Acupuncture is a form of ancient healing Medicine that stimulates specific points on the body in order to regulate the flow of Qi (vital energy) to balance the functions of the body, mind and spirit and to restore health.

Career Prospects

Future Possibilities

Employment prospects for complementary health professionals is expected to grow rapidly over the next few years. Based on a recent study conducted among doctors, as many as 58% were expected to recommend Complimentary and alternative medicine therapies to their patients.

Duties

As a clinical Acupuncturist some of your responsibilities may include:

• Patient consultation and diagnosis of ailment
• Preparation of a suitable treatment plan
• Administering treatment by inserting fine needles into the skin at particular acupuncture points, to relieve the energy blockage in the body
• Incorporate additional treatments, such as Cupping, Moxibustion, Infrared heat, electro-acupuncture,etc as and when required
• Regular patient follow ups and maintenance of records

Working Hours

That would depend on whether you are self employed or in a job. Usually about 6-8 hours per day.

Skills

To become a successful Acupuncturist, you need:

• Confident communication and interpersonal skills, in order to explain treatment procedures and build a positive rapport with patients
• An open, non-judgemental approach in order to helping patients to feel at ease

Diverse Career Options

• Acupuncturist may practice independently or provide treatment in a multidisciplinary setting
• Acupuncturists often work alongside other allied health practitioners such as medical doctors, physiotherapists, osteopaths, chiropractors and naturopaths

Clinical Practitioners

• Independent - in private practice
• Multimodality - work in a clinic alongside other natural health clinicians and orthodox practitioners

Clinical Teachers

• Lecturing
• Clinic supervision
• Webinar or online lecturer and workshop presentation