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American College of Traditional Chinese Medicine
Categories: Health and Medical Acupuncture Education Colleges & Universities Health and Medical Traditional Chinese Medicine Acupuncture, Colleges & Universities, Traditional Chinese Medicine [Edit]
455 Arkansas St(at 20th St)
San Francisco, CA 94107
Neighborhood: Potrero Hill
(415) 282-7600
- Hours:
Mon-Thu 8:30 am - 9 pm
Fri-Sat 9 am - 5:30 pm
- By Appointment Only:
- No
41 reviews for American College of Traditional Chinese Medicine
41 reviews in English
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Review from amber k.
11/29/2011
If you know me, then you probably remember that I have a slight aversion to hippies. However, being from Santa Cruz makes it impossible for me to rule out alternative health practices, healthy foods, and hippiesque music festivals.
So, after enduring the Worst Breakup Of All Time for awhile with no bandaid, I decided on a whim to walk into the ACTCM to find out how much a treatment might cost. They were willing to take me that night, and had a low income price tag too. (I'm not sure how much the low income price was. I believe a regular treatment is $42 which is what I got charged the first time, then the next session I got a discount for that session plus the previous one, and I think that time it just cost me $19). I think they're so affordable because they're a community clinic attached to a school, but that worked for me.
The sessions were supervised by Jason Su while Rachael Himmelman, Prisca Chen and Jessica Deahl took turns asking me questions about my general health and about what I was in for. The women who treated me were knowledgable and caring, and probably people I would hang out with, so I was very comfortable.
Having never been to acupuncture before, I wasn't really sure what to expect. Basically the doctors explained what the points they were picking would help with, inserted the disposable needles (and you hardly feel them), turned on the heat, turned off the lights and left me alone for about 20 minutes. I had a very intense experience that I won't go into here (feel free to message me if you're curious), but it was powerful and I definitely felt better. By the time the next session came around a week later, I was doing much better.
I absolutely recommend this place, their doctors, and acupuncture for anyone. I will definitely be back! -
Review from lisa b.
San Francisco, CA
2/7/2012
After a friend recommended this place, I was truly excited about going to have accupuncture done to relieve stress. Several things happened to me to give this place a 3 rating.
First, to get there is a complete hassle from downtown, you can pretty much take the 10- if you can find the stop going there or take the bart up to mission and then transfer to another bus. Once you get there, it is highly unlikely you can actually get back home. Limited bus and muni options and I ended up having to take over $30 in cab fees to get to and from this place.
Second, once I finally got there, my internist was running late and either I could wait even longer or they could see if someone else could fit me in. Frustration #2.
If you have any mold/mildew allergies, this place is not for you. I walked into the lobby and instantly could smell the mold/mildew/old building smell and my eyes and nose became to suffer. Once you get back to the rooms, it's not so bad but I started to cough and sneeze during my exam. not fun
The rooms are shoddily constructed. Throughout my entire exam and while getting treatment (trying to relax mind you), I could hear the guys next to me in their conversation. It was extremely hard for me to relax b/c all I could hear was what they were talking about.
The treatment was fine and she seemed skilled to address any questions. But due to my other experiences I will not be going back to this place and will ahve to find somewhere else. -
Review from Angela N.
San Francisco, CA
12/7/2011
This place performs miracles! I have never experienced anything like it in the world but if they could bottle it up woah! I went in to solve a mysterious and painful pain in my back that would not leave after several massages and chiropractic visit. After two visits and thoughtful intake from my practitioner and her supervisor they found the root of the problem (which was located in a completely different part of my body) busted out the electric needles and fixed it. I walked out a new woman. Even if you are not in pain, this is the most relaxing, revitalizing experience ever.
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Review from Sheila X.
San Francisco, CA
12/15/2011
Love this place!
If you are looking for value for money. This is definitely the place to go.
I've had two treatments and I can tell the difference already! I feel less anxious after the acupuncture session. I also love the holistic approach they took. Not only did they treat the specific problem I went for, they also looked every possible aspect of my physical and mental health.
My student practitioner Amy was awesome!! -
Review from Rachel L.
San Francisco, CA
6/11/2011 8 Check-ins Here
This is just a different address, so i already reviewed the school in a different review. I guess i had a little more to say about the school...Excellent quality acupuncture and Chinese medicine. The interns here are skilled, caring, and intelligent. I highly recommend this clinic. I have been going here 2x a week for 4 months and its really helped. I even visit the ear clinic on Monday afternoons, so that gives me 3 treatments a week.
I really like the doctor i see and her team of interns, now thats going to change because of there school system (quarterly program) so i dont know how ill feel next quarter, but this quarter has been great and dr. Hennesy has been great, along with her team. -
Review from Kimberly H.
Sausalito, CA
9/25/2010
ALUMNI/STUDENT
I graduated last December 2009 and am now an L.Ac. (licensed acupuncturist) in California.
