About Rush River Acupuncture
Welcome to Rush River Acupuncture, your trusted partner in holistic health. We specialize in treating chronic pain, women's health issues, digestive disorders and many other issues. Our mission is to provide personalized acupuncture treatments to clients in the rural areas of the Twin Cities, focusing on underserved communities. With a commitment to patient-centered care, we aim to enhance your overall well-being and empower you on your healing journey.
Dr. Gretchen Forster Doctor of Acupuncture Licensed Acupuncturist
Dr. Gretchen was introduced to Traditional Chinese Medicine through her own experience living with chronic pain and symptoms of endometriosis. She turned to acupuncture and traditional medicine out of desperation for relief from the physical and mental effects of pain. This approach provided relief when nothing else had.
For 13 years prior to practicing traditional medicine, Dr. Gretchen worked with children and young adults with Autism Spectrum diagnoses. Through this experience, she observed how unsupported stress, emotional and mental dysregulation, inadequate nutrition, and poor sleep can directly contribute to secondary health complications. She learned the importance of developing comprehensive and individualized treatment plans that are specific to the needs of each patient.
Dr. Gretchen is passionate about working collaboratively with her patients and empowering them to take an active role in their wellness journey. She is inspired by the rhythms of nature and emphasizes the importance of finding daily balance through sleep, nutrition, movement, and stress management to support optimal emotional, physical, and mental well-being.
Dr. Gretchen specializes in the treatment of pain conditions, women's health, and digestive imbalances. Her scope of practice includes acupuncture, facial acupuncture, electroacupuncture, auricular acupuncture, acupressure, tuning fork therapy, cupping, Gua Sha (dermal friction technique), Tui Na (Chinese medical massage), orthopedic needling (dry needling), moxibustion, herbal medicine, and nutritional support.
Education and Experience
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Doctorate of Acupuncture with a Chinese Herbal Medicine specialization (DAcCHM) Northwestern Health Sciences University
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Master of Acupuncture (MAc), Northwestern Health Sciences University
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Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, Augsburg College.
Licensure and Certifications
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Licensed Acupuncturist (LAc), MN #2133, State of Minnesota Medical Board Diplomate of Acupuncture
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National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM)
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Clean Needle Technique Certified, Council of Colleges of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (CCAOM)
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Basic Life Support Provider (CPR and AED), American Red Cross Organizations
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Minnesota Acupuncture Association, Member
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American Society of Acupuncturists, Member
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Henderson Community Alliance, Member
Our Philosophy
At Rush River Acupuncture, we believe in a holistic approach to health that recognizes the interconnectedness of body, mind, and spirit. We strive to create a warm and welcoming environment where patients can feel safe and supported. Our treatments are customized to each individual, combining traditional Chinese medicine principles with modern techniques. We are dedicated to helping you achieve balance and harmony in your life through the power of acupuncture.