Hello, Andrew! Thank you SO much for such a fantastic and eye-opening experience into the world of TCM. I am a nurse and have been sharing tidbits of what I have learned (as I find teaching others helps solidify what I have learned). Anyway, eventually after these two years, I plan on going for my NP -- but TCM has become a love and I am wondering if you could give any advice on how I should proceed. I live in PA and my goal is to open a clinic of sorts specializing in functional medicine/TCM. Anything you can offer would be very much appreciated. Thank you! PS - I would be looking for a mentor ;0)

Andrew said: I applaud your passion and drive. What you are looking to do is wonderful… but also a tall order that will take many years of study. I did my functional medicine training with the Institute of Functional Medicine. When I was looking at programs, I decided they had the most comprehensive training. However, you may want to save it for after you finish your NP license. It is not impossible, but difficult do fully use functional medicine without the ability to give orders for labs. The IFM training is a five-day basic course + 6 three-day weekend modules; quite expensive but worth it. TCM training is a bit more difficult to obtain unless you decide to enroll in a 4-year acupuncture/Asian medicine program. Outside of that it would be a lot of self—study and working with a TCM-focused mentor. I do take on students but only after they finish the basic DWCHS program. Good luck in all your studies!

Thank you so much for your response! Yes -- I am very aware it will take me a few years to achieve my dreams. I wish I would have found my passion when I was younger as I will be 45 next month, but it is what it is and it is a dream I would like to see through! I told my husband I was ready to move to Asheville, NC, to attend Jeffrey Yuen's college of Chinese medicine arts. I will look into the Institute of Functional Medicine. Do you have any experience with the Maryland University of Integrative Health? As for possibly looking to you as a mentor... I will be in touch after the DWCHS program is complete :0)