Acupuncture is widely recognised and practised in Australia and other parts of the world. It is an effective remedy for chronic pain and all kinds of health problems, whether mild or severe. Deeply rooted in the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), acupuncture maintains the healthy flow of energy in a person's spiritual and physical bodies to keep diseases at bay.
As an acupuncturist, you have a wide range of career options. You may work at a hospital, sports club, acupuncture clinic, cruise ship, or teach the discipline at a college or university. Why, you can even set up your very own private practice and manage your work schedule.
Successful acupuncturists know for a fact that obtaining their qualification for the job was only the first step to their success. For the succeeding steps, they leveraged their membership with a professional body. We list below the top acupuncture associations in Australia that will make a big difference in your career.
Australian Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine Association (AACMA)
The Australian Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine Association (AACMA) is the industry's largest professional body that represents more than 2,200 practitioners of acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine and traditional Chinese massage. Registered members can enjoy a slew of benefits, including accreditation, discounted professional indemnity insurance, marketing and advertising opportunities and affordable Continuing Professional Development (CPD) programs.
To join, you have to complete and submit the application form on the Association's website, along with a certified copy of your academic transcript and joining fee. Students of acupuncture and other TCM courses can join free of charge.
Federation of Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture Australia (FCMA)
As one of the founders of the World Federation of Chinese Medicine Societies (WFCMS), the FCMA is a staunch advocate for practitioners of acupuncture and other TCM modalities. All of its members are entered into the Federation's registry of practitioners which potential clients can access. The organisation offers a range of benefits to ensure members meet its highest ideals and level of educational requirements for the welfare of the public.
It provides seminars and training programs annually, low-cost first aid courses and discounted insurance premiums, among others. To apply for full membership, you have to fill out the application form and submit it along with copies of your credentials, first aid certificate and membership fee. Students can join for free.
Australian Natural Therapists' Association (ANTA)
Founded in 1955, Australian Natural Therapists' Association (ANTA) is the peak body of recognised complementary medicine practitioners in Australia. Acupuncture is among the numerous disciplines that it recognises, supports and promotes. Besides conducting an annual review of accredited courses, ANTA provides free continuing professional education seminars to maintain a high level of education and professionalism among its members.
As a member, you will receive advertising perks, insurance coverage and client referrals. If you hold an accredited diploma or a bachelor's degree qualification, apply for membership today. Just submit a certified copy of your transcript and pay the membership fee. No fees are imposed on student members.
Australian Traditional-Medicine Society (ATMS)
The Australian Traditional-Medicine Society (ATMS) has been around for more than 30 years, upholding the principles and practice of various complementary therapies, such as acupuncture, aromatherapy and kinesiology, to name a few. It offers personal and professional development programs in line with the needs and goals of its members to ensure the public receives nothing less than quality service.
In addition to receiving continuing education, ATMS members are kept up to date with the latest developments and best practices in their area of expertise. If you meet the qualifications for the modality that you're practising, you are eligible for full membership. All you have to do is submit copies of your qualifications, along with your application form and membership fee. Students of accredited courses can join for free and gain access to members-only seminars, monthly newsletters and educational grants.
Joining these top acupuncture associations in Australia will not only grow your clientele and revenue, but it will also enrich your life in more ways than you can think of. Meeting and learning from other people who share your passion and goals is a quick way to deepen your knowledge, which ultimately leads to your success.
Originally published on Nov 24, 2020
