How to Become an Acupuncturist

Series Summary

Acupuncture has been around for centuries in China and other locations in the Far East. In fact, archaeologists have found stone acupuncture needles dating back as far as 3,000 B.C. This ancient practice focuses around a chi, or energy, that is believed to encompass the body. The channeling of the chi is quite commonly executed through specific points located throughout all portions of the body. It's believed that exercising these points and stirring the energy within can inspire a natural healing source. Sometimes, patients rarely revisit their practitioners because their ailment disappears. In this free video series, learn all about the requirements to becoming a licensed acupuncturist from a licensed acupuncturist. She talks about the history of acupuncture, what acupuncture treats and what schooling is needed.

Video Transcript

"Did you know that the World Health Organization recognizes acupuncture as an effective treatment for over 150 different health conditions? Hi, my name is Christina Bjergo, I'm an acupuncture practitioner and I'm going to speak to you today about how to become an acupuncturist. But first, what is acupuncture? Acupuncture is modality development from China about 5,000 years ago, with the insertion of a few very thin, fine needles into certain points of the body. It's about balancing the energy in the body and what results is health and wellness. So, what does acupuncture treat? Well, it treats a variety of conditions, that's one of the reasons I got into acupuncture. You can treat pain, digestive difficulties, women health issues, help with fertility, boost the immune system, also help with mental health issues, anxiety, depression, stress, the list just goes on and on. So, how do you become an acupuncturist? Well, you need a high school diploma degree. An associates is often required by the state and that can be done through community college in preparation for a degree. The requirements will differ state by state, so it's good to do the research and then it could also be another career choice. Somebody may come in at any age you may become an acupuncturist and go to acupuncture school. So, it could be a complete career change and just maybe they need some requirements or it could be that you're already in the medical profession looking for a change. There's a number of nurses, physical therapists, for example, that were in my school when I was studying oriental medicine. So, one of the things I would recommend for somebody interested is to do a little research. First off, go and get a treatment yourself. How does it feel to be the client? Ask questions of the acupuncturist who's treating you. All good information that'll help you access if it's the right career for you. The other thing is to research about different schools. There's a variety of schools around the nation. Find out what program is a good match for you. Some will have a very strong Western medicine background, others will focus on other modalities such as herbal medicine, body health, body work such as shiatsu, Japanese massage or twina..."