Kecia Lee – Acupuncturist | Ottawa, ON

Kecia Lee is a dedicated Registered Acupuncturist (R.Ac). Practicing at an acupuncture and TCM clinic in Ottawa, 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.

Kecia's role as a practitioner 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 general wellness support. Her care 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 for each individual.

Having completed her R. Ac (Graduating Class of 2014), Kecia has over 10 years of dedicated practice since then. She remains committed to ongoing professional learning and upholding the highest standards of TCM practice. She has a particular interest in acupuncture and further training in areas that enhance her ability to provide comprehensive care. Her practice philosophy emphasizes preventative care and patient education (Zhì Wèi Bìng - Treat a disease before it occurs), along with identifying and treating the root cause of illnesses (Ben Qíu Bìng Gēn) rather than just alleviating symptoms. She offers consultations in English, ensuring clear communication and understanding with her patients.

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

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): A holistic and integrative TCM approach to help modulate the immune response, alleviate autoimmune-related fatigue and pain, and support the body's innate healing capacities.
• Bell's Palsy & Facial Paralysis Recovery: Early and consistent TCM intervention to maximize functional recovery and minimize residual facial weakness or asymmetry.

Respiratory Allergy & Immune

• 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.
• 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.
• 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.

Digestive & Gastrointestinal

• Nausea & Vomiting (e.g., Morning Sickness, Post-Chemotherapy): Safe and natural relief from nausea, helping to improve comfort and ability to maintain hydration and nutrition.
• Crohn's Disease & Ulcerative Colitis (IBD) - Supportive TCM Care: TCM strategies aimed at strengthening the Spleen, resolving Dampness and Heat, invigorating Blood, and regulating immune function to support gut healing and reduce flare-ups in IBD.
• Acid Reflux (GERD), Heartburn & Indigestion (Dyspepsia): Traditional Chinese Medicine treatments, including acupuncture and specific herbal formulas, to address symptoms of heartburn, acid regurgitation, belching, and indigestion by strengthening Spleen Qi, ensuring the proper downward flow of rebellious Stomach Qi, and clearing any Stomach Heat or Food Stagnation.
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Bloating, Gas & Functional Digestive Upset: TCM strategies to identify and manage dietary and emotional triggers for digestive distress, improve nutrient absorption, and restore comfortable and regular bowel function.

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. Kecia can assess your needs.

• Gua Sha (Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization - TCM): Instrument-assisted unidirectional press-stroking of the skin to break up stagnation, improve local circulation, alleviate pain, stiffness, and fever, and promote lymphatic drainage.
• Tui Na (Chinese Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork): A comprehensive form of Chinese therapeutic massage and bodywork that utilizes a wide range of hand techniques (e.g., pushing, grasping, rolling, pressing, kneading) to manipulate soft tissues and joints, stimulate acupressure points, and promote the harmonious flow of Qi and Blood through the meridians, thereby relieving pain, correcting musculoskeletal imbalances, and treating various internal medicine conditions. (Typically offered by R.TCMP or specifically trained R.Ac).
• Cupping Therapy (Fire Cupping, Sliding Cupping, Stationary Cupping): Utilizing cupping techniques to alleviate musculoskeletal pain (back, shoulder, neck), clear stagnation, support detoxification, and relieve symptoms of common colds or asthma.
• TCM Observation & Palpation Diagnosis: A holistic diagnostic approach incorporating visual assessment and physical touch to complement tongue and pulse diagnosis for a complete TCM picture.
• Moxibustion (Moxa Therapy): Gentle and penetrating heat therapy with mugwort to strengthen the body's vital energy, improve circulation, turn breech babies (when applied to a specific point), and relieve chronic pain or fatigue.
• Acupressure & Meridian Therapy: Application of firm but gentle pressure to specific acupoints along the body's meridians using fingers, thumbs, or elbows to stimulate Qi flow, relieve pain, reduce tension, and promote relaxation and balance, similar to acupuncture but without needles.
• Comprehensive TCM Health Assessment & Pattern Diagnosis: A detailed initial consultation involving an in-depth discussion of your health history, symptoms, lifestyle, emotional state, and a traditional TCM diagnostic assessment (palpation, observation, listening/smelling, pulse, and tongue diagnosis) to identify your unique TCM pattern of disharmony.

