ABOUT TARA

Hi, I’m Tara.

Tara Akuna, Registered Acupuncturist in Waterloo, Ontario

I’m a Registered Acupuncturist in Waterloo, and I’ve been practising since 2012.

I’m naturally curious about people and about what helps them feel better. I love the problem-solving side of acupuncture — figuring out what’s bothering you, seeing how your body responds, and adjusting the treatment along the way.

But just as important to me is how you feel while you’re here. My style is warm, easygoing and practical. We can talk, laugh, ask questions and keep things relaxed while we work toward getting you back to doing the things you love.

MY PATH TO ACUPUNCTURE

More than 14 years of acupuncture — and I’m still curious.

I graduated in 2011 from the Tzu Chi International College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, where I completed my diploma in Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture. I became a Registered Acupuncturist in 2012 and have been practicing ever since.

My early years in practice included mentoring under a naturopathic doctor and opening two community acupuncture clinics in Vancouver and New Westminster. Those experiences shaped the way I practice today — keeping acupuncture approachable, paying close attention to how people respond, and always staying curious about what might help.

Over the years, I’ve also contributed to acupuncture education through podcasts and clinical case studies, co-authored Yin Yang Reset, a book about using everyday food through the lens of Chinese medicine, and more recently brought acupuncture into group sound bath experiences.

After all these years, I still genuinely love learning — and I still get excited when someone gets off the table and realizes something that was hurting feels better.

WHEN I’M NOT IN THE CLINIC

I believe in making room for play.

Tara Akuna enjoying an outdoor movement and laughter event in Waterloo

I live in Waterloo with my husband and our four kids, and outside the clinic I love anything that gets me moving, laughing, playing or trying something new.

I love salsa dancing, laughter yoga and the occasional improv singing class. I also collaborate on intimate sound bath events, where I bring acupuncture into a completely different kind of group experience.

I’m a big believer that feeling well isn’t just about having less pain — it’s about being able to joyfully participate in your life and do more of what makes you feel alive.

READY TO FEEL BETTER?

If pain is getting in the way of doing the things you love, I’d be happy to help you see if acupuncture is a good next step.

Initial appointments are $135.

Direct billing is available for many insurance plans.

Think we might be a good fit?