Marie-Andrée Saint-Pierre – Acupuncturist | Montréal, QC

Marie-Andrée Saint-Pierre is a dedicated Acupuncteur (Ac.). Practicing at Marie-Andrée Saint-Pierre, Ac. in Montréal, QC, she is committed to providing high-quality, patient-centered care in Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine, adhering to the standards set by The Ordre des acupuncteurs du Québec.

Marie-Andrée's role as an Acupuncteur involves offering 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 care approach focuses on utilizing 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 unique needs.

She completed her training in Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture, gaining comprehensive clinical experience and honing her skills through ongoing professional development. Marie-Andrée is dedicated to upholding the highest standards of TCM practice, with particular interest in acupuncture techniques. Her practice philosophy is rooted in a holistic approach, viewing the body as an interconnected system where physical, mental, and emotional aspects are inseparable (Holism). She emphasizes the use of time-tested therapies like acupuncture and herbal medicine to support the body's innate healing capacity and restore natural harmony (Yin-Yang Harmony). She offers consultations in French.

Marie-Andrée Saint-Pierre 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): Acupuncture and herbal medicine as a supportive and complementary approach to manage asthma and chronic bronchitis symptoms by strengthening Lung Qi and Wei Qi, resolving phlegm and dampness, descending rebellious Lung Qi to calm wheezing and cough, and tonifying Kidney Qi to grasp the Lung Qi.
• Weak Immune System & Recurrent Infections: TCM strategies, including regular acupuncture, moxibustion, and constitutional herbal tonics, to strengthen the body's overall defensive energy (Wei Qi) and address underlying deficiencies in Qi, Blood, Yin, or Yang that may lead to a weakened immune system and frequent infections (e.g., colds, sinus infections, UTIs).

Mental Emotional Sleep

• Addiction Support (e.g., Smoking Cessation, Substance Cravings - NADA Protocol): Natural and effective aid to assist individuals in their journey to overcome addictive behaviors and reduce reliance on harmful substances.
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Support (TCM): Acupuncture and TCM therapies to help regulate the nervous system, calm an overactive stress response, reduce anxiety, improve sleep, and process emotional trauma in individuals experiencing PTSD symptoms. (As an adjunctive therapy).

Pain Musculoskeletal

• Arthritis & Joint Pain (Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis - Supportive Care): TCM approaches, including acupuncture, moxibustion, and herbal medicine, to reduce joint inflammation, alleviate pain, decrease stiffness, and improve function in individuals with various forms of arthritis.
• Headaches & Migraines (Tension, Cluster, Hormonal - TCM Management): Acupuncture and TCM diagnostic protocols to differentiate and treat various types of headaches and migraines by addressing root causes such as Qi stagnation, Blood deficiency or stasis, Liver Yang Rising, Phlegm obstruction, or external pathogenic factors.

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. Marie-Andrée can assess your needs.

• 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.
• Tui Na (Chinese Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork): Dynamic, hands-on bodywork based on TCM principles of meridians and acupoints to correct structural misalignments, improve circulation, alleviate chronic pain, and restore energetic harmony and balance.
• Auricular (Ear) Acupuncture / Acupressure / Ear Seeds: A specialized microsystem technique focusing on the ear's numerous reflexology points to influence overall health, manage cravings, and support emotional well-being, often used as a standalone or adjunctive therapy.
• 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.
• 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).
• 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.
• Moxibustion (Moxa Therapy): A warming therapy using various forms of moxa (e.g., moxa sticks, cones, moxa boxes) to promote circulation, relieve pain (especially cold-type pain like arthritis), boost immunity, and enhance the effects of acupuncture treatment.

Note: This list highlights some key services. For a full list of therapies offered by Marie-Andrée, 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 QC and the standards set by The Ordre des acupuncteurs du Québec.

