5 Black Acupuncturists to Follow
As a student of acupuncture and Chinese medicine, I love learning about herbal medicine and holistic healing. I still have two more terms in school until I graduate, and it will be a few months after that until I am a licensed acupuncturist. I'm excited about starting my career, but also nervous about how it will be affected by COVID-19 restrictions. Already my classes have been put online indefinitely, which is not ideal for a hands-on practice. In any case, today I wanted to highlight some Black acupuncturists who are practicing across the country. While acupuncture has its roots in ancient China, it has since spread across the globe. The medicine is constantly evolving, and each practitioner brings their own unique skillset and knowledge base to their practice. Check out some of these amazing Black women acupuncturists:
- Deeper Genius Acupuncture
Based in Los Angeles, Portia R. Wilson is the founder of Deeper Genius Acupuncture. Through acupuncture, herbal medicine, body work, and modern energetic release technique, Portia empowers people to take charge of their health and become more integrated in their bodies.
2. Pelvis Wellness
Located in Northern California and serving the Bay Area, acupuncturist Carine Camara is a pelvic floor expert who specializes in women's health issues. Carine is the daughter of immigrants from Guinea, West Africa, and she became an acupuncturist after experiencing her own healing journey through Eastern medicine.
3. Acupuncture in Motion
Cara Mafuta Raboteau, founder of Acupuncture in Motion, lives in West Philadelphia and specializes in pain management and reproductive health for all genders. She works toward addressing gaps in the healthcare system - especially those affecting communities of color - with values rooted in equity, self-determination, and love.
4. Dr. Lisa Upshaw
Dr. Lisa Upshaw is a chiropractor and acupuncturist based in Los Angeles. She approaches wellness care from a mind-body-spirit perspective incorporating essential oils, affirmations, and knowledge of the Chakra system to her sessions.
5. Ray Jing Heart
Khadijah Kysia of Ray Jing Heart is an acupuncturist serving the Chicago area. She treats patients using moxibustion, cupping, herbal remedies, tuning forks, and acupuncture. In addition, she is involved in addiction recovery work and is doing research on the treatment of scars.
