Elise Gendreau-Turcotte

Elise Gendreau-Turcotte provides skilled Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Respiratory Allergy Immune

• Weak Immune System & Recurrent Infections: Building resilience against pathogens by fortifying the Zang-Fu organs responsible for immune function, particularly the Lungs, Spleen, and Kidneys according to TCM theory.
• 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): Using specific acupuncture points and potent herbal formulas tailored to the stage and nature of the cold or flu (e.g., clearing Wind-Cold versus Wind-Heat invasions) to shorten duration and lessen severity.

Other Common

• Support for Autoimmune Conditions (e.g., Hashimoto's, Lupus, MS - Adjunctive Care): Focusing on harmonizing Yin and Yang, clearing pathogenic factors (like Heat or Damp), nourishing deficient substances (Qi, Blood, Yin, Yang), and resolving stagnation to support overall systemic balance.
• Dizziness & Vertigo (TCM Perspective): Natural relief from sensations of spinning, lightheadedness, or unsteadiness by addressing the root energetic imbalance.
• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS/ME) & Adrenal Fatigue Support (TCM): Restoring vitality and improving overall stamina by addressing underlying deficiencies and energetic blockages from a TCM perspective, often focusing on adrenal and mitochondrial support through TCM principles.
• Supportive Care During & After Cancer Treatments (Chemotherapy/Radiation Side Effects): Integrative TCM care focused on alleviating treatment-related discomfort, enhancing immune function, and supporting the patient's overall well-being throughout their cancer journey.

Digestive Gastrointestinal

• Nausea & Vomiting (e.g., Morning Sickness, Post-Chemotherapy): Harmonizing the Stomach Qi and directing its rebellious upward flow downwards to alleviate feelings of queasiness and prevent vomiting.
• 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.

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. Elise can assess your needs.

• Gua Sha (Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization - TCM): A therapeutic technique involving the gentle but firm scraping of lubricated skin with a smooth-edged tool (e.g., jade, horn, ceramic spoon) to stimulate microcirculation of the soft tissue, which releases muscle tension, breaks down adhesions and scar tissue, reduces pain and inflammation, and promotes healing and detoxification by releasing 'Sha' (stagnant blood and metabolic waste).
• 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.
• Electroacupuncture: Utilizing precisely controlled electrical stimulation through acupuncture needles to provide stronger or more sustained activation of Qi and Blood flow in the meridians.
• Cupping Therapy (Fire Cupping, Sliding Cupping, Stationary Cupping): Utilizing cupping techniques to alleviate musculoskeletal pain (back, shoulder, neck), clear stagnation, support detoxification, and relieve symptoms of common colds or asthma.
• 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.
• 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.

Note: This list highlights some key services. For a full list of therapies offered by Elise, 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 Centre Santé Renaissance, Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture are focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health, well-being, and daily activities. Elise frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• If skin problems like eczema, persistent acne, psoriasis, or unexplained hives is preventing you from fully enjoying attending concerts or theatre shows and sitting comfortably throughout, Elise offers skilled acupuncture and TCM care. Treatment focuses on improved circulation, often described as a feeling of warmth or better flow in extremities, often utilizing acupuncture, herbal remedies (if R.TCMP), and lifestyle advice to help you regain balance and function.
• Struggling with frequent colds, feeling like my immune system is weak, or taking a long time to recover from illness? Elise develops individualized TCM treatment plans aimed at achieving reduced inflammation throughout the body, as indicated by symptoms or markers, key to helping you get back to doing actively participating in family outings and vacations without holding others back with improved well-being and energy.
• It's rewarding for Elise to witness patients find relief from wanting to improve my overall energy, focus, and vitality naturally and experience a holistic sense of feeling more 'in balance' and harmonized physically, mentally, and energetically through TCM. A tailored approach can make a significant difference in your ability to participate in having more regular and comfortable menstrual cycles, allowing for uninterrupted daily life and activities again.
• When chronic sinus congestion, pressure, or recurrent sinus infections is limiting your lifestyle, acupuncture and TCM with Elise can help you work towards reduced cravings and better management of withdrawal symptoms, aiding in addiction recovery (e.g., smoking cessation), aiming to restore harmony and optimal function so you can comfortably and safely enjoy engaging in gentle exercises like Tai Chi, Qigong, or yoga with improved balance, flexibility, and energy flow.

