How I discovered Acupuncture

I first discovered Acupuncture and TCM (Chinese Medicine) while working as a case manager in Chicago for a non-profit that provided services to individuals living with HIV. Most of my clients were trying to manage the stress and side effects of their medications, co-morbidities and opportunistic infections related to living with HIV/AIDS greatly affecting their quality of life. A few clients started receiving Community Acupuncture treatments from the local Chinese medicine school. Post treatment, I immediately noticed significant shifts - they were calmer, more grounded, less stressed and experiencing significantly less pain. 

It never occurred to me that I was a candidate for Acupuncture until one of my clients recommended that I try it. I was hooked after the first treatment— my entire body changed. After six consecutive weekly treatments, my sleep quality improved, I ceased having panic attacks, and learned how to manage my stress better. It seemed there was no aspect of my health and well-being that didn’t benefit. I knew then and there that this is what I wanted to do. In this way, I truly believe Acupuncture chose me.

The beauty and magic of Acupuncture

As I went to school for my Master’s in Chinese Medicine, I grew to love the elegance, nuanced and always evolving nature of Chinese Medicine. The beauty of this sophisticated medicine is that it is a complete, holistic, pure, unadulterated system that treats the whole being and acknowledges that everything happening in the human body is interconnected: physically, emotionally, spiritually. Inside is a reflection of outside. We are the internal reflections of nature and the seasons.

TCM uses the body's innate wisdom to reset the nervous system, improve circulation, decrease systemic inflammation and promote healing. Treatments are safe, gentle, non-invasive and holistic. Treating both the underlying root cause and the branches or symptoms at the same time. What other modality can do that? It is personalized, individualized, unique and dynamic — just like my patients.

A patient can schedule with multiple health concerns/issues that seem to be disparate/unrelated. But not according to TCM diagnosis and theory. In TCM, we can connect the roots to the branches through differential diagnoses of organ systems and treat the underlying cause because it’s inter-connected. And there's truly no "one size fits all" when it comes to treating patients — every patient receives individual attention and treatment, tailor made for their individual body.

Still in awe

It never ceases to amaze me how after 14 years in practice, I am completely humbled and excited by both the simplicity and complexity of TCM. For me, its an evolving, life-long journey of discovery and exploration of the interconnectedness of human beings. I learn so much from my patients, who constantly challenge and surprise me.

When you come through the door at my practice, I want you to feel like you’ve arrived home. I’ve strived to create an atmosphere that is warm, cozy, inviting, serene and conducive for healing.

I look forward to meeting you.

Kat