Alumni Launches Integrative Healthcare Business, including Chiropractic, Massage Therapy and Acupuncture.

Emily Andrews discovered the Finger Lakes School of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (FLSAOM) of NYCC after leaving another acupuncture program. She selected NYCC for its beautiful, sprawling campus and stellar reputation among acupuncture schools.

After graduating from FLSAOM, Andrews opened her first practice in Shelburne, Vermont. While trying to manage this Fledgling business, she worked as a waitress and also as a lifestyle educator at another integrative practice. Eventually, she and her husband decided to open a practice together, and pursued their dream of a holistic healthcare practice. They now co-own an integrative practice in Greensburg, Pennsylvania that employs three acupuncturists, two chiropractors, massage therapists, and has a full fitness facility. It is her belief that healthcare is shifting toward natural approaches, and patients are becoming increasingly frustrated with conventional medicine and pharmaceuticals.

She quickly learned that running a practice can be difficult but rewarding. She says, “The most challenging part of owning a practice is trying to split my attention and focus between running the practice and giving the best care to my patients.” Because she is the acting clinical director, she finds being 100 percent present difficult. “Being mindful and present in the treatment room and charting precise notes can be very challenging when I also have to pay attention to the front once details, be mindful of employee satisfaction, and other day-to-day issues.”

In her spare time, she enjoys educating the public about acupuncture. She speaks to middle school students on AOM Day in October and has been working collaboratively with a local photographer on The Acupuncture Photography Project, which will provide beautiful and accurate pictures of treatments for other practitioners to use. Her advice to students and recent alumni is to seek out help when you feel lost or unsure. “Some of the best support I had when opening the practice was from local business owners and young professionals who have become some of my closest friends and most trustworthy colleagues.” She also urges staying in contact with classmates and the College. “The school will always be a great resource for information and support.”