Acupuncture & Dry Needling Courses for
Occupational Therapists

  • Join hundreds of occupational therapists who’ve trained with us
  • Learn from passionate tutors with decades of experience
  • Evidence-based learning meets hands-on practice
  • Fully accredited by the FHT for quality assurance
  • Clinical reasoning at the heart of delivery
training course for occupational therapists

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THE #1 UK PROVIDER

Gain the skills, confidence and experience to apply acupuncture & dry needling effectively

Looking to expand your occupational therapy expertise with acupuncture and dry needling? Our highly-rated courses equip occupational therapists with the knowledge and confidence to deliver safe, effective treatment — blending evidence-based techniques with a strong focus on clinical reasoning.

Guided by passionate tutors with decades of experience, you’ll receive hands-on practice, personalised feedback, and continuous support throughout your journey. Fully accredited by the FHT and trusted by thousands, we are now the go-to choice for acupuncture and dry needling training.

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Our Courses

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ACUPUNCTURE COURSES

Entry Level Acupuncture Course

Ideal for health and wellness practitioners, this entry-level acupuncture course builds the foundational skills and understanding needed to confidently and safely add acupuncture to your service offering.

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ACUPUNCTURE COURSES

Foundation Acupuncture & Dry Needling Course

Tailored for healthcare professionals, our foundation course equips you with the expertise and clinical reasoning to effectively expand your clinical toolkit and broaden your therapeutic approach.

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ACUPUNCTURE COURSES

CPD Acupuncture & Dry Needling Courses

For those who have completed their foundation training, our CPD courses equip you with advanced techniques and knowledge to deepen your expertise and deliver even better client results.

5-STAR HIGHLY RATED

Practical, evidence-based training with a strong clinical focus

Our courses are led by experienced practitioners who understand the challenges of clinical practice. With a focus on evidence-based techniques and hands-on learning, we ensure you gain the skills and confidence to integrate acupuncture and dry needling into your practice right away.

Through expert guidance and practical application, you’ll refine your technique, expand your treatment options, and enhance patient outcomes. Our acupuncture courses are designed to be both practical and impactful, equipping you with the tools to deliver safe, effective care.

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The #1 UK provider

The top choice for acupuncture & dry needling training

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5-star highly rated

Trusted by thousands of healthcare and wellness professionals

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Globally trusted tutors

Knowledge you can trust, from professionals you respect

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Fully accredited

Fully accredited by FHT for further quality assurance

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Flexible payment plans

Spread the cost of your course over monthly instalments

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Comprehensive support

From booking, certificate and beyond, we’ve got you covered

Rated 4.9 out of 5 based on 374 reviews

Haydn Adelburgh (Acupuncture)

I recently completed a course at Breeze Academy, and I must say it has been one of the best learning experiences I’ve ever had. From the comprehensive online materials to the engaging in person lectures, this course exceeded all my expectations and provided me with invaluable skills and knowledge. I cannot recommend Breeze Academy highly enough to anyone looking to up level their skills.

Connon Hoult (Acupuncture)

I must admit over the years I have attended many of these CPD events with differing results! So to say I was sceptical was an understatement!,
This, however, was an AMAZING course and is worth every penny. I got rid of a 5 year back issue with one session of acupuncture that was administered during the training so I am a convert.
The trainer was great and facilities were lovely.

Zoe Choong (Acupuncture)

I completed a medical acupuncture and dry needling course with Emma in London – it was honestly fantastic. One of the best courses I’ve been to – good people and a great instructor. Ever since implementing acupuncture into my practice, I’ve seen a boost of faster recovery times and happier people with quicker results – I had a client cry because she hasn’t felt being pain free for years!

Angela Thomson (Acupuncture)

I recently attended and completed the Breeze Academy Acupuncture Course, and I couldn’t be more impressed! From start to finish, the experience was fantastic. The tutorial sessions were engaging, clear, and incredibly well-structured, making it easy to grasp even the more complex concepts. The tutor was knowledgeable, approachable, and always willing to answer questions or provide additional support…

Laura Fairclough (Acupuncture)

I recently completed the entry-level acupuncture training with Carl, and I couldn’t be more pleased with the experience. The online course prior to face to face training was thorough, providing a deep and well-structured classes in acupuncture techniques. The hands-on approach to learning ensured that I felt confident using my new acupuncture skills by the end of the training.

