Acupuncture

Acupuncture is an ancient form of medicine believed to have originally developed in parts of Asia we now call China. The philosophy of using acupuncture can be described as one of creating balance within and between the body and mind. Acupuncture treatment looks at a person holistically and can strengthen the relationship with oneself. It’s why it’s one of Dr. Garcia’s favorite treatments for treating someone with substance use disorders or trauma.

Stressors on the mind or body are not seen as independent of each other in Chinese medicine. Treatment with acupuncture is a very energetic yet relaxing form of healing that involves needles stimulating the person’s Qi (pronounced chee). Qi is viewed as energy flowing within our bodies and when it’s out of balance can cause symptoms both physical or mental in nature.

While physical pain is often considered a result of Qi that’s out of balance or “stuck”, Dr. Garcia has come to see Qi that is out of balance as having dimensions on psychological or emotional levels as well. Bessel van der Kolk described learning how to trust as a critical task for trauma survivors and Dr. Garcia has found acupuncture treatment as an authentic means of building safety for someone.

There are more than 300 acupuncture points located on the body research suggests influence a wide variety of effects on the person. Acupuncture has been studied for a variety of mental illnesses including post traumatic stress disorder, insomnia, anxiety, and depression.