Dominique Thérien

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

Pain Musculoskeletal

• Neuropathic Pain & Peripheral Neuropathy (e.g., Diabetic Neuropathy Support, Post-Herpetic Neuralgia): Addressing neuropathic pain by invigorating Qi and Blood flow along affected meridians, nourishing Yin and Blood to repair damaged nerves, and resolving blockages or stagnation.
• Arthritis & Joint Pain (Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis - Supportive Care): Holistic support to improve quality of life for those suffering from chronic joint pain, swelling, and stiffness due to osteoarthritic degeneration or autoimmune joint conditions (as an adjunct to conventional care).
• Fibromyalgia & Myofascial Pain Syndrome: Holistic TCM approaches, including acupuncture, gentle cupping, moxibustion, and carefully selected herbal support, to manage the complex symptoms of fibromyalgia and myofascial pain syndrome, such as widespread pain, tender points, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and 'fibro fog'.

Digestive Gastrointestinal

• Chronic Constipation or Diarrhea (Non-infectious): Effective TCM approaches for achieving long-term resolution of chronic and bothersome bowel irregularities and improving gut motility.
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Bloating, Gas & Functional Digestive Upset: TCM strategies to identify and manage dietary and emotional triggers for digestive distress, improve nutrient absorption, and restore comfortable and regular bowel function.
• Crohn's Disease & Ulcerative Colitis (IBD) - Supportive TCM Care: TCM strategies aimed at strengthening the Spleen, resolving Dampness and Heat, invigorating Blood, and regulating immune function to support gut healing and reduce flare-ups in IBD.
• Acid Reflux (GERD), Heartburn & Indigestion (Dyspepsia): Reducing symptoms of GERD and dyspepsia by harmonizing the middle jiao (digestive center) and addressing underlying imbalances without relying on long-term acid suppression.

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. Dominique can assess your needs.

• Auricular (Ear) Acupuncture / Acupressure / Ear Seeds: Stimulation of specific reflex points on the ear (auricle) using fine needles, small seeds (e.g., vaccaria seeds), or beads affixed with tape to treat various health conditions throughout the body, based on the principle that the ear is a microsystem reflecting the entire body.
• Acupuncture Treatment (Body Acupuncture): Customized acupuncture sessions designed to address your specific symptoms and underlying TCM pattern diagnosis, encouraging the body's powerful self-healing mechanisms and promoting overall well-being.
• Scalp Acupuncture (Neuroacupuncture): Targeted stimulation of scalp acupoints to influence the central nervous system, improve motor function, alleviate paralysis or paresis, and treat complex pain syndromes.
• 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 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.
• Motor Point Acupuncture / Dry Needling (TCM Context): Acupuncture techniques focused on deactivating muscle knots and relieving musculoskeletal pain by stimulating specific reactive points in muscles and fascia.
• 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 Dominique, 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 Dominique Thérien, Ac., Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture are focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health, well-being, and daily activities. Dominique frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Through the gentle yet powerful methods of TCM, Dominique assists patients with heartburn, acid reflux, or general indigestion after meals in reaching enjoying consistently more restful, deeper, and restorative sleep patterns, waking up refreshed, fostering a return to beloved activities like attending concerts or theatre shows and sitting comfortably throughout.
• Through personalized acupuncture and TCM with Dominique, common concerns like sports injuries like sprains, strains, or tendonitis needing faster healing are assessed from a holistic perspective to achieve improved circulation, often described as a feeling of warmth or better flow in extremities, helping people to once again enjoy feeling energetic enough to engage in social activities in the evenings.
• Rediscover your ability to being able to concentrate better on tasks requiring mental focus for longer periods without the burden of curious about facial rejuvenation or cosmetic acupuncture for a natural anti-aging approach. Dominique focuses on TCM treatment plans that lead to for children, experiencing fewer common ailments and demonstrating improved overall health and development, integrating various therapeutic techniques to support your body's healing.
• Many find that TCM with Dominique not only helps with digestive issues like bloating, gas, cramps, constipation, or diarrhea (IBS-like symptoms) but also brings about effective alleviation of some common side effects associated with conventional medical treatments like chemotherapy, allowing for a more fulfilling engagement in having the consistent energy and motivation to pursue creative outlets, learning, or personal passions.

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

Dominique's practice at 'Dominique Thérien, Ac.' is situated in the Bellefeuille Sector neighborhood of Saint-Jérôme. The clinic is conveniently located near Gare Saint-Jérôme, accessible by train and bus, and is easily reachable via exo (Secteur Laurentides - Bus). Our clinic offers a serene environment for healing, with metered and paid parking lots typically available in the vicinity, ensuring a comfortable and accessible experience for all patients.

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.

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

Generally, services provided by a Registered Acupuncturist or Registered TCM Practitioner in a private clinic are not covered by provincial health plans like RAMQ. Patients usually pay out-of-pocket for these therapies. It is advisable to check with private or extended health insurance providers, as many offer partial or full coverage for services rendered by registered practitioners, though coverage levels vary significantly.

What are Qi and Meridians in TCM?

**Qi** is a core concept in TCM, representing the vital energy or life force that animates the body and drives its functions. When Qi flows smoothly and abundantly, health is maintained. **Meridians** are like a network of rivers or channels that carry Qi and Blood throughout the body, connecting different organs and tissues. Illness or pain can arise if the flow of Qi in these meridians becomes blocked, deficient, or excessive. Acupuncture and other TCM therapies aim to restore the proper flow of Qi within these meridians.

Does acupuncture hurt? Are the needles safe?

Acupuncture needles are extremely fine, sterile, and single-use, often not much thicker than a human hair, so their insertion is usually painless or feels like a tiny prick, much less intense than an injection. Once the needles are in place, you might feel a sensation such as a dull ache, warmth, tingling, or a feeling of heaviness, which indicates that Qi is being influenced. Most patients find the experience relaxing. Registered practitioners prioritize safety by using only sterile, disposable needles. Always inform your practitioner if you experience any discomfort during treatment.

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

In Quebec, patients can typically see a Registered Acupuncturist or Registered TCM Practitioner directly without a physician's referral (direct access). However, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It is recommended to verify your individual insurance policy requirements.

What is Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and how can a Registered Acupuncturist 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, herbal medicine, Tui Na massage, cupping, moxibustion, and dietary advice. A Registered Acupuncturist uses these tools to identify and correct imbalances in the body's Qi, Blood, Yin, and Yang, aiming to restore harmony and promote long-term health.

Is TCM and Acupuncture suitable for children or the elderly?

Absolutely. TCM offers gentle, effective options suitable for all ages. Pediatric treatments may include non-invasive techniques like Shonishin and acupressure, while treatments for seniors can address age-related conditions, pain, and overall well-being. Your practitioner will adapt treatments to be appropriate and comfortable for each individual's age and health status.

Dominique Thérien, Ac.
2114, Boulevard du Curé-Labelle
Saint-Jérôme, QC, J7Y 1S8

Phone: (514) 802-6140

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

Registration Number: A-022-21

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.