WHERE OUR DELEGATES WORK

Train with the UK's leading provider

Find out why our courses are so highly rated — sign up for our free online taster course.

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MEET OUR TUTORS

Trusted expertise in acupuncture training and education

At the core of our acupuncture education is Dr. Carl Clarkson, a physiotherapist with over 20 years’ experience in clinical practice, research, and education. With an MSc, PhD, and a global teaching career – including 11 years as a Senior Lecturer – Carl’s influential work, including published research on acupuncture’s role in pelvic health, continues to shape modern clinical practice.

Joining Carl is a dedicated team of passionate educators, each bringing decades of collective experience from diverse clinical backgrounds. Each tutor plays an active role in shaping the curriculum, ensuring that it is both academically rigorous and highly applicable in real-world settings.

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SPEAK TO A TUTOR

Got questions? Speak with one of our tutors or send us your questions!

We know that investing in your education is a big decision, and we’re here to make the process as clear and supportive as possible. If you have questions about course content, eligibility, career pathways, or how acupuncture and dry needling can fit into your clinical practice, our tutors are on hand to help. You can book a one-to-one call at a time that suits you, or simply drop us a message.

You’ll also find answers to common queries in the FAQs below. From course structure and practical requirements to next steps, our FAQs are designed to give you the confidence to make an informed decision. Whether you’re completely new to acupuncture or looking to expand your skillset, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

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Find out why our courses are so highly rated — sign up for our free online taster course.

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FREE TASTER COURSE

Start your journey right now

Start your acupuncture and dry needling journey right now with our free online taster course. Experience our unique approach to learning and discover what sets us apart from other education providers – all for free!

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GET INSTANT ACCESS

Free Taster Course

  • Join thousands of professionals who’ve trained with us
  • Learn from passionate tutors with decades of experience
  • Consistently rated 5-star by healthcare professionals
  • Evidence-based learning meets hands-on practice
  • Fully accredited by the FHT for quality assurance
  • Supportive environment every step of the way
  • Flexible learning designed to fit busy schedules
  • Clinical reasoning at the heart of delivery
  • Payment plans available to suit you

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Frequently asked questions

Is it common for occupational therapists to use acupuncture?

It is becoming increasingly common for occupational therapists to integrate acupuncture into their practice. The inclusion of acupuncture as a complementary therapy is on the rise within the field of occupational therapy. Occupational therapists are recognising the value of offering their clients a broader range of treatment options, particularly for pain management, muscle relaxation, and overall well-being.

This increasing trend reflects the demand for holistic and patient-centred approaches to occupational therapy. Acupuncture can complement traditional occupational therapy interventions, offering clients additional options for relaxation, pain relief, and enhanced healing. The combined use of both therapies contributes to a more comprehensive and well-rounded approach to client care, ultimately leading to improved client outcomes and satisfaction. Occupational therapists are increasingly incorporating acupuncture into their practice to provide a more holistic and effective approach to client care, addressing both physical and emotional aspects of well-being.

Can occupational therapists perform acupuncture?

Occupational therapists can use acupuncture and dry needling as part of their usual practice after completing our Foundation Acupuncture & Dry Needling Course. Once completed, you will be able to use acupuncture and dry needling as part of your practice safely, confidently and effectively.

Are courses suitable for occupational therapists with no prior experience?

Yes, absolutely! Our courses are designed for beginners with no prior acupuncture or dry needling experience. Almost all learners on our are starting from scratch, and our expert tutors guide you through every step to ensure you feel confident and competent.

Is a degree required to perform acupuncture as an occupational therapist?

No, a degree is not required to perform acupuncture as am occupational therapist in the UK. Our Foundation Course meets and surpasses the requirements needed to use acupuncture and dry needling as part of your day-to-day practice.

What opportunities does acupuncture provide for occupational therapists?

Acupuncture and dry needling can offer several benefits when integrated into occupational therapy:

  1. Pain Management: Occupational therapists often work with individuals who experience chronic pain or musculoskeletal discomfort. Acupuncture and dry needling provide additional tools for pain management, offering targeted pain relief and relaxation.
  2. Muscle Relaxation: These techniques can help relax tense muscles, reduce muscle spasms, and improve muscle flexibility, which is crucial for patients looking to regain their full range of motion and function.
  3. Enhanced Healing: Acupuncture and dry needling can enhance blood circulation to injured areas, promoting tissue healing and reducing inflammation, which is essential for faster recovery.
  4. Improved Mobility: By alleviating muscle tension and addressing trigger points, these techniques can help patients regain their mobility and range of motion more quickly.
  5. Complementary Treatment: Acupuncture and dry needling can complement other occupational therapy interventions, such as therapeutic exercises and activities of daily living training, providing a more comprehensive approach to patient care.
  6. Stress Reduction: Occupational therapy can be physically and emotionally demanding for patients. Acupuncture has a calming and stress-reducing effect, helping individuals manage the psychological aspects of their recovery.