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

Elise practices at Centre Santé Renaissance, situated in a dedicated acupuncture and TCM clinic in the heart of Gaspé. The clinic is conveniently located in the central Gaspé neighborhood, close to local community centers and public parks, making it easy for patients to access. It is well-served by local public transit routes, ensuring easy reach for those relying on public transportation. Our clinic is accessible and offers a serene environment for healing. Convenient parking options are typically accessible.

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

Acupuncture and TCM services provided by a Registered Acupuncteur (Ac.) or Registered TCM Practitioner (R.TCMP) in a private clinic are generally NOT covered by provincial health plans like Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) in QC. Patients typically pay out-of-pocket for these services. It is strongly advised to check your private or extended health insurance plans, as many offer some coverage for services rendered by registered practitioners. Coverage levels can vary significantly depending on your plan.

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.

What is Acupuncture and how can it help me?

Acupuncture, performed by a qualified Registered Acupuncturist, involves inserting thin, sterile needles at specific points on your body. Based on the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine, it aims to restore balance to your body's energy flow. It can help manage conditions such as pain (e.g., back pain, headaches), stress, digestive issues, menstrual problems, and more, by activating your body's natural healing mechanisms.

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 illnesses. It includes acupuncture, herbal medicine, Tui Na (therapeutic massage), cupping, moxibustion, and dietary/lifestyle advice. A Registered Acupuncturist (e.g., Registered TCM Practitioner or Acupuncturist using TCM principles) uses these therapies to identify and correct imbalances in the body's Qi, Blood, Yin, and Yang, addressing the root causes of health issues and promoting long-term harmony.

Is TCM and Acupuncture suitable for children or the elderly?

Yes, TCM and Acupuncture are safe and beneficial for children and seniors when administered by a qualified and experienced Registered Acupuncturist. For children, practitioners often use gentle techniques, including non-needle methods like Shonishin, acupressure, or very fine needles if appropriate. Herbal dosages are adjusted for age. Elderly patients benefit from tailored treatments that focus on managing chronic conditions, improving mobility, and supporting overall vitality, always ensuring safety and comfort.

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

In Quebec, patients can generally see a Registered Acupuncturist or Registered TCM Practitioner directly without a referral. However, some private and extended health insurance plans may require a doctor's referral for coverage purposes. It is recommended to verify your insurance policy details to understand reimbursement requirements.

Does acupuncture hurt? Are the needles safe?

Acupuncture needles are extremely fine, sterile, and single-use, often thinner than a human hair. Most insertions are painless or feel like a tiny prick. Once inserted, you may experience sensations such as dull ache, warmth, tingling, or heaviness, which indicate Qi activation. Most patients find acupuncture relaxing and calming. Registered practitioners prioritize safety, using only sterile, disposable needles. Always communicate with your practitioner if you experience discomfort during treatment.

Does Centre Santé Renaissance offer direct billing to private insurance companies for Acupuncture/TCM services?

Yes, the clinic typically offers direct billing for services provided by Registered Acupuncturists and Registered TCM Practitioners to major private insurers. Patients are advised to bring their insurance details and confirm coverage specifics, including any per-visit limits or referral requirements, directly with their insurer. The patient remains responsible for any non-covered portions.

Centre Santé Renaissance
176, Jacques-Cartier
Gaspé, QC, G4X 1M9

Phone: (418) 368-2022

Elise Gendreau-Turcotte is regulated by the Professional Code (Quebec) in QC and is a registered member of The Ordre des acupuncteurs du Québec.

Registration Number: A-008-13

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.