This dynamic 4-month Introduction to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a hybrid program designed for individuals who are passionate about holistic health and eager to explore the foundations of acupuncture/pressure and related therapeutic modalities. Students gain a strong grounding in core TCM principles while being introduced to TCM theory, acupressure/puncture, cupping, gua sha, auricular therapy, and electro-stimulation techniques. The program offers an engaging blend of theory and hands-on learning in a focused, supervised and supportive environment.
An excellent starting point for those considering a future in Traditional Chinese Medicine or wishing to expand their understanding of integrative healing practices.
The TCM Introductory Acupuncture/Pressure Program is a highly comprehensive program and ideal for individuals seeking to expand their clinical skill set, begin formal training in acupuncture, or integrate traditional techniques into an existing healthcare practice. It can serve as a gateway to further study in TCM providing an excellent foundation for the one year TCM Foundations program OR the full TCM Acupuncturist diploma program. Whether you are beginning your journey into holistic health or seeking to expand your existing skill set, this program provides a meaningful foundation rooted in an innovative medical paradigm, tradition, compassion, and practical application.
With small class sizes and personalized instruction, students benefit from direct mentorship and meaningful hands-on experience throughout the four months of study. No prerequisite needed.
Please note that this program is educational and introductory in scope. Acupuncture is a regulated health profession and a controlled act. To practice acupuncture, one must complete an accredited 2½–3 year TCM Acupuncturist diploma program and meet all regulatory requirements.
(TCM Acupressure/puncture Diploma + Cupping Certificate + Auricular Certificate)
A hands-on practical approach to acupuncture focusing on addressing TCM theory, meridians, acupuncture points & prescriptions, conditions
TCM Acupuncture Introductory Program: 4 months
– Acupuncture: TCM theory, Channel/Meridian Theory, Conditions, and more
– Cupping & Auricular Therapy
Curriculum – Review each week (TCM lecture may change slightly)
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.
This program includes both theoretical knowledge on medical acupressure (musculoskeletal) conditions with some Traditional Chinese Medicine principles using practical acupressure techniques. It covers meridian theory, diagnostic methods, and hands-on training for treating various conditions using acupressure.
No prerequisite is needed. The program includes acupressure, cupping, and auricular therapy. One does not have to be a registered healthcare provider to open a practice upon successful completion. Professional liability insurance is compulsory. Healthcare professionals such as Registered Massage Therapists, Chiropractors, Physiotherapists, and other professionals in holistic health are also encouraged to enroll in this program.
Yes. Acupressure can be effectively integrated with other therapies such as relaxation techniques, yoga, acupuncture, massage therapy, physiotherapy, chiropractic care and herbal medicine. When combined appropriately, it helps enhance circulation, support the body’s natural healing processes, reduce pain and stress, and improve overall treatment outcomes. Integrating acupressure with other therapeutic approaches can provide a more holistic and comprehensive approach to patient care.
All programs are supervised during the In-Class Practicums, where safety techniques, clean needle techniques, depth/angle safety, hands-on practice and treating various conditions enable practitioners to feel comfortable performing their basic 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 TCM and trained in integrative therapies such as auricular therapy, cupping, moxibustion, Gua Sha, and electroacupuncture—empowering them to serve themselves, friends, families and communities.
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 has a back-office for students to view replays for study or if they’ve missed a class.
Replays are available.
This program begins at the start of each season, with new sessions starting in Fall, Winter, Spring, and Summer.
You will learn specific “acupressure point prescriptions” and protocols for a variety of conditions, including:
Whether you are looking to start a new career or add a powerful tool to your current medical practice, IMAI provides the theoretical foundation and the hands-on training necessary for success.
Earning a Medical Acupressure Diploma opens up new and exciting career paths for healthcare professionals. Whether you want to enhance your current practice or explore new career opportunities, this certification will set you apart as a leader in holistic health care.
By integrating acupressure into your practice, you can offer a broader range of treatment options to your patients. This not only helps improve patient satisfaction but also positions you as a versatile and skilled healthcare provider.
Upon completing your diploma, you may also choose to specialize in specific areas of acupressure, such as sports medicine, fertility, or mental health. These specializations allow you to tailor your practice to meet the unique needs of specific patient populations.
3 Courses in 1 Diploma:
The Medical Acu-Pressure Programs are the same for both Medical (3 month)
and Neuro (4 mts), except
one uses various devices instead of acupuncture needles. A great course for
anyone who desires more knowledge and experience with MSK conditions, basic
TCM and many emotional challenges.
Sign up to reserve your spot in the next available class.
OR
Schedule a Call
imaieducation@gmail.com
Cost:
Early Bird – $4,495
Regular – $5,495
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.
Prerequisite: Anyone Interested
Our licensed Professors and Instructors have been teaching Medical Acupuncture and Acupressure for more than fifteen years and belong to licensed Boards.
The IMAI Medical Acupupressure Diploma Program is a practical training program that consists of online training, in-class training, clinic hours and home study.
The course is 3 months and is a confirmed educational program by the CMTO. You do not have to be a massage therapist, physiotherapist, doctor, nurse, chiropractor, etc.
There is no prerequisite only a desire to learn!
IMAI’s specifically designed course offers scientific, theoretical, and practical training. From the get-go, students begin practicing point locations with their hands and other tools and devices to stimulate the point – without using acupuncture needles.
This is a great program for anyone who wants to learn about the meridians and treating a vast number of health challenges and /or add a comprehensive modality to their toolbox or simply want to learn more healthy options and how to help family, friends and clients.
The Program begins with Safety, Emergency Procedures, a brief history, scientific evidence scholarly approach research highlights, primary points, followed by point manipulation and stimulation enabling students to have immediate access and experience in practicing acupressure with laser, magnets, tacks. and other devices.
The curriculum covers meridian/channels, point locations, palpation, muscle anatomy, treatment of neuroanatomical view to musculoskeletal conditions including Sports Medicine. Acupuncture/ Acupressure clinic follows.
INCLUDED: E-booklet, additional notes, and scholarly scientific research papers are included with other textbook recommendations.
THREE CERTIFICATIONS are included with this Diploma Program:
This is a Confirmed Acupuncture Education Program by the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario
The Program consists of one weekly Zoom Meeting and 1-2 days per month of an IN-CLASS Practicum
Saturdays: 1-6 PM / Sundays 9:30-3:30pm
(Once all have registered for the class, we work out a more specific and tailored in-class schedule and possible locations.)
We help students and are flexible with schedules as we have a mentoring program if you cannot make a certain date – you can make it up on another date and have additional mentoring or classes.
If you are interested, please contact us to set up a CALL at imaieducation@gmail.com – We look forward to connecting with you.
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