Now that school is behind me I can finally look back and say how grateful I am for this education. It is a long and arduous program, I will not lie. It is not for everyone. My "key sentence" that I have used all the way through and still believe is: "if I had any idea how difficult it was going to be, I never would have done it" and that's still 100% true. However, (and I always follow up with this) - I love the medicine, I believe in the medicine and now I can truly say I received a fantastic education here.
All of my classmates are VERY close, I still talk to some of them daily. We try to arrange "get togethers", we stay in touch, we hang out, we help each other!!! I adore my classmates and know that we will be friends for life. These are people I can count on in every way AND they are all incredibly talented acupuncturists!!
There are some classes offered at ACTCM that are not offered elsewhere (like the 8 extra meridians class) with some amazing teachers. I still had to supplement my learning by taking outside classes (and will always do that) but as a base education - I am so pleased I chose ACTCM.
It's not perfect but no school is. I didn't love every single teacher I had but I did love 90% of them. And I can honestly say I loved every single supervisor I interned under. Each one has a different specialty and a different way of treating patients. They were all patient, helpful and kind.
Another thing I loved about ACTCM was the ability to intern at CAP sites off-campus like the Haight Ashbury Free Clinic, CPMC and the Jewish Home (hospice care). I took advantage of all of these. If you're interested in community acupuncture there is also the opportunity to intern in the ear clinic on the De Haro campus, which I simply cannot recommend enough. Pam Olten is one of my MANY heroes at ACTCM.
All said and done - it took me longer to graduate than some of my fellow students because I had to go slower to absorb the massive amounts of information. You are learning a foreign concept (unless you've grown up with Eastern Medicine), herbs and formulas in Chinese. At times the sheer amount of information seems insurmountable and who could ever learn all of this in 3 1/2 (or my case 4 1/2) years? What's important is a strong foundation and ACTCM provides just that. -
Review from Amanda H.
San Francisco, CA
2/8/2007
I have been, of course, thinking about what to write on my 400th review and quite a few things came to mind while pondering what would be most beneficial for the diligent readers of this place we know as Yelp.
But, seeing as I have been sick on and off again over the course of the past 3 months, I recently became fed up with it and hopped on yelp on the hunt for an acupuncture clinic.
Thus, the review..and what is the one freakin thing you want when you are sick?!
TO GET WELL!! :) So here is my best attempt to kill two birds with one stone.
Well, when I was 10, 14, and 19 - my immune system became somewhat compromised through repeated bouts of the flu (and STRESS) and I was introduced to acupuncture initially through my Martial Arts instructor and then through my asian buddies. Every single time I went - I always left feeling a renewed energy and thus was able to regain my wellness very quickly.
So now, every time I feel really really down and sick - I think about going to go see someone to perform acupuncture. But I guess I always needed that referral to be comfortable enough to actually go.
I am really happy this place is so close to home and that they have appointments readily available last minute. The cost is almost laughable as compared to the traditional costs after deductibles from your insurance, and the feeling that you get from being here is one of general concern for your individual health and wellness.
The treatment takes a while and the needles, well don't let it fool you. Stubbing your toe hurts at LEAST ten times worse. Walking in I felt like a freight train was on top of my head, and walking out I felt hopeful, happy, and like a pile of bricks had been lifted off of my head and shoulders.
You may roll your eyes, but I could seriously breathe out of my nostrils again, no coughing, no spacy thoughts, no sinus pressure, and no more dryness in my throat. When can you ever say THAT leaving a traditional western doctor's office?!
And yes, while there is no specific cure for the cold or the flu - I have always thought that the best defense is what God naturally gave you - because your body and your mind is alot smarter than you would think. It's just that your individual constitution gets bogged down every once in a while and needs an extra helping hand (from guess who) to get back where it belongs.
I recommend going here and Cheers to this place for wellness! I will now be stopping by here at least once a week for a while! It's cheap, the people are genuine, plenty of parking and next to some kickass restaurants...this is THE spot!
Thanks again Yelp! And BTW, I filled the forms out and checked the 'Other' box to let them know I heard of this place on Yelp.
And then when asked, simply explained what Yelp is all about (in my opinion). :) -
Review from tiffinie t.
San Francisco, CA
5/1/2007
When I was a kid I wanted to be a witch. You know, magic potions, spells that would shut my brother up and bring me lots of gorgeous things and take me to far away lands. A witch in the vein of Samantha or Endora. Tabitha, even. You can imagine my delight when David, a boy in my 2nd grade class, referred to my beauty mark as a witch mole!
Then there was my discovery of Nancy Drew, girl sleuth in the 3rd grade. Dude! I sooo wanted to be Nancy! I wanted to put clues together and catch the bad guy and solve the caper!
With that said, some years later I discovered Chinese medicine, which for a SoCal girl who was fascinated by the witchier side of nature and a nose for clues, was right up my alley.
Now, I'm not saying that Chinese medicine is magic. There's nothing supernatural about it. Though, there have been some remarkable healing occurrences in patients who've used it (::read other reviews::). I'm simply saying that for a white girl with no real knowledge of the Far East, it may as well have been filled with magic.
