Anxiety Trauma and Recovery

CASE: Healing from Childhood Trauma and Anxiety: A Patient’s Journey and Practitioner’s Insights with Acupuncture and TCM

Part 1: A Patient’s Story of Recovery

Early Life: A Childhood of Abuse and Trauma

From the age of four, my world was forever changed when my father died and my mother remarried. What should have been a secure, loving environment became a nightmare. My stepfather’s verbal abuse was relentless, daily filling my ears with degrading comments: “You are useless, stupid, inferior, worthless.” I was never good enough. His cruelty wasn’t just in his words—there were times he would buy me a pretty doll, only to later tear it apart in front of me, saying, “This is what happens when little girls do not behave.” Physical abuse was hidden under my clothing, but the emotional scars ran much deeper.

I grew up feeling worthless, constantly trying harder to be liked, but nothing was ever good enough. It was the 1950s, and society expected families to keep their issues behind closed doors. Women and children were to cope without support, as there were no protections like Women’s Refuge or police intervention. Eventually, my mother found the strength to kick my stepfather out, but by then, the damage had been done.

Adulthood: Striving for Perfection Amidst Anxiety

As I moved into adulthood, I found solace in Ballroom and Latin American dancing, which helped manage the pressures of my job as a paramedic. I was determined to excel, yet a small voice from my childhood always whispered that I had to be 100% perfect. I met and married through my work, and my life seemed to settle into a normal routine. However, the birth of my first son, who was very ill and required frequent hospitalization, brought back feelings of inadequacy and fear. When my husband’s job moved us far from family support, and with my son’s ongoing health issues, I began to feel the weight of everything crashing down on me.

I often felt that other mothers were coping much better than I was. The advice from doctors and those around me only heightened my insecurities, feeding into my growing sense of inferiority. I told myself I could manage, but inside, I was unraveling. The pressure of trying to “hold it together” in public was overwhelming, while privately, my thoughts became darker and harder to control. Panic attacks and crippling anxiety soon followed, making even basic tasks seem impossible.

Unlocking the Past: The Long Journey to Understanding

Years later, after five house moves and countless struggles, I was barely functioning. Therapy and medication helped uncover the deep emotional wounds from my childhood. I began to understand how the abuse had shaped my entire outlook on life, but despite this newfound awareness, I was still physically and mentally stuck. The panic attacks continued, and my anxiety felt insurmountable. I felt trapped in a cycle of self-doubt and fear.

Discovering Acupuncture: A Turning Point

In June 2020, I decided to try acupuncture at Kapiti Acupuncture & Wellness Clinic, though I was skeptical. I had tried so many things and had all but given up hope. To my surprise, acupuncture quickly became a turning point in my healing journey. My acupuncturist, Jason Bei, did not treat me like a case number or speak at me with instructions. Instead, he spoke with me, treating me as a person with value. For the first time, I felt truly seen and heard.

Jason’s approach was gentle yet effective, allowing me to move at my own pace. Initially, I attended weekly sessions, but as I grew stronger, we gradually moved to bi-weekly, then monthly sessions—always at a pace that felt comfortable for me. The acupuncture sessions, combined with Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) herbs, helped address not just the anxiety but the underlying imbalances in my body. As the layers of my emotional pain were slowly peeled away, I began to notice significant changes in how I approached life.

The Transformation: Healing Inside and Out

It is now October 2024, and I have been anxiety-free for about eight months. This journey was long and difficult—there were moments when I felt like giving up. But through acupuncture and TCM, I learned that healing involves the entire body and mind. Acupuncture didn’t just treat my anxiety; it transformed my whole demeanor. I now approach life with a sense of calm, knowing that I no longer have to prove myself to anyone.

Looking back, I realize how much I’ve grown from the frightened, insecure little girl I once was. Today, if I face a challenging person or situation, I simply excuse myself, knowing I no longer need to stay where I feel uncomfortable. This is a far cry from the days when I would be paralyzed by fear and doubt, constantly striving to meet others’ expectations. I now live by the belief that “nobody has the right to make you feel inferior without your consent.”

Holistic Healing: The Role of Acupuncture, Tai Ji, and Qi Gong in My Recovery

Western medicine provided some relief, but it was through acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that I found true healing. Acupuncture treated my entire system, addressing both my physical symptoms and the deeper emotional imbalances caused by years of trauma. Jason not only applied acupuncture techniques but also introduced me to other vital practices to help pace my recovery.

One of the key elements was Tai Ji principles and visualization techniques, which became essential tools in calming my mind and reconnecting with my body. Through Tai Ji, I learned to slow down my thoughts and movements, syncing my mind with my body in a more harmonious way. Visualization allowed me to focus on positive outcomes and imagine a state of peace and strength, which helped shift my mindset from fear and anxiety to one of control and empowerment.

