Jennifer Marguerite Kehler – Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioner and Acupuncturist | Mississauga, ON

Jennifer Marguerite Kehler is a dedicated Registered Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioner (R.TCMP) (Acupuncture Services). Practicing at Acupuncture Shiatsu Clinic in Mississauga, ON, she is committed to providing high-quality, patient-centered care in Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine, adhering to the standards set by The College of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners and Acupuncturists of Ontario.

Jennifer's role involves providing skilled acupuncture treatments for a wide variety of common health concerns, including pain management (such as musculoskeletal pain and headaches), stress reduction, sleep issues, and overall wellness support. Her approach focuses on using acupuncture to stimulate the body's natural healing abilities and restore energetic balance according to TCM principles. She serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors, ensuring personalized care tailored to each individual's needs.

Jennifer Marguerite Kehler completed her R. TCMP, R. Ac (Graduating Class of 2021). With over 3 years of dedicated practice since 2021, she is committed to ongoing professional learning and upholding the highest standards of TCM practice. She has a particular interest and further training in areas such as TCM dietary therapy, acupuncture, and Chinese herbal medicine. Her practice emphasizes preventative care and patient education (Zhì Wèi Bìng - Treat a disease before it occurs) to empower individuals in maintaining their well-being; she offers consultations in English.

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

Respiratory Allergy Immune

• Allergies (Seasonal/Environmental, e.g., Hay Fever, Allergic Rhinitis) & Sinusitis: Acupuncture, herbal medicine, and TCM dietary advice to reduce allergic reactions and sensitivities, alleviate symptoms like sneezing, itchy/watery eyes, nasal congestion, and sinus pain, and strengthen the body's defensive Qi (Wei Qi) to make it less reactive to allergens.
• 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.
• Asthma, Chronic Bronchitis & Cough (Supportive TCM Care): Addressing underlying Lung, Spleen, and Kidney deficiencies that often contribute to chronic respiratory conditions and recurrent coughs, aiming to reduce frequency and severity of attacks.

Other Common

• Supportive Care During & After Cancer Treatments (Chemotherapy/Radiation Side Effects): Supporting the body's strength (Zheng Qi), protecting healthy cells, reducing toxic side effects, and promoting recovery and vitality during and after chemotherapy or radiation therapy from a TCM perspective.
• Support for Autoimmune Conditions (e.g., Hashimoto's, Lupus, MS - Adjunctive Care): TCM therapies, including acupuncture and specific herbal formulas, used as an adjunctive approach to help regulate immune system function, reduce inflammation, manage symptoms, and improve quality of life for individuals with various autoimmune conditions. (Always in conjunction with specialist medical care).

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. Jennifer 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.
• Motor Point Acupuncture / Dry Needling (TCM Context): Precise needling of tight muscle bands and trigger points to reduce pain, improve local circulation, and restore normal muscle tone and movement patterns.
• 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.
• 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).
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.

Note: This list highlights some key services. For a full list of therapies offered by Jennifer, 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 ON and the standards set by The College of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners and Acupuncturists of Ontario.

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

• If general muscle tension, stiffness, and aches throughout my body is preventing you from fully enjoying having the consistent energy and motivation to pursue creative outlets, learning, or personal passions, Jennifer offers skilled acupuncture and TCM care. Treatment focuses on a more positive outlook and improved mood stability, often utilizing acupuncture, herbal remedies (if R.TCMP), and lifestyle advice to help you regain balance and function.
• By addressing the root energetic imbalances related to fertility challenges, trying to conceive, or wanting to prepare my body for pregnancy, Jennifer helps patients work towards for children, experiencing fewer common ailments and demonstrating improved overall health and development, facilitating a return to cherished activities like actively participating in family outings and vacations without holding others back.
• Many patients have found lasting relief from chronic sinus congestion, pressure, or recurrent sinus infections and achieved a noticeable reduction in muscle tension, tightness, and related discomfort or stiffness under the care of Jennifer, allowing them to re-engage with activities such as easily carrying groceries in from the car in one or two trips without strain with renewed vitality and ease.
• Many find that TCM with Jennifer not only helps with circulatory problems, feeling cold often, or having cold hands and feet but also brings about enhanced fertility potential, optimized reproductive health, and better support during pregnancy and postpartum, allowing for a more fulfilling engagement in working at a desk or computer with reduced neck, shoulder, or back tension and clearer mental focus.

