Psychiatric Acupuncture

What is Psychiatric Acupuncture?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) teaches us that illnesses are caused by imbalances of yin and yang factors in the body which result in the stagnation, sluggishness, or even blockages in the flow of Qi (life energy) through the meridian channels.

The practice of acupuncture is 100% legit, as it is officially endorsed by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Philippine Department of Health (DOH).

Acupuncture is regarded as a form of “complementary medicine” which strengthens your self-healing potential. As such, this means that acupuncture should not replace consultations with a medical doctor and should not be a substitute for conventional medical treatment. 

Psychiatric Acupuncture

How does Acupuncture work?

One theory is that acupuncture stimulates the nerve fibers which then signal the brain to release and regulate the “happy hormones” responsible for improving over-all health.

Which psychiatric disorders are commonly treated by acupuncture?

  • Acute Stress Disorder
  • Major Depression
  • Anxiety / Panic Attacks
  • Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
  • Erectile Dysfunction
  • Premature/Rapid Ejaculation
  • Insomnia
  • Addiction
  • Bipolar Disorder
  • Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
  • Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
  • Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
  • Schizophrenia 

What happens during a session?

  • I will do an initial clinical interview and a brief TCM assessment.
  • You then lie down on a padded medical table.
  • I gently apply acupuncture needles on chosen acupoints. These needles are sterile, 1/2 inch short, and hair-thin in diameter.
  • Upon insertion of the acupuncture needle, you might feel a quick “ant-bite” pain that disappears when the needle is completely inserted.
  • Once the needles are all in place, you simply relax and perhaps, doze off.
  • At the end of the session, I remove the needles and make a “needle count” to ensure that no needles are still attached to you before you leave the clinic.
  • The session may also include other healing modalities of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) such as: Cupping / Ventosa, Tuina massage, Medical Qigong energy healing.
  • The whole session lasts for less than an hour.

What will you feel after treatment?

Relaxed, rejuvenated, with an over-all sense of well-being.

The healing effects of Psychiatric Acupuncture continue beyond the treatment session, from 3 days to several weeks.

Avoid strenuous physical activity, heavy meals, alcohol intake, or sexual activity for up to 8 hours after a treatment. 

How many treatments do I need?

For the maintenance of wellness and good health, monthly sessions are advised. For the treatment of a disorder or illness, weekly sessions are needed.

Acupuncture is not recommended during the menstrual cycle and during pregnancy.

What if I am scared of needles?

Alternatives to needle insertion are the application of the following:

  • Acupressure
  • Seeds
  • Moxa herbal heat
  • Laser pen
  • Teishin – thin metal probe
  • Tuning fork
  • Finger tapping, rubbing, and breathing
  • Tens machine
  • Vibratory pen
  • Piezo-electric device
  • Healing crystals
  • Essential oils
  • Energy healing

What are my credentials for doing Psychiatric Acupuncture?

I served as Board Member in the Philippine Academy of Acupuncture for several years.

I am an active teacher of Psychiatric Acupuncture at the Philippine Academy of Acupuncture.

I am a Certified Medical Acupuncturist accredited by the Philippine Department of Health for more than 10 years.

I have received advanced training in Korean Sujok Hand Acupuncture.

What are some online resources for Psychiatric Acupuncture?