Searching for a certified acupuncturist in Reno? Dr Rachel Abare, OMD is northern Nevada’s most effective oriental medical doctor when it comes to holistic pain treatment! Call to schedule a consultation with Dr. Rachel Abare today.
If you are seeking out an experienced and certified acupuncturist in Reno, look no further than Dr. Rachel Abare, OMD. Specializing in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Dr. Abare provides holistic, patient-centered care designed to enhance your overall well-being. Her expertise in acupuncture, coupled with her dedication to personalized treatment, makes her one of the most trusted practitioners in the Reno area.
Finding the Best Acupuncturist in Reno
What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a key component of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), practiced for thousands of years to promote balance and harmony within the body. The treatment involves the insertion of thin, sterile needles into specific points on the body, known as acupuncture points or meridians. These points correspond to various bodily systems and functions, and stimulating them is believed to restore the flow of energy, or “qi,” throughout the body.
Acupuncture has been recognized for its effectiveness in treating a wide array of conditions, ranging from chronic pain to stress, and it continues to gain popularity worldwide. As a certified acupuncturist in Reno, Dr. Rachel Abare, OMD, tailors each treatment to address her patients’ unique needs, incorporating her extensive knowledge of Traditional Chinese Medicine into every session.
How is Acupuncture Performed?
Acupuncture sessions with Dr. Rachel Abare are conducted in a tranquil and supportive environment. The treatment begins with a detailed assessment to identify the acupuncture points most suitable for your condition. Once the points are determined, Dr. Abare uses ultra-thin, disposable needles to gently stimulate these areas. The insertion is typically painless, with many patients reporting a sense of relaxation during the procedure.
Depending on the treatment plan, Dr. Abare may enhance the session with additional techniques such as auricular acupuncture (targeting points in the ear), infrared heat therapy, or cupping therapy. Each session is uniquely tailored to ensure the most effective and comfortable experience for her patients.
What Does an Acupuncturist Do for the Patient?
An acupuncturist is a healthcare professional trained to assess and treat a variety of physical and emotional ailments using acupuncture and related techniques. During your first visit with Dr. Abare, she will conduct a thorough consultation to understand your health history, current concerns, and wellness goals. This holistic approach ensures that every aspect of your health is considered.
Dr. Abare also utilizes diagnostic methods unique to Traditional Chinese Medicine, such as pulse and tongue analysis, to determine the underlying imbalances causing your symptoms. Based on her findings, she develops a customized treatment plan designed to restore harmony to your body and mind.
Beyond needle-based treatments, acupuncturists may also incorporate complementary therapies like cupping, gua sha, ear seeds, and herbal medicine. Dr. Abare’s ability to integrate these techniques into her practice allows her to offer comprehensive care that addresses the root cause of health issues rather than just the symptoms.

What Can an Acupuncturist Treat with Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is renowned for its versatility in addressing a broad spectrum of health concerns. Dr. Rachel Abare specializes in treating the following conditions:
- Chronic Pain: Acupuncture is particularly effective in managing conditions like back pain, neck pain, migraines, and arthritis.
- Stress and Anxiety: By promoting relaxation and balancing the nervous system, acupuncture helps reduce stress and improve emotional well-being.
- Digestive Disorders: From irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) to acid reflux, acupuncture supports digestive health by regulating the body’s energy flow.
- Women’s Health: Dr. Abare offers acupuncture for menstrual irregularities, hormonal imbalances, and fertility support.
- Eye Health: Utilizing micro-acupuncture techniques, Dr. Abare treats degenerative eye diseases like macular degeneration and glaucoma.
- Sleep Disorders: Acupuncture can help alleviate insomnia and other sleep-related issues by restoring the body’s natural rhythms.
These are just a few examples of the many conditions that acupuncture can address. As a certified acupuncturist in Reno, Dr. Abare is committed to helping her patients achieve optimal health through this time-honored practice.
The Benefits of Utilizing an Acupuncturist
Choosing to work with a certified acupuncturist like Dr. Rachel Abare offers numerous advantages:
- Personalized Care: Every treatment is customized to address your specific needs and health goals.
- Holistic Approach: Acupuncture treats the body as an interconnected system, addressing the root cause of issues rather than just symptoms.
- Non-Invasive Therapy: Acupuncture provides a natural alternative to medications and invasive procedures.
- Improved Overall Wellness: Regular sessions can enhance your energy, immunity, and emotional balance.
Dr. Rachel Abare’s Comprehensive TCM Services
In addition to acupuncture, Dr. Rachel Abare integrates a variety of Traditional Chinese Medicine treatments into her practice:
- Auricular Acupuncture: Targeting acupuncture points in the ear to address pain, stress, and other conditions.
- Ear Seeds and Tacking: Non-invasive techniques to stimulate acupuncture points for extended benefits.
- Micro-Acupuncture: A specialized approach for treating eye-related conditions.
- Cupping Therapy: Using suction to improve circulation and alleviate pain.
- Gua Sha Scraping: A gentle scraping technique to release tension and promote healing.
Dr. Abare’s commitment to providing comprehensive care ensures that her patients receive the best possible support on their wellness journey.
Certified Acupuncturist in Reno Requirements
In Reno, Nevada, acupuncturists must meet specific educational and licensing requirements to practice legally. Here’s an overview of the certification process:
1. Educational Requirements
- Prospective acupuncturists must complete a formal education program in acupuncture or Oriental medicine from an accredited institution.
- Programs typically include coursework in anatomy, physiology, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) theory, acupuncture techniques, and herbal medicine.
- Training also involves supervised clinical practice to develop hands-on skills in diagnosing and treating patients.
2. National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM)
- Candidates must pass the NCCAOM exams to become certified. These comprehensive exams assess knowledge in acupuncture, biomedicine, and Oriental medicine.
- Acquiring the NCCAOM Diplomate of Acupuncture certification is often required for state licensure.
3. State Licensing Requirements in Nevada
- In Nevada, acupuncturists must apply for licensure through the Nevada State Board of Oriental Medicine.
- Applicants need to provide proof of their educational credentials, NCCAOM certification, and pass the Nevada-specific licensing exam. This exam tests knowledge of state laws, regulations, and practical acupuncture techniques.
- Acupuncturists must also submit to a background check and pay the required fees.
4. Continuing Education
- Licensed acupuncturists in Reno, and throughout Nevada, must complete continuing education courses to maintain their licensure. These courses ensure practitioners stay updated on the latest practices and advancements in acupuncture and TCM.
5. Additional Certifications
- Many acupuncturists pursue additional certifications in specialized areas such as auricular acupuncture, cosmetic acupuncture, or herbal medicine. These certifications enhance their skill sets and provide a broader range of treatments to patients.
Certified Acupuncturist in Reno: Dr. Rachel Abare, OMD
Dr. Rachel Abare, OMD, exemplifies these standards by holding all necessary certifications and continuously enhancing her knowledge and expertise in acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine. Her dedication ensures her patients in Reno receive high-quality and personalized care.

Finding an Acupuncturist in Reno: Oriental Medical Doctor Degree
An Oriental Medical Doctor (OMD) degree is a prestigious credential in the field of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and acupuncture. The path to earning this degree involves rigorous education, clinical training, and certification. Here’s a detailed explanation:
1. Prerequisite Education
- Before pursuing an OMD, most students complete an undergraduate degree, often in health sciences, biology, or a related field. Some programs accept candidates with substantial undergraduate coursework in these areas, even if a degree is not completed.
2. Enrolling in a Graduate Program
- Prospective acupuncturists and TCM practitioners enroll in an accredited graduate program. Depending on the institution, this program might offer a Master’s degree (e.g., Master of Science in Traditional Oriental Medicine or Acupuncture) as a stepping stone to an OMD.
- Accredited institutions in the United States are approved by organizations such as the Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine (ACAHM).
3. Curriculum for Oriental Medical Doctor Programs
OMD programs are intensive and typically require 4–6 years of study. The curriculum covers:
- Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Foundations: Including Yin-Yang theory, Five Elements, and diagnostic methods.
- Acupuncture Techniques: Needle placement, meridian theory, and adjunct techniques like electroacupuncture.
- Herbal Medicine: Extensive training in the use of Chinese herbal formulas.
- Biomedical Sciences: Anatomy, physiology, pathology, and integration of Eastern and Western medical practices.
- Specialized Therapies: Techniques like cupping, Gua Sha, and moxibustion.
- Clinical Practice: Students must complete hundreds of hours of supervised clinical practice, treating patients under the guidance of experienced practitioners.
