What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a branch of traditional Chinese medicine that involves the insertion of fine needles into the skin at specific points on the body called acupoints. It promotes healing and wellbeing by stimulating the body's natural energy flow. Acupuncture is used to treat a wide range of conditions, including pain, migraines, nausea, anxiety, shingles and fertility issues. It is also used as a preventative measure to help boost the immune system. An acupuncturist may use other healing techniques alongside acupuncture to expedite an individual's healing process, such as cupping, Chinese herbs, Chinese massage and moxibustion, among others.
Acupuncturists in Port Macquarie can benefit from memberships in organisations that provide professional development and industry news, such as:
- Australian Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine Association (AACMA)
- Federation Of Chinese Medicine & Acupuncture Societies Of Australia (FCMA)
- Australian Traditional Medicine Society (ATMS)
- Complementary Medicine Association (CMA)
- Australian Holistic Healers and Counsellors Association (AHHCA)
- International Institute for Complementary Therapists (IICT)
Should you study acupuncture?
There are many benefits to taking an acupuncture course, both for students and professionals. Formal acupuncture training will help you develop a better understanding of this ancient healing art and how it can be used to treat various conditions. It can also give you the interpersonal skills you need to become a successful practitioner, such as:
- Compassion and empathy for your patients are important because understanding their needs allows you to provide them with the best possible care.
- Excellent communication skills will enable you to explain the benefits of acupuncture to your patients and answer any questions they may have.
- Patience and open-mindedness will help you remain calm and collected at all times, which is crucial when working with patients who may be experiencing pain or discomfort.
- Attention to detail is one of the most important qualities of a successful acupuncturist, as acupuncture is a complex and delicate treatment modality that requires a great deal of precision and care.
- Strong problem-solving skills will allow you to identify stressful areas in the body and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
If you have these qualities or wish to cultivate them along with different acupuncture techniques, then keep reading to learn about the courses that you can take to become qualified in this field.
What are the course and study options for acupuncture in Port Macquarie?
Several acupuncture schools in Port Macquarie provide comprehensive training to aspiring acupuncturists. Students can study full-time or part-time, with the latter being preferable if they work a 9-to-5 job or have other obligations during the day. Classes can be scheduled at night or on weekends, and you can study on campus, online, or via blended learning.
Acupuncture workshops are an excellent way to get started in the field, improve your skills or learn new acupuncture techniques.
Earning a bachelor's degree in acupuncture or Chinese medicine is the bare minimum for practising acupuncture professionally. Depending on your preferred mode of study, this program can take anywhere from four to 10 years to complete.
You can find a full list of acupuncture schools and courses in Port Macquarie at the top of this page. Get in touch with them to find out more about their curriculum, payment plans and study options.
What happens after you complete your acupuncture course?
Completing an acupuncture course can lead to a variety of careers, including working in an acupuncture clinic, a massage centre, spa and wellness centre, or in a holistic clinic.
Also, you have the option to work in your own private practice, which gives you the opportunity to set your own hours and manage your own clients. If you choose this route, you will be able to list your acupuncture services on Natural Therapy Pages and expand your client base in the shortest period of time.
Continuing professional development courses are an important part of growing professionally in your acupuncture career. You can pursue postgraduate education in acupuncture or other complementary medicine courses, including:
