Master and Apprentice

Where to Find Us

Contact Information:

Email:

info@acupuncturescience.net

Address:

2078 B Walsh Ave. Santa Clara, CA 95050, USA

501 S. Bascom Ave. San Jose, CA 95128, USA


The California Acupuncture Board oversees the licensing and regulation of acupuncturists within the state. One of the key components of the acupuncture profession, especially in its traditional context, is the “Master and Apprentice” model. This educational method is rooted in the deep history of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and has been a way to transmit knowledge and skills from experienced practitioners (masters) to students (apprentices) for generations.

The "Master and Apprentice" Model in Acupuncture

In traditional Chinese medicine, the "Master and Apprentice" model is a time-honored way of learning, emphasizing hands-on experience, mentorship, and the direct transmission of knowledge. This method allows students to learn the nuances of acupuncture practice that might not be fully covered in formal academic settings. Apprentices receive personalized guidance from their masters, gaining insights into patient care, point selection, pulse diagnosis, and the philosophy behind acupuncture.

However, while this model has many benefits, modern regulatory environments, such as that of the California Acupuncture Board, introduce guidelines and requirements to ensure that both the traditional learning model and contemporary standards of medical education are met

https://www.acupuncture.ca.gov/ed_providers/tutorial.shtml

Forms to Apply for the Tutorial Program

The Tutorial Program (Business and Professions Code, section 4940, 4941, 4971; Regulations Sections 1399.420 – 432) is similar to an apprenticeship using the ancient method of a tutor passing on his or her understanding of oriental medical practice. It is a patient-centered study of medicine where the student learns in an intensive, hands-on format.

The supervisor acts as a guide towards helping the student "integrate and organize [the understanding of medicine] through experience and use with patient problems, employing the cognitive skill of the clinical reasoning process." In this way, the supervisor not only passes on to the student their unique personal point of view in clinical practice, but also gives the student another source. The supervisor's commitment is to helping the student learn in a way that is best suited to the student as an individual.

The tutorial program provides access to higher education for many people who, for many reasons, of which a few are identified below, are not able to attend school.

  1. Students who cannot afford the high tuition of an acupuncture school. Tutorial programs are typically less expensive.
  2. Students who need to work for a living and cannot fit into a school's rigid class schedules. Tutorial programs can work with more flexible schedules.
  3. Students who do not live geographically close to a school. Qualified prospective tutors are located throughout the state.


Dr. Lei's "Master and Apprentice" program is designed to preserve the essence of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) learning while integrating modern acupuncture science. This program emphasizes a hands-on, mentorship-driven approach to acupuncture education, wherein students (apprentices) learn directly under Dr. Lei's guidance.


Key Features of Dr. Lei's "Master and Apprentice" Program


1. Personalized Mentorship: In line with traditional practices, Dr. Lei offers one-on-one mentorship to her apprentices, allowing them to develop a deep understanding of acupuncture techniques, patient care, and diagnostic skills. This close interaction enables students to grasp the subtleties of acupuncture that might be overlooked in conventional classroom settings.


2. Neuroanatomical Integration: Dr. Lei’s program is unique in its blend of traditional knowledge with modern neuroanatomy. Apprentices learn to select acupoints based on both classical meridian theory and contemporary understanding of the nervous system, enhancing their treatment effectiveness and expanding their scope of practice.


3. Clinical Practice: Apprentices actively participate in clinical practice, treating real patients under Dr. Lei’s supervision. This immersive experience allows them to refine their diagnostic and treatment skills while receiving immediate feedback and guidance from an experienced master.


4. Holistic Approach: The program also delves into the holistic principles of Chinese medicine, including herbal remedies, dietary therapy, and lifestyle guidance. Apprentices gain a comprehensive understanding of how to address patients' health issues from a multifaceted perspective.


5. Preparation for Modern Practice: While rooted in tradition, the program also prepares apprentices for the requirements of modern acupuncture practice, including knowledge of state licensure requirements, safety protocols, and integration with Western medical practices.


Dr. Lei’s "Master and Apprentice" program exemplifies how traditional acupuncture learning can coexist with modern scientific approaches. By incorporating neuroanatomy into the traditional framework, Dr. Lei ensures that her apprentices are well-versed in both classical and contemporary methodologies. This prepares them to meet professional standards while preserving the rich heritage of acupuncture practice.


Please submit the form below if you like to join Dr. Lei's  Master and Apprentice program.

You may send "Study of Purpose" in email to : melindalei2010@gmail.com

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