Jessica Sarah Vella – Acupuncturist | Guelph, ON

Jessica Sarah Vella is a dedicated Registered Acupuncturist (R.Ac). Practicing at Massage Addict Guelph Speedvale in Guelph, 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.

Jessica's role involves providing skilled acupuncture treatments for a wide variety of common health concerns, including pain management (musculoskeletal pain, headaches), stress reduction, sleep issues, and general wellness support. Her care is focused 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 approaches for each individual.

Jessica Sarah Vella completed her R. Ac (Graduating Class of 2014). With over 10 years of dedicated practice since 2014, she is committed to ongoing professional learning and upholding the highest standards of TCM practice. She has a particular interest or further training in areas such as acupuncture, herbal medicine, and holistic health approaches.

Her practice philosophy emphasizes preventative care and patient education (Zhì Wèi Bìng - Treat a disease before it occurs) to empower individuals in maintaining their well-being. Jessica is dedicated to providing individualized treatment based on precise TCM pattern differentiation, ensuring each care plan is tailored to the patient's unique constitution and condition. Utilizing time-tested therapies like acupuncture and herbal medicine, she aims to support the body's innate healing capacity and restore natural Yin-Yang harmony. She offers consultations in English.

Jessica practices at Massage Addict Guelph Speedvale, situated in the Grange Road area within the Victoria North neighborhood of Guelph. The clinic is conveniently located near the Downtown Core and is easily accessible via Guelph Transit. Our clinic offers a serene environment conducive to healing, with metered and paid parking lots typically available in the vicinity.

• Acupuncture Treatment (Body Acupuncture): A therapeutic technique involving strategic needling of acupoints to restore balance between Yin and Yang, treating a wide range of health conditions from musculoskeletal pain to internal medicine disorders.
• Electroacupuncture: A form of acupuncture where a small, gentle, and continuous electrical current is passed between pairs of acupuncture needles to enhance stimulation of acupoints and therapeutic effects, particularly effective for chronic pain, neurological conditions, and muscle spasm.
• Tui Na (Chinese Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork): Therapeutic massage techniques integrated with acupressure, joint mobilization, and stretching to address pain, tension, stress, and promote overall physical and energetic well-being.
• Gua Sha (Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization - TCM): Traditional East Asian healing technique, often used for musculoskeletal pain, common cold, fever, or heatstroke, to address pain by moving stagnant Qi and Blood, clear heat, and promote tissue recovery.
• 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).
• Acupressure & Meridian Therapy: A non-invasive TCM technique that uses manual pressure on acupoints to address various health concerns, often taught for self-care or used as part of a broader TCM treatment.
• Cupping Therapy (Fire Cupping, Sliding Cupping, Stationary Cupping): A traditional deep-tissue therapy using suction cups (stationary or moved along lubricated skin) to promote circulation, ease pain, break up fascial adhesions, and draw out pathogenic factors like Wind, Cold, and Dampness from the body.

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

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

• When symptoms of Bell's Palsy or facial paralysis needing support for recovery is limiting your lifestyle, acupuncture and TCM with Jessica can help you work towards experiencing markedly fewer and less severe menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes, night sweats, and mood changes, aiming to restore harmony and optimal function so you can comfortably and safely enjoy walking up and down several flights of stairs without issue.
• Acupuncture and TCM with Jessica can be a turning point for those affected by brain fog, difficulty concentrating, or poor memory. The goal is enjoying consistently more restful, deeper, and restorative sleep patterns, waking up refreshed, paving the way for you to enjoy being able to concentrate better on tasks requiring mental focus for longer periods and a more balanced, vibrant life.
• Dealing with the ongoing challenges of feeling stressed out, anxious, overwhelmed, or panicky most of the time? Jessica works collaboratively with patients to reach the goal of enhanced stress management capabilities and improved coping mechanisms for daily pressures. This might involve specific acupuncture protocols, cupping, or moxibustion, all aimed at helping you confidently resume participating in community events and social gatherings more actively.
• For those curious about facial rejuvenation or cosmetic acupuncture for a natural anti-aging approach, Jessica's acupuncture and TCM care offers a path toward feeling empowered with practical self-care techniques, such as acupressure, moxibustion for home use, or specific TCM dietary advice. These time-tested therapies can be instrumental in helping you get back to keeping up with your team during weekly soccer matches without pain or limitations, fostering greater comfort and vitality.

