What does an Acupuncturist do?

Acupuncturists are alternative medicine practitioners who apply tools to acupuncture points on the body to correct imbalances. Acupuncturists work with patients to diagnose their ailments by taking their history and symptoms, developing treatment plans, and answering concerns and inquiries. When an agreed-upon treatment plan is in place, acupuncturists use tools including needles, cups, and pellets to treat their symptoms.

Acupuncturists also recommend supplements and prepare herbal treatments for their patients. They analyze physical findings and medical records to diagnose and develop a treatment plan while staying mindful of the patient's medical history. Acupuncturists monitor patient progress and must abide by all laws and regulations and ensure a safe and healthy environment to ensure they are keeping a safe and healthy environment. Acupuncturists need certification, a license to practice, and good communication skills.

What responsibilities are common for Acupuncturist jobs?
  • Practice the full range of Chinese Medicine--acupuncture, herbs, lifestyle recommendations including nutrition and movement.
What are the typical qualifications for Acupuncturist jobs?
  • Bachelor's Degree in business.
EducationGraduate Degree
Work/Life Balance
3.9 ★
Total Pay--
Career Opportunity
3.7 ★
Avg. Experience2-4 years

How much does an Acupuncturist make near United States?

Confident
$116,876 /yr
Total Pay
$109,928
 /yr

Base Pay

+
$6,949
 /yr

Additional Pay

$116,876

 / yr
$68K$214K
Most Likely Range
Possible Range
See More Insights

Acupuncturist Career Path

Learn how to become an Acupuncturist, what skills and education you need to succeed, and what level of pay to expect at each step on your career path.

Acupuncturist
$116,876/yr
Acupuncturist

Years of Experience Distribution

0 - 1
31%
2 - 4
42%
5 - 7
6%
8+
21%
Not including years spent in education and/or training

Acupuncturist Insights

Read what Acupuncturist professionals have to say about their job experiences and view top companies for this career.
Acu AnimalAcu Animal
Acupuncturist
Mar 7, 2022

“Great people to work with”

Kaiser PermanenteKaiser Permanente
Acupuncturist
Dec 5, 2022

“Depends on management but I remember my operational manager was terrible.”

Achieve Integrative HealthAchieve Integrative Health
Acupuncturist
Feb 3, 2022

“working people many opportunities to grow.”

Adams Avenue Integrative Health
Acupuncturist
Aug 17, 2021

“profit work so it doesn't pay well but you get to offer care to people who couldn't otherwise afford it.”

US Department of Veterans AffairsUS Department of Veterans Affairs
Licensed Acupuncturist
Jul 9, 2023

“Good job security.”

North Scottsdale Acupuncture
Acupuncturist
Dec 6, 2021

“Hourly pay is little low side.”

Arapahoe Chiropractic & Acupuncture Center
Licensed Acupuncturist
May 22, 2023

“Starting pay could be better.”

Modern AcupunctureModern Acupuncture
Acupuncturist
Aug 23, 2022

“5 dollars per treatment.”

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Acupuncturist Interviews

Frequently asked questions about the roles and responsibilities of an Acupuncturist

When working as an Acupuncturist, the most common skills you will need to perform your job and for career success are Traditional Chinese, Windows Server, Excellent Customer Service, Demonstrations, and Modifications.

The most similar professions to Acupuncturist are:
  • Physician Assistant
  • Surgical Technician
  • Phlebotomist
  • Specimen Processor

The most common qualifications to become an Acupuncturist include a minimum of a Bachelor's Degree and an average of 0 - 1 years of experience not including years spent in education and/or training.

Related Careers

Physician Assistant
$141,395
No skills overlap
Surgical Technician
$60,240
Phlebotomist
$45,099
13% skills overlap
Specimen Processor
$40,483
No skills overlap

Acupuncturist Jobs