Acupuncture is becoming more popular in the western world, as its benefits become more widely accepted and understood.  If you want to become an Acupuncturist, you must have a strong desire to help people.  You must be  mature, compassionate, self-confident, knowledgeable, skillful, and patient.  You must have a steady hand, and a calm, reassuring manner.  You must have good listening skills, good communication skills, and a good business sense.

Acupuncturists follow the premise that the body possesses channels of energy that flow throughout the body ensuring that all areas are nourished and operating efficiently.  If this process is interrupted in any way,  bodily functions break down and physical or emotional disorders will follow.  The acupuncture process will stimulate the body’s natural ability to heal itself.  Exactly why and how acupuncture is effective is still not fully understood.  There are a variety of theories, depending on the philosophy of acupuncture followed.

Acupuncturists greet their patients, take a medical history, and discuss symptoms and complaints.  They may perform a few simple tests to help them decide on how to proceed with treatment.  They will explain to the patient what they propose to do, answering any questions or concerns that a patient may have.   They will then make the patient comfortable in a standing or lying position.  Slowly the Acupuncturist will insert a series of needles along the specific path which is appropriate for the condition being treated.  The needles may be gently vibrated by hand or using a small battery.  Treatments last about one hour.

Patients usually receive a series of treatments, depending on the length and duration of the condition they wish treated.  Acupuncturists do not guarantee results in a specific length of time, as results may vary depending on the patient and their specific condition.

Education

The study of acupuncture is lengthy and challenging.  If you think you would like to have a career in acupuncture and are still in high school, take courses in English, and all the sciences, as well as history and computers.  It would be a good idea to take a course in business practices, so you can run your own office efficiently.

After you obtain your high school diploma, you will want to get a college degree.  Although some acupuncture programs only require some college education, it is preferable to get a full degree.  Education is never wasted and a full degree makes you a more desirable candidate regardless of what you future endeavors may be.

In your college curriculum, include courses such as psychology, anatomy, and biology.  While you are in college, take some time to investigate the acupuncture programs available.  It is important to take a program that is nationally accredited.  You should also investigate your state requirements and laws governing acupuncture, as there are some areas in which it cannot be legally practiced.

For information regarding accredited programs, go to:

http://www.acaom.org/

Once you find the college or university program in traditional Chinese medicine that appeals to you, make sure you understand fully what is required for admission.  There may be specific subjects, including language, that are required, as well as a specific level of education.

Programs take from three to four years.  They may concentrate only on acupuncture or may also cover herbal medicine.  Investigate all your options.

Upon completion of your post graduate training, you will have your Master’s Degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine, your MTCM.  These initials may vary as does the title.

In order to obtain a license to practice, you must become certified, which involves passing an exam administered by The National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine.  Make sure you understand fully what your specific state requirements are.

It is also possible, with more study, to obtain your doctorate in Oriental Medicine.