Sarah Elizabeth Dunn is a dedicated Registered TCM Practitioner (R.TCMP) (Acupuncture Services). Practicing at MA wellness and yoga in Victoria, BC, Sarah Elizabeth is committed to providing high-quality, patient-centered care in Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine, adhering to the standards set by The College of Complementary Health Professionals of BC.
Sarah Elizabeth's role involves providing skilled acupuncture treatments for a wide variety of common health concerns, including pain management (musculoskeletal pain, headaches), stress reduction, sleep issues, and general wellness support. Care is focused on using 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 individual needs.
Sarah Elizabeth completed her RTCMP with extensive clinical training and experience. She is committed to ongoing professional learning and upholding the highest standards of TCM practice. Sarah Elizabeth has a particular interest and further training in areas such as TCM dietary therapy, acupuncture, and Chinese herbal medicine. 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 identifying and treating the root cause of illness (Ben Qíu Bìng Gēn), rather than just alleviating symptoms, to achieve long-lasting health. Additionally, her approach emphasizes preventative care and patient education (Zhì Wèi Bìng — Treat a disease before it occurs) to empower individuals in maintaining their well-being. Sarah Elizabeth offers consultations in English.
Sarah Elizabeth Dunn provides skilled Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:
Digestive Gastrointestinal
- Chronic Constipation or Diarrhea (Non-infectious): Effective TCM approaches for achieving long-term resolution of chronic and bothersome bowel irregularities and improving gut motility.
- Acid Reflux (GERD), Heartburn & Indigestion (Dyspepsia): Natural relief for upper digestive discomfort, promoting better digestion, reducing stomach acidity issues, and restoring overall digestive harmony.
- Crohn's Disease & Ulcerative Colitis (IBD) - Supportive TCM Care: TCM strategies aimed at strengthening the Spleen, resolving Dampness and Heat, invigorating Blood, and regulating immune function to support gut healing and reduce flare-ups in IBD.
Mental Emotional Sleep
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Support (TCM): Addressing TCM patterns often associated with trauma, such as Heart Shen disturbance, Liver Qi Stagnation, or Kidney Jing depletion.
- Stress, Anxiety, Panic Attacks & Emotional Imbalances: Acupuncture, acupressure, and TCM herbal therapies to calm the Shen (spirit/mind), regulate the flow of Qi (especially Liver Qi), nourish Heart Blood and Yin, and reduce the physiological and psychological effects of acute and chronic stress, anxiety, and panic attacks.
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. Sarah Elizabeth can assess your needs.
- Auricular (Ear) Acupuncture / Acupressure / Ear Seeds: Ear acupuncture or acupressure (using seeds for prolonged stimulation) to address issues like pain, addiction (e.g., smoking cessation, NADA protocol), stress, anxiety, and internal disorders by targeting corresponding reflex points on the ear.
- Cupping Therapy (Fire Cupping, Sliding Cupping, Stationary Cupping): Application of glass, bamboo, or silicone cups to the skin to create suction (often via heat/fire for glass cups, or a pump for others). This technique helps to relieve muscle tension, improve blood and Qi flow, reduce local inflammation, release toxins, open pores, and treat respiratory conditions or musculoskeletal pain.
- 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.
- Acupressure & Meridian Therapy: Targeting key energy points on the body with precise pressure to alleviate symptoms, support organ function, and enhance overall well-being.
- 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.
- 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.
- Scalp Acupuncture (Neuroacupuncture): Targeted stimulation of scalp acupoints to influence the central nervous system, improve motor function, alleviate paralysis or paresis, and treat complex pain syndromes.
Note: This list highlights some key services. For a full list of therapies offered by Sarah Elizabeth, 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 BC and the standards set by The College of Complementary Health Professionals of BC.
At MA wellness and yoga, Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture are focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health, well-being, and daily activities. Sarah Elizabeth frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:
- Through personalized acupuncture and TCM with Sarah Elizabeth, common concerns like asthma or breathing difficulties needing supportive, natural care are assessed from a holistic perspective to achieve gaining a deeper understanding of their body's unique energetic patterns and needs according to TCM principles, helping people to once again enjoy having the consistent energy and motivation to pursue creative outlets, learning, or personal passions.
