Katherine Chekhter – Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioner and Acupuncturist | Concord, ON

Katherine Chekhter is a dedicated Registered Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioner (R.TCMP) (Acupuncture Services). Practicing at The Chekhter Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine in Concord, 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.

Her role focuses on 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 general wellness support. Katherine’s care approach is centered on using acupuncture to stimulate the body's natural healing abilities and restore energetic balance, following the fundamental principles of TCM. She serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors, ensuring personalized and compassionate care tailored to each individual's needs.

Katherine Chekhter completed her R. TCMP, R. Ac (Graduating Class of 2013). With over 11 years of dedicated practice since 2013, she is committed to ongoing professional learning and upholding the highest standards of TCM practice. She has developed a particular interest and further training in areas such as TCM dietary therapy, acupuncture, and Chinese herbal medicine. Her practice philosophy emphasizes utilizing time-tested therapies like acupuncture and herbal medicine to support the body's innate healing capacity and restore natural balance (Yin-Yang Harmony). She offers consultations in English, Russian, and Latvian, ensuring accessible and effective care for a diverse clientele.

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

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): Addressing pain by unblocking Qi (vital energy) and Blood stagnation in the meridians, promoting circulation to nourish tissues, and relaxing tense muscles and tendons.
• Neuropathic Pain & Peripheral Neuropathy (e.g., Diabetic Neuropathy Support, Post-Herpetic Neuralgia): Addressing neuropathic pain by invigorating Qi and Blood flow along affected meridians, nourishing Yin and Blood to repair damaged nerves, and resolving blockages or stagnation.
• Fibromyalgia & Myofascial Pain Syndrome: Personalized treatment plans aimed at reducing pain sensitivity, improving energy levels, enhancing sleep quality, and restoring a better quality of life for those with fibromyalgia or widespread myofascial pain.

Other Common

• 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).
• Dizziness & Vertigo (TCM Perspective): Acupuncture and herbal formulas to address various types of dizziness and vertigo by treating underlying TCM patterns such as Liver Yang Rising, Phlegm-Damp obstruction, or Qi and Blood deficiency.
• Bell's Palsy & Facial Paralysis Recovery: Supporting nerve healing and restoring facial muscle control through targeted acupuncture and TCM therapies.

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. Katherine can assess your needs.

• 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.
• Customized Chinese Herbal Medicine Prescription (R.TCMP Scope): Expert formulation of potent Chinese herbal remedies based on classical TCM principles and modern research, designed to treat specific ailments, strengthen the body, and support long-term constitutional health.
• TCM Pulse Diagnosis (Sphygmology): Skilled palpation of the radial artery pulse at three positions and three depths on each wrist to assess the quality, strength, rhythm, and rate, reflecting the health and balance of Qi and Blood in the twelve major organ systems.
• 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.
• Qigong & Tai Chi Exercise Recommendations: Guidance on or referral to Qigong or Tai Chi practices, which are gentle, mindful movement exercises combining breathwork and meditation to cultivate Qi, improve balance, reduce stress, enhance flexibility, and promote overall physical and mental health.
• 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.
• Comprehensive TCM Health Assessment & Pattern Diagnosis: Thorough first visit to understand your unique energetic constitution (Qi, Blood, Yin, Yang, Five Elements) and identify patterns of imbalance according to Traditional Chinese Medicine principles, leading to a precise TCM diagnosis.

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

• The journey to experiencing markedly fewer and less severe menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes, night sweats, and mood changes when faced with knee, hip, or other joint pain making movement difficult can be supported by Katherine's expertise in acupuncture and TCM, often leading to a more comfortable and active return to pastimes like dressing myself independently and without difficulty.
• Struggling with asthma or breathing difficulties needing supportive, natural care? Katherine develops individualized TCM treatment plans aimed at achieving a profound sense of relaxation, calm, and overall well-being following treatments, key to helping you get back to doing playing actively and roughhousing with their young kids or grandkids with joy and energy with improved well-being and energy.
• The path to overcoming wanting to improve my overall energy, focus, and vitality naturally and achieving feeling empowered with practical self-care techniques, such as acupressure, moxibustion for home use, or specific TCM dietary advice is often clearer with TCM. Katherine guides patients toward reclaiming activities such as engaging in detailed crafting, sewing, or knitting hobbies for hours with clear focus with improved health.
• If digestive issues like bloating, gas, cramps, constipation, or diarrhea (IBS-like symptoms) is affecting your ability to participate in managing the physical demands of their job without constant pain, Katherine's TCM approach aims for reduced inflammation throughout the body, as indicated by symptoms or markers, helping you to regain your stride.