By incorporating acupuncture and dry needling into occupational therapy, therapists can provide a more holistic and multifaceted approach to patient care, leading to improved patient outcomes and overall well-being.

What conditions can I treat as an occupational therapist after completing a course?

Our Foundation Course equips you to integrate acupuncture and dry needling into your practice with confidence. Rather than following set protocols, you’ll develop the skills to assess and treat a range of conditions, including acute and chronic pain, stress, anxiety, fatigue, and common women’s health concerns. You’ll also have the flexibility to explore additional acupuncture points beyond those taught in the course, provided your treatment is clinically reasoned. With the right insurance and local licensing in place, you’ll be fully prepared to put your new skills into practice.

Do I need insurance or a license to practise acupuncture as an occupational therapist?

Yes, you’ll need appropriate insurance and a local council licence to practise acupuncture and dry needling after completing your course. The exact requirements depend on your location and professional background, but don’t worry – we provide guidance on this topic during the course.

Since regulations vary by location and we’re not registered with the FSA, we can’t provide specific advice on insurance or licensing. However, we do signpost key considerations to help you navigate these requirements. Our goal is to make the process easier by guiding you towards the right resources so you can confidently take the next steps in setting up your practice.

Why should I study acupuncture and dry needling with Breeze Academy?

Choosing the right acupuncture and dry needling course is key to developing real confidence and skill.

Here’s what makes Breeze Academy the go-to choice for occupational therapists looking for acupuncture and dry needling training:

  • Expert-led training with a global reputation: Our courses are expertly curated and delivered by Dr. Carl Clarkson and his team of enthusiastic needling tutors. With a strong academic background, including MSc and PhD qualifications, we bring decades of real-world experience to every course.

  • A hands-on learning experience: We blend the latest research with practical, clinically relevant teaching, so you can start applying your skills with confidence from day one.

  • Triple-locked quality assurance: Our training is fully accredited and rigorously quality assured, ensuring you receive the very best in acupuncture and dry needling education.

  • A unique blend of online and face-to-face learning: Gain access to high-quality online content before and after your in-person training, allowing you to pause, replay, and revisit key concepts at your own pace.

  • Courses across the UK and beyond: We run courses in every major UK city and deliver acupuncture and dry needling training globally, making it easy to find a course that fits your schedule.

  • Comprehensive support every step of the way: From booking to certification, we ensure you feel confident and well-supported in your learning journey.

  • Highly rated by occupational therapists like you: Our courses are consistently rated five stars, with many attendees joining us through recommendations from past learners.

If you’re looking for world-class training that blends expert instruction with hands-on practice, Breeze Academy is the right choice for you, your career, and the clients that you work with.

How long does it take an occupational therapist to study acupuncture?

Typically, our foundation level acupuncture and dry needling courses take occupational therapists around two to three months to complete. The online component of the course can be completed in your own time, at your own pace, whilst the in-person workshop is conducted across three days.

Following the foundation course, occupational therapists may decide to advance their training further through one of our online or in-person CPD training courses.

How can acupuncture compliment occupational therapy?

Acupuncture can complement occupational therapy by enhancing the overall effectiveness of patient care. Occupational therapists often work with individuals who experience pain, limited mobility, and musculoskeletal discomfort. Acupuncture offers an additional dimension to pain management, providing targeted pain relief and relaxation. It can help patients alleviate discomfort and muscle tension, ultimately enhancing their ability to engage in therapeutic activities and regain functional independence.

Furthermore, acupuncture aligns with the holistic philosophy of occupational therapy, focusing on the interconnectedness of the body and promoting natural healing. The integration of acupuncture into occupational therapy allows therapists to offer a more comprehensive and patient-centred approach. By addressing not only physical symptoms but also emotional well-being, patients can experience a well-rounded and more effective rehabilitation process. This collaborative approach between acupuncture and occupational therapy ultimately supports patients in achieving their goals and improving their quality of life.