Julio Alberto De Leon 09/14/2023

Assignment # 1 (Module 1)

For my final paper in ACU 101, I had the incredible opportunity to shadow an
alternative/complementary health practitioner. This experience allowed me to gain firsthand insight into
their role, observe their interactions with patients, and reflect on how my own values and beliefs
regarding health and illness compared to theirs.

Role of the Practitioner: The practitioner I shadowed specialized in acupuncture, a form of

alternative medicine that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to promote
healing and alleviate various health issues. Their role was multifaceted, including diagnosing patients,
developing personalized treatment plans, and administering acupuncture sessions. They also played the
role of a holistic health advisor, educating patients on lifestyle changes and dietary habits to complement
their acupuncture treatments.

Observations and Expectations: During the shadowing day, I observed the practitioner conducting
thorough initial assessments with patients, asking detailed questions about their medical history, lifestyle,
and symptoms. This emphasis on a comprehensive patient history exceeded my expectations, as I had not
realized how integral it was to the practice. Additionally, I was struck by the meticulousness and precision
with which the acupuncture needles were placed. However, what did not meet my expectations was the
length of time each session took, as I had underestimated the patience and dedication required in this
field.

Therapeutic/Helping Relationship: I had the privilege of witnessing a therapeutic relationship

between the practitioner and a patient who was seeking relief from chronic back pain. The practitioner
exhibited excellent communication skills, actively listening to the patient's concerns and empathizing with
their pain. This rapport-building created a sense of trust, and the patient felt comfortable sharing not only
their physical symptoms but also their emotional experiences. It was evident that the practitioner saw the
patient as a whole person, addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of their well-being.

Enjoyable Moments and Healing Moments: One of the most enjoyable aspects of the encounter
was witnessing the "healing moments." These were instances where patients reported reduced pain,
improved sleep, or enhanced overall well-being after their acupuncture sessions. It was incredibly
gratifying to see the positive impact the practitioner had on the patients' lives. These moments reinforced
my belief in the potential of complementary therapies to complement conventional medicine.

Values, Beliefs, and Attitudes: Throughout the shadowing experience, I noticed some differences
in our values, beliefs, and attitudes