As it turns out, Chinese medicine IS magic.
In fact, it's a miracle that I've found a profession that hasn't bored me to tears after the years of education! (It seems that I have professional ADD) Having studied at ACTCM for 4 years, I have been filled with wonder at a healing art that's been around for thousands of years. It incorporates acupuncture, herbs, nutrition, body work, cupping and moxibustion (among other things). But, instead of eye of newt and wing of bat, our pharmacy includes cicada moultings and mint and amber and myrrh. Plus, I get to be a sleuth and put all my patients' information together to catch the proverbial bad guy, solve the caper, and help them be well!
ACTCM helped land me on a path of true discovery. My teachers were, for the most part, awesome and funny and very wise. I met some of the coolest people EVER. And it's probably the best ton of cash I've spent on anything.
But why, you may ask, am I giving 4 stars and not 5? Well, as some of my very honorable teachers know, 4 stars gives you plenty of room to be better. To work harder.
Now, get outta here. I gotta get back to work and mix up my decoction of dragon bones and cinnamon bark and move some Qi.Listed in: Where Soul Meets Body, Is there a doctor in the…
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Review from Kim G.
Falls Church, VA
8/16/2006
I guess I'm the first student to write about my daily experience at this fine institution. ACTCM called me to San Francisco two years ago and I'm so happy it did. Picture me growing up in suburbia working at a M.D.'s office in a conservative community and always wanting to help others but simply dispassionate about the 'hard sciences.' There surely must be another way! I got my BS in psychology and decided peace of mind might be something I couldn't afford with such a career. And then the holy [holistic] medicine introduced itself to me sophomore year and I spent my time catching up on prereqs, slicing cadavers and playing with rats. What fun!
I visited other schools in the corners of America but the chance to live in SF seemed like my opportunity for pure joy. I'm halfway through the 'rigorous and demanding' program (over 3 yrs long for a masters) they describe in their orientation but all the stress does seem to balance out with the lifestyle that chinese medicine has created for me. There's just no compliment comparable to old friends or relatives telling you they couldn't see anyone else they know belonging here and choosing this profession but you.
The students are fun, laid back, diverse, helpful, understanding and enthusiastic. The administrators try their best with the nitty-gritty and keep you informed. The faculty consists of American and Chinese professors with years of experience and wisdom. Each one is different. My favorite practitioner reminds me of Yoda, and greets me with a hug whenever I see him, emitting a feeling of positivity and calm. Some focus their efforts to healing with a plethora of herbs, and others on nutrition. Whatever you are looking for with alternative medicine, we will try our best to help you integrate it into your life and grab a hold of your health at any age and for any illness.
For prospective students, I think sitting in on more than one class and talking to students at all levels is a good idea. Also students that have transferred to ACTCM from other colleges. It's a huge commitment, but everyone has their own situation and method of time management.
The most valuable thing I've learned from attending this college is how fortunate I am to know how to take care of myself at a young age. I feel like I have a head start and my classes in meditation and tai chi have centered me (that's not too hippy dippy, is it?) Watching other people get better with our treatments is so rewarding, and it's true what yoda said-
"When the patient is happy, the doctor is happy"Listed in: Favorites of SF
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Review from Marz W.
San Francisco, CA
1/17/2006
They have never done me wrong. I think that acupuncture is like a miracle. Unless you have broken bones or congential heart failure, or some other thing that needs an x-ray or some kind of western medicine attention, I am all for non-western approaches to medicine.
These people cured my ex's snoring. This was a huge deal as sleeping next to him was like sleeping with an outboard motor. He snored when he was barely awake and managed to sleep through it. Once my downstairs neighbor heard it from his room. Earplugs didn't drown it out. Nothing did, but acupuncture and the herbs they prescribed made it go away.
I have gone there for migraines, depression, allergies, and sooner than later I suspect, nerve problems left over from spine surgery.
They accept insurance and also do sliding scale payments. The prices are reasonable.Listed in: Well Wishes
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Review from Alexander Y.
San Jose, CA
9/9/2011
I attended their open house over a year ago and was quite impressed by the campus and curriculum. If I lived in SF, I would consider taking some courses here not only to gain more understanding of alternative/holistic medicine, but to expand my knowledge in Chinese medical culture. Pulling a Master or Doctorate degree from this place would look cool on a resume. I like their herb garden, it was on point!
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Review from M.A. B.
Cupertino, CA
2/23/2010
EDUCATION: BEST Acupuncture School in San Francisco Bay Area. Highest pass rates.
Not saying much though because things are pretty un-evolved for this training. Very competitive academically and socially. Not to get in necessarily - it is private business after all - even they say they are non-profit . Relatively easy to get in. Difficult to transfer credits: note one of the only acu school to do that : WASC school - in SoCal http://scuhs.edu - I have only visited there. Most of these schools are certified for financial aid but not for transfer of academic work to a regular or public college/university. Take pre-req's at a community college.
