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.
$84,800
According BLS, employment of acupuncturists is expected to grow 10 to 14 percent from 2016-2026.
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
2025 M Street NW
Suite 800
Washington, DC 20036
888-381-1140
http://www.nccaom.org
National Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine Alliance
PO Box 96503 #44114
Washington, DC 20090
Admin@aaaomonline.org
www.aaaomonline.org