by Judy Thompson

Created on: May 22, 2009   Last Updated: May 26, 2009

To become an acupuncturist can have many rewards. Just seeing the faces of the people that you have helped from the pain that they suffered due to cancer or other ailments and knowing that you were there for them, as well. Not only that, but it is in growing demand in the United States and acupuncture has been practiced in Asia, South America, and Europe for years. However, there are several steps that one needs to do if they are interested in becoming an acupuncturist.

First, you need to set up an appointment yourself and have acupuncture done on you. Let the acupuncturist know that you are interested in this career field and that you are seeking for different treatments for certain illnesses and how it can be applied. You may even like it as well and continue treatment yourself for preventive care.

Second, you need to do your research by taking notes from other acupuncture students or practicing acupuncturists. Take in the pros and cons, as many people have difference of opinions, but they can lead you into the right light on the subject of acupuncture. Students can inform on you class work and what you would need to take as far as studies. Practicing acupuncturists can tell you how challenging it is to have their own business, yet how humble and rewarding it can be when you have helped someone who had been suffering from pain or other illnesses.

Third, think of where you would like to practice acupuncture. A person can't practice acupuncture legally in all states of the United States. Delaware is an example of that. In California, one couldn't practice legally until 1975. There are eight other states that do not have the legislation to practice acupuncture or they are awaiting legislation.

Fourth, you need to go to an undergraduate school. It is not obligatory, but it is best for you and your future patients. You do not have to take biology or anything, but classes such as psychology, sociology, and computer science would greatly benefit you within your own business and with the structure of the patient's mind or culture.

Fifth, attend one of the 50 accredited acupuncture colleges. The United States offers certification in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine, commonly known as the Traditional Chinese Medicine. These practices include acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, and Asian bodywork. Most of the accredited acupuncture colleges are 3 to 4 years and offer Master Degrees in Acupuncture or Oriental Medicine.

Sixth, get Board Certified. After you have graduated, you will need to take a test that gives you a certification to legally practice Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine from the National Certification Commission For Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine. However, the state of California has its own state Board Certification process, which includes exams and requirements. So make sure you that you do your research in the state that you are going to practice in.

Seventh, study business management and marketing. As all Acupuncturist focus on the healing techniques and principles, you still have to be your own boss and manage your business from the money aspects to the advertising of your acupuncture business in order to be successful and helping others heal like you were wanting to do.

It is hard work, yet very rewarding and humbling. So if you are deciding to be an acupuncturist, do your research first and the rest will fall into place, especially if it is your sole purpose in life to help others heal.

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