When I went on a tour at ACTCM & talked to students who go there currently and have gone there, they say it is not a sweet holistic school but hard core mini-med school environment. Students will not share notes and have pockets of cliques that are unfriendly to each other. Though those who survive are well bonded or should I say melded.
Academically tough. Hair raising extreme testing to get through stages of the progam you have just dumped Tens of Thousands of dollars into and don't want to abandon. Attrition is very high - out of a starting class only aprox 20% finish. What a way to kill what you love.
A really nice acupuncturist I know - said she refused to go to graduation because her fellow students were so petty, competitive and mean & another fellow alumni agreed it was a problem but I heard this at other schools too but not this bad. Parking minimal - almost must use public transporation. The administrative staff are diverse but there is a great disconnect. Good that they are diverse and not like other schools that have admin's that are all of one nationality or religion.
There also were about 8 students who left one class en masse to another school (the Oakland one? - cheaper/mostly Chinese taught) because the admin was not responsive. The admissions person was not very helpful when I went in for a tour. None of the people who looked like they worked there smiled or seem friendly.
ACUPUNCTURE AS A CAREER: Piss poor. Dismal. The census has not even been keeping data on it - interesting if the 2010 will... Sorry I have to warn you - some will be brave and bold and driven by inner destiny to continue but information is powerful and helpful.
One of the administrators at another school said 20-50% who graduate (after an 80%+ attrition of a starting class in school) will be able to make a living and be able to buy a car and maybe a small house/condo. Retirement anyone?
All this money and effort and still be barely solvent or just above taking a 2nd job. If you have other human services degrees it helps. Not good livelihood for about 90% of people who practice as acupuncturists currently. - middle income/class may be a possibility but unlikely with this as your job... MD's, DM's, PT's and others are trying to incorporate acupuncture which chips away at the prospects.
Again hopefully the new census will give more info on the state of Acupuncture as a career.
The recruiters/admissions will tell you of the acupuncturist that makes 6 figures but when you dig - it is because of things like "he is married to a Chinese woman and has an import-export business too". Look at the car and belongings of the instructors - they are supposedly the best acupuncturists - yet they don't seem economically successful - though that is not the only measure of success - yes? Another could be a measure of comfort, security and saving for retirement.
Independence is cool - though to establish a practice in one place and start over again if you move some place else is difficult. If you want more income and patients you can try and work with a Chiropractor or MD but they may take 1/2 or more of what a patient pays and may ask you to see more patients than is comfortable. DC's are the worst from what I have heard. Kaiser and VA are starting to hire L.Ac.'s but they can get many applications for one position. The Kaiser L.Ac. is only allowed to treat for pain from what I heard and have to see a huge number of patients. What kind of caring meditative effective treatment can you give that way? Medi-Cal just took away payments to acupuncturists and work comp is minimal but this goes back and forth. Obama apparently supports it but he is not a member of congress anymore.
On the Plus Side: Wonderful huge library with discount text books (very limited selection but enough for classes). Best chinese med library in the Bay Area. They do have the semblance of a learning garden which is a real plus in a cramped city space. It is actually in San Francisco which means good off site clinics and culture of accpetance...
ACTCM does have one of the highest pass rates for any of the 3-4 schools around. -
Review from Karry G.
San Francisco, CA
8/30/2007
I went to this school as a last resort. I was suffering from diffuse allopecia (hair thinning) and also from astronomically high stress levels. I was grinding my teeth at night and getting headaches.
The acupuncture helped immediately. I felt the effects during the night and the next morning. I did not grind my teeth that night. As for the hair loss, obviously, that takes longer to see effects.
Here's the deal: You will see either an advanced level intern or a group of students with a professional accupuncturist. if you get the intern, he/she has to run the treatment by the professional before you get the needles.
On the first appt., the intern talked with me for a very long time about everything! They want to know every last thing that is right/wrong about you physically. My intern was very patient/understanding and I never felt rushed or self-conscious. We also talked about my diet and stress levels and how they might be affecting my hair loss. I learned a lot about myself.
In the end, they said my "chi was congested". So, I got the acupuncture and it did not hurt. It was very relaxing, actually. They also want you to buy these herbs. I wasn't (and am still not) sure about if those work - but they're so cheap, that I gave them a try.
The cost is $22 for a student or senior citizen. I just had to bring my school ID.
The acupuncture did help, but they effects wore off in about 4 days. They told me to fix my hair loss problems, I'll have to go for about 3 months. They were very positive about the whole thing.
I went back last week because I had some sinus problem. The acupuntcure totally relieved the pressure.
The desk staff is very nice and accomodating. They do accept credit cards. Everyone I encountered was nice. Overall, I would definitely recommend this place.
I took the 19 Bus there and walked a couple of blocks. -
Review from Kirsten B.
San Francisco, CA
6/7/2005
Update:
May 07 I have a new doc here and I am beyond happy with this place. i thought I liked ACTCM before. I am truly grateful for the healing I receive at this wonderful place.
