Wenyan Liu is a dedicated Registered Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioner (R.TCMP) (Acupuncture Services). Practicing at Care Valley Wellness Centre in North York, 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.
Wenyan's role involves providing skilled acupuncture treatments for a wide variety of common health concerns, including pain management (such as musculoskeletal pain and headaches), stress reduction, sleep issues, and general wellness support. Her care approach focuses 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 treatment plans that address individual needs.
Wenyan Liu completed her R. TCMP, R. Ac (Graduating Class of 2023). With over 1 year of dedicated practice since 2023, she is committed to ongoing professional learning and upholding the highest standards of TCM practice. She has a particular interest and further training in areas such as TCM dietary therapy, acupuncture, and Chinese herbal medicine. Her practice philosophy emphasizes a holistic approach, viewing the body as an interconnected system where physical, mental, and emotional aspects are inseparable (Holism). She often recommends identifying and treating the root cause of illness (Ben Qíu Bìng Gēn), rather than just alleviating symptoms, to achieve long-lasting health. Wenyan utilizes 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.
Wenyan Liu provides skilled Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:
Womens Health Gynecological
- Pregnancy, Labor Preparation & Postpartum Care (TCM): Safe and gentle acupuncture and specific TCM therapies to support a healthy pregnancy (e.g., alleviating morning sickness, back pain, fatigue), prepare the body for labor (e.g., cervical ripening, encouraging optimal fetal position, breech presentation turning with moxibustion), and promote optimal recovery during the postpartum period (e.g., restoring energy, supporting lactation, addressing 'baby blues' or postpartum depression, healing perineal trauma).
- Menstrual Irregularities (Amenorrhea, Oligomenorrhea, Metrorrhagia) & PMS/PMDD: Addressing underlying TCM patterns such as Liver Qi Stagnation, Blood Stasis or Deficiency, Kidney Essence Deficiency, or Damp-Phlegm obstruction that contribute to menstrual and emotional cycle problems.
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) & Endometriosis - TCM Supportive Care: Addressing underlying TCM patterns such as Kidney deficiency, Spleen Qi deficiency with Dampness, Liver Qi stagnation, and Blood stasis commonly seen in these complex gynecological conditions.
Pain Musculoskeletal
- Fibromyalgia & Myofascial Pain Syndrome: Holistic TCM approaches, including acupuncture, gentle cupping, moxibustion, and carefully selected herbal support, to manage the complex symptoms of fibromyalgia and myofascial pain syndrome, such as widespread pain, tender points, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and 'fibro fog'.
- Neuropathic Pain & Peripheral Neuropathy (e.g., Diabetic Neuropathy Support, Post-Herpetic Neuralgia): Acupuncture, electroacupuncture, and related therapies to relieve radiating nerve pain, numbness, tingling, burning, or weakness associated with conditions like sciatica or peripheral neuropathy by improving microcirculation, reducing nerve inflammation, and promoting nerve regeneration.
Dermatological Skin
- Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis) & Dermatitis: TCM approaches including acupuncture, internal herbal medicine, and topical herbal applications to alleviate itching, redness, and inflammation associated with eczema by clearing Heat, resolving Dampness, expelling Wind, and nourishing Blood or Yin depending on the specific TCM pattern.
- Acne (Vulgaris, Cystic, Hormonal): Targeting the root causes of acne breakouts, whether related to diet, stress, hormonal fluctuations, or internal toxicity according to TCM diagnosis.
- Rosacea (Supportive TCM Care): A gentle, holistic approach to calm skin redness and improve overall complexion for individuals with rosacea.
- Urticaria (Hives) & Allergic Skin Reactions: Addressing underlying immune system sensitivities and internal imbalances that trigger urticarial outbreaks.
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. Wenyan 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.
- Electroacupuncture: Combining traditional acupuncture with modern microcurrent technology to amplify pain relief, reduce inflammation, and promote tissue healing and nerve regeneration.
- Herbal Medicine Preparation & Counseling: Educating patients on the actions and benefits of their specific herbal prescription and ensuring they understand how to take their herbs safely and effectively for optimal results.
- 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.
- Acupuncture Treatment (Body Acupuncture): Customized acupuncture sessions designed to address your specific symptoms and underlying TCM pattern diagnosis, encouraging the body's powerful self-healing mechanisms and promoting overall well-being.
- 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.
