Why Being a Doctor of Chinese Medicine Means So Much More Than “Just Acupuncture”
- Dr. Chantal Davis
- Nov 7, 2025
- 3 min read
When most people think of acupuncture, they picture tiny needles placed in specific points to relieve pain or stress. But what many don’t realize is that acupuncture is just one part of a much larger and deeply studied medical system.
As a Doctor of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), my education and clinical training go far beyond what most people imagine when they hear the word “acupuncturist.” This background allows me to understand how the body, mind, and hormones all interact — and to create individualized treatments that get to the root of imbalance.
What It Really Means to Be a Doctor of Chinese Medicine
Becoming a Doctor of Chinese Medicine involves years of intensive study, blending both Eastern and Western medical understanding.
Master’s Degree (4 years): This is where the foundation is built. We study anatomy, physiology, pathology, and Western medical terminology alongside traditional Chinese medical theory, diagnosis, acupuncture, and herbal medicine.
Doctorate Program (1 additional year): The doctoral level goes deeper into case management, integrative medicine, and advanced specialties — such as women’s health, pain management, and internal medicine.
Clinical Training: To earn this degree, we complete at least 730 hours of supervised clinical experience, treating real patients while developing diagnostic and treatment skills.
Chinese Herbal Medicine: We study over 400 individual herbs, learning both their Latin and Chinese pinyin names, energetic properties, and clinical applications. We also learn how to combine them into customized formulas that fit each person’s unique pattern of imbalance.
Acupuncture Point Theory: We learn over 360 acupuncture points — their anatomical locations, energetic functions, and how to use them together to restore balance in the body.
This level of education provides a deep understanding of how everything in the body is connected. It’s what allows me to see beyond symptoms and treat the whole person — body, mind, and spirit.
How This Differs from Other Practitioners Who Offer Acupuncture
You might notice that chiropractors, physical therapists, or even medical doctors sometimes offer acupuncture in their offices. While it may sound similar, the training and depth of knowledge are entirely different.
Chiropractors or MDs who offer acupuncture often complete a short certification course, sometimes only 100–200 hours of basic training focused on needling techniques for pain relief.
These programs do not include Chinese medical theory, pattern diagnosis, or herbal medicine.
Without this foundation, they may treat the site of pain, but not the underlying cause — whether it’s hormonal imbalance, chronic stress, or digestive issues.
Licensed acupuncturists and Doctors of Chinese Medicine are trained to look for patterns that explain why symptoms are showing up. This difference often means longer-lasting, more holistic results for patients.
Why This Level of Training Matters for Your Health
Every person who walks into my clinic has a unique story. My background allows me to connect the dots between your symptoms, stress levels, lifestyle, and emotional health — creating a treatment plan that’s specific to you.
Patients often come to me not just for pain, but for help with hormonal balance, peri-menopause and menopause symptoms, anxiety, stress, sleep issues, and overall wellness. Chinese medicine provides the tools to support the body’s natural healing ability, helping you find balance and feel grounded again.
A Personalized, Root-Cause Approach at Free Flow Health
At Free Flow Health in San Diego, I combine my training as a Doctor of Chinese Medicine with over 15 years of clinical experience in women’s health and pain management. My treatments may include acupuncture, herbal medicine, cupping, gua sha, nutrition, and lifestyle guidance — all designed to help calm your nervous system and restore balance from within.
If you’ve only experienced acupuncture from another type of provider, I invite you to see what it’s like to work with a practitioner whose entire education and career are devoted to Traditional Chinese Medicine.The difference is in the depth of care — and in the results.
Book Your Initial Visit
If you’re ready to address the root cause of your symptoms and start feeling balanced again, schedule your initial visit today. I also offer virtual wellness coaching where I bring the lens of Chinese Medicine to the table to help you balance your hormones naturally.
Located in Kearny Mesa / Serra Mesa, San Diego