**
I like this school and go to their clinic for acupuncture work when they fit with my schedule. Rates are extremely cheap ($35-ish) if you are willing to be seen by more than one doc or intern at a time. I like this, because it means they talk about my case in front of me and I get all my questions answered without the "you're-wasting-my-time" doctor vibe. Location is out of my way, but the staff is always friendly and I can get appointments quickly. -
Review from Shannon W.
San Francisco, CA
2/27/2007
I was referred to this place by a guy in the dog park who claims they single-handedly helped him turn back many of the symptoms he had at the onset of HIV.
My problem was admittedly much more minor... a cold that just wouldn't go away, but I have to say that the herbs they prescribed me really had an effect. Strongly reccommended. -
Review from Sarah S.
San Francisco, CA
9/6/2005
I had my first acupuncture treatment last Friday. I wasn't nervous at all until right before Gaya, the intern I saw, starting sticking me with needles.
Sounds bad eh? It actually wasn't. The treatment was very relaxing once those needles were in and doing their jobs. Gaya was very nice and calm (but not too hippy dippy calm) and very professional.
At the end of my treatment, which including listening to Tibetan Flutes in a dimmed room as my needs moved my chi around, I picked up my Chinese Herbs. Luckily for me and my roommates, these herbs do come in a form that doesn't need to be cooked. That means I get better and my house doesn't stink! Yeah! -
Review from Suzanne D.
Berkeley, CA
9/4/2008
I love this place, I love my acupuncturist Jorge. He is sensitive, responsive, and completely supportive of my healing process. I come here weekly and look forward to it.
So, one would think that the receptionists would be at least civil towards me, since obviously, I have no beef with them.
The new woman, with the snake armband has it out for me, I'm not sure what I did to deserve it, but I'm afraid.
I almost asked her tonight, as I was just trying to make an appointment for next week if I had done something to anger her, or if she was just miserable. I really don't think I could have done anything to have angered her (except perhaps being 20 years younger than she is, and not having any tattoos that I regret). I leave it up to you to decide.... -
Review from Reggie G.
Washington, DC
12/12/2008
Love this place. $25 acupuncture for students. I have had so many lovely experiences with so many great acupuncture students here.
They also do several satellite clinics - like the one at the Women's Community Clinic on Weds mornings which is free! -
Review from Nir B.
San Francisco, CA
11/8/2008
I have this condition where I have to urinate all the time. I saw this intern by the name of Mario who was very good and patient. He has never experienced anyone with my condition but he was willing to play around and try different stuff. I do have to admit that after the first few times it wasn't really as effective. However, it is very relaxing and calming so it's really good for anxiety.
I think the service of ACTCM is good because not only do they have people who speak english (compared to other Accupuncturists) but they want to learn and care about their patients (though not all of them). I have recommended this place to many people. -
Review from Katherine P.
San Francisco, CA
6/16/2011
My five stars go primarily to the intern I've been working with recently, Andrew Liszt. When I first came to the clinic, I was stressed, overworked, highly caffeinated, and just plain unhealthy. After only a few treatments, I feel fantastic. My stress is now alleviated, I feel healthier, and much more at ease.
Andrew has a combination of qualities I've found rare in health practitioners; his intellect equals his intuition, and he's kind while being direct.
Good clinic. Great intern. -
Review from MiYong E.
Ewa Beach, HI
7/31/2007
I am so glad that I didn't write a review when I got home from this acupuncture clinic. The next morning is when I actually felt a difference.
I have a slipped disc and sciatica, and, after drunken horsing around with the fellas, I had to spend a few days getting bedrest and stretching my back. All to no avail. My back was getting worse, so I decided I needed acupuncture.
I love that they have a sliding scale. The cost for students (and you have to show current enrollment) is $22. Woohooo!
Now it is cheaper than most places because it is an acupuncture school. When you go into the appointment, it is not you and the acupuncturist. It is you, the acupuncturist, and four students. My experience was that one of the students took the lead, as though I was his patient. The other students chimed in with questions during the preliminary health and background discussion. For a student, I was impressed. The lead student remembered many details from my questionnaire that I forgot I had included! The teacher steps in with questions as well. So, the plus of this setting is that five minds are better than one.
Just be ready. They all feel your pulse. And when you stick your tongue out, you will pan around the room so all five people can see it. ;-P
Then on to the acupuncture. Keep in mind that they are learning, so they may stick a needle in a slightly off position or in a little too deeply. The teacher is there watching them. And if they mis-poke, come on, it's just a little needle. It doesn't hurt. But it is interesting hearing them ask questions. It helps you get a better idea of the intricacies of acupuncture.
Then they leave you for 30 minutes. When they come back, they remove the needles and leave the room for you to get dressed. (You're not neked. Just wear loose clothing and keep in mind that the areas you need acupuncture need to be exposed).
Now the disappointment came because there wasn't much follow-up in terms of how I felt afterwards or whether more acupuncture was needed in that visit. Also, there was no deep tissue massage or stretching. Yes, I have been spoiled (see my review for Grace Acupuncture). But the truth is that majority of acupuncture clinics I have been to do not provide those extras. Bummer.
