Audrey Blanchard

Audrey Blanchard provides skilled Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Other Common

• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS/ME) & Adrenal Fatigue Support (TCM): Acupuncture, moxibustion, and tonifying herbal therapies to address the profound exhaustion and complex symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome by strengthening Spleen Qi, nourishing Kidney Essence (Yin and Yang), resolving Dampness, and calming the Shen.
• Supportive Care During & After Cancer Treatments (Chemotherapy/Radiation Side Effects): Acupuncture, moxibustion, and gentle herbal therapies to help manage common side effects of conventional cancer treatments, such as nausea, vomiting, fatigue, pain, neuropathy, dry mouth, insomnia, and anxiety, thereby improving quality of life and treatment tolerance. (Always in coordination with primary oncology care).
• Bell's Palsy & Facial Paralysis Recovery: Early and consistent TCM intervention to maximize functional recovery and minimize residual facial weakness or asymmetry.

Respiratory Allergy & Immune

• Asthma, Chronic Bronchitis & Cough (Supportive TCM Care): Holistic TCM care designed to improve breathing capacity, reduce reliance on inhalers (where appropriate and in consultation with an MD), clear persistent phlegm, and enhance overall respiratory health and resilience.
• Allergies (Seasonal/Environmental, e.g., Hay Fever, Allergic Rhinitis) & Sinusitis: Addressing underlying Lung, Spleen, and Kidney Qi deficiencies or external pathogenic factors like Wind-Cold, Wind-Heat, or Dampness that contribute to allergic responses and chronic sinus inflammation.
• Common Cold, Flu & Viral Infections (Prevention & Accelerated Recovery): Traditional Chinese Medicine therapies, including preventative acupuncture and immune-boosting herbs, to help strengthen the body's resistance to colds and flu. For active infections, TCM aims to accelerate recovery by expelling pathogens (Wind, Cold, Heat, Damp), relieving symptoms like fever, chills, sore throat, cough, body aches, and fatigue.

Mental & Emotional Sleep

• Stress, Anxiety, Panic Attacks & Emotional Imbalances: Acupuncture, acupressure, and TCM herbal therapies to calm the Shen (spirit/mind), regulate the flow of Qi (especially Liver Qi), nourish Heart Blood and Yin, and reduce the physiological and psychological effects of acute and chronic stress, anxiety, and panic attacks.
• Insomnia & Various Sleep Disorders (e.g., Difficulty Falling/Staying Asleep, Dream-Disturbed Sleep): Acupuncture, herbal formulas, and lifestyle advice to address different types of sleep disturbances by harmonizing Yin and Yang, calming the mind, anchoring the Shen, and resolving underlying TCM patterns such as Heart Fire, Liver Qi Stagnation disturbing the Hun, Spleen Qi Deficiency leading to overthinking, or Kidney Yin Deficiency with empty heat.
• Addiction Support (e.g., Smoking Cessation, Substance Cravings - NADA Protocol): Auricular (ear) and body acupuncture protocols, such as the NADA (National Acupuncture Detoxification Association) protocol, to help reduce cravings, manage withdrawal symptoms (anxiety, irritability, insomnia), and calm the nervous system during smoking cessation or recovery from other substance dependencies.
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Support (TCM): Acupuncture and TCM therapies to help regulate the nervous system, calm an overactive stress response, reduce anxiety, improve sleep, and process emotional trauma in individuals experiencing PTSD symptoms. (As an adjunctive therapy).

This list offers examples of conditions commonly addressed. TCM diagnosis is based on individual patterns, so if your specific concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic. Audrey can assess your needs.

• Tui Na (Chinese Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork): A comprehensive form of Chinese therapeutic massage and bodywork that utilizes a wide range of hand techniques (e.g., pushing, grasping, rolling, pressing, kneading) to manipulate soft tissues and joints, stimulate acupressure points, and promote the harmonious flow of Qi and Blood through the meridians, thereby relieving pain, correcting musculoskeletal imbalances, and treating various internal medicine conditions. (Typically offered by R.TCMP or specifically trained R.Ac).
• Moxibustion (Moxa Therapy): The therapeutic application of heat from burning processed mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris) near or on the skin at specific acupuncture points or areas of the body. This warms meridians, stimulates Qi and Blood flow, dispels Cold and Dampness, strengthens Yang energy, and can alleviate conditions associated with cold, stagnation, or deficiency.
• Acupressure & Meridian Therapy: Targeting key energy points on the body with precise pressure to alleviate symptoms, support organ function, and enhance overall well-being.
• TCM Observation & Palpation Diagnosis: Careful observation of your complexion, eyes, hair, nails, posture, and demeanor, combined with palpation of specific body areas or meridians to detect tenderness, temperature changes, or energetic blockages.
• Comprehensive TCM Health Assessment & Pattern Diagnosis: An extensive assessment exploring your main health concerns through the holistic lens of TCM, including detailed questioning, tongue and pulse diagnosis, and observation of physical signs to determine the root cause of disharmony and guide treatment.
• TCM Tongue Diagnosis: Detailed observation of the tongue's color, shape, size, coating, cracks, and moisture to gain crucial insights into the state of your internal organs, fluid balance, and overall energetic balance.
• TCM Pulse Diagnosis (Sphygmology): Skilled palpation of the radial artery pulse at three positions and three depths on each wrist to assess the quality, strength, rhythm, and rate, reflecting the health and balance of Qi and Blood in the twelve major organ systems.

