Heather Doreen Learn

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

Respiratory Allergy Immune

• Asthma, Chronic Bronchitis & Cough (Supportive TCM Care): Holistic TCM care designed to improve breathing capacity, reduce reliance on inhalers (where appropriate and in consultation with an MD), clear persistent phlegm, and enhance overall respiratory health and resilience.
• 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): Traditional Chinese Medicine therapies, including preventative acupuncture and immune-boosting herbs, to help strengthen the body's resistance to colds and flu. For active infections, TCM aims to accelerate recovery by expelling pathogens (Wind, Cold, Heat, Damp), relieving symptoms like fever, chills, sore throat, cough, body aches, and fatigue.
• 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.

Womens Health Gynecological

• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) & Endometriosis - TCM Supportive Care: Traditional Chinese Medicine approaches, including acupuncture and herbal medicine, to help manage symptoms associated with PCOS (e.g., irregular or absent menses, acne, hirsutism, ovarian cysts, insulin resistance) and endometriosis (e.g., pelvic pain, painful periods, heavy bleeding, infertility) by regulating hormones, reducing inflammation, invigorating Blood circulation, and resolving Phlegm-Damp or Blood Stasis.
• Fibroids & Ovarian Cysts (Supportive TCM Management): TCM strategies, often involving acupuncture and herbal medicine, aimed at managing symptoms associated with uterine fibroids and ovarian cysts, such as heavy bleeding, pain, or pressure, by promoting circulation, resolving Blood stasis and Phlegm accumulation. (As an adjunct to gynecological monitoring).
• Menstrual Irregularities (Amenorrhea, Oligomenorrhea, Metrorrhagia) & PMS/PMDD: Natural and effective solutions for achieving smoother, more comfortable, predictable menstrual cycles and balanced hormonal health.
• Fertility Enhancement & Infertility Support (For All Genders): Specialized Traditional Chinese Medicine protocols, including acupuncture and individually prescribed herbal medicine, to improve reproductive health, optimize fertility markers (e.g., egg quality, sperm parameters, uterine lining), regulate ovulation, and support natural conception or improve success rates for assisted reproductive technologies (ART) like IVF/IUI.

Pain Musculoskeletal

• Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ/TMD) Dysfunction & Jaw Pain: Acupuncture and local soft tissue techniques to alleviate jaw pain, clicking, locking, and muscle tension associated with TMJ disorders by relaxing masticatory muscles, reducing inflammation, and improving local Qi and Blood flow.
• Chronic & Acute Pain (e.g., Low Back Pain, Neck Pain, Shoulder Pain, Knee Pain, Sciatica): Natural and effective relief for persistent or sudden onset pain located in the lumbar or cervical spine, shoulders, hips, knees, and other joints or soft tissues.

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. Heather Doreen can assess your needs.

• 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.
• Electroacupuncture: Utilizing precisely controlled electrical stimulation through acupuncture needles to provide stronger or more sustained activation of Qi and Blood flow in the meridians.
• Auricular (Ear) Acupuncture / Acupressure / Ear Seeds: A specialized microsystem technique focusing on the ear's numerous reflexology points to influence overall health, manage cravings, and support emotional well-being, often used as a standalone or adjunctive therapy.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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).
• 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).

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

• Experiencing curious about facial rejuvenation or cosmetic acupuncture for a natural anti-aging approach can be draining. Heather Doreen utilizes acupuncture and other TCM methods to aim for better regulation of body temperature, feeling less prone to being overly cold or hot, so patients can re-engage with participating in community events and social gatherings more actively feeling revitalized.
• Understanding that digestive issues like bloating, gas, cramps, constipation, or diarrhea (IBS-like symptoms) can be frustrating, Heather Doreen applies TCM wisdom to help patients achieve a holistic sense of feeling more 'in balance' and harmonized physically, mentally, and energetically, making it possible to rediscover the joy in reducing reliance on pain, sleep, or anxiety medications (always under medical guidance).
• Through personalized acupuncture and TCM with Heather Doreen, common concerns like wanting to support my body's natural detoxification processes are assessed from a holistic perspective to achieve enhanced fertility potential, optimized reproductive health, and better support during pregnancy and postpartum, helping people to once again enjoy sitting comfortably through a movie at the cinema or a play.
• Struggling with sports injuries like sprains, strains, or tendonitis needing faster healing? Heather Doreen develops individualized TCM treatment plans aimed at achieving improved circulation, often described as a feeling of warmth or better flow in extremities, key to helping you get back to doing sleeping soundly through the night and waking refreshed and energetic with improved well-being and energy.

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

Heather Doreen's practice at Heather Learn is situated in the North Port Coquitlam neighborhood of Port Coquitlam, near the Coquitlam border. The clinic is conveniently located close to Port Coquitlam City Hall and is easily accessible via TransLink, including bus routes and the West Coast Express. Our clinic offers a serene environment designed to support your healing journey. Metered and paid parking lots are usually available nearby to ensure easy access for patients.

What are Qi and Meridians in TCM?

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Qi (pronounced 'chee') is often translated as 'vital energy' or 'life force.' It’s considered the fundamental energy that flows throughout the body, responsible for all physiological processes, movement, warmth, and protection against illness. Meridians (or channels) are specific pathways through which Qi and Blood circulate. These pathways connect the internal organs with the exterior parts of the body, including muscles, skin, and sensory organs. Acupuncture points are specific locations along these meridians where the flow of Qi can be accessed and influenced to restore balance and health.

What is Acupuncture and how can it help me?

Acupuncture is a key component of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that involves the insertion of very fine, sterile needles into specific points on the body called acupoints. According to TCM theory, this helps to stimulate and balance the flow of Qi (vital energy) along pathways known as meridians. Acupuncture can help by reducing pain, alleviating stress and anxiety, improving sleep, regulating bodily functions (like digestion and hormones), boosting the immune system, and promoting overall well-being by encouraging the body’s natural healing abilities.

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 herb quality, potential herb-drug interactions, and contraindications for specific health conditions or during pregnancy. It is important to inform your practitioner about all medications (prescription and over-the-counter) and health conditions. Self-prescribing herbs or buying from unreliable sources can pose risks such as incorrect diagnosis, improper formulation, contamination, or adverse interactions. R.TCMPs often source herbs from trusted suppliers that perform quality testing to ensure safety.

Does acupuncture hurt? Are the needles safe?

For most people, acupuncture is not painful. The needles used are very thin, and many individuals feel little to no sensation upon insertion. Some may experience a slight pinch or tingling, but most feel relaxed and even fall asleep during treatment. Practitioners are highly trained in safe needling techniques and use sterile, single-use needles to prevent infection. If any discomfort or pain occurs, it should be communicated immediately to your practitioner.

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

Patients in BC can typically see a Registered TCM Practitioner directly without a referral. However, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check your insurance policy to confirm their requirements.

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

Services provided by a Registered Acupuncturist or Registered TCM Practitioner are generally not covered by MSP in BC. Patients usually pay out-of-pocket, but many extended health plans offer partial reimbursement. It’s recommended to review your insurance coverage for details.

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

Traditional Chinese Medicine is a holistic system based on ancient principles that aim to restore balance within the body. A Registered TCM Practitioner assesses your health through detailed diagnosis, including tongue and pulse analysis, then develops a treatment plan that may include acupuncture, herbal medicine, cupping, moxibustion, and lifestyle recommendations to promote natural healing and overall wellness.

Heather Learn
415-2623 Burleigh Ave
Port Coquitlam, BC, V3B 1A3

Phone: (604) 726-9509

Heather Doreen Learn 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.