5shen is a low-barrier mobile community acupuncture clinic that provides individual and group acupuncture sessions throughout Vancouver.

Click here for the current 5shen schedule.

5shen’s goals are

1. to increase access to complimentary and alternative health care for all, especially those who have little or no access to such resources,2. to provide compassionate, patient-centered, community-driven care in a safe, welcoming and non-judgmental atmosphere,

3. to involve individual and community stakeholders in meaningful consultation,

4. to develop and maintain a business that is inspirational, ethical and sustainable for myself, my community and the environment.

Community outreach

5shen travels to service providers where clients, and even staff and volunteers, can participate together in group acupuncture sessions, as an adjunct therapy to their regular service offerings.

There is no direct cost to participants or service providers. Treatments are based on MSP premium assistance eligibility and the practitioner bills MSP directly. People who are not covered under MSP have the option to donate (if they are employed/housed/stable/insured) or receive free treatment.

Increased accessibility
Acupuncture treatments are non-invasive, in that there does not have to be a lengthy screening process. Informed consent and a basic health intake are necessary to protect both practitioner and patient, otherwise virtually no conditions are imposed upon the client before receiving treatment. The practitioner provides open, non-judgmental attention to each participant. We don’t have to talk about sensitive issues. There are very few contraindications to acupuncture, and anyone may receive treatment regardless of their present state of health.

By offering group sessions, patients are supported in an accessible and accepting environment with their peers. Treatments are done while the patient is fully clothed. More people can be treated in the same amount of time as a private session. Providing a mobile service offers the added crucial benefit of being able to reach people where they are at.

Private sessions

Private treatments are offered to people wanting individual care, and people who are interested in having their health care investment benefit the community.

Sessions include acupuncture, alone or in combination with tiu na & shiatsu massage, cupping, moxibustion, herbal & nutritional guidance, etc.

Treatments are offered for a wide variety of health concerns, including acute or chronic illness or pain of any type, mental & emotional health, addictions, smoking cessation, cosmetics (ie. facelifts or weight loss), comfort care, and much more.

Fees are on a self-monitored sliding scale based on financial ability. Higher paying folks help subsidize others. Low income folks (under $28,000 net income) with a care card can be subsidized through MSP. Session payments also include initial and follow up consultations. Acupuncture is covered under MSP Premuim Assistance, WCB, ICBC and most extended health plans.

Clinic location:
East Van Medical Centre: Suite 407 – 1750 E. 10th Ave (at Commercial)
By appointment only.
Contact me for a free consultation.

***Subsidies available for low income individuals***