Choosing a Qualified Acupuncturist

To become a licensed acupuncturist, a student attends a graduate school program in Oriental Medicine. Most acupuncture schools require the student to complete 2,800 to 3,200 hours of specialized training in order to graduate. Full-time students generally complete their degree in 3 to 4 years.

Upon completion of studies at an accredited acupuncture school, graduates are eligible to sit for the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) certification exam. They must take and pass the full NCCAOM examination, which includes the comprehensive written exam, the clean needle technique portion, the point location exam, and the herbal exam. This is a two-day test of written and practical acupuncture skills and theory.

Acupuncturists who have received NCCAOM certification are awarded the title of Diplomate in Acupuncture (Dipl Ac). Certification is renewed every four years and requires a minimum of 60 continuing education hours.

In order to practice in Texas, acupuncturists must be licensed by the Texas State Board of Medical Examiners, which also regulates physicians and physician assistants. Licensed acupuncturists (L.Ac.) must meet the following criteria:

• Graduate from an acupuncture school that has been accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (ACAOM).
• Have 1,800 hours of acupuncture training from an accredited acupuncture school.
• Of the required 1,800 hours, 450 hours of training must be in herbal training.
• Be certified as a Diplomate in Acupuncture.
• Take and pass the Council of College of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (CCAOM) Clean Needle Technique course and practical examination.
• Have a minimum of 60 college hours in addition to the acupuncture training.
• Prove English proficiency.

So, how qualified is your Acupuncturist?

Find out more about Karen E. Nunley

Call The Healing Acupuncture Center today at 512 338.8810 or email us to schedule your appointment.