Marie-Léonie Fournier

Marie-Léonie Fournier provides skilled Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Other Common

• 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.
• Supportive Care During & After Cancer Treatments (Chemotherapy/Radiation Side Effects): Acupuncture, moxibustion, and gentle herbal therapies to help manage common side effects of conventional cancer treatments, such as nausea, vomiting, fatigue, pain, neuropathy, dry mouth, insomnia, and anxiety, thereby improving quality of life and treatment tolerance. (Always in coordination with primary oncology care).
• 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.

Digestive Gastrointestinal

• Crohn's Disease & Ulcerative Colitis (IBD) - Supportive TCM Care: Holistic and integrative TCM care to help modulate the immune response, alleviate abdominal pain and diarrhea, and support overall digestive health in individuals with Crohn's or colitis.
• Acid Reflux (GERD), Heartburn & Indigestion (Dyspepsia): Reducing symptoms of GERD and dyspepsia by harmonizing the middle jiao (digestive center) and addressing underlying imbalances without relying on long-term acid suppression.

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.
• Depression, Low Mood & Mood Swings (Supportive TCM Care): Traditional Chinese Medicine therapies, including acupuncture and herbal medicine, as a supportive and complementary approach to manage symptoms of mild to moderate depression, persistent low mood, and emotional lability by regulating neurotransmitter balance indirectly, moving stagnant Qi, and nourishing deficient substances like Blood or Yin.

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-Léonie can assess your needs.

• 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).
• TCM Pulse Diagnosis (Sphygmology): Assessing up to 28 distinct pulse qualities to contribute to a comprehensive TCM diagnosis, guiding the selection of appropriate acupuncture points and herbal formulas.
• 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.
• TCM Tongue Diagnosis: A key TCM diagnostic method where the tongue is meticulously examined as a microsystem map reflecting your body's internal health and specific imbalances.
• Auricular (Ear) Acupuncture / Acupressure / Ear Seeds: Stimulation of specific reflex points on the ear (auricle) using fine needles, small seeds (e.g., vaccaria seeds), or beads affixed with tape to treat various health conditions throughout the body, based on the principle that the ear is a microsystem reflecting the entire body.
• 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.
• Scalp Acupuncture (Neuroacupuncture): A contemporary acupuncture technique involving the insertion of needles into specific therapeutic zones on the scalp that correspond to different body functions and brain areas (e.g., motor, sensory, balance zones), primarily used for neurological disorders, stroke rehabilitation, chronic pain, and psycho-emotional conditions.

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

• Dealing with the ongoing challenges of that nagging back pain that just won't go away? Marie-Léonie works collaboratively with patients to reach the goal of a holistic sense of feeling more 'in balance' and harmonized physically, mentally, and energetically. This might involve specific acupuncture protocols, cupping, or moxibustion, all aimed at helping you confidently resume managing the physical demands of your job without constant pain.
• The path to overcoming dizziness, lightheadedness, or vertigo that affects my balance and daily activities and achieving reduced inflammation throughout the body, as indicated by symptoms or markers is often clearer with TCM. Marie-Léonie guides patients toward reclaiming activities such as getting in and out of the car smoothly and without wincing with improved health.
• With Marie-Léonie, an Acupuncturist/TCM Practitioner, individuals with high blood pressure needing complementary support for management are guided towards effective alleviation of some common side effects associated with conventional medical treatments like chemotherapy, focusing on restoring the body's natural balance to enjoy sitting comfortably through a movie at the cinema or a play again with greater zest.
• The journey to improved circulation, often described as a feeling of warmth or better flow in extremities when faced with uncomfortable menopause symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, or mood changes can be supported by Marie-Léonie's expertise in acupuncture and TCM, often leading to a more comfortable and active return to pastimes like being able to kneel or squat down to play with pets or children comfortably.

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

Marie-Léonie practices at Clinique Sport Santé Laurentides, situated in the heart of Saint-Sauveur within a dedicated acupuncture and TCM clinic in the central neighborhood. The clinic is conveniently located near local community centers and parks, making it easy for patients to access. It is well connected by public transit routes, ensuring accessibility for those relying on public transportation. Our clinic is accessible and offers a serene environment for healing. Street parking is often available nearby.

What is Acupuncture and how can it help me?

Acupuncture is a key component of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that involves the insertion of very fine, sterile needles into specific points on the body called acupoints. According to TCM theory, this helps to stimulate and balance the flow of Qi (vital energy) along pathways known as meridians. Acupuncture can help by reducing pain, alleviating stress and anxiety, improving sleep, regulating bodily functions (like digestion and hormones), boosting the immune system, and promoting overall well-being by encouraging the body's natural healing abilities.

Does Clinique Sport Santé Laurentides offer direct billing to private insurance companies for Acupuncture/TCM services?

Typically, the clinic offers direct billing for services provided by Registered Acupuncturists (R.Ac) and/or Registered TCM Practitioners (R.TCMP) to major private insurers. Patients are advised to bring their insurance details and confirm specific coverage options—such as coverage for acupuncture, herbal consultations, or herbal remedies—directly with their insurer. Patients are responsible for any portions not covered by insurance.

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

No, services provided by a Registered Acupuncturist (R.Ac) or Registered TCM Practitioner (R.TCMP) in private clinics are generally not covered by RAMQ. Patients usually pay out-of-pocket. It is recommended to check with private or extended health insurance plans, as many offer some coverage for these services, but levels vary significantly.

What are Qi and Meridians in TCM?

**Qi** is a core concept in TCM, representing the vital energy or life force that animates the body and drives its functions. When Qi flows smoothly and abundantly, health is maintained. **Meridians** are like a network of rivers or channels that carry Qi and Blood throughout the body, connecting different organs and tissues. Illness or pain can arise if the flow of Qi in these meridians becomes blocked, deficient, or excessive. 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 QC?

In QC, patients can typically see a Registered Acupuncturist directly without a referral. However, some private insurance plans may require a doctor's referral for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check with your insurance provider to confirm specific requirements.

What should I expect during my first Acupuncture or TCM appointment?

Your initial appointment usually involves a detailed consultation, including discussion of your health concerns, review of medical history, and lifestyle inquiries. The practitioner will perform diagnostic assessments such as tongue and pulse diagnosis, followed by a personalized treatment plan. The first session often includes acupuncture treatment designed to begin addressing your concerns and may incorporate other modalities like herbal advice or cupping, depending on your needs.

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

TCM is a comprehensive medical system that uses various therapies such as acupuncture, herbal medicine, cupping, and dietary advice to restore balance within the body. A Registered Acupuncturist utilizes these tools to identify and correct imbalances in Qi, Blood, Yin, and Yang, helping to treat a wide array of health issues and promoting long-term wellness.

Does acupuncture hurt? Are the needles safe?

Acupuncture needles are extremely fine, sterile, and single-use. Most people experience minimal discomfort, often feeling only a tiny prick or no sensation at all. Once inserted, some may feel sensations like warmth, tingling, or heaviness, which are signs that Qi is being influenced. The needles are very safe when inserted by a qualified practitioner who follows strict sterilization protocols. Always communicate with your practitioner if you experience any discomfort.

Clinique Sport Santé Laurentides
26, av. Lafleur Sud
Saint-Sauveur, QC, J0R 1R0

Phone: (450) 744-1715

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

Registration Number: A-033-08

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.