National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine
2001 K Street, NW – 3rd Floor North
Washington, DC 20006
(888) 381-1140
http://www.nccaom.org