Recognizing his passion for helping people heal naturally, Alistair began his formal studies of Oriental Medicine at the Five Branches Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Santa Cruz, California. While living in Santa Cruz he also became certified as a massage therapist and apprenticed with an exceptional acupuncturist. Alistair completed his four-year Masters of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine degree at the Academy of Oriental Medicine at Austin in Austin, Texas in 2005.

Upon graduation, Alistair pursued his interest in integrating Oriental Medicine with conventional medicine by working with MD’s in family practice for three years and becoming the Director of Oriental Medicine at the Jefferson Street Family Practice in Austin. Alistair moved with his family to Richmond in 2009 and is thrilled to be working with the team at the Advanced Wellness Centre.

Having studied Chinese acupuncture techniques in school and several styles of Japanese acupuncture, Alistair has come to develop what he calls “Empirical Acupuncture,” which focuses on proving the effectiveness of each point before using a needle. His technique is very gentle and produces changes that his clients can track in their own bodies as the session progresses. Currently Alistair is pursuing continuing education in using auricular acupuncture (related to the ear) as a means for enhancing diagnosis and treatment of his clients’ conditions. In addition to acupuncture, Alistair makes extensive use of Chinese herbal medicine, tai chi fundamentals, and massage to help balance clients’ systems and provide lasting results. Alistair values client education and is a compassionate listener. He considers it a privilege and blessing to help people discover the natural abilities their bodies have for healing.