How to become an acupuncturist

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If you have a passion for health and helping others achieve better well-being, a career in acupuncture could be a fulfilling path for you. Here, we'll discuss what it means to be an acupuncturist, the skills you need to succeed, and what training is required to become a qualified practitioner.

What is an acupuncturist?

Acupuncture is a therapeutic technique that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate and balance the flow of energy. It is used mainly to relieve discomfort associated with a variety of conditions, such as headaches and chronic pain, including back pain and arthritis, and can also help alleviate stress and anxiety. Many people also turn to acupuncture for issues like insomnia, digestive problems, allergies, and menstrual cramps. The practice works by stimulating specific points on the body, producing different effects which are thought to aid recovery and promote healing.

Becoming an acupuncturist involves more than just learning the technique; it also requires compassion and empathy. Listening to your client's concerns and offering emotional support is key, especially since many come seeking relief from chronic pain, stress, or emotional issues. Creating a safe and welcoming environment helps clients feel comfortable and open to the healing process.

For an in-depth look into acupuncture what it can help with and what clients can expect in a session, visit our acupuncture information page.

Where do acupuncturists work?

Acupuncturists can work in a variety of settings, depending on their preferences, clientele, and area of practice. Many practitioners run their own private practices, offering personalised treatments in the comfort of their homes, some may offer a mobile service where they travel to clients' homes, while others may work in a therapy facility or spa. Acupuncture is also used in hospital settings, such as the NHS, particularly for pain management and supportive care.

What qualifications do I need?

In order to become a qualified acupuncturist in the UK, you'll need to complete courses which are overseen by the British Acupuncture Accreditation Board (BAAB, for short). To gain entry to the BAAB, students typically need to have studied acupuncture at the degree level or completed a course accredited by the BAAB itself. Students will typically study Chinese medicine theory together with physiology, anatomy and other western medical sciences whilst also gaining hands-on experience in a clinical setting under supervision, treating real patients.

Becoming an acupuncturist usually takes about three years and leads to a diploma, undergraduate, or postgraduate degree. Many accredited schools offer flexible courses, allowing you to study part-time or full-time. To find the right course for you, check the membership requirements of the professional organisation you want to join. They can help you understand the training you need and the minimum qualifications required.

Do I need to join a professional body?

Although acupuncturists aren't legally required to register with a professional body, registration is highly recommended. Being a member of a professional body enhances your credibility and professionalism in the eyes of clients and employers whilst also allowing you access to valuable resources, such as training opportunities and workshops. Additionally, membership can create networking opportunities with other professionals, which can be beneficial for your career growth and collaboration.

Professional bodies to consider include:

Find out more about the role of professional bodies and decide which one may be right for you.

What happens after I’ve qualified?

After qualifying as an acupuncturist, you might start by working part-time while holding another job to gain experience and develop your client base. Eventually, you can choose to join a practice or move into full-time self-employment. It's important to secure public liability insurance and take care of any legal requirements, such as registering your business, to ensure the safety of both you and your clients.

How can I market myself?

To establish a successful career as an acupuncturist, it’s important to have some marketing knowledge to help you get your business off the ground. Start by creating your own website to showcase your services and qualifications. You may also want to gather client testimonials, positive feedback from clients can be showcased on your website, helping potential clients feel more confident in choosing your services.

Additionally, establishing a strong social media presence is a great way to reach a wider audience and attract more clients. Consider setting up an Instagram or Facebook account for your business, here you can post about the services you offer and share content related to your practice, this can help generate word-of-mouth recommendations.

Creating regular content, whether that’s blogs, videos or podcasts, about your area of expertise is also encouraged. For instance, you could write about the benefits of acupuncture or explain different treatment methods. This not only positions you as an expert in your field but also helps you connect with clients in a more personal and engaging way.

Joining Therapy Directory is an additional option you may want to consider. With a well-established site that ranks well in search engines, the ability to share articles and events, and help from our dedicated membership team, we make it easier for clients to find you. Additionally, we offer networking opportunities, a supportive member community, and access to valuable marketing tools. Explore how joining us can benefit you and your practice.

What is Continuing Professional Development? (CPD)

Continuing Professional Development (CPD) involves enhancing and developing the skills you gained during your initial training. It ensures that your knowledge remains current with the latest techniques, rules, and regulations in the industry, allowing you to practice safely. You can find CPD opportunities through our events section or from other organisations, such as professional bodies and training institutions.

All professional organisations require practitioners to complete CPD after the first year of joining. The British Acupuncture Council (BAcC) requires practitioners to complete at least 30 hours of CPD each year and submit an annual declaration of their CPD activities. Keep in mind that CPD does cost money, so it’s a good idea to plan and budget for the expense.

Useful resources

If you want to learn more about how to become an acupuncturist, the following resources may be useful: