Discover the depth and wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine with IMAI’s One-Year TCM Foundation Program. Designed for anyone passionate about holistic health, this program offers a comprehensive exploration of TCM Theory 1–4, Acupressure/Acupuncture 1-4, CNT, as well as the Meridian Systems, Zang-Fu Organ Theory, Yin-Yang and Five-Element Principles, and the connections that guide holistic assessment and treatment. Students also receive instruction in basic herbal knowledge, providing an essential foundation in the use of herbal and nutritional therapies alongside other TCM modalities.
As well, students gain hands-on experience in diagnostics, pattern differentiation, and formulating treatment principles, while learning complementary therapies such as cupping and auricular therapy, gua sha, moxibustion, and electroacupuncture. Live interactive Zoom lectures, in-class sessions, and supervised practicum make this integrative approach a well-rounded one-year foundation program for understanding TCM applications for a wide range of health concerns.
For students interested in pursuing advanced studies, this program serves as the first year of the 2½–3 year TCM Acupuncturist Program, giving a strong foundation for continued professional development. Graduates leave with confidence, practical skills, and a deeper understanding of holistic care, and if they choose, they can continue their journey toward becoming licensed TCM Acupuncturists.
(TCM Acupuncture / Acupressure Foundation Diploma Program + Cupping Certificate + Auricular Certificate)
A hands-on practical approach to acupuncture focusing on addressing TCM theory, meridians, acupuncture points & prescriptions, conditions
TCM Acupuncture Foundation Program : One year +
– Acupuncture 1-4, TCM theory 1-4, Channel/Meridian Theory, Acupuncture Techniques / Electroacupuncture, Herbal Medicine 1 and more
– Cupping & Auricular Therapy, Moxibustion, Gua Sha
Please see the weekly schedule (it may change slightly) Month 1-4
Month 5 – 9
TCM Theory 2 & 3
Acupuncture & Conditions 2 & 3
Herbal Medicine 1
Evidence Based Research, Case Studies 1
Month 10-12
TCM Theory 3 & 4
Acupuncture & Conditions 4
Evidence Based Research, Case Studies 2
PLUS
In Class Practicum every third weekend of the month
Yes. Acupuncture is a regulated health profession and a controlled act in Ontario.
Regulated healthcare professionals such as Registered Massage Therapists, Nurses, Chiropractors, Physiotherapists, and Medical Doctors may incorporate acupuncture into their scope of practice, provided they have completed appropriate training and are authorized to do so by their regulatory college.
No. Short-term acupuncture training programs provide foundational education and skill development but do not qualify an individual to practice independently as a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Acupuncturist.
To practice independently as a TCM Acupuncturist and obtain a billing number, an individual must successfully complete an accredited 2½–3 year TCM Acupuncturist diploma program and meet all regulatory and licensing requirements in Ontario.
IMAI’s one-year TCM Foundation Diploma program gives participants a full, structured grounding in TCM theory and acupuncture, core systems, diagnostic methods, and TCM treatment principles. It moves far beyond an introductory program and builds the theoretical and practical depth needed for safe, confident acupuncture practice and prepares one for more advanced programs. For the Acupuncturist Program, the foundation program is perfect and would be deducted in time and cost for the Advanced TCM Acupuncture program.
TCM focuses on treating the root causes of illness and restoring balance in the body, while Western medicine often targets symptoms directly. TCM principles and theory include the Channel Theory, Yin and Yang, the 5 Elements and other holistic approaches. Western Medicine uses pharmaceuticals, while TCM uses herbal remedies.
TCM teaches practitioners to look beyond symptoms and identify underlying patterns, such as deficiency, stagnation, heat, cold, and organ-system imbalance. Tongue and pulse assessment, pattern differentiations, and TCM-style questioning sharpen clinical intuition that Western diagnostics might not explore. TCM is holistic and provides a wide toolkit that includes acupuncture, meridian pathways, pinpoint combinations, lifestyle guidance, herbal medicine and energetic frameworks that support individualized care.
Although the CTCMPAO does not accredit or oversee educational institutions, schools in Ontario are recognized through their curriculum quality, professional affiliations, and ability to prepare students for the Pan-Canadian examinations. IMAI’s comprehensive programs are designed to meet these high standards and support students in achieving safe, effective clinical practice.
All programs are supervised during the In-Class Practicums, where safety techniques, clean needle techniques, depth/angle safety, various conditions and hands-on practice enable practitioners to feel comfortable performing their basic acupuncture/acupressure in a clinical setting.
IMAI is dedicated to guiding students on a meaningful journey toward becoming confident and compassionate practitioners. Grounded in the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine and trained in integrative therapies such as auricular therapy, cupping, moxibustion, gua sha, and electroacupuncture, students are empowered to bring healing and balance to themselves, their loved ones, and the wider community with skill, integrity and heart. The program provides a strong foundation for those committed to holistic health and meaningful, transformative care.
One Year
(12 months – depending on schedules, maybe a month or so longer)
800 hours
(Semester 1 Wednesdays 7:30-9pm+ and TCM Theory 1 TBA)
(The following semesters will have 2-3+ classes per week)
In Class Practicum
Approximately 200 hours of direct patient contact with supervision
Payment Plans Available
Call us! We’re here to help you succeed!
IMAI encourages students to continue weekly review classes for FREE for up to one year.
IMAI provides access to recorded lectures through a secure online portal for review or in case of missed classes to support student success.
Mentoring available when needed
Replays are available
This program begins in Fall and Spring
(Some additional Sunday dates 5-8 pm TBD – Oakville)
(Some additional Sunday dates 5-8 pm TBD – Oakville)
The Winter 2026 Medical Neuro-Acupuncture Diploma Term runs January through April in a hybrid format that combines weekly online lectures with mandatory in-person practicum weekends.
In-Class Practicums
• January 17–18
• February 21–22
• March 21–22
• April 18–19
The TCM Introduction Program serves as the gateway for healthcare professionals to explore holistic, patient-centered care. TCM has been used for centuries to treat a wide range of medical conditions by focusing on the root causes of illness rather than simply addressing symptoms. This approach appeals to those in the healthcare sector seeking to offer more integrative solutions to their patients.
One of the key philosophies taught in the TCM Introduction Program is the balance between Yin and Yang. Yin-Yang theory forms the foundation for understanding health and disease in TCM, and when harmonized, they maintain the body’s wellness. Additionally, the program covers the Five Elements—Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water—which govern the body’s organ systems and offer insight into diagnosing imbalances.
Beyond theory, the TCM Introduction Program emphasizes diagnostics like pulse diagnosis, tongue inspection, and questioning. These techniques enable practitioners to identify subtle imbalances in patients, helping them develop personalized treatment plans that include acupuncture, moxibustion, and basic herbal remedies.
After mastering the basics in the TCM Introduction Program, healthcare professionals are encouraged to take their knowledge to the next level with the TCM Foundation Program. This program delves deeper into TCM principles, offering a comprehensive understanding of how to treat complex conditions through advanced acupuncture techniques, detailed herbal medicine studies, and more.
The TCM Foundation Program builds on introductory concepts with an in-depth look at differential diagnosis. Practitioners learn to assess conditions more thoroughly, applying advanced diagnostic methods to understand the patient’s overall health. This allows for more precise and effective treatment plans.
In this program, you’ll explore advanced acupuncture techniques that target specific ailments like chronic pain, stress, and digestive disorders. Additionally, you’ll learn how to create more complex herbal formulas that address the root cause of imbalances and promote long-term wellness.
Healthcare is evolving, with increasing demand for alternative therapies that complement conventional treatment. As more patients seek out holistic approaches, integrating TCM practices into your healthcare services can meet these growing needs.
Patients today are looking for less invasive treatment options that address the body as a whole. By integrating TCM into your practice, you’re positioning yourself to offer unique, comprehensive treatment plans that improve patient outcomes. Whether it’s managing chronic pain, digestive disorders, or stress, TCM provides a natural solution.
The TCM Introduction and Foundation Programs are designed to help healthcare professionals incorporate Eastern medicine into their existing practice. By blending traditional Chinese techniques with modern medical knowledge, practitioners can offer patients the best of both worlds—holistic care that complements conventional medicine.
Investing in the TCM Introduction and Foundation Programs provides healthcare professionals with the tools necessary to elevate their skills and grow their practice. These programs not only enhance your knowledge of holistic care but also improve your credentials, making you more competitive in the healthcare industry.
At the International Medical Arts Institute (IMAI), our programs emphasize practical skills. Both the TCM Introduction and Foundation Programs include hands-on learning, giving you real-world experience through clinical observations and case studies. This ensures that when you complete the course, you can immediately apply what you’ve learned to your practice.
Professionals who have completed these programs often report higher patient satisfaction rates and more effective treatment outcomes. As you broaden your service offerings to include TCM, you’ll attract a diverse patient base seeking holistic, integrative treatments.
(Currently Acupunture schools are exempt from being a private career college)
IMAI has a 1 year 52-week TCM Foundation Program. Classes are on Mondays and Wednesdays, Practicum In-Class portion one weekend p/m. The Foundation TCM program consists of four 3-month terms per year.
This TCM program is a hybrid /blended one with Live Zoom interactive lectures, class lectures, and In-Class Practicum. IMAI’s goal is to prepare students to become experts using TCM theory, diagnosis, and integrative treatment – including auricular, cupping moxibustion, and simple herbal formulas.
This program does not allow the use of acupuncture, but rather acupressure and various devices which can be used on the acupuncture points. Most devices and therapies use the meridians so it is a program for anyone who wants some TCM background. Perfect in health clinics, health food stores, and in one’s own practice. Students need to study outside of school and attend all classes (which are recorded, should an emergency arise).
PAYMENT POLICY – Tuition payment must be made before the start of class or with payment options at the designated monthly date. 90% Refund of total paid within one week of the start date and if no notes are received, 50% refund once initial notes are received up to 2 weeks of the program commencement. No refund after 3 weeks into the Program. Refunds are made via e-transfer. For Foreign Students and Non-accredited practitioners (Ontario), the same payment policy is applicable except for the Tuition Fees. Please contact us for the price. One receipt is issued upon full payment.
Please note that tuition fees are subject to change. It’s advisable to contact us directly for the most current and detailed information.
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