Our Approach
Acupuncture at Coast Therapy is delivered through a patient-centred, informed, and interdisciplinary model of care. Our practitioners integrate traditional acupuncture principles with modern clinical reasoning, ensuring treatment plans are thoughtful, adaptable, and aligned with your overall healthcare goals.
All of our acupuncturists are Registered Acupuncturists and members of The College of Complementary Health Professionals of BC (CCHPBC).
Traditional Chinese Medicine has been a designated health profession under the Health Professions Act since December 4, 2000. Acupuncture has been designated since April 1, 1996. Registered Acupuncturists complete over 1,900 hours of formal education across a minimum three-year program, including at least 450 supervised clinical hours.
What Is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a component of Traditional Chinese Medicine that uses very thin, sterile, single-use needles to stimulate specific points on the body. In TCM theory, these points influence the flow of Qi (energy) through pathways called meridians, which connect systems throughout the body.
From a modern clinical perspective, acupuncture influences the nervous system, circulation, and tissue response. It is commonly used to support pain modulation, reduce muscle tension, regulate stress responses, and promote healing.
Most people feel minimal discomfort. Sensations may include a light pinch, warmth, heaviness, or a dull ache — all of which are normal responses.
What to Expect
Who Is Acupuncture For?
Acupuncture is suitable for people of all ages — from children to seniors — and for a wide range of health concerns. You do not need prior experience with acupuncture or a specific diagnosis to begin care.
Acupuncture may be appropriate if you: – Are experiencing acute or chronic pain – Have persistent symptoms that have not fully responded to other treatments – Are managing stress, sleep disruption, or nervous system overload – Want a non-invasive or low-side-effect treatment option – Are looking for a complementary approach alongside other therapies
Your First Appointment
Your initial visit includes a thorough assessment of your health history, current concerns, lifestyle factors, and goals. Treatment recommendations are explained clearly, and consent is always obtained.
Treatment may include acupuncture needling and, when appropriate, modalities such as cupping, Gua Sha, or electro-acupuncture. Home care may include lifestyle guidance, movement suggestions, or pacing strategies.
Acupuncture at Coast Therapy is about informed care, collaboration, and supporting the body’s capacity to heal and adapt — with clarity, consent, and intention.
Acupuncture treatment may include:
Frequently Asked Questions
Acupuncture is generally very well tolerated. The needles used are extremely thin—much finer than those used for injections or blood draws—so most people feel little to no discomfort when they are inserted. You may feel a slight pinch, tingling, or a dull ache at the needle site, which is normal and often considered a sign that the treatment is taking effect. Many clients find acupuncture relaxing and even fall asleep during the session.
Yes. Acupuncture is a safe and regulated treatment when performed by a trained and licensed professional. All needles used are single-use, sterile, and disposable. Practitioners are trained in proper hygiene and safety protocols to minimize any risks.
Yes—acupuncture can absolutely be combined with other therapies. While it is often effective on its own, integrating acupuncture with treatments such as physiotherapy, massage therapy, or a personalized exercise program can enhance results and support long-term recovery. A multidisciplinary approach may help address both the symptoms and underlying causes more effectively.
We approach treatment in two stages. The first is ‘acute or immediate care.’ In this stage, we address the immediate concerns of the individual such as muscle or joint pain, headaches, sleeping or digestive complaints. Each person and condition is treated on an individual basis. Most patients require between four (4) and ten (10) treatments. Some patients require more and some less. Once the symptoms of the first stage have been minimized we move into stage two.
Stage two focuses on maintenance and prevention. This is the proactive stage. We like to call it the “re-set cycle” stage. We work with you to establish an ongoing treatment cycle that optimizes the ongoing “re-setting”’ of the energy in your body and minimizes the reoccurrence of the original symptoms. The “re-set” cycle usually occurs on a monthly basis.
All of them: Port Coquitlam, Coquitlam, Maple Ridge, Pitt Meadows, Port Moody, Burquitlam & East Vancouver Locations