Samonica Susan Grant

Samonica Susan Grant 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): Integrative TCM care focused on alleviating treatment-related discomfort, enhancing immune function, and supporting the patient's overall well-being throughout their cancer journey.
• Bell's Palsy & Facial Paralysis Recovery: Early and consistent TCM intervention to maximize functional recovery and minimize residual facial weakness or asymmetry.

Mental Emotional Sleep

• Insomnia & Various Sleep Disorders (e.g., Difficulty Falling/Staying Asleep, Dream-Disturbed Sleep): Acupuncture, herbal formulas, and lifestyle advice to address different types of sleep disturbances by harmonizing Yin and Yang, calming the mind, anchoring the Shen, and resolving underlying TCM patterns such as Heart Fire, Liver Qi Stagnation disturbing the Hun, Spleen Qi Deficiency leading to overthinking, or Kidney Yin Deficiency with empty heat.
• Stress, Anxiety, Panic Attacks & Emotional Imbalances: Natural and effective approaches to promote profound relaxation, improve resilience to stressors, foster a sense of inner peace and emotional stability, and manage symptoms of overwhelm.

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. Samonica can assess your needs.

• 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.
• Herbal Medicine Preparation & Counseling: Supporting patients in their herbal medicine journey with clear instructions, quality-sourced herbs, and ongoing monitoring of their response to treatment.
• 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.
• Gua Sha (Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization - TCM): A therapeutic technique involving the gentle but firm scraping of lubricated skin with a smooth-edged tool (e.g., jade, horn, ceramic spoon) to stimulate microcirculation of the soft tissue, which releases muscle tension, breaks down adhesions and scar tissue, reduces pain and inflammation, and promotes healing and detoxification by releasing 'Sha' (stagnant blood and metabolic waste).
• Classical & Patent Chinese Herbal Formulas: Convenient and effective classical herbal formulations, often derived from famous ancient prescriptions, to complement your acupuncture treatment or as a standalone therapy for various health concerns.
• Customized Chinese Herbal Medicine Prescription (R.TCMP Scope): Expert formulation of potent Chinese herbal remedies based on classical TCM principles and modern research, designed to treat specific ailments, strengthen the body, and support long-term constitutional health.

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

• Restoring harmony is key in TCM. For TMJ, jaw pain, or teeth grinding that causes discomfort and headaches, Samonica crafts treatments to achieve a more positive outlook and improved mood stability, supporting a return to activities like planning and participating in future events with confidence in their health and well-being with comfort and confidence.
• For those whose feeling tired all the time, experiencing chronic fatigue, or lacking vitality has made enjoying seasonal changes with fewer allergy flare-ups and more outdoor time seem difficult, Samonica's acupuncture and TCM care offers a path toward visible improvement in chronic skin conditions like eczema, acne, or psoriasis, with healthier-looking skin. These time-tested therapies can be instrumental in helping you get back to enjoying seasonal changes with fewer allergy flare-ups and more outdoor time with greater comfort.
• Understanding that symptoms of Bell's Palsy or facial paralysis needing support for recovery can be frustrating, Samonica applies TCM wisdom to help patients achieve improved circulation, often described as a feeling of warmth or better flow in extremities, making it possible to rediscover the joy in having more regular and comfortable menstrual cycles, allowing for uninterrupted daily life and activities.
• The journey to significant and lasting reduction in acute or chronic pain levels when faced with a general feeling of being 'off' or 'out of balance' energetically can be supported by Samonica's expertise in acupuncture and TCM, often leading to a more comfortable and active return to pastimes like engaging in gentle exercises like Tai Chi, Qigong, or yoga with improved balance, flexibility, and energy flow.

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

Haven Healthcare, where Samonica practices, is situated in the Vanier, McLaughlin West neighborhood of Oshawa. The clinic is conveniently located near the Donevan Recreation Complex and is easily accessible via Durham Region Transit (DRT). Our clinic offers a serene environment conducive to healing and well-being. Metered and paid parking lots are usually available in the vicinity, making your visit comfortable and stress-free.

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.

Are Chinese Herbal Medicines safe? (If prescribed by an R.TCMP or Dr.TCM)

When prescribed by a qualified and Registered TCM Practitioner (R.TCMP) or Doctor of TCM (Dr.TCM), who has extensive training in herbal pharmacology, Chinese herbal formulas are generally safe and effective. R.TCMPs are trained to identify herb quality, potential herb-drug interactions, and contraindications for specific health conditions or during pregnancy. It is important to inform your practitioner about all medications (prescription and over-the-counter) and health conditions. Avoid self-prescribing herbs or purchasing from unreliable sources, as this may pose health risks due to incorrect diagnosis, improper formulations, contamination, or adverse interactions. R.TCMPs often source herbs from trusted suppliers that perform quality testing to ensure safety.

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 (such as 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. It is advisable to check your individual insurance policy requirements before your appointment.

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

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a comprehensive medical system used for thousands of years to diagnose, treat, and prevent illnesses. It includes therapies such as acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, Tui Na (therapeutic massage), cupping, moxibustion, and dietary/lifestyle advice. A Registered TCM Practitioner uses these tools to identify and correct imbalances in the body's Qi, Blood, Yin, and Yang, aiming to restore harmony and promote long-term health. It can be effective for a wide range of conditions by addressing root causes and supporting overall well-being.

Are Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine services covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?

In general, acupuncture and TCM services provided by a Registered Acupuncturist (R.Ac) or Registered TCM Practitioner (R.TCMP) in a private clinic are not covered by the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). Patients usually pay out-of-pocket. However, many private or extended health insurance plans offer some coverage for these services, so it is recommended to check your individual plan for details.

What is Acupuncture and how can it help me?

Acupuncture involves inserting very fine needles at specific points on the body to stimulate energy flow, based on TCM principles. It can help manage pain, reduce stress, improve sleep, support digestion, and treat various other health issues by activating the body's natural healing mechanisms.

Does acupuncture hurt? Are the needles safe?

Most people find acupuncture to be comfortable or only slightly uncomfortable. The needles are very thin, and many individuals feel little to no sensation upon insertion. Some may experience a dull ache, warmth, or tingling, which indicates effective stimulation. Practitioners are trained in safe needling techniques, using sterile, single-use needles to prevent infection. If you experience any pain during treatment, inform your practitioner immediately.

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

The number of sessions varies depending on the condition's nature, severity, duration, and your response to treatment. Acute issues may resolve in a few sessions, while chronic conditions often require ongoing treatment over several weeks or months. Your practitioner will develop a personalized treatment plan and adjust it as needed based on your progress.

Haven Healthcare
58 Rossland Road W Unit 205
Oshawa, ON, L1G 2V5

Phone: (905) 259-2454

Samonica Susan Grant 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=3d9db8d0-86f8-ec11-811b-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.