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

• Many find that TCM with Kecia not only helps with frequent headaches or intense migraines disrupting my life but also brings about a substantial increase in overall energy levels, vitality, and stamina throughout the day, allowing for a more fulfilling engagement in managing the physical demands of their job without constant pain.
• If that nagging back pain that just won't go away is affecting your ability to participate in maintaining a positive mood and outlook more consistently, leading to better social interactions, Kecia's TCM approach aims for accelerated recovery from sports injuries or repetitive strains, and a quicker, safer return to activity, helping you to regain your stride.
• Experiencing asthma or breathing difficulties needing supportive, natural care can be draining. Kecia utilizes acupuncture and other TCM methods to aim for a more positive outlook and improved mood stability, so patients can re-engage with engaging in detailed crafting, sewing, or knitting hobbies for hours with clear focus feeling revitalized.
• Through the gentle yet powerful methods of TCM, Kecia assists patients with curious about facial rejuvenation or cosmetic acupuncture for a natural anti-aging approach in reaching a significant reduction in allergy symptoms (sneezing, congestion, itchy eyes) and less reliance on allergy medications, fostering a return to beloved activities like enjoying meals without digestive discomfort, bloating, or subsequent fatigue.

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

Kecia practices at an acupuncture and TCM clinic in Ottawa, situated in the Hunt Club West, Riverside South, Ottawa Airport Area neighbourhood of Ottawa. The clinic is conveniently located near the Rideau Canal National Historic Site and is easily accessible via OC Transpo (O-Train LRT, Bus). Our clinic is accessible and offers a serene environment for healing. Convenient parking options are typically accessible.

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.

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 common sensations include a slight initial pinch, followed by a dull ache, warmth, tingling, or a feeling of fullness around the needle site, which usually indicates the treatment is working effectively to stimulate your body's Qi. Many patients report feeling very relaxed and even fall asleep during the session. Practitioners are highly trained in safe needling techniques and exclusively use sterile, single-use needles to ensure your safety and prevent infection. If you ever feel any notable pain, inform your Registered Acupuncturist immediately.

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 provincial health plans like Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). Patients typically pay out-of-pocket. Patients are strongly advised to check their private and extended health insurance plans, as many offer coverage for services provided by registered practitioners. Coverage levels vary significantly depending on the plan.

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

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a comprehensive medical system that has been used for thousands of years to diagnose, treat, and prevent illness. It includes therapies such as acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, Tui Na (therapeutic massage), cupping, moxibustion, and dietary/lifestyle advice. A Registered Acupuncturist (or Registered TCM Practitioner) uses these tools to address the root cause of health issues by identifying and correcting imbalances in the body's Qi (vital energy), Blood, Yin, and Yang. It can help with a wide array of conditions, aiming to restore harmony and promote long-term health.

What is Acupuncture and how can it help me?

Acupuncture involves inserting very fine, sterile needles into specific points called acupoints on the body. Based on TCM theory, this stimulates and balances the flow of Qi (vital energy) along 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 supporting the body's natural healing process.

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

In Ontario, patients 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. Patients should verify the requirements of their insurance policy.

Approximately how many Acupuncture/TCM sessions will I need and how often?

This varies depending on the individual and condition. Some acute issues resolve after a few sessions, while chronic conditions may require a series of treatments once or twice weekly initially, then gradually less often. Your practitioner will provide a tailored estimate after the initial assessment and will monitor progress to adjust the frequency accordingly. The goal is to achieve and maintain improvement over time.

Does our clinic offer direct billing to private insurance companies for Acupuncture/TCM services?

Most clinics, including ours, typically offer direct billing services to major private insurance providers for treatments performed by Registered Acupuncturists and Registered TCM Practitioners. Patients are encouraged to bring their insurance details and confirm coverage specifics, such as per-visit limits, overall maximums, and whether a referral is needed. The patient is responsible for any non-covered amounts.

1212 Pebble Rd.
Ottawa, ON, K1V 8V4

Phone: (613) 282-6217

Kecia Lee 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=d77d3410-c676-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.