What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is one of the oldest branches of Traditional Chinese Medicine that focuses on stimulating the meridian channels located throughout the body. In doing so, it balances the flow of energy within the body and supports its natural healing abilities. The acupuncturist inserts fine needles into different acupuncture points in the body, which correspond with the internal organs of the body, to address physical and emotional disorders.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) lists acupuncture as the most popular complementary medicine. It is practised worldwide and has been proven effective in treating and preventing a myriad of conditions, including headaches, muscle tension, anxiety, depression, digestive issues, infertility, asthma, high blood pressure, addiction and obesity.
Why Study Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is an evidence-based healing modality which may be used as an adjunct to other treatment methods or as a stand-alone therapy. Completing a qualification in acupuncture will accelerate your career in complementary medicine and gain you access to Australia's professional organisations for acupuncturists such as the Federation of Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture Societies of Australia (FCMA).
What Does It Take to Study Acupuncture or Become a Practitioner of It?
To succeed in the field of acupuncture, it pays to have empathy, compassion and an open mind that is capable of accepting what others are going through, regardless if it's physical, emotional or spiritual in nature. Having good listening skills and a high amount of patience is also essential as these qualities will enable you to get to the root cause of a client's problem.
It would also help to be very observant as you assess an individual, taking a good look at all aspects of their life, including lifestyle and habits. That way, you can draw up a treatment plan based on their issues and the framework of traditional Chinese medicine.
Course and Study Options for Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a university degree, which takes four years to complete if you study full-time or eight to 10 years if you prefer to take fewer credits. The course will teach you the theoretical structure of traditional Chinese medicine before providing you with extensive clinical training where you'll get to work with actual patients.
Because it's only a small part of an overarching system of medicine, acupuncture is taught alongside other TCM modalities such as qigong, herbal medicine and Chinese massage or Tui Na. After graduation, you will be fully equipped to practise acupuncture in a professional capacity and even integrate it into your current practice.
How to Choose a School or Course in Acupuncture
Where you choose to study acupuncture will be the determining factor of your success down the road. That means, if you're looking to become a registered acupuncturist in Australia, you must enrol in a college or university that offers a curriculum approved by the Chinese Medicine Board of Australia (CMBA).
The Board is responsible for regulating the Chinese medicine profession in the country, as well as accreditation of courses offered in this field of practice. Completing a qualification recognised by the CMBA will enable you to set up your own clinic someday and gain membership with professional organisations for acupuncturists.
All set to become a registered acupuncturist? If you are, head over to the top of this page to see the comprehensive list of accredited acupuncture courses in Australia. Filter your choices based on your interest and goals. If your preferred course happens to cost way beyond your budget, you may contact the school to ask if they offer VET Student Loans or other forms of payment plans.