4. Clinical Internship
- A critical part of earning an OMD involves hands-on patient care during clinical rotations or internships. Students learn to diagnose, create treatment plans, and perform acupuncture and other TCM therapies in real-world settings.
5. National Certification
- Upon completing their education, candidates must pass the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) exams in:
- Acupuncture
- Chinese herbology
- Foundations of Oriental medicine
- Biomedicine
- Passing these exams earns the candidate certification as a Diplomate of Oriental Medicine (Dipl. O.M.).
6. Licensing and State Requirements
- In addition to NCCAOM certification, OMD graduates must meet state-specific licensing requirements. This may involve passing additional state exams and fulfilling practical experience requirements.
- Each state has its own licensing body, such as the Nevada State Board of Oriental Medicine for practitioners in Reno, Nevada.
7. Continuing Education
- After earning the OMD degree and obtaining licensure, practitioners are required to complete continuing education credits periodically. These courses ensure they remain knowledgeable about advances in TCM and acupuncture.
Dr. Rachel Abare, Licensed Oriental Medical Doctor
Dr. Rachel Abare exemplifies the dedication and expertise required to earn an Oriental Medical Doctor degree. Her comprehensive training in both Traditional Chinese Medicine and acupuncture enables her to provide high-quality, personalized treatments, blending ancient healing traditions with modern medical knowledge for the benefit of her patients in Reno, Nevada.

Choose Dr. Rachel Abare as your Acupuncturist in Reno
With her extensive training and compassionate approach, Dr. Rachel Abare stands out as one of the leading acupuncturists in Reno. Her dedication to blending traditional techniques with modern insights allows her to deliver treatments that are both effective and deeply personalized.
If you are ready to experience the transformative benefits of acupuncture, schedule an appointment with Dr. Rachel Abare, OMD, today. Let her expertise guide you toward a healthier, more balanced life.
Chinese Acupuncture Treatment Resources
Dr Rachel Abare is a licensed and certified acupuncturist in Reno with an Oriental Medical Doctor degree. For even credible and detailed information on holistic dry needle therapy, consider the following sources on acupuncture:
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH): A U.S. government agency that provides evidence-based information on the safety, efficacy, and mechanisms of acupuncture, including needle therapy for pain management, stress relief, and other conditions. Source: NCCIH Acupuncture Overview
- World Health Organization (WHO): WHO offers a comprehensive review of needling therapy’s clinical applications and efficacy for various conditions. Their analysis into acupuncture also considers global practices and the integration of needle therapy into modern healthcare systems. Source: WHO on Acupuncture.
- The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center: A leading academic health center provides insights into the applications of holistic acupuncture for chronic pain, migraines, fertility support, and cancer treatment side effects, supported by both traditional theories and modern research. Source: OSU Health & Discovery
These sources provide a mix of traditional Chinese medicine principles and contemporary scientific evaluations, offering a well-rounded understanding of what an acupuncturist in Reno might offer.
Conditions Treated by an Acupuncturist in Reno NV
This holistic dry needle therapy is reported to address a wide variety of health issues by applying pressure to specific points along the body’s energy meridians. Here is a comprehensive list of health conditions for which an acupuncturist in Reno is commonly used:
Pain Management
- Headaches and migraines
- Neck pain
- Lower back pain
- Upper back pain
- Sciatica
- Arthritis
- Post-surgical pain
- Menstrual cramps
- Sports injuries (e.g., muscle strain)
Emotional and Mental Health
- Stress
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Fatigue
- Insomnia
Digestive Health
- Nausea and vomiting (including motion sickness, pregnancy-related nausea, and post-chemotherapy nausea)
- Indigestion
- Bloating
Respiratory Health
- Allergies
- Sinus congestion
- Bronchitis
- Asthma
Women’s Health
- Menstrual irregularities
- Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
- Labor pain
- Menopause-related symptoms
Circulatory and Cardiovascular Health
- Hypertension
- Circulatory issues
Skin and Musculoskeletal Issues
- Bruises
- Burns
- Blisters
- Bursitis
Other Health Concerns
- Claustrophobia
- Immune system support
- Eye strain or fatigue
- Addiction recovery
- Chronic fatigue syndrome
This needle-based holistic treatment is often integrated with other complementary therapies and may work by releasing muscle tension, improving circulation, and stimulating the body’s natural healing processes. However, while there is supportive evidence for its benefits, many claims require further scientific validation. For further exploration of the specific conditions and points associated with acupuncture, consider visiting: