Anna Roberta Dix, R.Ac.

From the beginning of my time in practice as a Registered Acupuncturist, women looking for support with gynaecological and obstetric issues began seeking me out. It began by helping women regulate menstrual issues, aiding with fertility concerns and supporting in pre- and post-natal care. These became a cornerstone of my practice. As my experience with pregnancy grew, I began to advocate more and more for regular treatment throughout the 3rd trimester. In particular, I find this to be a great means of preparing both mom and baby for the coming transition of labour and delivery and the ensuing recovery period. There is no doubt in my mind that women experience more satisfying outcomes when this preparatory work has been done. However, I still felt that there was something missing and I began exploring this missing component – acupuncture and birth. How would acupuncture during labour and delivery itself benefit my clients? This led to much independent research and enrolling in further studies – most notably with Claudia Citkovitz, L.Ac. at Lutheran Medical Center in Brooklyn, NY. Having travelled a number of times to learn from Claudia, has both enriched my knowledge base and my comfort level in the hospital-based birth system. In addition to this, and to my great pleasure, I also discovered how beautifully acupuncture does aid in so many aspects of the birthing process. A labouring woman is quite possibly one of the most awe-inspiring things that I have seen and to be able to assist her through her process is both humbling & thrilling.

I hold diplomas in Shiatsu Therapy and traditional Chinese medicine Acupuncture from the Shiatsu School of Canada and SSC Acupuncture Institute. I have completed post-graduate level training in Kiiko Matsumoto style acupuncture and continue to train under my teacher, Takamasa Tsurusaki, having done so since 2010. I have trained with Debra Betts for acupuncture in pregnancy, and with Claudia Citkovitz for acupuncture in labour and delivery. I currently teach acupuncture for pregnancy at the SSC Acupuncture Institute. I have also recently added Visceral Manipulation to my skillset, having trained with the Barral Institute. I find this work particularly useful for those recovering from surgical procedures.

I am a registered member in good standing with the College of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners and Acupuncturists of Ontario (CTCMPAO).
I am a co-founder of Toronto AcuBirthing, Acupuncture for Pregnancy, Labour and Postpartum.