Minghui Shen – Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioner and Acupuncturist | Toronto, ON

Minghui Shen is a dedicated Registered Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioner (R.TCMP) (Acupuncture Services). Practicing at TCM ACUPUNCTURE & HERBAL CLINI in Toronto, 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.

As a skilled practitioner, Minghui specializes in delivering effective acupuncture treatments for a broad spectrum of common health concerns, including pain relief (musculoskeletal pain, headaches), stress management, sleep issues, and overall wellness enhancement. Her approach emphasizes stimulating the body's innate healing abilities and restoring energetic balance according to TCM principles. She serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors, with a compassionate and holistic approach that respects each individual's unique health journey.

Minghui Shen 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 a particular interest or further training in areas such as TCM dietary therapy, acupuncture, and Chinese herbal medicine. Her practice philosophy centers on a holistic approach, viewing the body as an interconnected system where physical, mental, and emotional aspects are inseparable (Holism); a commitment to individualized treatment based on precise TCM pattern differentiation, ensuring care is tailored to each person's unique constitution and condition; 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, Mandarin.

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

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.
• 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.
• Common Cold, Flu & Viral Infections (Prevention & Accelerated Recovery): Using specific acupuncture points and potent herbal formulas tailored to the stage and nature of the cold or flu (e.g., clearing Wind-Cold versus Wind-Heat invasions) to shorten duration and lessen severity.

Mental Emotional Sleep

• Addiction Support (e.g., Smoking Cessation, Substance Cravings - NADA Protocol): Supporting detoxification pathways, promoting emotional balance, and strengthening willpower as part of a comprehensive addiction treatment and relapse prevention plan.
• Stress, Anxiety, Panic Attacks & Emotional Imbalances: Supporting emotional well-being by addressing underlying imbalances in organ systems (e.g., Liver Qi Stagnation leading to irritability, Heart Blood Deficiency causing anxiety) that contribute to mood disturbances, worry, or fear.
• 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.
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Support (TCM): Supportive TCM care to help restore a sense of safety, peace, and emotional resilience for those affected by trauma.

Other Common

• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS/ME) & Adrenal Fatigue Support (TCM): Acupuncture, moxibustion, and tonifying herbal therapies to address the profound exhaustion and complex symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome by strengthening Spleen Qi, nourishing Kidney Essence (Yin and Yang), resolving Dampness, and calming the Shen.
• 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: 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. Minghui can assess your needs.

• TCM Lifestyle & Wellness Coaching (Yang Sheng): Practical strategies for living in harmony with nature, managing daily stressors effectively, conserving vital energy (Qi), and cultivating healthy habits from a TCM perspective to support overall resilience and a vibrant life.
• 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.
• 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.
• Acupuncture Treatment (Body Acupuncture): A therapeutic technique involving strategic needling of acupoints to restore balance between Yin and Yang, treating a wide range of health conditions from musculoskeletal pain to internal medicine disorders.
• Qigong & Tai Chi Exercise Recommendations: Recommending specific Qigong or Tai Chi forms tailored to an individual's health needs and constitution to support healing and maintain well-being.
• TCM Dietary Therapy & Nutritional Counseling (Shi Liao): Using food as medicine according to traditional Chinese dietary wisdom to strengthen organ function (especially Spleen and Stomach), improve digestion, build Qi and Blood, clear pathogenic factors, and promote overall harmony and longevity.
• 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).

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

• Restoring harmony is key in TCM. For frequent colds, feeling like my immune system is weak, or taking a long time to recover from illness, Minghui crafts treatments to achieve a holistic sense of feeling more 'in balance' and harmonized physically, mentally, and energetically, supporting a return to activities like experiencing clearer sinuses and easier breathing during daily activities and exercise with comfort and confidence.
• If wanting help to quit smoking or manage withdrawal symptoms from other addictions is affecting your ability to participate in engaging in detailed crafting, sewing, or knitting hobbies for hours with clear focus, Minghui'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.
• Struggling with wanting to support my body's natural detoxification processes? Minghui develops individualized TCM treatment plans aimed at achieving clearer breathing, reduced sinus congestion, and improved respiratory function, key to helping you get back to doing cooking and eating a wider variety of healthy foods comfortably and with enjoyment with improved well-being and energy.
• Rediscover your ability to spending hours gardening comfortably, without subsequent back or knee strain without the burden of circulatory problems, feeling cold often, or having cold hands and feet. Minghui focuses on TCM treatment plans that lead to reduced cravings and better management of withdrawal symptoms, aiding in addiction recovery (e.g., smoking cessation), integrating various therapeutic techniques to support your body's healing.

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

Minghui practices at TCM ACUPUNCTURE & HERBAL CLINI, situated in the vibrant St. James Town neighborhood of Toronto’s Cabbagetown area. The clinic is conveniently located near Yonge-Dundas Square, making it easily accessible via public transportation including the TTC subway, streetcar, and bus routes. Our clinic offers a tranquil environment dedicated to healing and well-being, with metered and paid parking lots typically available nearby for those arriving by car.

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 TCM Practitioner immediately.

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 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.

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 for these services. However, many private or extended health insurance plans do offer coverage for registered practitioners, so it's advisable to check your individual policy for details.

What is Acupuncture and how can it help me?

Acupuncture, performed by a qualified Registered TCM Practitioner, involves inserting thin needles at specific points to stimulate the body's energy flow. It aims to restore balance and promote healing, alleviating conditions such as pain, stress, digestive issues, menstrual concerns, and more. It activates the body's natural healing mechanisms, supporting overall health.

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 directly without a physician's referral (known as direct access). While a referral is not usually required by law, some private or extended health plans may require one for reimbursement purposes. It's recommended to check your insurance policy accordingly.

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

Traditional Chinese Medicine is a holistic health system based on ancient principles. A Registered TCM Practitioner assesses your overall health using methods like tongue and pulse diagnosis. Treatment may include acupuncture, herbal medicine, cupping, moxibustion, and lifestyle advice to restore balance and promote healing based on individual patterns of disharmony.

TCM ACUPUNCTURE & HERBAL CLINI
510-600 Sherbourne St.
Toronto, ON, M4X1W4

Phone: (647) 262-1208

Minghui Shen 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=beadc82c-b176-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.