Qi Gong breathing was another crucial practice in my recovery. By focusing on deep, rhythmic breaths, I was able to strengthen my physical body and promote mental calmness. This breathing technique not only helped to ease the tension I carried in my body but also cultivated a sense of inner stability. It became a powerful method for releasing stress, and over time, I noticed a significant improvement in both my physical strength and emotional resilience.

Together, acupuncture, Tai Ji, visualization, and Qi Gong breathing helped me rebuild my body’s natural protective mechanisms. These practices supported my emotional and physical recovery, bringing me back into balance. Today, they remain a core part of my life, helping me maintain a sense of peace, control, and overall well-being.

A Message to Others: You Are Not Alone

My journey with anxiety and childhood trauma is not unique, and I know many others struggle in silence. If my story can help just one person, then sharing it is worth it. Mental illness is simply that—an illness that requires healing. With the right support, whether through TCM, acupuncture, or other therapies, it is possible to overcome. My message to anyone dealing with anxiety, trauma, or any mental health issue is this: you are not alone, and you are worthy of healing.

NOBODY. NOBODY AT ALL HAS THE RIGHT TO MAKE YOU FEEL INFERIOR WITHOUT YOUR CONSENT

MEGAN JONES. (My pen name)

OCTOBER 2024.

Part 2: Practitioner’s Observations and Insights

Introduction
This case presents a female patient in her seventies who has endured long-standing anxiety and trauma rooted in childhood abuse. Over the past four years, she has undergone treatment within a holistic framework, progressing through three stages of healing: acute care, recovery, and maintenance. Previous conventional therapies provided partial relief, with counseling offering foundational insights into her past, but frequent relapses and limited medication tolerance hindered sustained progress. Her patient-centered treatment plan incorporated the Treasure 3 model to address her needs across three dimensions—Heaven (urgent symptom relief), Humanity (stabilization and recovery), and Earth (self-care and resilience-building practices).

Through this structured approach, acupuncture and qi-based practices were progressively introduced to manage relapses, enhance stability, and foster independence in self-care. The patient has now reached the maintenance stage, actively engaging in Tai Ji, Qi Gong, and self-care techniques to maintain her mental and physical balance. This case illustrates how the Treasure 3 framework effectively supports complex trauma recovery, fostering resilience and promoting patient empowerment.

Case Presentation

Patient Background

This case involves a female patient in her seventies, the wife of a military veteran and mother of two, who has experienced chronic anxiety and trauma from childhood abuse. Her early years were marked by emotional and psychological trauma, which impacted her mental and physical health over time, leading to anxiety, distress, and a cycle of physical and emotional challenges.

Presenting Symptoms and Primary Challenges

Upon beginning treatment, the patient presented with severe symptoms, including intense anxiety, panic attacks, physical exhaustion, and emotional instability. Her fight-or-flight response was frequently triggered, resulting in over-ventilation and episodes approaching mental breakdowns. Talk therapy, though initially helpful in processing past traumas, often led to emotional relapses. Medications proved ineffective due to adverse reactions, further complicating her path to recovery. These setbacks created a complex treatment landscape, where stability was difficult to achieve.

Initial Assessment and Diagnosis

The TCM assessment process began with a detailed zang-fu diagnosis to understand the underlying imbalances impacting the patient’s mental and physical health. Given her history, the assessment focused on evaluating Qi flow and organ harmony.

The diagnosis revealed a primary pattern of Liver Qi stagnation and Liver Yin deficiency with Liver Yang rising, reflecting chronic emotional stress disrupting the Liver’s natural flow and contributing to irritability, anxiety, and panic episodes. Additional signs of Kidney Yin and Jing deficiency suggested a root cause for the Liver imbalances, exacerbating the Liver Yin deficiency and allowing excessive Yang activity. This deficiency compromised her physical resilience and heightened emotional instability.

TCM Pattern Diagnosis:

Liver Qi Stagnation: Manifested as mood swings, irritability, and internal tension, increasing susceptibility to anxiety.
Liver Yin Deficiency with Liver Yang Rising: Imbalance allowed unchecked Liver Yang, causing mental restlessness, irritability, and emotional volatility.
Kidney Yin and Jing Deficiency: Weakened foundational energy, reducing resilience and furthering Liver Yin deficiency, impacting both physical and mental stability.

This assessment laid the foundation for an individualized treatment plan addressing both symptoms and root imbalances.

Treatment Plan

The Treasure 3 model provided a structured approach to address the patient’s complex needs across three healing stages: acute symptom relief, recovery, and maintenance. By targeting the body’s three sections—Upper, Middle, and Lower—this model supported the patient’s physical, emotional, and spiritual health in a progressive, integrated manner.