- 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 Wenyan, 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 Care Valley Wellness Centre, Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture are focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health, well-being, and daily activities. Wenyan frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:
- When symptoms of Bell's Palsy or facial paralysis needing support for recovery is limiting your lifestyle, acupuncture and TCM with Wenyan can help you work towards visible improvement in chronic skin conditions like eczema, acne, or psoriasis, with healthier-looking skin, aiming to restore harmony and optimal function so you can comfortably and safely enjoy getting back to golfing 18 holes without their back acting up.
- Wenyan believes in a partnership with patients. When chronic sinus congestion, pressure, or recurrent sinus infections arises, a collaborative TCM plan targets clearer breathing, reduced sinus congestion, and improved respiratory function, enabling a more active lifestyle including engaging in mindful practices with a calmer and more centered state of mind.
- Through the gentle yet powerful methods of TCM, Wenyan assists patients with feeling tired all the time, experiencing chronic fatigue, or lacking vitality in reaching improved mental focus, concentration, and cognitive clarity as overall health and energy improve, fostering a return to beloved activities like sitting comfortably through a movie at the cinema or a play.
- Dealing with the ongoing challenges of curious about facial rejuvenation or cosmetic acupuncture for a natural anti-aging approach? Wenyan works collaboratively with patients to reach the goal of enjoying consistently more restful, deeper, and restorative sleep patterns, waking up refreshed. This might involve specific acupuncture protocols, cupping, or moxibustion, all aimed at helping you confidently resume feeling more physically resilient and less prone to minor ailments or weather changes.
Your personalized TCM treatment plan, developed with Wenyan, will be designed to help you reach your specific functional and wellness objectives using a holistic and time-tested approach.
Wenyan practices at Care Valley Wellness Centre, situated within a modern acupuncture and TCM clinic in the central North York neighbourhood of North York. The clinic is conveniently located near local community centers and public parks, making it easy for patients to access. It is well-served by local public transit routes, ensuring ease of travel for those using buses and subways. Our clinic is accessible and offers a serene environment for healing. Metered and paid parking lots are usually found in the vicinity.
- 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.
- 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 can pose risks of incorrect diagnosis, improper formulation, contamination, or adverse interactions. R.TCMPs often source herbs from trusted suppliers who perform quality testing to ensure safety.
- What is Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and how can a Registered TCM Practitioner help?
- Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a comprehensive medical system that has been used for thousands of years to diagnose, treat, and prevent illness. It includes therapies such as acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, Tui Na 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, addressing the root cause of health issues. TCM can help manage a wide range of conditions, promoting harmony and long-term wellness.
- What is Acupuncture and how can it help me?
- Acupuncture involves inserting fine, sterile needles into specific points called acupoints to stimulate the flow of Qi along meridians. This can help reduce pain, alleviate stress, improve sleep, regulate bodily functions such as digestion and hormones, strengthen the immune system, and enhance overall well-being by supporting the body's natural healing processes.
- 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 Ontario's provincial health plan (OHIP). Patients typically pay out-of-pocket, though many private or extended health insurance plans may offer some reimbursement. It is advisable to check with your insurance provider for specific coverage details.
- What are Qi and Meridians in TCM?
- Qi is the vital energy or life force that sustains the body's functions. Meridians are channels that carry Qi and Blood throughout the body, connecting organs and tissues. When Qi flow is blocked or unbalanced, health issues can arise. Acupuncture aims to restore the proper flow of Qi within these meridians, promoting health and harmony.
- Do I need a doctor's referral to see a Registered TCM Practitioner in ON?
- In Ontario, patients can generally consult a Registered TCM Practitioner directly without a physician's referral. However, some private insurance plans may require a referral for coverage purposes. It is recommended to verify your insurance policy requirements before your appointment.
- Is there anything I should do to prepare for or after an acupuncture session?
- It is advisable to have a light meal or snack about 1-2 hours before treatment, wear loose clothing for easy access to treatment areas, and avoid caffeine or alcohol beforehand. After the session, it’s best to rest, stay hydrated, and avoid strenuous activity. Some individuals feel very relaxed or slightly tired, while others may feel energized. Pay attention to your body's responses and communicate any concerns to your practitioner during your visit.
Care Valley Wellness Centre
806 Wilson Avenue
North York, ON, M3K 1E5
Phone: (647) 748-3788
Wenyan Liu 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=237c0a53-3b8d-ed11-812c-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.