Lacey Lynn Mehlenbacher

Lacey Lynn Mehlenbacher 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: Natural and effective strategies for managing acute allergy symptoms and reducing the frequency and severity of chronic allergic rhinitis or sinusitis.
• 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.
• 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.

Other Common

• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS/ME) & Adrenal Fatigue Support (TCM): Restoring vitality and improving overall stamina by addressing underlying deficiencies and energetic blockages from a TCM perspective, often focusing on adrenal and mitochondrial support through TCM principles.
• Supportive Care During & After Cancer Treatments (Chemotherapy/Radiation Side Effects): Integrative TCM care focused on alleviating treatment-related discomfort, enhancing immune function, and supporting the patient's overall well-being throughout their cancer journey.

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. Lacey can assess your needs.

• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• TCM Observation & Palpation Diagnosis: Careful observation of your complexion, eyes, hair, nails, posture, and demeanor, combined with palpation of specific body areas or meridians to detect tenderness, temperature changes, or energetic blockages.
• 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.
• 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 Tongue Diagnosis: In-depth analysis of various tongue characteristics to help formulate an accurate TCM pattern diagnosis and a highly individualized treatment plan.

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

• Acupuncture and TCM with Lacey can be a turning point for those affected by brain fog, difficulty concentrating, or poor memory. The goal is achieving significant and lasting reduction in acute or chronic pain levels, paving the way for you to enjoy walking, hiking, or cycling with less joint pain, improved endurance, and better recovery and a more balanced, vibrant life.
• Lacey believes in a partnership with patients. When digestive issues like bloating, gas, cramps, constipation, or diarrhea (IBS-like symptoms) arises, a collaborative TCM plan targets better regulation of body temperature, feeling less prone to being overly cold or hot, enabling a more active lifestyle including playing a full game of recreational hockey with improved stamina and less post-game soreness.
• Rediscover your ability to engaging in mindful practices with a calmer and more centered state of mind without the burden of wanting help to quit smoking or manage withdrawal symptoms from other addictions. Lacey focuses on TCM treatment plans that lead to experiencing markedly fewer and less severe menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes, night sweats, and mood changes, integrating various therapeutic techniques to support your body's healing.
• Understanding that managing side effects from chemotherapy or radiation treatments more comfortably can be frustrating, Lacey applies TCM wisdom to help patients achieve reduced cravings and better management of withdrawal symptoms, aiding in addiction recovery (e.g., smoking cessation), making it possible to rediscover the joy in being able to concentrate better on tasks requiring mental focus for longer periods.

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

Situated in the Hamilton Mountain West (Gourley, Rolston) neighbourhood of Hamilton, Calm and Restore Acupuncture Clinic offers a convenient location for residents seeking holistic health care. The clinic is close to Hamilton City Hall and is easily accessible via Hamilton Street Railway (HSR). Our clinic provides a serene environment for healing, with accessible parking options typically available to accommodate your visit.

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 Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). Patients typically pay out-of-pocket for these services. However, many private or extended health insurance plans offer varying levels of coverage for treatments provided by registered practitioners. It is advisable to check with your insurance provider to understand your specific benefits and reimbursement options.

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

In Ontario, patients can usually see a Registered Acupuncturist or Registered TCM Practitioner directly without a physician's referral, as part of direct access healthcare. Nonetheless, some private insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It is recommended to verify your individual insurance policy to confirm whether a referral is necessary for coverage.

What are Qi and Meridians in TCM?

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Qi (pronounced 'chee') is often translated as 'vital energy' or 'life force.' It is considered the fundamental energy that flows throughout the body, responsible for physiological processes, movement, warmth, and protection against illness. Meridians are specific pathways through which Qi and Blood circulate, connecting internal organs with the external parts of the body, including muscles, skin, and sensory organs. Acupuncture points are located along these meridians and are accessed to influence Qi flow, helping to restore balance and health.

What is Acupuncture and how can it help me?

Acupuncture, performed by a qualified Registered Acupuncturist, involves inserting thin, sterile needles into specific points on the body to stimulate the flow of Qi. Based on TCM principles, it aims to restore balance, alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and promote natural healing. It can be effective for conditions such as pain management, stress relief, digestive issues, and more, by activating the body's own healing mechanisms.

Does acupuncture hurt? Are the needles safe?

Acupuncture needles are extremely fine, sterile, and single-use, often thinner than a human hair. Most people experience little to no discomfort during insertion, describing sensations like a dull ache, warmth, tingling, or heaviness—signs that Qi is being influenced. The procedure is generally relaxing and safe when performed by a trained practitioner. Always communicate with your acupuncturist if you experience any discomfort.

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

Traditional Chinese Medicine is a comprehensive health system that includes acupuncture, herbal medicine, massage (Tui Na), cupping, moxibustion, and dietary advice. A Registered Acupuncturist uses these modalities to identify and treat imbalances within the body’s energy (Qi), Blood, Yin, and Yang, addressing root causes of health issues and promoting long-term wellness.

What should I expect during my first appointment?

Your first visit will include a detailed consultation, where the practitioner will inquire about your symptoms, health history, lifestyle, and emotional state. Diagnostic methods such as tongue examination and pulse palpation are used to assess your TCM pattern. The practitioner will then explain her findings and propose a personalized treatment plan, which may include acupuncture, dietary advice, or herbal recommendations.

Does Calm and Restore Acupuncture Clinic offer direct billing to private insurance companies for Acupuncture/TCM services?

Yes, the clinic typically offers direct billing for services provided by Registered Acupuncturists and Registered TCM Practitioners to major private insurance providers. Patients should bring their insurance details and confirm specific coverage with their insurer, including any limits or requirements such as referrals. Patients are responsible for any non-covered portions of the treatment.

Calm and Restore Acupuncture Clinic
45 Anthony Street
Hamilton, ON, L9C 6V6

Phone: (905) 512-4509

Lacey Lynn Mehlenbacher 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=7543a5c9-9162-e811-810b-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.