Why You Should Ask About Your Acupuncturist's Credentials
Today, a patient asked me about my credentials – and I was thrilled! It's actually a question I wish more people would ask, because understanding your healthcare provider's qualifications is an important part of making informed decisions about your care.
Let me share why credentials matter in acupuncture and what they mean for you.
The Path to Becoming an Acupuncturist
Becoming a licensed acupuncturist isn't a weekend certification – it's a serious journey that typically takes 3-4 years of graduate-level education. In my case, I earned my Masters in Acupuncture from Maryland University for Integrative Health in 2014. This involved thousands of hours of classroom study, clinical training, and hands-on practice.
What Those Letters After My Name Mean
When you see "L.Ac." after an acupuncturist's name, it means they're licensed by their state to practice. But there's more to the story. I'm board certified by the National Certification Committee for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) – think of this as the national gold standard for acupuncturists. It's like passing the bar exam for lawyers or board certification for medical doctors.
Legal Requirements in Washington State
In Washington State, it's not just about choice – it's the law. All acupuncturists must be licensed by the state to practice legally. You can (and should!) verify any acupuncturist's credentials through the Washington State Department of Health's Provider Credential Search website. In fact, you can verify my credentials and those of any other acupuncturist here: https://fortress.wa.gov/doh/providercredentialsearch/. This transparency ensures that you're receiving care from a properly trained and licensed professional.
Specialized Training Matters
Beyond basic certification, many acupuncturists pursue additional specializations. I'm certified as an Advanced Detoxification Specialist through the National Acupuncture Detoxification Association (NADA). This specialized training allows me to better serve patients dealing with addiction and mental health challenges.
Staying Current
Healthcare is always evolving, and acupuncturists must keep learning. As a former board member of the Washington Acupuncture and Eastern Medicine Association (2017-2018), I've stayed deeply connected with developments in our field. We're required to complete continuing education to maintain our licenses, ensuring we're always growing in our practice.
What This Means for You
When you choose a licensed, board-certified acupuncturist, you're choosing someone who has:
Completed extensive graduate-level education
Passed rigorous national board exams
Met strict state licensing requirements
Maintains ongoing education and training
Adheres to professional ethical standards
So please, never hesitate to ask about your acupuncturist's credentials! It's an important question that shows you're taking an active role in your healthcare decisions.
Have questions about acupuncture credentials or my background? I'm always happy to discuss them during your next visit here in Sequim or Port Angeles.
Jason Taylor, Licensed Acupuncturist & Eastern Medicine Practitioner