Brittany Gaudet – Acupuncturist | Orleans, ON

Brittany Gaudet is a dedicated Registered Acupuncturist (R.Ac). Practicing at Brittany Gaudet R.Ac in Orleans, ON, she is committed to providing high-quality, patient-centered care in Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine, adhering to the standards set by The College of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners and Acupuncturists of Ontario.

Brittany's role centers on providing skilled acupuncture treatments for a wide variety of common health concerns, including pain management (musculoskeletal pain, headaches), stress reduction, sleep issues, and general wellness support. Her care is focused on using acupuncture to stimulate the body's natural healing abilities and restore energetic balance according to TCM principles. She serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors, ensuring personalized care tailored to each individual's needs.

Having completed her R. Ac (Graduating Class of 2017), Brittany has accumulated over 7 years of dedicated practice. She is committed to ongoing professional learning and upholding the highest standards of TCM practice, with particular interest and further training in acupuncture. Her practice philosophy emphasizes preventative care and patient education (Zhì Wèi Bìng - Treat a disease before it occurs), identifying and treating the root cause of illness (Ben Qíu Bìng Gēn) rather than just alleviating symptoms. Brittany offers consultations in English, ensuring clear communication and comprehensive care for her clients.

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

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.
• Depression, Low Mood & Mood Swings (Supportive TCM Care): Traditional Chinese Medicine therapies, including acupuncture and herbal medicine, as a supportive and complementary approach to manage symptoms of mild to moderate depression, persistent low mood, and emotional lability by regulating neurotransmitter balance indirectly, moving stagnant Qi, and nourishing deficient substances like Blood or Yin.
• Insomnia & Various Sleep Disorders (e.g., Difficulty Falling/Staying Asleep, Dream-Disturbed Sleep): Identifying specific TCM patterns contributing to poor sleep (e.g., difficulty falling asleep versus waking frequently) and providing personalized treatments to re-establish healthy sleep-wake cycles.

Digestive Gastrointestinal

• Nausea & Vomiting (e.g., Morning Sickness, Post-Chemotherapy): Acupuncture (especially point Pericardium-6) and gentle herbal remedies to effectively reduce nausea and vomiting associated with various causes, including morning sickness during pregnancy, side effects of chemotherapy or medications, or motion sickness.
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Bloating, Gas & Functional Digestive Upset: Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine to regulate digestive function, alleviate common IBS symptoms like abdominal pain, cramping, bloating, excessive gas, diarrhea, or constipation, by harmonizing the Spleen and Stomach, soothing Liver Qi (which often attacks the Spleen in TCM), and resolving Dampness.
• Crohn's Disease & Ulcerative Colitis (IBD) - Supportive TCM Care: Holistic and integrative TCM care to help modulate the immune response, alleviate abdominal pain and diarrhea, and support overall digestive health in individuals with Crohn's or colitis.
• Chronic Constipation or Diarrhea (Non-infectious): Effective TCM approaches for achieving long-term resolution of chronic and bothersome bowel irregularities and improving gut motility.

Respiratory Allergy Immune

• Allergies (Seasonal/Environmental, e.g., Hay Fever, Allergic Rhinitis) & Sinusitis: Acupuncture, herbal medicine, and TCM dietary advice to reduce allergic reactions and sensitivities, alleviate symptoms like sneezing, itchy/watery eyes, nasal congestion, and sinus pain, and strengthen the body's defensive Qi (Wei Qi) to make it less reactive to allergens.
• Weak Immune System & Recurrent Infections: TCM strategies, including regular acupuncture, moxibustion, and constitutional herbal tonics, to strengthen the body's overall defensive energy (Wei Qi) and address underlying deficiencies in Qi, Blood, Yin, or Yang that may lead to a weakened immune system and frequent infections (e.g., colds, sinus infections, UTIs).
• Asthma, Chronic Bronchitis & Cough (Supportive TCM Care): Addressing underlying Lung, Spleen, and Kidney deficiencies that often contribute to chronic respiratory conditions and recurrent coughs, aiming to reduce frequency and severity of attacks.

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. Brittany can assess your needs.

• Auricular (Ear) Acupuncture / Acupressure / Ear Seeds: Ear acupuncture or acupressure (using seeds for prolonged stimulation) to address issues like pain, addiction (e.g., smoking cessation, NADA protocol), stress, anxiety, and internal disorders by targeting corresponding reflex points on the ear.
• Acupuncture Treatment (Body Acupuncture): Insertion of fine, sterile, single-use needles into specific acupoints on the body's meridians (energy pathways) to stimulate Qi (vital energy) flow, alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, regulate organ function, and promote natural healing.
• TCM Tongue Diagnosis: A key TCM diagnostic method where the tongue is meticulously examined as a microsystem map reflecting your body's internal health and specific imbalances.
• Motor Point Acupuncture / Dry Needling (TCM Context): Targeting specific motor points (areas where nerves enter muscles) or Ashi (tender) points with acupuncture needles to release muscle trigger points, alleviate myofascial pain, restore muscle function, and improve range of motion. (May be described as dry needling when performed by an acupuncturist within a TCM framework).
• Scalp Acupuncture (Neuroacupuncture): Specialized scalp needling techniques drawing from both traditional TCM and modern neurology to modulate brain activity and address challenging neurological and pain-related health issues.
• Electroacupuncture: Combining traditional acupuncture with modern microcurrent technology to amplify pain relief, reduce inflammation, and promote tissue healing and nerve regeneration.
• TCM Observation & Palpation Diagnosis: Utilizing traditional TCM observational skills (Wang) and palpation (Qie - beyond just pulse) to gather diagnostic clues about your underlying pattern of imbalance.

