Acupuncture
©Lisa Gendron | Agroterra Birth
Dr. Maria Vanson is currently offering remote consultations and in-person appointments. To inquire about scheduling, please contact her here.
I have experienced the work of multiple acupuncturists in my lifetime, but until beginning to work with Maria had never had such clear and powerful results. Maria’s capacity to listen to and work deeply with all layers of my physical, mental and emotional well-being is unparalleled in my experience. I love how she helps me understand the complex power and beauty of Traditional Chinese Medicine in a way I have never before been able to.
Sessions may utilize a variety of Chinese Medicine Treatment tools, including:
Acupuncture
The insertion of very thin needles at strategic points on the body to connect with the body’s energy source, known as Qi
Acupressure
The palpation of strategic points on the body with fingers and hands rather than needles
Moxibustion
The application of heat therapy using dried plant material to warm and invigorate the flow of energy, Qi, in the body
Cupping
The use of suction cups on the body to reduce pain, stimulate blood-flow, and dispel pathogens
Bloodletting
The use of lancets to release small drops of blood intended to reduce and move blood stagnation
Dietary Therapy
The use of food as medicine according to Chinese medical theory
Counseling
The use of conversation to establish patient-practitioner rapport and initiate healing
Therapeutic Use of Essential Oils
The use of therapeutic grade, custom blended, botanical oils to assist healing; administered through self-care
Taoist Meditation
Meditation and visualization practices that work to restore natural cycles and rhythms in the body
Open Circle offers Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine in Providence, Rhode Island. Chinese Medicine is a complete medical system, capable of treating a wide range of people and conditions ranging from physical to emotional. Practitioner, Maria Vanson, is a licensed Doctor of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine in the state of Rhode Island. Trained in the systems of five element and classical acupuncture, Maria treats both individuals and families to restore and promote balance in individual and relational health.
We offer income-based pricing for acupuncture sessions, ranging from $65-125 for an intake session (90 min-2 hours) and $40-85 for follow-up sessions (60 minutes) . Learn more about our policies.
About the Practitioner:
Maria Vanson earned her master’s degree in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine from Maryland University of Integrated Health (formerly known as Tai Sophia). She has ten years of experience and works with patients to address the full range of women’s health: pre-menstruation, menstruation, fertility, pregnancy, postpartum, and menopause. Maria also supports children through non-invasive techniques, seeing them for general wellness care, urinary and digestive problems, developmental and behavioral concerns, and sleep related issues. Additionally, Maria is experienced in treating patients seeking to address chronic and acute pain and emotional and mental disharmony as well as assistance with pre- and post-surgical care, trauma and PTSD, diseases difficult to diagnose such as tick-borne illnesses, chronic fatigue syndrome, degenerative diseases, auto-immune disorders, and developmental syndromes.
FAQs
How does acupuncture work?
The ancient tradition of acupuncture recognizes that a vital life force or energy flows through all living things. This energy is called Qi, and it runs in channels throughout the body, nourishing cells and tissues. Acupuncture balances the flow of qi, releasing and moving qi from areas where it is stagnant or constrained and strengthening qi in areas that are deficient or empty. When treatment is carefully tailored to meet an individual’s unique needs, the root of the problem can be addressed, not just the symptoms, as symptoms are part of the body’s wisdom. They are the call to travel beyond limiting thoughts, beliefs, and behaviors to the deep healing that leads to awareness of one’s true self.
What if I don’t like needles?
Acupuncture needles are very different from traditional western hypodermic needles and do not cause the same level of discomfort upon insertion. Unlike hollow hypodermic needles used to transmit fluids, acupuncture needles are thin, solid, stainless-steel needles and neither bring nor remove fluids from the body. In situations where a patient is hesitant to receive acupuncture needles, other methods are available, such as acupressure. Many patients are capable of working through fear and apprehension around needles with slow and gentle treatment techniques.
How do I prepare for treatment?
Patients should wear two-piece nonconstructive clothing that allows the practitioner to easily access different areas of the body. Refrain from wearing heavily scented products or synthetic fragrances. It is important to hydrate and eat a light meal prior to treatment to avoid an empty stomach. Avoid caffeine 2-3 hours before treatment.
How often will I need to come?
Consistency of treatment varies according to a patient’s signs, symptoms and wellness goals. Patients schedule anywhere from multiple times per week to once per week to biweekly to monthly to seasonally. Treatment plans are personalized and agreed upon during intake.
CLIENT TESTIMONIALS
“When I came to Maria for treatment, I had been through a traumatic experiences and was looking for healing. She was kind, non-judgemental, and skilled. Her connection to spirit and knowledge of Chinese medicine guided my healing and recovery. After treatment I could feel a return to self. Suddenly, so many of the issues I had been avoiding were visible. As an aging athlete, Maria also helped me heal from multiple knee and ankle injuries. I still see Maria as often as possible and value the healing space she holds.” —M.P. Providence
“I have come to Maria for several years as she is my “go to” person for a variety of health conditions including menopause, severe depression, stomach issues and fatigue. Maria provides a safe and compassionate space for healing. Her skill and knowledge is beyond reproach. I cannot say more about Maria’s ability to reach levels of healing that I never expected.” —K.W. Providence