Overview of the Treasure 3 Model in Treatment Stages

Heaven (Upper Section): Addressed the Heart, Lungs, and emotional aspects of the Liver. During acute relapses, acupuncture calmed the Heart, regulated Lung Qi, and stabilized emotions, helping to manage symptoms like anxiety and panic. Specific points targeted the Heart and Lung meridians to calm the mind and reduce over-ventilation.
Humanity (Middle Section): Focused on the functional aspects of the Liver and Spleen. During stabilization, treatment harmonized these organs to improve digestion and Qi flow, reinforcing her energy and resilience. Acupuncture targeted Liver and Spleen harmonization to enhance stress management and functional balance.
Earth (Lower Section): Supported the structural aspects of the Liver and Kidney. Maintenance treatment reinforced the foundation of physical strength, longevity, and resilience. This phase helped restore the patient’s Jing, essential for sustaining self-care and long-term resilience.

Liver System Focus

The Liver’s role in emotional regulation, digestion, and structural stability made it central to managing the patient’s anxiety and physical endurance. In TCM, the interconnected roles of the Liver and Kidney underpin physical resilience and aging. Strengthening the Liver-Kidney relationship supported the patient’s long-term physical health and emotional stability.

Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine Protocols

Acupuncture Protocols:
Each stage addressed the specific needs of the body’s three sections:

Upper Section (Acute): Points included REN4, REN15, REN17, DU20, LV3, KD1, and GB39 to calm the Shen, regulate the Heart, and stabilize breathing.
Middle Section (Stabilization): Points included LV3, SP6, KD3, GB39, PC6, Yintang, and DU20, harmonizing Liver and Spleen to support functional resilience.
Lower Section (Maintenance): Points included ST36, LV3, SP6, GB39, KD3, Yintang, DU20, BL18, BL20, and BL23, focusing on strengthening physical endurance and Jing.

Herbal Medicine:
Formulas supported each stage’s focus:

Jia Wei Xiao Yao Wan: Eased emotional stress and stabilized the Liver.
Zuo Gui Wan: Nourished Kidney Yin and Jing, supporting resilience.
Qi Ju Di Huang Wan: Balanced Yin, promoting calm and addressing emotional stability.

The combined approach of acupuncture and herbal therapy addressed both immediate and long-term needs, promoting progressive healing and self-care.

Progress and Outcome

Over four years, the patient progressed through the Treasure 3 framework’s three stages, achieving significant mental and physical improvements.

Stage 1: Acute Stabilization – The Upper Section protocol provided quick relief during relapses, reducing the intensity and duration of her anxiety and physical exhaustion.
Stage 2: Recovery – The Middle Section protocol built resilience by harmonizing the Liver and Spleen, improving her energy, mood, and sleep, empowering her to manage stress independently.
Stage 3: Maintenance – The Lower Section protocol supported self-care and self-management. Incorporating Tai Ji, meditation, and breathing techniques, she achieved eight months of anxiety-free progress, with newfound confidence and calm in daily interactions.

Through this structured approach, she transitioned from crisis management to sustaining well-being, achieving resilience and self-sufficiency.

Discussion

The Treasure 3 model aligns treatment with the body’s natural organization into three interconnected sections—Upper, Middle, and Lower—each with vital functions in physical, emotional, and spiritual health. The Upper section includes the Lung and Heart, governing voice and emotion, and the Liver, the “sea of Qi.” The Middle section comprises the Lung, Gallbladder, Stomach, and Spleen, forming the “sea of grains and fluids,” essential for digestion and metabolism. The Lower section involves the Liver and Kidney, the “sea of marrow” and “sea of blood,” sustaining physical resilience. This segmentation guides treatment in a holistic approach, balancing the physical and energetic needs of each section.

We introduce the Treasure 3 model as a contextual approach for managing mental health, integrating three elements: treatment planning, patient-centered care, and self-care. By guiding patients toward self-care through Tai Ji and Qi Gong, this model leverages their healing potential, harmonizing Jing (posture), Qi (breath), and Shen (mindfulness) to support balance across body, mind, and spirit.

Treatment Planning – The Treasure 3 model’s structured, stage-based approach allowed treatment to evolve alongside the patient’s needs:
- Acute (Heaven): Immediate relief through acupuncture stabilized severe symptoms.
- Recovery (Humanity): Functional recovery strengthened emotional resilience.
- Maintenance (Earth): Empowered self-care sustained long-term progress.
An Ideal Patient-Centered Care Model – The Treasure 3 model envisions healthcare as 10% primary intervention, 40% community support, and 50% self-care. New Zealand’s reliance on acute intervention limits preventive options, increasing costs. Community acupuncture could expand access, reducing healthcare strain and supporting patient empowerment.
Healing Path with Tai Ji and Qi Gong – Tai Ji and Qi Gong promote dignity, stability, and resilience by cultivating:
- Jing (Foundation): Postures supporting physical and emotional stability.
- Qi (Breath): Regulating stress and promoting mind-body alignment.
- Shen (Spirit): Fostering self-worth, calm, and personal growth.

