Five Element Acupuncture treats illness by placing fine stainless steel needles in specific points on the body in order to balance the energy of the meridians. This Classical Chinese treatment was developed nearly 5,000 years ago. Five Element Acupuncture differs from Traditional Chinese Medicine in that it treats the client's body according to their elemental make up; water, wood, fire, earth or metal. Five Element diagnosis treats the patient by balancing energy pathways in the body.

Cheryl received her Master's Degree from the Traditional Acupuncture Institute in Laurel, Maryland. She practiced acupuncture at the Potomac Massage Training Institute in Washington, D.C. before moving to Rhode Island and has worked in the field of alternative medicine since 1995. She also earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Financial Management and spent five years in financial analysis, accounting and investment research before she discovered alternative medicine. She spent several years working in the fields of homeopathy, botanical medicine, naturopathic medicine and acupuncture before beginning acupuncture school. Her clinical training included an internship with the University of Maryland, Health Center, participation in a research study on the efficacy of acupuncture, and treatment and observation of acupuncture patients in a clinical setting. In addition to conducting a private practice, she has worked in various substance abuse centers helping others to overcome addictions. She incorporates her background in naturopathic medicine, nutrition, botanical medicine and reiki into her practice.

Five Element Acupuncture was derived from Shamanic and Taoist roots. It is a wholistic system of addressing and supporting emotional, spiritual and physical wellbeing.

By Appointment only