Well, I went home, still walking tightly. Got in bed and went back to resting and stretching my back. If I had written the review that night, they would have received 2 stars. Not 1 because it is typical of acupuncture places I have visited.
But when I woke up the next morning, I felt the difference. The tightness was mostly gone, and it has been getting better over the days.
Will I go back? possibly. I am definitely waiting for my next visit to Southern California to squeeze in a visit with Grace. But when I am in need of acupuncture of in SF, I will try a few more clinics and keep you posted. -
Review from Tonie C.
San Francisco, CA
4/12/2007
I saw this place on Yelp and went in for a Tui Na massage (1/2 hour $40). It was the best massage I've ever had so I went back for another by a different person and it was slightly different but just as good. They also have a clinic where you can try Ear Acupuncture for $5. Check out their website for all the details.
The staff is professional and seems very conscientious. They all seem to enjoy working and/or studying there which is a good sign!
They also have a parking lot and street parking in the neighborhood so I don't imagine you'd ever have a problem parking.
Update: I went to the ear acupuncture clinic for my first acupuncture session. I have a raging fear of needles so I knew that it might not work for me. People rave about acupuncture so I took a stab at it (pun intended) thinking that it might also help cure my fear. I was great for 8 minutes, and then the room got a little fuzzy. The staff was very nice and discreet. They didn't make me feel like an idiot and told me that sometimes people have a strong reaction on their first visit. I sat and had some water while my boyfriend finished his treatment. If they can make a needle-phobe like me feel comfortable I think the rest of you are safe.
The environment is a little third world, with lots of people in chairs lining the walls. For $5 I wasn't expecting aroma therapy and herbal tea anyway. -
Review from Sandrita R.
San Francisco, CA
2/4/2008
I visited SF's acupuncture school years ago for its student services.
I was in for some stomach issues and was quite impressed with the treatment I received.
The intake alone took about 2 hrs. and they were extremely thorough.
They did the needles (which was not at all painful), along with some
burning-box-on-my-tum thing.
Uhmm, I believe it's called Moxibustion.
As you can imagine, I was pretty skeptical about that one. A little heebeegeebee even for my aromatherapy loving butt.
Unfortunately, I'm not sure that Acupuncture was for me b/c I went 3 times, drank lots of mud tea, and nothing happened.
I might consider trying again if I didn't have to drink the mud. -
Review from Mimi C.
San Francisco, CA
1/15/2008
Forever...and ever and ever...
xo -
Review from Denise H.
San Francisco, CA
1/27/2008
my left foot hurt from overexertion (too much running), and for 4 mos I stretched it and hoped it would go away... on Wednesday morning I came here, had some acupuncture done, and the foot's been fine since! whatever blockage was causing me pain, it's nearly totally gone. I've been running since and I feel no pain.
the whole process took about 30 minutes, and that was WITH the teacher explaining everything to his 4 students, who also took turns taking my pulse and whatnot. (I opted for this group treatment - you don't have to share your time/treatment with a class.)
this is the 3rd treatment I've had here. highly recommended. -
Review from Wilson S.
New York, NY
3/8/2008
At ACTCM you get more than just acupuncture. The students there are concerned with meeting your needs, going over your medical history and imparting advice with how you can improve your situation (physical and/or mental). I was worried that, after being seen by Western doctors all my life, the eastern/western ideologies would clash. However, it' s a fantastic complement to Western medicine.
It might take a few tries to get a student with whom you really connect and have that rapport that's so important among patient/client. Also, don't expect to be cured after your first appointment. It took me a few months or regular sessions to really feel the difference and now feel more like myself after years of relying on pills.
Highly recommended. -
Review from Michael H.
San Francisco, CA
8/8/2005
I could not be happier with this place.. I went here with slow-healing back injuries and having never tried accupuncture before. Two years later I'm a strong supporter of accupuncture treatments (my AHA moment happened when two needles in my nose and two in my ear, followed by a specially concocted brew of tea, completely cured a sinus infection!). I head to the clinic up on Connecticut in Portrero Hill and have seen both indivual students at the end of their studies and teams of newer students who observe the doctor/professor give you your treatment). Expect about 60-80 minutes for an accupuncture treatment, and slightly more on your first vist.
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Review from Eric G.
Oakland, CA
11/4/2008
ACTCM serves an important community need in providing acupuncture at reasonable rates. I've utilized the clinic many times, and appreciate not only their acupuncture services but their other services as well.
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Review from A.K. M.
San Francisco, CA
9/9/2011 1 Check-in Here
Shauna O was wonderful. She has a lovely personality and made me feel very comfortable. This was my first visit here and she really took her time on the intake and treatment. I did not feel rushed at all. Plan on being there at least two hours on your first visit. Oh yeah, the student rate is AWESOME!!! Just be sure to bring a current print out of your classes as ID. Enjoy!!!