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

Jennifer practices at Acupuncture Shiatsu Clinic, situated in the Hurontario Central (Eglinton/Hwy 10) neighborhood of Mississauga. The clinic is conveniently located near the Mississauga Civic Centre and is easily accessible via MiWay (Mississauga Transit). Our clinic offers a serene environment for healing, with accessible entry and typically available parking options for patients.

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

In Ontario, patients can typically see a Registered TCM Practitioner, such as a Registered Acupuncturist or Registered TCM Practitioner, directly without a physician's referral (known as direct access). However, while a referral is not legally required, some private or extended health insurance plans may mandate one for reimbursement. It is recommended that patients check their individual insurance policies to understand their coverage requirements.

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), who has extensive training in herbal pharmacology, Chinese herbal formulas are generally safe and effective. R.TCMPs are trained to identify herb quality, potential herb-drug interactions, and contraindications, especially during pregnancy or for specific health conditions. It is crucial to inform the practitioner about all medications, supplements, and health concerns to ensure safe and appropriate herbal treatments. Self-prescribing or purchasing herbs from unreliable sources can pose significant risks, including incorrect diagnosis, contamination, or adverse interactions. R.TCMPs source herbs from trusted suppliers that perform quality testing to ensure safety.

What are Qi and Meridians in TCM?

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Qi (pronounced 'chee') is often described as vital energy or life force that flows throughout the body, governing all physiological functions, movement, warmth, and protection from illness. Meridians are specific pathways through which Qi and Blood circulate, connecting internal organs with muscles, skin, and sensory organs. Acupuncture points are located along these meridians and serve as access points to influence Qi flow, helping to restore balance and promote health.

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

Traditional Chinese Medicine is a holistic health system rooted in ancient principles that aim to restore balance within the body. A Registered TCM Practitioner assesses your overall health, often through tongue and pulse diagnosis, to identify patterns of imbalance. Treatment approaches may include acupuncture, herbal formulas, cupping, moxibustion, and dietary/lifestyle recommendations to support your body's self-healing abilities and improve overall wellness.

Is there anything I should do to prepare for or after an acupuncture session?

It is recommended to have a light meal or snack about 1-2 hours before your appointment, avoiding coming on an empty stomach or immediately after a heavy meal. Wear loose, comfortable clothing for easy access to treatment areas. Avoid caffeine and alcohol before treatment. After your session, it is best to rest and stay well-hydrated. Some people feel very relaxed or slightly tired, while others may feel energized. Pay attention to how you feel and report any significant changes to your practitioner at your next visit.

What is Acupuncture and how can it help me?

Acupuncture involves inserting very thin, sterile needles into specific points on the body to stimulate Qi flow and restore balance according to TCM principles. It can help manage pain, reduce stress, improve sleep, support digestion, and more by activating the body's natural healing response.

Are Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine services covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?

Generally, services provided by Registered Acupuncturists (R.Ac) or Registered TCM Practitioners (R.TCMP) in private clinics are not covered by OHIP. Patients usually pay out-of-pocket, but many private or extended health insurance plans offer varying levels of coverage for these services. It is advisable to review your insurance policy for specific details.

Does acupuncture hurt? Are the needles safe?

Most patients find acupuncture to be comfortable and not painful. The needles used are very thin, and insertion typically causes only a slight pinch or tingling sensation. Many people feel very relaxed during treatment and may even fall asleep. Practitioners are trained to use sterile, single-use needles to ensure safety and prevent infection. If you experience any discomfort or pain, inform your practitioner immediately.

Acupuncture Shiatsu Clinic
25 Watline Avenue
Mississauga, ON, L4Z 2Z1

Phone: (905) 501-8851

Jennifer Marguerite Kehler is regulated by the Traditional Chinese Medicine Act, 2006 in ON and is a registered member of The College of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners and Acupuncturists of Ontario.

Verify registration with The College of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners and Acupuncturists of Ontario: https://www.ctcmpao.on.ca/member-profile/?contactid=0248f5a9-cd4d-ea11-8116-005056a97495

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.