Acupuncturists

Acupuncturists treat patients using therapies such as needle acupuncture, the heating of acupuncture points, and massage.

Job opportunities: Chances of getting full-time work as a newly-qualified acupuncturist are average, but demand is good for experienced acupuncturists.

Length of training: 4 years of training required.

About the job

What you will do:

• consult with patients about their health
• examine patients and diagnose health problems using the principles of traditional Chinese medicine
• discuss treatment options with patients
• locate acupuncture points and insert acupuncture needles
• use and prescribe herbal medicines to treat patients
• give dietary advice, tuina (massage), moxibustion (heat), cupping (suction), exercise therapy and laser therapy
• keep accurate patient records
• refer patients to other health services when

Skills and knowledge needed:

• knowledge of traditional Chinese medicine and its philosophy, theory and practice
• skill in diagnosing illness and practising acupuncture
• knowledge of Western medical theories about the human body and how it functions, treatment procedures and pharmacology
• knowledge and understanding of a professional code of

Those running their own practice will also need small business skills.

How to enter the job

To become an acupuncturist you need to have a Bachelor of Health Science) in either acupuncture or Chinese medicine.

Secondary education: Useful subjects include biology, chemistry, English and Chinese.

Personal qualities needed:

• patient and accurate
• observant and responsible
• good communicators
• good at problem solving
• well organised
• able to inspire confidence in

Useful experience:

• work in traditional Chinese medicine
• work in the health sector
• counselling

Experience living or studying in an Eastern culture and learning about Eastern philosophy is also useful. Many acupuncture students have a background in martial arts.

Related jobs: Naturopath, Massage Therapist, Osteopath, Physiotherapist.

Vocational pathways: Social and community services.