College news: The Acupuncture Academy

04 April 2024 | News & views
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Michelle Venter
Member: Warwickshire
Ever fancied a nose around a college clinic? Now's your chance to enjoy a whirlwind tour of The Acupuncture Academy – and read on below for a little background information from Michelle Venter.

In my experience, The Acupuncture Academy (TAA) in Leamington Spa stands out as a beacon of excellence in the field of acupuncture education and practice.

Established in 2011 by Jen Wade and Julie Reynolds, TAA were the first to offer e-learning as an integrated aspect of a blended learning British Acupuncture Accreditation Board (BAAB) accredited degree-level acupuncture course. Their commitment to creating a nurturing and passionate environment for both students and patients is evident in the care and dedication that permeates the building.

The fusion of clinical practice and educational opportunities creates a rich tapestry of growth and learning for all

One of the noteworthy initiatives at TAA is the Wellbeing Clinic, operating on Tuesdays and Fridays. Initially set up to investigate the effectiveness of five element acupuncture in treating mental health issues among young people – report published in EJOM, 10(1), 2022 – the clinic has evolved to serve the wider community. The focus on providing affordable acupuncture treatments underscores the Academy’s dedication to making healthcare accessible to all.

With a team of dedicated practitioners – including Heather Adams, Nicole Hamer, Tina Römer and myself – our services have expanded to meet the growing demand. The success stories emerging from the clinic, coupled with the commitment to community wellbeing, are a testament to the transformative power of acupuncture in people’s lives.

 

Michelle Venter with Nicole Hamer

Michelle with Nicole Hamer

The building itself serves as a dynamic space that shifts seamlessly from a serene treatment centre during the week to a vibrant hub of weekend learning and education. The emphasis on creating a positive and safe environment both for patients and students reflects TAA’s deep-rooted commitment to holistic healing and education.

I consider it an honour to work in such an environment, where the fusion of clinical practice and educational opportunities creates a rich tapestry of growth and learning for all. My involvement in research grew from a project funded by the BAcC working with student mental health – a project that took place at TAA after my graduation under the guidance of Julie Reynolds. This had such a positive impact on me that I’m now doing a PhD at the University of Warwick.

Research plays a crucial role in advancing any field, including acupuncture, by providing valuable insights and opportunities for growth. Being part of this research team enabled me to work with other practitioners to share our knowledge – it also enhanced my skills and confidence in working in a multibed setting, something I never considered before the opportunity was given to me.

www.iheartacupuncture.co.uk
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