Meet Vivian Takafuji, Acupuncturist

Heather Han, LAc, Dipl. OM, is a Virginia Licensed Acupuncturist and Diplomate in Oriental Medicine from the National Certification Commission of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM). She holds a Master of Science in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine from Arirang University (Kings Park University, Virgina 2018) and is certified in Clean Needle Technique (CCAHM, 2017). 

Treatment Types & Approaches

• Chinese Acupuncture
• Traditional Chinese Medicine
• Korean Acupuncture 
• Sa Sang Constitutional Medicine 
• Sa-Am Acupuncture 
• Master Tung's Acupuncture 
• Scalp Acupuncture 
• Trigger Point Acupuncture 
• NADA* 
• Ear Acupuncture 
• Facial Cosmetic Acupuncture
• Holistic Healthcare

*National Acupuncture Detoxification Association

Treatment Techniques

• Dry needling
• Electroacupuncture 
• Acupuncture Stimulator
• Cupping 
• Acupressure
• Chinese Herbal Medicine 
• Korean Herbal Medicine 

Patient philosophy
Chinese medicine emphasizes the importance of balance and harmony within the body and with the external environment for achieving optimal health. Acupuncturists have historically been concerned with promoting overall well-being by balancing the flow of Qi (vital energy) within the body’s meridians. During my time as an acupuncturist, I always have tried to take a holistic treatment considering the whole person not just their symptoms.

I believe that it is important to treat each patient as an individual and to be able to explain what I am doing to my patients so they can understand the process and feel more comfortable during treatment. I take a holistic approach that looks at the patient as a whole. I begin by assessing their symptoms and medical history to gain a better understanding. Additionally, I may use methods such as pulse diagnosis or tongue examinations to guide my decision-making further. My goal is to provide personalized care tailored to each need.

With over six(6) years of practical experience in helping my various patients, I have achieved their health goals and earned the respect and confidence of patients with a calm and professional manner, efficient communication, and gentle needling technique. This experience has allowed me to develop my skills in various areas, including pain management, stress reduction, and relaxation techniques. It has taught me how to listen carefully to my patients and understand their needs.

Background
I grew up in South Korea, where the most common applications of traditional medicine are acupuncture, herbal medicine, and moxibustion. This traditional Korean medicine called “Han-bang” focuses on balancing the energies of the body and uses herbal and folk remedies to treat illnesses.

When I was young, my mom had me take Chinese herbal medicine and acupuncture treatments for my stomach issues. At one time, I was interested in natural treatments like herbal medicine, moxa, and acupuncture. I was wondering if I could study it, I could treat myself.

I started to study at South Baylo University and received a master’s degree at Arirang University (Kings Park). While there, one theory I found very interesting was that the zang-fu organs consider the physiological functions and pathological changes of the zang and fu organs, as well as their interrelationships. The zang-fu organs are located on the inside of the body, but their physiological activities and pathological changes are reflected in the exterior. Although the zang and fu organs have different physiological functions, there is a very close relationship between them in maintaining the normal functions of the body. An understanding of the theory of the relationship between the zang and fu organs is of great significance in the clinical differentiation of syndromes and treatment

While working internship program, I developed diagnosis skills and many kinds of techniques; fire cupping, acupressure, Sa-am acupuncture, facial acupuncture, ear acupuncture, and Master Dong’s techniques from my professor.

Additional Certification:

• Licensed acupuncturist in the District of Columbia, Virginia, and Maryland
• Diplomate of Oriental Medicine from the National Certification Commission of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM), 2019
• Master of Science in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine from Arirang University (Kings Park University), Virginia 2018
• Clean Needle Technique certified by the CCAHM, 2017