Sophia Nicole Bolos

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

Other Common

• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS/ME) & Adrenal Fatigue Support (TCM): Natural and comprehensive solutions for combating persistent, debilitating tiredness, improving energy production, and enhancing overall resilience and quality of life.
• Dizziness & Vertigo (TCM Perspective): Natural relief from sensations of spinning, lightheadedness, or unsteadiness by addressing the root energetic imbalance.
• 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.

Digestive Gastrointestinal

• Chronic Constipation or Diarrhea (Non-infectious): Acupuncture and tailored herbal formulas to regulate bowel movements by addressing the specific TCM pattern causing chronic constipation (e.g., Qi stagnation, Blood deficiency, Yin deficiency with dryness, Heat accumulation) or persistent diarrhea (e.g., Spleen Qi deficiency, Kidney Yang deficiency, Damp-Heat in the intestines).
• Nausea & Vomiting (e.g., Morning Sickness, Post-Chemotherapy): Safe and natural relief from nausea, helping to improve comfort and ability to maintain hydration and nutrition.

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. Sophia can assess your needs.

• Comprehensive TCM Health Assessment & Pattern Diagnosis: An extensive assessment exploring your main health concerns through the holistic lens of TCM, including detailed questioning, tongue and pulse diagnosis, and observation of physical signs to determine the root cause of disharmony and guide treatment.
• Electroacupuncture: Combining traditional acupuncture with modern microcurrent technology to amplify pain relief, reduce inflammation, and promote tissue healing and nerve regeneration.
• TCM Tongue Diagnosis: Detailed observation of the tongue's color, shape, size, coating, cracks, and moisture to gain crucial insights into the state of your internal organs, fluid balance, and overall energetic balance.
• 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.
• TCM Observation & Palpation Diagnosis: Utilizing traditional TCM observational skills (Wang) and palpation (Qie - beyond just pulse) to gather diagnostic clues about your underlying pattern of imbalance.
• 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.
• 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.

Note: This list highlights some key services. For a full list of therapies offered by Sophia, 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 ON and the standards set by The College of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners and Acupuncturists of Ontario.

At Durand Integrated Health Group, Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture are focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health, well-being, and daily activities. Sophia frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Dealing with the ongoing challenges of heartburn, acid reflux, or general indigestion after meals? Sophia works collaboratively with patients to reach the goal of a noticeable reduction in muscle tension, tightness, and related discomfort or stiffness. This might involve specific acupuncture protocols, cupping, or moxibustion, all aimed at helping you confidently resume participating in hobbies and social events without pain, anxiety, or fatigue holding them back.
• With Sophia, an Acupuncturist/TCM Practitioner, individuals with dizziness, lightheadedness, or vertigo that affects my balance and daily activities are guided towards enhanced fertility potential, optimized reproductive health, and better support during pregnancy and postpartum, focusing on restoring the body's natural balance to enjoy engaging in detailed crafting, sewing, or knitting hobbies for hours with clear focus again with greater zest.
• For those whose skin problems like eczema, persistent acne, psoriasis, or unexplained hives has made maintaining their balance and stability while walking on uneven ground or trails seem difficult, Sophia's acupuncture and TCM care offers a path toward a substantial increase in overall energy levels, vitality, and stamina throughout the day. These time-tested therapies can be instrumental in helping you get back to maintaining their balance and stability while walking on uneven ground or trails with greater comfort.
• Acupuncture and TCM with Sophia can be a turning point for those affected by wanting to support my body's natural detoxification processes. The goal is achieving gaining a deeper understanding of their body's unique energetic patterns and needs according to TCM principles, paving the way for you to enjoy attending concerts or theatre shows and sitting comfortably throughout and a more balanced, vibrant life.

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

Sophia practices at Durand Integrated Health Group, located in the vibrant Corktown and Stinson neighborhoods of Hamilton. The clinic is conveniently situated near the HMCS Haida National Historic Site and is easily accessible via Hamilton Street Railway (HSR). Our clinic offers a serene environment for healing, with metered and paid parking lots typically available nearby, making it easy for patients to access quality care in a peaceful setting.

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

Patients in Ontario can generally see a Registered Acupuncturist or Registered TCM Practitioner directly without a physician's referral, thanks to the practice of direct access. However, it is important to note that some private or extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. Patients are strongly encouraged to check their individual insurance policies to understand their coverage requirements.

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

No, acupuncture and TCM services provided by a Registered Acupuncturist (R.Ac) or Registered TCM Practitioner (R.TCMP) in private clinics are generally not covered by Ontario's OHIP. Most patients pay out-of-pocket for these services. It is advisable to review private or extended health insurance plans, as many offer some coverage for services by registered practitioners, though levels of coverage vary.

What is Acupuncture and how can it help me?

Acupuncture involves inserting extremely fine, sterile needles into specific points called acupoints along meridians to stimulate the flow of Qi (vital energy). According to TCM, this balancing of Qi can help reduce pain, alleviate stress, improve sleep, regulate bodily functions, boost immune response, and promote overall well-being by supporting the body's natural healing processes.

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

TCM is a comprehensive medical system used for thousands of years, including acupuncture, herbal medicine, massage (Tui Na), cupping, moxibustion, and dietary/lifestyle advice. A Registered Acupuncturist utilizes these therapies to identify and correct imbalances in Qi, Blood, Yin, and Yang, addressing the root cause of health issues and supporting long-term health and harmony.

What are Qi and Meridians in TCM?

In TCM, Qi is the vital energy or life force that flows through the body via specific pathways called meridians. These pathways connect internal organs with external parts of the body, facilitating the circulation of Qi and Blood. Acupuncture points along these meridians can be stimulated to restore balance and promote health.

What are Cupping, Moxibustion, Gua Sha, and Tui Na?

These are adjunct therapies used in TCM. Cupping involves placing cups on the skin to create suction, helping to relieve muscle tension and improve circulation. Moxibustion involves burning mugwort near acupuncture points to warm and energize Qi and Blood. Gua Sha is a gentle scraping technique to improve circulation. Tui Na is therapeutic massage that uses specific hand techniques to relax muscles and promote Qi flow. Your practitioner will determine the best approach for your condition.

Does acupuncture hurt? Are the needles safe?

Acupuncture needles are extremely fine, sterile, and single-use, often feeling like a tiny prick or a sensation of dull ache or warmth once inserted. Most patients find the experience relaxing and calming. Registered practitioners prioritize safety and only use sterile, disposable needles. If any discomfort occurs, patients are encouraged to communicate with their practitioner immediately.

Durand Integrated Health Group
136 Young Street
Hamilton, ON, L8N 1V5

Phone: (905) 527-1342

Sophia Nicole Bolos 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=a7523d1c-f35c-e711-810a-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.