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Review from Steve R.
San Francisco, CA
11/7/2008
I tried this place about 18 years ago and liked it then. That was for a lower back injury which combined with chiropractic was healed.
I recently returned to combine acupuncture with deep tissue massage to try and rid myself of a nagging lower region (no not that area) injury that I sustained. The intake process is lengthy, I suggest printing out the New Patient forms from their website and filling out before you arrive. Even then it is still about a 45 minute consultation, combined with a 20-30 minute diagnosis and finally 30 minutes of therapy.
Man, acupuncture rules! I must've looked like i took heroin afterwards, I was so relaxed and happy. Can't wait to go back. The price and level of attention is unbeatable and now they offer the herbs in capsule, powdered or, raw form.
What's more is they have an Auricular (Ear) Clinic ($5 suggested donation) that is a great way to ease into acupuncture. It is a communal setting (one group room), barely any paperwork required for first time visitors.
I suggest everyone give alternative healing and preventative measures a try. Remember Chinese culture is much older than ours.Listed in: My Neighborhood, Up Your "Man" Game
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Review from Aka C.
New York, NY
6/8/2010
There are two parts to my experience, as a student and as a patient at the clinic, I will review both here.
Student -
I'd like to say it's fate that led me to this place but that would be slighting the massive efforts that my fellow classmates put into researching schools so I'll just say that I was really lucky to find this school almost accidentally. I wanted to go to school in SF and this is the only acupuncture school that's actually in SF (though there're a few in the Bay area). I was traveling to SF from my "native" New York City so I called the school up for a visit/tour. The people at the admissions office were extremely helpful and nice. That actually was super surprising to me since I had worked in admissions and this is just not how schools typical are. I was lucky enough to sit in on one of the classes taught by a wonderful faculty member (Mark Frost) and I was blown away by his in-depth knowledge of TCM and more importantly, his genuine passion for the subject. It's easy for someone to say "I think alternative medicine has a good future (in $)" but what I was looking for was a place and people with "spirit" and "passion." Then I arranged to shadow an alum at his clinic and that was a great experience too. All in all, everything was wonderful, which is why I ended up at this school.
Deciding on the school is just step one. After getting here, I truly got an appreciation of how lucky I was. The school is wonderful and actually takes their students' satisfaction seriously. The faculty is generally knowledgeable but what impressed me the most were the students. There's such a great communal atmosphere at the school. We all try to help each other survive school and contribute our own efforts voluntarily. I think that's hard to come by anywhere. The coursework is vigorous but lots of fun and very interesting. The curriculum is pretty all-inclusive so I'd like to say academically this is exactly what I wanted (needed). Academically, socially, and personally, I think this a top notch school.
Patient -
Onto the patient part. I have been urging my friends to come to the clinic so I figured I should at least tell my story. I had not always been a believer of TCM. As recent as 4 years ago I would never have gone into the clinic of a Chinese doctor. However, like most students/patients at the school, I had an experience (too long to tell here) that changed my perspective forever. However, I must say that I had not tried acupuncture until I got to this school. I was really nervous my first time at the clinic because it was not just slightly daunting to have 4 students plus a supervisor staring at your tongue. But I got over and I have to say the experience was not as painful and much more relaxing that I had expected. What blew me away was once when I had problem with insomnia (I kept on waking up at 7 no matter what time I went to sleep) and a complete lack of appetite (which is horrific to me since I love food) so I went to the clinic for a treatment. I didn't expect to have everything cleared up, but I just wanted to see if it could at lease ease my issues a little. Right after the treatment (auricular acupuncture is SO awesome, painful, but awesome!), I was able to consume as much food as I wanted (probably a little more than necessary but I was excited to have my appetite back) and the next day I was able to sleep until 8! (I had never been so happy to see 8 on my alarm clock. And from then on, one treatment later, all my symptoms were cleared out.
This is an absolutely true story. No exaggeration and no personal flavoring due to my own course of career. I am a skeptic until I see proof, and this was enough to convince me that this WORKS. I've also gone to the clinic for a tightness (not enough to be called pain) in my mid-back (lower thoracic) - gone. And I've never been so "warm" in my life, thanks to the herbs (if you're a girl with persistent cold hands and feet you know what I mean). And the most wonderful thing is that the clinic has specials all the time! As a student, my discount is incredible! If you are a student, please look into this great resource we have. And if you are someone in the community, I urge you to try out the clinic! It's wonderful! -
Review from Megan G.
New York, NY
3/17/2007
Stopped going because I don't hurt anymore! Bought the herbs, not too expensive, a clay pot is only $6, got that too. I have insurance and even as a SF teacher, my pay is such that my visits here are $60.
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Review from Jennifer C.
San Diego, CA
4/20/2008
Thank you Yelp for introducing me to this place.
I've been twice and have been astonishingly pleased. I have really bad knees and have not been able to walk down a flight of stairs without going down them sideways for the past three years. Two visits and I feel like they gave me new knees! I never knew how much I missed walking down a flight of stairs normally 'til I caught myself doing it after my first treatment...Amazing results.
