Erica Dawn Nicoll

Erica Dawn practices at Lakeside Health, located in a dedicated acupuncture and TCM clinic in the central neighborhood of Salmon Arm. The clinic is conveniently situated near local community centers and public parks, making it easily accessible for residents and visitors alike. Public transit routes serve the area, allowing for convenient transportation options. Our clinic provides a serene environment designed to promote healing and relaxation. Metered and paid parking lots are typically found nearby, ensuring easy access for clients.

• 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.
• Herbal Medicine Preparation & Counseling: Supporting patients in their herbal medicine journey with clear instructions, quality-sourced herbs, and ongoing monitoring of their response to treatment.
• 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.
• Customized Chinese Herbal Medicine Prescription (R.TCMP Scope): Comprehensive assessment and prescription of individually tailored Chinese herbal formulas (raw herbs for decoction, granular extracts, powders, or pills) based on your specific TCM pattern diagnosis and constitution to address underlying imbalances and treat a wide range of acute and chronic health conditions. (Primarily within R.TCMP scope).
• Classical & Patent Chinese Herbal Formulas: Convenient and effective classical herbal formulations, often derived from famous ancient prescriptions, to complement your acupuncture treatment or as a standalone therapy for various health concerns.
• TCM Pulse Diagnosis (Sphygmology): Assessing up to 28 distinct pulse qualities to contribute to a comprehensive TCM diagnosis, guiding the selection of appropriate acupuncture points and herbal formulas.
• 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.

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

• The path to overcoming asthma or breathing difficulties needing supportive, natural care and achieving accelerated recovery from sports injuries or repetitive strains, and a quicker, safer return to activity is often clearer with TCM. Erica Dawn guides patients toward reclaiming activities such as engaging in gentle exercises like Tai Chi, Qigong, or yoga with improved balance, flexibility, and energy flow with improved health.
• Through the gentle yet powerful methods of TCM, Erica Dawn assists patients with uncomfortable menopause symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, or mood changes in reaching a more positive outlook and improved mood stability, fostering a return to beloved activities like simply enjoying leisurely daily walks around their neighborhood for fresh air and mental clarity.
• Patients struggling with looking for a holistic approach to managing a chronic health condition or autoimmune issue can find dedicated support from Erica Dawn. The therapeutic focus is on gaining a deeper understanding of their body's unique energetic patterns and needs according to TCM principles, using a range of modalities to facilitate a return to meaningful daily activities such as playing with children or grandchildren more comfortably and with sustained energy.
• Many find that TCM with Erica Dawn not only helps with ringing in the ears (tinnitus) that’s bothersome but also brings about a substantial increase in overall energy levels, vitality, and stamina throughout the day, allowing for a more fulfilling engagement in creative pursuits, learning, or personal passions.

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

Erica Dawn practices at Lakeside Health, located in a dedicated acupuncture and TCM clinic in the central neighborhood of Salmon Arm. The clinic is conveniently situated near local community centers and public parks, making it easily accessible for residents and visitors alike. Public transit routes serve the area, allowing for convenient transportation options. Our clinic provides a serene environment designed to promote healing and relaxation. Metered and paid parking lots are typically found nearby, ensuring easy access for clients.

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 Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC. Patients usually pay out-of-pocket for these services. It is advisable to check with private or extended health insurance plans, as many do offer some coverage for registered practitioners. Coverage levels can vary significantly depending on the insurer and plan specifics.

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 (such as a Registered Acupuncturist or R.TCMP) directly without needing a referral from a physician (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 extensively trained in herbal pharmacology, quality assessment, and potential herb-drug interactions. It is important to inform your practitioner of all medications and health conditions to ensure safe use. Self-prescribing or purchasing herbs from unreliable sources is strongly discouraged due to risks of incorrect diagnosis, contamination, or adverse interactions.

What are Qi and Meridians in TCM?

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, **Qi** (pronounced 'chee') is considered the vital energy or life force that flows throughout the body, supporting all physiological functions. **Meridians** are specific pathways along which Qi and Blood circulate, connecting internal organs with the body's exterior, including muscles and skin. Acupuncture points are located along these meridians and are used to influence the flow of Qi to restore balance and health.

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

Traditional Chinese Medicine is a holistic system focusing on restoring balance within the body through various modalities such as acupuncture, herbal formulas, cupping, and dietary advice. A Registered TCM Practitioner assesses your overall health, identifies patterns of imbalance, and creates a personalized treatment plan to promote natural healing and wellness.

Does acupuncture hurt? Are the needles safe?

Acupuncture needles are extremely fine, sterile, and single-use. Most patients experience little to no discomfort, often describing a sensation similar to a tiny prick or tingling. When properly inserted by a trained practitioner, acupuncture is very safe. Always communicate with your practitioner if you experience any discomfort or concerns during treatment.

What is Acupuncture and how can it help me?

Acupuncture involves inserting thin, sterile needles at specific points on the body to stimulate the flow of Qi and restore balance. It can help manage pain, reduce stress, improve sleep, and support overall health by activating the body's natural healing mechanisms.

Does Lakeside Health offer direct billing to private insurance companies for Acupuncture/TCM services?

Many private insurance plans in BC offer direct billing for services provided by Registered Acupuncturists and Registered TCM Practitioners. Patients should bring their insurance details and confirm coverage specifics, such as per-visit limits or requirements for referrals. It is the patient's responsibility to verify their insurance coverage and any out-of-pocket expenses.

Lakeside Health
#2-140 Harbourfront Dr NE
Salmon Arm, BC, V1E 4S6

Phone: (250) 833-5899

Erica Dawn Nicoll 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.