Dawn Elizabeth Schonberg

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

Dermatological Skin

• Urticaria (Hives) & Allergic Skin Reactions: Natural relief from acute and chronic hives, aiming to reduce frequency and severity of episodes.
• Acne (Vulgaris, Cystic, Hormonal): Natural solutions for clearer skin, aiming to reduce blemishes, prevent scarring, and promote a healthy complexion.
• Psoriasis (Supportive TCM Care): A holistic approach to support skin health and manage the chronicity of psoriasis.
• Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis) & Dermatitis: Addressing internal imbalances that manifest as skin irritation and inflammation, aiming for long-term relief and healthier skin.

Mental & Emotional Sleep

• Insomnia & Various Sleep Disorders (e.g., Difficulty Falling/Staying Asleep, Dream-Disturbed Sleep): Restoring healthy, restorative sleep patterns and improving overall sleep quality naturally through TCM interventions, without the side effects of sleep medications.
• Stress, Anxiety, Panic Attacks & Emotional Imbalances: Supporting emotional well-being by addressing underlying imbalances in organ systems (e.g., Liver Qi Stagnation leading to irritability, Heart Blood Deficiency causing anxiety) that contribute to mood disturbances, worry, or fear.
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Support (TCM): Addressing TCM patterns often associated with trauma, such as Heart Shen disturbance, Liver Qi Stagnation, or Kidney Jing depletion.
• Addiction Support (e.g., Smoking Cessation, Substance Cravings - NADA Protocol): Natural and effective aid to assist individuals in their journey to overcome addictive behaviors and reduce reliance on harmful substances.

Digestive & Gastrointestinal

• 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.
• Acid Reflux (GERD), Heartburn & Indigestion (Dyspepsia): Traditional Chinese Medicine treatments, including acupuncture and specific herbal formulas, to address symptoms of heartburn, acid regurgitation, belching, and indigestion by strengthening Spleen Qi, ensuring the proper downward flow of rebellious Stomach Qi, and clearing any Stomach Heat or Food Stagnation.

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. Dawn Elizabeth can assess your needs.

• Customized Chinese Herbal Medicine Prescription (R.TCMP Scope): Utilizing the synergistic therapeutic properties of traditional Chinese herbs, often in complex combinations, to restore organ function (Zang-Fu), balance Yin, Yang, Qi, and Blood, and promote profound healing from within by addressing the root cause of illness.
• Classical & Patent Chinese Herbal Formulas: Using established and time-tested patent herbal remedies (Cheng Yao) that have been trusted for generations to address specific symptoms or support overall health and organ system balance.
• 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.
• 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.
• Herbal Medicine Preparation & Counseling: Educating patients on the actions and benefits of their specific herbal prescription and ensuring they understand how to take their herbs safely and effectively for optimal results.
• TCM Pulse Diagnosis (Sphygmology): A subtle and sophisticated TCM diagnostic technique requiring extensive training, used to understand the energetic state of your Zang-Fu organs and overall constitution.
• 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 Dawn Elizabeth, or to discuss your specific needs, please contact the clinic.

All services are provided in accordance with the scope of practice for Registered TCM Practitioners in BC and the standards set by The College of Complementary Health Professionals of BC.

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

• Many find that TCM with Dawn Elizabeth not only helps with general muscle tension, stiffness, and aches throughout my body but also brings about noticeable improvement in digestive comfort, with significantly less bloating, gas, or abdominal pain, allowing for a more fulfilling engagement in handling their job that involves frequent standing, walking, or bending with better ease.
• If managing side effects from chemotherapy or radiation treatments more comfortably is preventing you from fully enjoying doing household chores like vacuuming, mopping, or laundry without pain, Dawn Elizabeth offers skilled acupuncture and TCM care. Treatment focuses on visible improvement in chronic skin conditions like eczema, acne, or psoriasis, with healthier-looking skin, often utilizing acupuncture, herbal remedies (if R.TCMP), and lifestyle advice to help you regain balance and function.
• Acupuncture and TCM with Dawn Elizabeth can be a turning point for those affected by general feeling of being 'off' or 'out of balance' energetically. The goal is achieving better regulation of body temperature, feeling less prone to being overly cold or hot, paving the way for you to enjoy experiencing clearer sinuses and easier breathing during daily activities and exercise and a more balanced, vibrant life.
• Many patients have found lasting relief from heartburn, acid reflux, or general indigestion after meals and achieved reduced cravings and better management of withdrawal symptoms, aiding in addiction recovery (e.g., smoking cessation) under the care of Dawn Elizabeth, allowing them to re-engage with activities such as participating in community events and social gatherings more actively with renewed vitality and ease.

