Sylvia Maksymik is a dedicated Registered TCM Practitioner (R.TCMP) (Acupuncture Services). Practicing at Equilibrium Therapeutics in Victoria, BC, Ibolya 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.
Ibolya's approach centers on 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, with compassion and tailored care.
Sylvia Maksymik completed her RAC. With extensive clinical training and experience, she is committed to ongoing professional learning and upholding the highest standards of TCM practice. Her interests include TCM dietary therapy, acupuncture, and Chinese herbal medicine, continually expanding her expertise to serve her patients better.
Ibolya emphasizes a holistic philosophy, prioritizing preventative care and patient education (Zhì Wèi Bìng - Treat a disease before it occurs). She views the body as an interconnected system where physical, mental, and emotional aspects are inseparable (Holism). Her approach focuses on identifying and treating the root cause of illness (Ben Qíu Bìng Gēn), rather than just alleviating symptoms, to support long-lasting health. Ibolya offers consultations in English, ensuring clear communication and understanding with her patients.
Sylvia Maksymik provides skilled Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:
Digestive Gastrointestinal
- 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.
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Bloating, Gas & Functional Digestive Upset: Holistic approach to calming an irritable gut and improving overall digestive health and comfort using personalized TCM treatments.
Dermatological Skin
- Urticaria (Hives) & Allergic Skin Reactions: Natural relief from acute and chronic hives, aiming to reduce frequency and severity of episodes.
- Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis) & Dermatitis: Addressing internal imbalances that manifest as skin irritation and inflammation, aiming for long-term relief and healthier skin.
- Rosacea (Supportive TCM Care): Addressing underlying inflammation and vascular reactivity contributing to rosacea flare-ups.
- Psoriasis (Supportive TCM Care): Working to reduce inflammation and modulate the immune response from a TCM perspective to improve skin lesions and overall comfort.
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. Ibolya can assess your needs.
- 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.
- Qigong & Tai Chi Exercise Recommendations: Incorporating principles of mindful movement and breath to enhance the therapeutic effects of TCM treatments and empower self-healing.
- 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).
- Acupressure & Meridian Therapy: Application of firm but gentle pressure to specific acupoints along the body's meridians using fingers, thumbs, or elbows to stimulate Qi flow, relieve pain, reduce tension, and promote relaxation and balance, similar to acupuncture but without needles.
- 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.
- TCM Lifestyle & Wellness Coaching (Yang Sheng): Holistic guidance on lifestyle adjustments based on TCM principles of Yang Sheng (Nourishing Life), including recommendations for appropriate exercise (e.g., Tai Chi, Qigong), sleep hygiene, stress management techniques (e.g., meditation, breathwork), emotional cultivation, and attunement to natural and seasonal rhythms to promote optimal health, prevent illness, and enhance longevity.
- Tui Na (Chinese Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork): Dynamic, hands-on bodywork based on TCM principles of meridians and acupoints to correct structural misalignments, improve circulation, alleviate chronic pain, and restore energetic harmony and balance.
Note: This list highlights some key services. For a full list of therapies offered by Ibolya, 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 Equilibrium Therapeutics, Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture are focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health, well-being, and daily activities. Ibolya frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:
- Patients struggling with wanting help to quit smoking or manage withdrawal symptoms from other addictions can find dedicated support from Ibolya. The therapeutic focus is on achieving enhanced stress management capabilities and improved coping mechanisms for daily pressures, using a range of TCM modalities to facilitate a return to meaningful daily activities such as engaging in detailed crafting, sewing, or knitting hobbies for hours with clear focus.
- For those whose high blood pressure needing complementary support for management has made participating in hobbies and social events without pain, anxiety, or fatigue holding them back seem difficult, Ibolya's acupuncture and TCM care offers a path toward significant and lasting reduction in acute or chronic pain levels. These time-tested therapies can be instrumental in helping you get back to participating in hobbies and social events without pain, anxiety, or fatigue holding them back with greater comfort.
- The path to overcoming heartburn, acid reflux, or general indigestion after meals and achieving effective alleviation of some common side effects associated with conventional medical treatments like chemotherapy is often clearer with TCM. Ibolya guides patients toward reclaiming activities such as feeling more physically resilient and less prone to minor ailments or weather changes with improved health.
- Through the gentle yet powerful methods of TCM, Ibolya assists patients with uncomfortable menopause symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, or mood changes in reaching a stronger, more robust, and resilient immune system, leading to fewer colds, flu, or other infections, fostering a return to beloved activities like taking energetic, long walks with their dog every day and enjoying it.
Your personalized TCM treatment plan, developed with Ibolya, will be designed to help you reach your specific functional and wellness objectives using a holistic and time-tested approach.
Situated within Equilibrium Therapeutics, Ibolya's practice is located in a reputable acupuncture and TCM clinic in the Victoria neighborhood of Victoria. The clinic is conveniently positioned near the Inner Harbour, making it easily accessible for residents and visitors alike. It is well-connected via the Victoria Regional Transit System (BC Transit), allowing for straightforward public transportation options. Our clinic offers a serene environment dedicated to healing and well-being, with metered and paid parking lots typically available in the vicinity for those coming by car.
- Does acupuncture hurt? Are the needles safe?
- Acupuncture needles are extremely fine, sterile, and single-use, often not much thicker than a human hair, so their insertion is usually painless or feels like a tiny prick, much less intense than an injection. Once the needles are in place, you might feel a unique sensation such as a dull ache, warmth, tingling, a slight feeling of pressure or heaviness, or even a sensation of energy moving; these are generally considered positive signs that the Qi is being influenced and the treatment is taking effect. Most people find acupuncture to be a very relaxing and calming experience. Safety is paramount; registered practitioners use only sterile, disposable needles. Always communicate with your Registered TCM Practitioner if you experience any significant discomfort during treatment.
- What is Acupuncture and how can it help me?
- Acupuncture, performed by a qualified Registered TCM Practitioner, is a therapeutic technique where thin needles are inserted at specific points on your body. It is based on the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine and aims to restore balance to your body's energy flow. It can be beneficial for a wide range of conditions, including pain management (like back pain or headaches), stress reduction, digestive issues, menstrual problems, and much more, by helping to activate your body's own healing mechanisms.
- 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), 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 of all medications you are taking, including prescriptions and over-the-counter drugs, as well as any health conditions. Self-prescribing herbs or purchasing from unreliable sources is strongly discouraged due to risks of incorrect diagnosis, contamination, or adverse interactions.
- 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 the Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC. Patients usually pay out-of-pocket, though some private or extended health insurance plans may offer partial or full coverage for these services. It is advisable to check with your insurance provider regarding your specific policy.
- 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 are specific pathways through which Qi and Blood circulate, connecting internal organs with the body's exterior. Acupuncture points are located along these meridians where the flow of Qi can be accessed and influenced to restore balance and health.
- 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, looking for patterns of imbalance through methods like tongue and pulse diagnosis. Treatment may include acupuncture, herbal formulas, cupping, moxibustion, and dietary advice, all aimed at restoring balance and promoting natural healing.
- Do I need a doctor’s referral to see a Registered TCM Practitioner in BC?
- Patients in BC can typically consult a Registered TCM Practitioner directly without a physician's referral. However, some private insurance plans require a referral for reimbursement. It is recommended to verify your insurance policy requirements before your appointment.
Equilibrium Therapeutics
130-19 Helmcken Rd
Victoria, BC, V8Z 5G5
Phone: (250) 479-6800
Sylvia Maksymik 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.