You are here:

Acupuncture/acupuncture for depression/anxiety

Advertisement

Expert: - 9/18/2010


Question
Hello, I was wondering if there is a school of acupuncture that's best for
treating depression/anxiety.  I have fatigue, muscle stiffness, and sleeping
problems.  I've tried 3 antidepressants already which haven't improved my
condition one bit and only give me side effects.  I'm starting to wonder if my
psychiatrist's depression diagnosis was correct.  Anyway, I'd like to give
acupuncture a try but there's just so many clinics to choose from.

Answer
Good afternoon,

In my experience any style of acupuncture is good for treating depression as well as the symptoms you described.  The difference really lies in the experience and knowledge of the practitioner.  
If there are many options to choose from in your area you could try narrowing the search down by looking for practitioners who specialize in your condition, who offer free initial consultations, or community acupuncture clinics or school clinics for a low cost "try and see" approach.
You should also ask potential practitioners what a typical treatment looks like so you can get a good comparison of the different approaches and styles available to you.
Having a lot of practitioners in your area can feel overwhelming when you're trying to choose one, but the good news is that there are so many to choose from you will be able to find one that works well for you.  The time spent researching and finding that perfect fit will be well worth it.

Best of luck to you in your health journey!

Acupuncture

All Answers

Answers by Expert:

Ask Experts

Volunteer

Tamsen Staniford, L.Ac.

Expertise

Please ask me about acupuncture and oriental medicine, nutrition, dietary supplements, and herbs. I am always happy to answer questions about how any of these areas relate to your health and well-being, specific conditions, or simply if you would like some information. I specialize in acupuncture for palliative care, acute injuries, chronic illness, autoimmune disorders, bone health, and western supplements.

Experience

I am a licensed acupuncturist in the state of California and hold a Master's degree in Traditional Oriental Medicine. This degree includes training for acupuncture, herbs, nutrition, exercise and bodywork. I have work for a decade in the natural products industry both at the retail and manufacturing levels. I have worked using acupuncture in private clinics, community clinic settings and in inpatient care facilities; including hospice and supportive housing residences. I currently practice in San Francisco in a private clinic, making house calls for home bound patients, and working on grant funded community acupuncture projects.

Education/Credentials
Master's in Traditional Oriental Medicine, Certified Massage Therapist and Health Educator, Reiki Practitioner.

Past/Present Clients
Everyone from the stressed out worker, to the detoxing substance user, to the dying, to the new mother. Acupuncture can help them all.

©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.