I plan on trying acupuncture to help wtih my mild depression/anxiety/allergies and was wondering how do i go about looking for a qualified acupuncturist? Also are there different types of acupunctursit? How often is a person suppose to visit an acupuncturist if he/she decides to try this route? Once a month?

hi there. i found my acupunturist through my health insurance recently but other times i have asked around, maybe through another alternative health practitioner or yoga teacher. also some natural food stores might have a list.

i have gone to acupunture for asthma and allergies, menstration problems, and recently for back problems. i have found relief from all my treatments, especially of they also give herbs. as far as different types, i have only seen a chinese practicing one but there may be others out there. you can ask what they specialize in.

as far as how often, it depends on how acute your problem is. at this point i go once a week for a very painful back and i also get cupping treatment, maxa, and electrostimulation at times. in the past i have gone once a month.

the things about acupunture and chinese medicine is that they treat you as a whole, so each symptom is not separate. for example, my allergies have been relieved while i was mainly going for the back pain relief.

I really recommend it as it has worked for me and I will also ask my acupunturist if she has some ideas for how to find a reputable practitioner.

good luck!
bitt

If you are strapped for cash, you can always try going to a school of acupuncture for treatments. It generally costs less and the treatments are excellent if you get the right intern. It might take some research to find a good school. Other than for that you might want to ask around for recommendations. A lot of times they will ask you to come in every week or every other week especially when you have a persistent problem that you are attempting to get treated initially. I have never been able to go in that often. I try to shoot for every 2 weeks or once a month. Be honest about the herbs. If you are afraid or worried about taking them, then say so and dont be pressured into it. I think they do help to supplement the treatments but if you do not want to take them then it is your decision. Good luck! and I hope you find the results that you are looking for!