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

Dawn Elizabeth practices at Zen Island Acupuncture, situated in the Courtenay City, Comox, Cumberland, Rural Comox Valley neighborhood of Courtenay. The clinic is conveniently located near the Courtenay & District Museum & Palaeontology Centre and is easily accessible via the Comox Valley Transit System (BC Transit). Our clinic provides a serene environment for healing, and metered and paid parking lots are usually available nearby, ensuring convenient access for all patients.

Are Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine services covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?

Acupuncture and TCM services provided by a Registered Acupuncturist (R.Ac) or Registered TCM Practitioner (R.TCMP) in a private clinic are generally NOT covered by provincial health plans like MSP in BC. Patients usually pay out-of-pocket for these services. It is advisable to check with private or extended health insurance providers, as many plans offer partial or full coverage for services rendered by registered practitioners. Coverage levels can vary widely depending on the insurer and policy.

Do I need a doctor's referral to see a Registered TCM Practitioner in BC?

In BC, patients can typically see a Registered TCM Practitioner, including Registered Acupuncturists and R.TCMPs, directly without a physician's referral (known as direct access). However, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It is recommended to verify the requirements of your insurance policy before your appointment.

Are Chinese Herbal Medicines safe? (If prescribed by an R.TCMP or Dr.TCM)

When prescribed by a qualified and Registered TCM Practitioner (R.TCMP) or Doctor of TCM (Dr.TCM), Chinese herbal formulas are generally safe and effective. R.TCMPs are trained to identify high-quality herbs, potential herb-drug interactions, and contraindications, especially during pregnancy or for specific health conditions. It is essential to inform your practitioner about all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs. Avoid self-prescribing or purchasing herbs from unreliable sources, as this can pose health risks due to contamination, incorrect formulations, or interactions. R.TCMPs often source herbs from trusted suppliers that perform quality testing to ensure safety.

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

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a comprehensive medical system used for thousands of years to diagnose, treat, and prevent illness. It includes therapies such as acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, Tui Na massage, cupping, moxibustion, and dietary/lifestyle advice. A Registered TCM Practitioner uses these modalities to identify and correct imbalances in the body's Qi (vital energy), Blood, Yin, and Yang, addressing the root cause of health issues. TCM aims to restore harmony and promote long-term health and vitality.

What is Acupuncture and how can it help me?

Acupuncture involves inserting fine, sterile needles into specific points called acupoints along meridians to stimulate the flow of Qi (vital energy). This process helps to reduce pain, alleviate stress, improve sleep, regulate bodily functions, and enhance overall well-being by supporting the body's natural healing mechanisms.

Does acupuncture hurt? Are the needles safe?

Needles used in acupuncture are extremely thin, sterile, and single-use, often no thicker than a human hair. Most patients experience little to no discomfort, feeling only a slight prick or tingling sensation. Once inserted, some may feel sensations like warmth, heaviness, or energy movement, which are signs the treatment is working. Safety is a priority; registered practitioners exclusively use disposable, sterile needles. Always communicate with your practitioner if you experience any discomfort during treatment.

What are Qi and Meridians in TCM?

In TCM, Qi is the vital energy or life force that flows through the body, sustaining physiological functions and overall vitality. Meridians are pathways through which Qi and Blood circulate, connecting internal organs with external parts of the body. Acupuncture points along these meridians are targeted to restore balance, promote healing, and improve health.

Zen Island Acupuncture
319b 4th St
Courtenay, BC, V9N 1G8

Phone: (250) 465-0886

Dawn Elizabeth Schonberg is regulated by the Health Professions Act (British Columbia) in BC and is a registered member of The College of Complementary Health Professionals of BC.

Registration can typically be verified with The College of Complementary Health Professionals of BC.

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.