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

The Chekhter Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine is situated in the central Concord neighborhood of Concord, ON. The clinic is conveniently located near local community centers and public parks, making it easily accessible for patients from the surrounding areas. It can be reached via local public transit routes, providing a simple and efficient way to access care. Our clinic offers a serene environment dedicated to healing and relaxation, with metered and paid parking lots usually available nearby to accommodate visitors.

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

Patients in Ontario 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). While a referral is not legally required, some private or extended health insurance plans may require one for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check with your insurance provider to confirm their specific requirements.

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

In Ontario, 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 the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). Patients usually pay out-of-pocket for these services. However, many private and extended health insurance plans offer coverage for treatments provided by registered practitioners, so it is recommended to review your individual policy for details on reimbursement.

What is Acupuncture and how can it help me?

Acupuncture involves inserting very fine, sterile needles into specific points on the body called acupoints. According to TCM theory, this stimulates and balances the flow of Qi (vital energy) along pathways called meridians. It can help reduce pain, alleviate stress, improve sleep, regulate bodily functions such as digestion and hormones, boost immunity, and promote overall well-being by harnessing the body's natural healing abilities.

Does acupuncture hurt? Are the needles safe?

Most people find acupuncture to be a comfortable experience. The needles used are very thin, and many individuals feel little to no sensation when they are inserted. Some may experience a slight pinch or a dull ache, warmth, or tingling, which generally indicates effective stimulation of Qi. Many patients report feeling very relaxed during treatments and may even fall asleep. Practitioners are trained in safe needling techniques and use sterile, single-use needles to ensure safety and prevent infection. If you experience any discomfort, inform your practitioner immediately.

Are Chinese Herbal Medicines safe? (If prescribed by an R.TCMP or Dr.TCM)

When prescribed by a qualified and registered TCM practitioner or doctor of TCM with extensive training in herbal pharmacology, Chinese herbal formulas are generally safe and effective. R.TCMPs are trained to identify high-quality herbs, potential herb-drug interactions, and contraindications, especially during pregnancy or for certain health conditions. It is crucial to inform your practitioner about all medications and health conditions to prevent adverse interactions. Self-prescribing herbs or purchasing from unreliable sources is strongly discouraged due to risks of contamination, incorrect formulations, or interactions.

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

Traditional Chinese Medicine is a holistic system that focuses on restoring balance and health through acupuncture, herbal medicine, dietary, and lifestyle recommendations. A Registered TCM Practitioner evaluates your overall health, often using tongue and pulse diagnosis, to identify patterns of imbalance. Treatment is then personalized to support your body's natural healing processes and promote optimal health.

What are Qi and Meridians in TCM?

Qi is the vital energy or life force that sustains the body’s functions. Meridians are channels through which Qi and Blood circulate, connecting organs and tissues. Blockages or deficiencies in Qi flow can lead to pain, illness, or imbalance. TCM therapies like acupuncture aim to ensure the smooth and balanced flow of Qi within these meridians to maintain health.

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

To prepare, it is recommended to have a light meal or snack about 1-2 hours before your appointment and to wear loose, comfortable clothing. Avoid caffeine or alcohol prior to treatment. After your session, it’s best to rest if needed, stay hydrated, and avoid strenuous activity. Pay attention to how your body responds and inform your practitioner of any changes or concerns during your next visit.

The Chekhter Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine
#425 (office 22 - 2-nd floor) 7250 Yonge street
Concord, ON, L4K 1Z8

Phone: (416) 728-2199

Katherine Chekhter 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=3dd9eb41-b376-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.