I've also lacked energy for years and years, went to my doctor a while ago and took every blood test imaginable, but he wasn't able to figure it out. Two weeks on the herbal medicine ACTCM recommended and I've never felt more alive.
All this for $25 a visit?? The results and price are unbelievable. I feel so lucky to have this resource in the city.
Update - The students here have also helped me with my allergies now too (both seasonal allergies and also insect bite allergies). They're not completely gone, but so much more manageable! -
Review from Stephanie J.
San Francisco, CA
9/13/2007 4 Check-ins Here
Having dealt with some pms, off the chart periods and other "girl" problems I decided to head over to their sliding scale intern clinic to get some solid advice and needling. I couldn't have been happier with the results. PMS: out the door, periods: more regular, other issues: wave goodbye! I was treated with the utmost respect and tenderness and had every single one of my questions answered right there in the room. Why was she needling in certain areas? What was she thinking about my symptoms? What did she recommend? Anything and everything she was forthcoming with. Unfortunately my favorite internist was moving on to graduation so I had a new batch of future doctors on me and they too did a great job. The only thing I had a problem was with the decor...not quite the most upscale or interesting place to be hanging around in for about an hour but that doesn't really matter when you're health is more important.
Overall, I would recommend everyone to visit their clinic! -
Review from Kenya l.
San Francisco, CA
9/2/2009
this is what we should be talking about in the healthcare debate.
-the sliding scale fees and clinics make it affordable for all
-the practioners listen and address your health issue completely -instead of masking symptoms or fitting you in a 10 minute time slot
-their treatment is based on your needs and not limited to one approach
-it just makes sense to take care of your health holistically. how you eat, sleep, drink, live, stress, etc. impacts you. why not take all the factors into consideration?
i had acupuncture here for the first time. i didn't hurt. i was on top of the world afterwards, but more importantly i am very happy to have an amazing resource to help me get and stay healthy when need be.
the little things count, but never seem worth the hassle of going to "the doctor" for, largely because unless there's a prescription to fill or broken bone, it's pretty ineffective--but that doesn't mean i want to wait until all the little stuff adds up to a trip to the hospital.
ACTCM offers an alternative even if you are mostly healthy, but stressed out or noticing something that refelcts an imbalance like dry skin or trouble sleeping. they can help you understand why and what to do to take care.
i'm not particularly new age-y and their approach appeals to my logic ... plus it works. if you are considering going, do it for the sake of your health. really. it's a great option and i know if/when i have a serious health issue arise, i'll be very happy to have them as a trusted resource. -
Review from Jo D.
San Francisco, CA
11/7/2009
I am in love with this place - came here after months of bad sleeping and no signs of improvement. I desperately wanted to get off the meds and lose the stress of it all. After just 4 treatments I am finally turning that corner and free (fingers crossed) of the bad drugs!! Bria really took her time to really understand me and what's causing the problem, rather than treating the issue itself ...... Bria really knows her stuff and not only helped my sleep but also got rid of an eye twitch I'd been carrying around with me since January! Cannot thank the college or Bria enough - would not be where I am now without them!!!!
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Review from Izzy C.
San Francisco, CA
3/16/2008
Love this place - been here 3 times already, seeing Dr. Kim. He's thorough and thoughtful.
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Review from Lea S.
San Francisco, CA
9/4/2007
This is a remarkable place. For those new to accupuncture, you are in for a very compassionate rewarding experience, going to the ACTCM. As for me, I've had several accupuncture treatments in the past - both good and not-so-good. As it happened, I had made an appointment for a Wednesday, a good omen as it was to turn out.
I arrived at the center, and was told I had an appointment with an intern, Heather who was really good. She was incredibly caring, great listener, who asked me all kinds of questions about what was wrong with me.
It was a good 1 1/2 hour intake, and then she used the most gentle non-invasive feeling needles I've ever had in a treatment. As a yoga teacher myself I am always looking for non-invasive ways of treating my body with love and respect.
Heather was just 5-stars all the way and I can't recommend her more highly. Each of the senior teachers to which she reported were excellent as well, taking my pulse readings and tongue readings with each session.
All this on a sliding scale. I'm thinking of making this a weekly excursion, up to Portrero Hill. It's well worth it! -
Review from anne b.
San Francisco, CA
1/5/2011
This is an amazing mode of healing. I have been cured of so many things including the flu, muscle pain, chronic back pain, stress, common cold, fatigue... ok this is enough disclosure! But go to see them!
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Review from shanestar h.
San Francisco, CA
5/12/2008
i've been saving my life once a week at this clinic. good for what ails you and i won't list mine. the only sad part is having to say goodbye when folks graduate. my favorites are long and great: amyp, kim, bess, juan..and all the doctors are amazing. amyp was the best though and she's got her own clinic..baio ..in glen park. do plan to be here and hour. with a 20 minute treatment and 1/2 hour intake.....at least.
