Acupuncturists
Acupuncturists diagnose and treat health conditions by inserting needles into specific points on the body. They may also use cupping, massage, acupressure, and nutritional supplements. Most work in private practice, wellness clinics, or hospitals, seeing patients for ongoing treatment of pain, stress, and various medical conditions.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against acupuncturists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves scheduling patient consultations, reviewing health histories, and performing acupuncture treatments. Acupuncturists assess symptoms, locate appropriate acupuncture points, insert needles, and monitor patients during sessions. Administrative tasks include maintaining patient records, discussing treatment plans, and potentially recommending complementary therapies like massage or supplements to support healing.
Who this work suits
Holland code SIR. Social work is helping, teaching and working closely with people. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You enjoy investigating the root causes of health problems and understanding how treatments work—that investigative drive helps you diagnose conditions and customize care. You're also drawn to social connection, finding satisfaction in building relationships with patients and supporting their wellness journey over time.
What it takes
Preparation: Extensive preparation (graduate degree and/or many years of experience). Most people in this occupation hold a master’s degree.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Who is hiring
Openings right now
- Acupuncturist · Veterans Health Administration · East Orange, New Jersey · $88005–$114413
Openings are read from employers’ own career pages and public job boards and change daily. Search all openings (free account) to filter by distance, pay and how well you qualify.
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tennessee | $127,450 | $141,430 | $213,710 | — |
| New Jersey | $108,370 | $125,260 | $140,540 | 240 |
| Indiana | $84,300 | $120,490 | $127,300 | 30 |
| Maryland | $66,250 | $101,650 | $107,270 | — |
| Massachusetts | $61,830 | $93,360 | $139,050 | — |
| Missouri | $66,840 | $89,000 | $104,350 | — |
| New York | $55,380 | $86,120 | $100,550 | 1,160 |
| Arizona | $38,060 | $85,300 | $95,250 | 70 |
| Kentucky | $85,130 | $85,130 | $85,130 | 60 |
| Wisconsin | $74,160 | $84,820 | $88,120 | 170 |
| Washington | $76,160 | $83,200 | $112,670 | — |
| Maine | $56,920 | $83,040 | $108,650 | — |
All 24 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- Diplomate in Acupuncture (Dipl.Ac.) — National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine
- Diplomate in Oriental Medicine — National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine
- Diplomate in Chinese Herbology (Dipl.C.H.) — National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against acupuncturists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 29-1291.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.