Amanda Proud MSc MBAA RBAF

Previous to becoming an acupuncturist, I was a paediatric nurse of almost 10 years based predominantly at the Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle. I worked in the areas of surgery, A & E, and the assessment unit. I also had some time working in the community as a school nurse covering areas including, Ferryhill, Chilton, and Sedgefield.

In the summer of 2016, I qualified from the Northern College of Acupuncture in York with a BSc in acupuncture. Throughout my 3-year degree I regularly worked in the acupuncture clinic, gained knowledge and skills in many elements of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), as well as studying degree level anatomy and physiology and pharmacology modules. Throughout my training, I was fortunate to train with Richard Blackwell, Hugh McPherson, and Nick Hudis for bodywork.

My work and life experience, along with my varied education has equipped me with a broad spectrum of skills and understanding from both western and eastern practices, allowing me to provide knowledgeable, individualised, holistic care.

Since graduating, I have a successful private practice; Gentle Touch Healing and Acupuncture, based in Hunwick village. With an ethos of reaching out and treating my local community, I offer a home visit option to those who find it difficult to travel to appointments, visit independent living accommodation flats, attend talks/events to local community groups, and am registered with Durham County Carers.

Having spent the last 3 years at the Ren Clinic in Durham, I am now part of the multidisciplinary team at the Northern Integrated Health Practice in Sacriston.

I consider myself an acupuncturist who treats a broad range of mental, emotional and physical conditions but I do have a particular interest in treating the mind, those suffering from stress, anxiety, low mood and depression.

Acupuncture, and on occasions, Reiki is administered to assist the body in the re-balancing of energy (Qi) and inter relationships between the organs. This often results in noticeable emotional and physical benefits, improving one’s overall wellbeing. I also include the option of ear seeds within this treatment. Small magnetic balls are situated on a tiny plaster and placed on specific locations within the ear.

As with reflexology, these specific points can be stimulated at times of need between acupuncture sessions to administer an acupressure response, often improving treatment outcomes.

Students have commented that these have been especially beneficial during the stressful and anxious exam period. Clients suffering from anxiety have fed back that the ear seeds have given them a sense of control when feeling particularly anxious and lowered anxiety levels, and some have used the ear seeds when reducing antidepressant medication.

As mentioned previously, I endeavour to treat the person not the condition as no two individuals are the same, irrespective of their medical diagnosis or symptoms.  During my time as an acupuncturist, experience has shown me the benefits of combining different therapies to maximise results. As a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) trained practitioner, I am qualified in other therapies that compliment acupuncture.

Some examples of my ‘combination treatments’ are:

For musculoskeletal conditions I may combine acupuncture with/without infrared heat or moxibustion, with/without electro stimulation. Once the needles are removed acupressure and/or cupping therapy may be applied.

For mental and emotional conditions, I may combine the acupuncture treatment with Reiki, then at the end of the session apply ear seeds.

Please note, therapies are discussed at each appointment.

Being recognised as a Healthcare Practitioner by PHE has enabled me to continue to provide a vital service within my local community and from my clinic based in Sacriston, Durham during the COVID-19 pandemic. I feel privileged that I have been able to help people not only on a physical level, but also providing emotional support during such challenging times.

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