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

Jessica practices at Massage Addict Guelph Speedvale, situated in the Grange Road area within the Victoria North neighborhood of Guelph. The clinic is conveniently located near the Downtown Core and is easily accessible via Guelph Transit. Our clinic offers a serene environment conducive to healing, with metered and paid parking lots typically available in the vicinity.

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

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 Ontario's provincial health insurance plan (OHIP). Patients typically pay out-of-pocket for these services. However, many private and extended health insurance plans do offer reimbursement for treatments from registered practitioners. Coverage levels and requirements vary significantly, so patients are advised to check their individual insurance policies.

What is Acupuncture and how can it help me?

Acupuncture, performed by a qualified Registered Acupuncturist, involves inserting very thin needles at specific points on the body to stimulate energy flow and restore balance in the body's systems. It can help manage conditions such as pain, stress, digestive issues, menstrual problems, and more, by activating the body's natural healing mechanisms and promoting overall well-being.

Is TCM and Acupuncture suitable for children or the elderly?

Yes, Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture are safe and effective for both 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 or acupressure. For seniors, treatments are tailored to individual health conditions, often focusing on managing chronic pain, improving mobility, and supporting vitality. All treatments are personalized for safety and comfort.

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

Traditional Chinese Medicine is a holistic approach based on ancient principles that seek to restore balance and harmony within the body. A Registered Acupuncturist assesses your health patterns using methods like tongue and pulse diagnosis and creates a personalized treatment plan which may include acupuncture, herbal medicine, cupping, moxibustion, and lifestyle advice to promote healing and well-being.

What types of conditions do Registered Acupuncturists at Massage Addict Guelph Speedvale treat?

Our Registered Acupuncturists treat a wide range of health concerns using Traditional Chinese Medicine principles. This includes, but is not limited to, conditions such as Crohn's Disease & Ulcerative Colitis (IBD) - Supportive TCM Care, asthma, chronic bronchitis, cough, sleep disorders, women’s health issues like PMS or menopausal symptoms, and general wellness support. Treatments often involve Acupuncture Treatment (Body Acupuncture), Electroacupuncture, moxibustion, and dietary or lifestyle recommendations tailored to your diagnosis.

What are Qi and Meridians in TCM?

**Qi** is the vital energy or life force that animates the body and sustains health. **Meridians** are the pathways or channels through which Qi and Blood circulate, connecting organs and tissues. When Qi flows freely and in balance, health is maintained; blockages or deficiencies can lead to illness or pain. Acupuncture and other TCM therapies aim to restore the proper flow of Qi within these meridians.

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

Patients in Ontario can typically see a Registered Acupuncturist or Registered TCM Practitioner directly without a physician's referral (known as direct access). However, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check your individual insurance policy for specific requirements.

Does acupuncture hurt? Are the needles safe?

Most people find acupuncture to be comfortable or only slightly uncomfortable. The needles used are very thin, and insertion usually produces minimal sensation—often just a slight pinch or tingling. Many patients report feeling deeply relaxed or even falling asleep during treatments. Practitioners are trained in safe needling techniques, use sterile, single-use needles, and ensure your safety at all times. If you experience any discomfort, you should inform your acupuncturist immediately.

Massage Addict Guelph Speedvale
328 Speedvale Ave East, Unit 13
Guelph, ON, N1E 1N5

Phone: (226) 706-3276

Jessica Sarah Vella 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=2fdef62b-c376-e611-80c3-005056a97495

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.