The Treasure 3 model thus provides a comprehensive, patient-centered framework that integrates acute care, community support, and self-care, paving the way for balanced, sustainable healing. By empowering patients to take active roles in their recovery, it addresses not only symptom relief but also long-term resilience and self-sufficiency.

Recommendations on the Implementation of NZ Community Acupuncture Project (NZCAP) and Future Outlook

NZCAP serves as a promising model for providing accessible, holistic healthcare through community acupuncture. This seven-session entry-level program is rooted in the Treasure 3 framework, leveraging the strengths of a supportive, community-centered approach to create a safe, inclusive environment. Here, participants not only receive therapeutic care but also develop self-healing skills and build meaningful connections within the community. To strengthen and expand this model, the following recommendations and outlook are proposed:

1. Heaven: Therapeutic Intervention and Immediate Support

In the NZCAP project, the Heaven component represents the acupuncture therapy itself, with a primary focus on Auricular acupuncture. Conducted by a certified acupuncturist in collaboration with social workers or support staff from networks such as the RSA (Returned and Services’ Association) and other local support organizations, this therapeutic intervention provides participants with immediate symptom relief and a caring, professional presence. This dual support structure ensures that each participant’s needs are addressed compassionately and that safety remains a priority.

Recommendation: Establish partnerships with local RSA branches and other support networks, expanding the pool of trained support staff to accompany acupuncture sessions. This professional presence fosters a sense of security and allows participants to experience acupuncture within a trusted framework, addressing immediate therapeutic needs and helping them feel supported throughout their healing process.

2. Humanity: Building Community Connections and Emotional Support

The Humanity component of the program emphasizes a community environment that encourages connection and mutual support. Conducted in a group setting, NZCAP facilitates a space where participants can share experiences, offer encouragement, and feel united in their healing journeys. This community-based approach amplifies the therapeutic benefits of acupuncture by creating a shared experience, fostering both individual and collective healing.

Recommendation: Enhance the group dynamic by incorporating reflective practices and group check-ins before or after sessions. This could be done through guided discussions or small sharing circles that allow participants to voice their thoughts and feelings, thereby strengthening the sense of community. Regular debriefing with group facilitators and support staff will also enhance the group’s cohesion and encourage lasting connections.

3. Earth: Empowering Self-Care and Sustainable Healing Practices

The Earth component encourages self-care practices and sustainable healing through connections with community-based organizations, such as RSA branches, RAS (Refugee As Survivors), and WSAH (Wellington Sexual Abuse Help). These partnerships create a foundational support network that extends beyond the acupuncture sessions, fostering participant engagement in self-healing practices. Participants are introduced to Tai Ji and Qi Gong techniques, such as the Six Healing Sounds, empowering them with exercises they can practice independently to build resilience and maintain body-mind connection.

Recommendation: Offer ongoing workshops or instructional materials on Tai Ji and Qi Gong techniques, either in person or through digital resources, to empower participants in their self-care journey. Providing take-home guides, video tutorials, or app access can help participants practice these exercises at their convenience, reinforcing self-care and resilience beyond the program.

Future Outlook

The NZCAP community acupuncture model has the potential to expand access to holistic healthcare and promote sustainable well-being across diverse communities in New Zealand. As the program develops, the following strategies can help broaden its impact:

Scaling the Model to Regional Centers: By partnering with community organizations across various regions, NZCAP can bring this model to underserved communities. Establishing regional hubs with trained practitioners and support personnel will enable more people to access this compassionate, community-based care model.
Developing Research and Evidence-Based Practices: To enhance the program’s credibility and demonstrate its effectiveness, NZCAP could collaborate with research institutions to conduct studies on the health and psychological outcomes of participants. Evidence-based results would build support for community acupuncture as a valuable addition to holistic healthcare in New Zealand.
Forming Alliances with Organizations: As a charity, NZCAP can strengthen its reach by forming alliances with community and healthcare organizations open to piloting the seven-session design. These alliances will help refine the model and create a supportive network to further community-based healthcare initiatives.
Expanding Self-Care Education and Resources: As participants gain experience with Tai Ji, Qi Gong, and other self-care practices, the program can expand its educational resources. Providing access through online platforms or community workshops will enable participants to maintain self-care routines and foster stronger community ties.

The NZCAP community acupuncture project exemplifies a holistic, accessible approach to healthcare, enabling individuals to regain control of their health through progressive self-awareness and community support. By integrating acupuncture, group support, and sustainable self-care practices, NZCAP provides an empowering pathway to recovery and well-being, with the potential to transform health access in New Zealand.

treasure3nzcap.gmail.com