Note: This list highlights some key services. For a full list of therapies offered by Brittany, 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 ON and the standards set by The College of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners and Acupuncturists of Ontario.

At Brittany Gaudet R.Ac, Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture are focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health, well-being, and daily activities. Brittany frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Brittany believes in a partnership with patients. When my child having frequent illnesses, digestive issues, or skin problems arises, a collaborative TCM plan targets a stronger, more robust, and resilient immune system, leading to fewer colds, flu, or other infections, enabling a more active lifestyle including working at a desk or computer with reduced neck, shoulder, or back tension and clearer mental focus.
• The path to overcoming digestive issues like bloating, gas, cramps, constipation, or diarrhea (IBS-like symptoms) and achieving achieving more regular, comfortable, and predictable bowel movements is often clearer with TCM. Brittany guides patients toward reclaiming activities such as playing a full game of recreational hockey with improved stamina and less post-game soreness with improved health.
• The journey to experiencing fewer and less intense headaches or migraines, leading to more pain-free days when faced with TMJ, jaw pain, or teeth grinding that causes discomfort and headaches can be supported by Brittany's expertise in acupuncture and TCM, often leading to a more comfortable and active return to pastimes like easily carrying groceries in from the car in one or two trips without strain.
• Experiencing knee, hip, or other joint pain making movement difficult can be draining. Brittany utilizes acupuncture and other TCM methods to aim for a significant reduction in allergy symptoms (sneezing, congestion, itchy eyes) and less reliance on allergy medications, so patients can re-engage with shoveling snow or raking leaves without aggravating their back feeling revitalized.

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

Brittany's practice at Brittany Gaudet R.Ac is situated in an acupuncture and TCM clinic in the central Orleans neighborhood of Orleans. The clinic is conveniently located near local community centers and public parks, making it easy for clients to access. It is accessible via various public transit routes, allowing for convenient visits. Our clinic is accessible and offers a serene environment for healing. Convenient parking options are typically accessible.

What is Acupuncture and how can it help me?

Acupuncture, performed by a qualified Registered Acupuncturist, is a therapeutic technique where thin needles are inserted at specific points on your body. It is based on the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine and aims to restore balance to your body's energy flow. It can be beneficial for a wide range of conditions, including pain management (like back pain or headaches), stress reduction, digestive issues, menstrual problems, and much more, by helping to activate your body's own healing mechanisms.

Approximately how many Acupuncture/TCM sessions will I need and how often?

The number and frequency of sessions required varies greatly depending on the nature of your condition (whether it's acute or chronic), its severity, how long you've had the issue, your overall health, and your response to treatment. For acute conditions, a few sessions (e.g., 1-3 times per week for 1-2 weeks) may bring significant relief. For chronic or complex issues, a longer course of treatment (e.g., 6-12 weekly or bi-weekly sessions) is often necessary to achieve lasting results, followed by maintenance as needed. Your Registered Acupuncturist will discuss a treatment plan after your initial assessment and re-evaluate your progress regularly.

What are Qi and Meridians in TCM?

**Qi** is a vital energy or life force that flows through the body along pathways called meridians. When Qi flows smoothly and in balance, health is maintained. Disruptions or blockages can lead to illness or pain. Acupuncture aims to restore proper Qi flow to promote healing and well-being.

Do I need a doctor’s referral to see a Registered Acupuncturist in ON?

In Ontario, patients can typically see a Registered Acupuncturist or Registered TCM Practitioner directly without a physician's referral (known as direct access). However, it is advisable to check with your private or extended health insurance provider, as some plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. Consulting with your insurance provider can help clarify coverage details.

What are Cupping, Moxibustion, Gua Sha, and Tui Na?

These are adjunct therapies used in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Cupping involves placing cups on the skin to create suction, helping to relieve muscle tension and improve circulation. Moxibustion involves burning an herb called mugwort near or on acupuncture points to warm and invigorate Qi and Blood. Gua Sha involves scraping the skin with a smooth-edged tool to promote circulation and reduce pain. Tui Na is a Chinese therapeutic massage technique that manipulates muscles and acupressure points to relieve pain and restore balance.

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

TCM is a holistic medical system that includes acupuncture, herbal medicine, Tui Na massage, cupping, moxibustion, and dietary advice. It focuses on diagnosing and treating imbalances in the body's vital energy (Qi), Blood, Yin, and Yang. A Registered Acupuncturist uses these modalities to address the root causes of health issues, supporting long-term wellness and harmony.

Are Acupuncture and TCM services covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)?

Generally, acupuncture and TCM services provided by registered practitioners are not covered by OHIP in Ontario. Patients usually pay out-of-pocket, though some private insurance plans may offer partial reimbursement. It is recommended to verify coverage with your insurance provider.

Does acupuncture hurt? Are the needles safe?

Acupuncture needles are very thin, sterile, and single-use. Insertion is typically painless or feels like a tiny prick. Many patients experience sensations such as warmth, tingling, or a dull ache during treatment, which are signs that Qi is being affected. Registered practitioners prioritize safety and use only sterile needles. Always communicate with your practitioner if you experience discomfort.

Brittany Gaudet R.Ac
731 Princess Louise Drive
Orleans, ON, K4A 3E5

Phone: (613) 606-8987

Brittany Gaudet is regulated by the Traditional Chinese Medicine Act, 2006 in ON and is a registered member of The College of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners and Acupuncturists of Ontario.

Verify registration with The College of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners and Acupuncturists of Ontario: https://www.ctcmpao.on.ca/member-profile/?contactid=2d7c5841-548a-e611-80ca-005056a97495

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.