Clinical Research · Mental Wellness
Wellness Mind Research Program
Improving Mental Health Through Acupuncture
§ Institutional Background
Huatuo Clinic and ACATCM are committed to pioneering clinical research and clinical excellence in acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine. In 2024, Huatuo Clinic partnered with RBC to host the Huatuo Invitational Golf Tournament, successfully raising awareness for and funding mental health initiatives. These resources have been instrumental in supporting the Wellness Mind Research Program and advancing clinical research in mental health at Huatuo Clinic.
I.
A Research-Based Approach to Improving Mental Well-Being
Mental health disorders — including anxiety, depression, and stress-related conditions — are increasingly prevalent worldwide, significantly affecting individuals’ quality of life and overall well-being. Recognizing the urgent need for effective and holistic mental health interventions, Huatuo Clinic, in collaboration with the Alberta College of Acupuncture & Traditional Chinese Medicine (ACATCM), is launching the Wellness Mind Research Program.
This clinical research initiative is designed to rigorously investigate the efficacy of acupuncture in alleviating symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress, providing valuable insights into its potential as a complementary therapy in mental health care.
Programme Offering
Seven Free Acupuncture Sessions
Over 4 weeks, conducted by trained ACATCM residents under licensed supervision.
II.
Overview
- Programme Name
- Wellness Mind Research Program
- Lead Organization
- Huatuo Clinic
- Collaborating Institution
- Alberta College of Acupuncture & Traditional Chinese Medicine (ACATCM)
- Commencement Date
- Ongoing
- Target Population
- Individuals aged 18–55 experiencing depression, anxiety, or stress.
- Location
- Huatuo Beltline Clinic
300, 628 – 12 Ave SW Calgary
III.
Treatment Protocol
Participants will receive a structured acupuncture treatment plan consisting of seven free acupuncture sessions conducted consecutively over a four-week period.
IV.
Participant Recruitment & Selection
- I.
Application Submission
Interested individuals will complete and submit an application form.
- II.
Eligibility Assessment
Applications will be reviewed, and qualified participants will be invited for an in-clinic screening.
- III.
In-Clinic Screening & Informed Consent
Selected participants will be invited to attend an in-clinic screening and undergo a comprehensive assessment to confirm eligibility. Those deemed suitable will immediately complete and sign the informed consent forms on-site.
- IV.
Treatment Phase
Enrolled participants will begin their acupuncture treatments as per the predefined protocol.
V.
Research Objectives
- I.
Assess the effectiveness of acupuncture in reducing symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress.
- II.
Contribute to the body of empirical evidence supporting acupuncture as an integrative approach to mental health treatment.
- III.
Facilitate the broader integration of acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine into conventional mental health care models.
VI.
Expected Outcomes
For Participants
Improved mental well-being with measurable reductions in symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress.
For the Community
Enhanced awareness and acceptance of acupuncture as a credible complementary therapy for mental health conditions.
For Research & Clinical Practice
Empirical data to support the integration of acupuncture into conventional mental health care strategies.
VII.
Research Ethics
Informed Consent
Participants will be fully briefed on the clinical research’s objectives, methodologies, and their rights before enrollment.
Confidentiality
All participant data will be anonymized using unique identifiers and stored securely to ensure privacy. Access to the data is restricted to authorized personnel directly involved in the study. Patients’ personal information and responses will never be shared publicly or used for purposes outside this research.
Apply Now
Application Form
Complete the application below to be considered for the Wellness Mind Research Program. Selected applicants will be contacted for an in-clinic screening.
Join the Study
Your participation contributes to a growing evidence base for acupuncture in mental wellness — helping us understand how integrative therapies can support the many Calgarians living with depression, anxiety, and stress.