- It's rewarding for Sarah Elizabeth to witness patients find relief from that nagging back pain that just won't go away and experience fewer and less intense headaches or migraines, leading to more pain-free days through TCM. A tailored approach can make a significant difference in your ability to participate in walking up and down several flights of stairs without issue again.
- By addressing the root energetic imbalances related to heartburn, acid reflux, or general indigestion after meals, Sarah Elizabeth helps patients work towards an enhanced overall quality of life and a greater capacity to enjoy daily activities and social engagements, facilitating a return to cherished activities like spending hours gardening comfortably, without subsequent back or knee strain.
- With Sarah Elizabeth, an Acupuncturist/TCM Practitioner, individuals with digestive issues like bloating, gas, cramps, constipation, or diarrhea (IBS-like symptoms) are guided towards experiencing fewer common ailments and demonstrating improved overall health and development, focusing on restoring the body's natural balance to enjoy intimacy without pain or hormonal imbalances interfering again with greater zest.
Your personalized TCM treatment plan, developed with Sarah Elizabeth, will be designed to help you reach your specific functional and wellness objectives using a holistic and time-tested approach.
Sarah Elizabeth practices at MA wellness and yoga, situated in the Downtown Victoria, Inner Harbour neighborhood of Victoria. The clinic is conveniently located near the Fairmont Empress Hotel and is easily accessible via the Victoria Regional Transit System (BC Transit). Our clinic offers a serene environment for healing, and convenient parking options are typically available, making your visit comfortable and stress-free.
- Are Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine services covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?
- 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 MSP in BC. Patients typically pay out-of-pocket for these services. It is highly recommended to check with your private or extended health insurance provider, as many plans offer partial or full coverage for services rendered by registered practitioners. Coverage levels can vary significantly depending on your insurance plan.
- What is Acupuncture and how can it help me?
- Acupuncture involves inserting very fine, sterile needles into specific points called acupoints on the body. Based on TCM theory, this stimulates and balances the flow of Qi (vital energy) along meridians. It can help reduce pain, alleviate stress and anxiety, improve sleep, regulate bodily functions such as digestion and hormones, and boost the immune system. Overall, acupuncture promotes the body's natural healing processes and enhances well-being.
- 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 upon insertion, describing it as a tiny prick. Once inserted, a sensation such as a dull ache, warmth, tingling, or heaviness may be felt, which indicates proper stimulation of Qi. Acupuncture is generally very relaxing and safe when performed by a licensed practitioner who uses only sterile, disposable needles. If you experience any discomfort during treatment, communicate with your practitioner immediately.
- Do I need a doctor's referral to see a Registered TCM Practitioner in BC?
- Patients in BC can typically access a Registered TCM Practitioner or Acupuncturist directly, without a physician's referral, through a process called direct access. However, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check your individual insurance policy to confirm whether a referral is necessary to maximize your coverage.
- What are Qi and Meridians in TCM?
- In TCM, **Qi** represents the vital energy or life force that sustains the body. When Qi flows smoothly and abundantly, health is maintained; when it becomes blocked or deficient, illness can occur. **Meridians** are the pathways that carry Qi and Blood throughout the body, connecting organs and tissues. Acupuncture and other TCM therapies aim to restore the balanced flow of Qi within these meridians to promote health and prevent disease.
- What is Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and how can a Registered TCM Practitioner help?
- Traditional Chinese Medicine is a holistic medical system that includes acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, Tui Na massage, cupping, moxibustion, and dietary/lifestyle advice. A Registered TCM Practitioner uses these modalities to identify and correct imbalances in the body's Qi, Blood, Yin, and Yang, addressing the root causes of health issues. TCM can assist with a wide range of conditions, promoting long-term wellness and harmony within the body.
MA wellness and yoga
539 Herald Street
Victoria, BC, V8W 1S5
Phone: (250) 613-6546
Sarah Elizabeth Dunn is regulated by the Health Professions Act (British Columbia) in BC and is a registered member of The College of Complementary Health Professionals of BC.
Registration can typically be verified with The College of Complementary Health Professionals of BC.
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.