Note: This list highlights some key services. For a full list of therapies offered by Audrey, or to discuss your specific needs, please contact the clinic.

All services are provided in accordance with the scope of practice for Registered Acupuncturists in QC and the standards set by The Ordre des acupuncteurs du Québec.

At Clinique d'acupuncture Audrey Blanchard Ac., Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture are focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health, well-being, and daily activities. Audrey frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Acupuncture and TCM with Audrey can be a turning point for those affected by wanting to improve my overall energy, focus, and vitality naturally. The goal is achieving experiencing markedly fewer and less severe menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes, night sweats, and mood changes, paving the way for you to enjoy actively participating in family outings and vacations without holding others back and a more balanced, vibrant life.
• Rediscover your ability to having the consistent energy and motivation to pursue creative outlets, learning, or personal passions without the burden of symptoms of Bell's Palsy or facial paralysis needing support for recovery. Audrey focuses on TCM treatment plans that lead to effective alleviation of some common side effects associated with conventional medical treatments like chemotherapy, integrating various therapeutic techniques to support your body's healing.
• It's rewarding for Audrey to witness patients find relief from general feeling of being 'off' or 'out of balance' energetically and experience improved circulation, often described as a feeling of warmth or better flow in extremities through TCM. A tailored approach can make a significant difference in your ability to participate in feeling more energetic, focused, and productive throughout the workday without energy slumps again.
• Understanding that frequent colds, feeling like my immune system is weak, or taking a long time to recover from illness can be frustrating, Audrey applies TCM wisdom to help patients achieve a more positive outlook and improved mood stability, making it possible to rediscover the joy in playing a few sets of tennis without shoulder or elbow pain.

Your personalized TCM treatment plan, developed with Audrey, will be designed to help you reach your specific functional and wellness objectives using a holistic and time-tested approach.

Audrey practices at Clinique d'acupuncture Audrey Blanchard Ac., situated in a central area of Joliette within an acupuncture and TCM clinic. The clinic is conveniently located near local community centers and public parks, making it easy for patients to access. It is well-connected by local public transit routes, ensuring accessible transportation options for most visitors. Our clinic is accessible and offers a serene environment for healing. Street parking is often available nearby.

Do I need a doctor's referral to see a Registered Acupuncturist in QC?

In Quebec, patients can typically see a Registered Acupuncteur (Ac.) or Registered TCM Practitioner directly without needing a physician's referral, thanks to the province's direct access policy. However, it is important to note that some private or extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. Patients are strongly advised to check with their individual insurance providers to understand their specific coverage requirements.

What is Acupuncture and how can it help me?

Acupuncture, performed by a qualified Registered Acupuncteur, involves inserting very fine, sterile needles at specific points on the body. Based on the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine, it aims to restore the flow of Qi (energy) and Blood, helping to balance the body's internal environment. It is effective for managing pain (such as back pain or headaches), reducing stress, improving sleep, supporting digestion, and addressing various other health concerns by activating the body's natural healing mechanisms.

What are Qi and Meridians in TCM?

**Qi** is the vital energy or life force that animates the body and sustains health. When Qi flows smoothly and freely through the meridians—channels that connect different organs and tissues—health is maintained. Blockages, deficiencies, or excesses in Qi flow can lead to illness or discomfort. Acupuncture and TCM therapies work to regulate and restore proper Qi flow within these meridians, promoting overall well-being.

Are Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine services covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) in QC?

Services provided by Registered Acupuncturists or TCM practitioners in private clinics are generally not covered by the public health insurance plan in Quebec (RAMQ). Patients usually pay out-of-pocket for these treatments. However, many private or extended health insurance plans offer partial or full coverage for services provided by registered practitioners, so it is advisable to verify with your insurance provider regarding your specific policy.

Does acupuncture hurt? Are the needles safe?

Acupuncture needles are extremely thin, sterile, and single-use, often less thick than a human hair. Most patients experience little to no discomfort during insertion, describing sensations such as a slight prick or tingling. Once needles are in place, some may feel sensations like warmth, heaviness, or energy moving, which are signs that the treatment is effective. Registered practitioners strictly adhere to safety protocols, ensuring the use of only sterile, disposable needles. If you experience any discomfort, always inform your practitioner immediately.

What is Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and how can a Registered Acupuncturist help?

Traditional Chinese Medicine is a comprehensive medical system that includes acupuncture, herbal medicine, Tui Na massage, cupping, moxibustion, and dietary/lifestyle advice. A Registered Acupuncturist utilizes these therapies to address the root causes of health issues by balancing Qi, Blood, Yin, and Yang within the body. TCM aims to restore harmony, improve function, and promote long-term health for a wide range of conditions.

Clinique d'acupuncture Audrey Blanchard Ac.
1315, René Majeau
Joliette, QC, J6E 3Z1

Phone: (450) 867-1644

Audrey Blanchard is regulated by the Professional Code (Quebec) in QC and is a registered member of The Ordre des acupuncteurs du Québec.

Registration Number: A-002-03

Registration can typically be verified with The Ordre des acupuncteurs du Québec.

Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture are holistic therapies. It is recommended to also consult with your medical doctor for diagnosis of serious conditions and for emergency medical care. TCM can often complement conventional treatments effectively.