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

• Through the gentle yet powerful methods of TCM, Marie-Andrée assists patients with sports injuries like sprains, strains, or tendonitis needing faster healing in reaching for children, experiencing fewer common ailments and demonstrating improved overall health and development, fostering a return to beloved activities like doing household chores like vacuuming, mopping, or laundry without pain.
• Acupuncture and TCM with Marie-Andrée can be a turning point for those affected by seasonal allergies (hay fever) making me sneeze, congested, and miserable. The goal is achieving a profound sense of relaxation, calm, and overall well-being following treatments, paving the way for you to enjoy reducing reliance on pain, sleep, or anxiety medications (always under medical guidance) and a more balanced, vibrant life.
• Marie-Andrée believes in a partnership with patients. When feeling down, having persistent low mood, or experiencing unpredictable mood swings arises, a collaborative TCM plan targets enhanced stress management capabilities and improved coping mechanisms for daily pressures, enabling a more active lifestyle including traveling more comfortably without being plagued by motion sickness, digestive upset, or travel-related anxiety.
• By addressing the root energetic imbalances related to wanting to support my body's natural detoxification processes, Marie-Andrée helps patients work towards gaining a deeper understanding of their body's unique energetic patterns and needs according to TCM principles, facilitating a return to cherished activities like running their usual 5k route without knee or back pain.

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

Marie-Andrée's practice at Marie-Andrée Saint-Pierre, Ac., is situated within a dedicated acupuncture and TCM clinic in the heart of Montréal's central neighborhood. The location is conveniently accessible via multiple public transit routes and is close to local community centers and parks, making it easy for patients to visit. The clinic offers a serene and welcoming environment for healing and relaxation. Metered and paid parking lots are usually available nearby, providing additional accessibility for those arriving by car.

Are Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine services covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) in QC?

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 Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ). Patients typically pay out-of-pocket for these services. It is strongly recommended to check with private or extended health insurance providers, as many offer partial or full coverage for treatments performed by registered practitioners. Coverage levels can vary significantly depending on the plan.

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 the flow of Qi, or vital energy. Based on the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine, it aims to restore balance and promote healing. It can be effective for managing pain, reducing stress, improving sleep, alleviating digestive issues, menstrual problems, and supporting overall health by activating your body’s own healing mechanisms.

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 may experience a slight pinch or a dull ache, warmth, or tingling around the needle site, which indicates the treatment is working. Many patients find the experience relaxing and even fall asleep during sessions. Practitioners are trained in safe needling techniques and use sterile, single-use needles to prevent infection. If you experience any discomfort or pain, inform your acupuncturist immediately.

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. It includes therapies such as acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, Tui Na massage, cupping, moxibustion, and dietary advice. A Registered Acupuncturist uses these tools to identify and correct imbalances in the body's Qi, Blood, Yin, and Yang, aiming to treat the root causes of health issues. TCM can address a wide variety of conditions and promote long-term wellness by restoring harmony within the body.

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

In Quebec, patients can typically consult a Registered Acupuncturist (or Registered TCM Practitioner) directly without a physician's referral under the principle of direct access. However, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to verify with your insurance provider regarding their specific requirements before your appointment.

What are Qi and Meridians in TCM?

**Qi** is the vital energy or life force that flows through the body’s channels, known as meridians. These meridians are like an interconnected network that carry Qi and Blood to nourish and support the organs and tissues. When Qi flows smoothly and abundantly, health is maintained. Disruptions, blockages, or deficiencies in Qi within these meridians can lead to illness or pain. Acupuncture and other TCM therapies aim to restore the proper flow of Qi, promoting balance and health.

Marie-Andrée Saint-Pierre, Ac.
7803, St-Denis
Montréal, QC, H2R 2E9

Phone: (514) 839-1610

Marie-Andrée Saint-Pierre is regulated by the Professional Code (Quebec) in QC and is a registered member of The Ordre des acupuncteurs du Québec.

Registration Number: A-048-14

Registration can typically be verified with The Ordre des acupuncteurs du Québec.

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.