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FAQ / Credentials

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Both acupuncture and massage therapy are licensed professions in Connecticut. While there is no licensing for herbalists, they should be nationally certified by the National Certification Commission For Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM).

For Acupuncturists

Licensure is required in Connecticut and the CT Department of Health oversees professional licensure (L.Ac.). Credentials may be checked at the Department of Health’s website. 

The Connecticut Society of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine’s (CSAOM) website has a “Find an Acupuncturist” page which lists its members, all of whom are Licensed Acupuncturists.

The National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) administers the acupuncture national board examination. The NCCAOM’s “Find a Practitioner” page lists all NCCAOM certified acupuncturists and herbalists.

Although CT requires acupuncturists to pass NCCAOM board exams, renewal of this certification is not required, Therefore qualified acupuncturists who have current Connecticut licensure may not be listed on this NCCAOM website.

 

For Chinese Herbalists

Because herbal medicine is unregulated in Connecticut, it is important to make sure your Chinese Herbalist is qualified. They should have passed the NCCAOM board examination in either Chinese Herbology or Oriental Medicine.

Check the NCCAOM’s registry to find an herbalist who has either Chinese Herbology or Oriental Medicine certification.  Being a “candidate” for the NCCOM exam or holding a “certificate” for herb training are not adequate credentials. If your practitioner is not listed on the website, ask to see the certificate stating that they have passed the NCCAOM board examination.

Chinese herbalists who have trained for many years in China and had practices there may not have taken the NCCAOM exam, yet may be well educated in herbal medicine. If you are in doubt, ask to see credentials.

 

For Massage Therapists

Massage therapists are required to be licensed (LMT) in the state of Connecticut. They must have attended an accredited massage school and have passed a Connecticut examination. You can check your massage therapist’s license on the Connecticut Department of Health’s website.

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