About & Meet the TAC Board
NATIONAL NEWS
Support for the TN Community and Information for Acupuncturists After Hurricane Helene 10/08/24
Hello Acupuncturists,
Thank you for filling out the Google form. TAC has a few thoughts in mind to help support you and the community affected by Hurricane Helene. This weekend, I was able to contact two acupuncturists who have offered to serve as hubs in East TN for any donations coming in from vendors or locals who want to provide acupuncture-specific supplies. These hubs will be places where you can pick up supplies for a mobile clinic if you wish to offer community acupuncture in this area for those affected by Hurricane Helene.
- Chantel Brooks – Johnson City, TN
Lotus Chinese Medicine
2201 Ferguson Rd, Suites 5-6 RM3, Johnson City, TN, United States
Contact: 423-943-8514
- Serina Scott – Morristown, TN
Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine
400 East Economy Rd., Suite 2
Morristown, TN 37814
Contact: (423) 736-2089
- Alexandria Russell- Knoxville/Maryville TN
Supplies can be mailed or dropped off to make community acu kits
Contact Alex.
Phone: 937-474-3442
Much of this will be a grassroots effort. TAC will not be able to schedule shifts, but we do have more supplies coming; they just need to arrive. As they come in, we will assemble kits.
From there, we will:
- Drop them off at the locations listed above for you to pick up, or
- If you let TAC know you have an event set up, we will mail a kit to the address you provided.
This past Saturday, I worked in Carter County to make some connections. The donation hubs, food services, shelter areas, and churches seem like a good start. These areas are generally well-maintained, and people are coming there. I really wanted to offer acupuncture to those at Happy Valley High School, but the school board wanted to know more about us first. I will follow up with them, but there may be some red tape (which is fine—we want to make a good connection and a lasting impression). If any of you make connections in Carter County and provide acupuncture, please let TAC know.
On Sunday, I was in Cocke County supporting the TAC event for Free Community Acupuncture in Morristown. We had a good turn out there and had Serina, Bonnie, and student Elizabeth to help out. After that, I drove around Newport, TN, and connected with Crossroad Community Church, which is a donation hub. They have many volunteers, first responders, and community members coming for various reasons. Most are suffering from exhaustion, fatigue, physical and emotional stress, pain, and skin scrapes/rashes. Many had been volunteering for eight days straight. They are open to acupuncture and would greatly appreciate support while they continue their work.
Here are a few thoughts:
– If you want to do this work, our resources, Facebook, local connections, and other areas may provide useful information, but things are changing rapidly. Sometimes just driving around and asking will open doors. However, please be safe, know your areas, and go prepared (with food, water, and fuel). Do not interfere with emergency personnel.
– Always bring everything you will need (including the acupuncture/CNT/travel kit, consent forms, license, and malpractice insurance), as well as personal food, water, sunscreen, bug spray, and clothing layers. Some locations will be outside, while others will be indoors. As we gather more information about where we can go, we will know more.
– Bring a little extra to give. Many are requesting medical supplies. I tried to bring something to give away everywhere I went.
– Be open to having conversations and finding ways to help in whatever way possible. Sometimes we need to do some education and outreach before providing acupuncture. Don’t underestimate the value of this type of connection. Being helpful is the best thing we can do (in a safe way, of course).
We have training with AWB this morning. Please draw from that and modify/share your experiences as you go. This effort will continue for months, and TAC would like to support acupuncturists who want to volunteer for as long as we can.
I appreciate all of you who signed up with TAC. For those who still wish to volunteer, please sign up here: https://forms.gle/o1UTumanmKoBYqTQ6 .
As more information develops, and depending on what we learn, TAC will provide further updates.
Supporting Eastern Tennessee After Hurricane Helene:
The Impact of Hurricane Helene
Hurricane Helene has left a devastating mark on Eastern Tennessee, affecting countless lives and communities. With heavy rains, flooding, and destruction, many families are in urgent need of support as they navigate the aftermath of this natural disaster. The resilience of the people in our region is remarkable, but the road to recovery will be long and challenging.
The following counties in Eastern Tennessee have been significantly impacted by Hurricane Helene: Carter, Cocke, Greene, Hamblen, Hawkins, Johnson, Sevier, Unicoi, and Washington and there could be more.
If you live in or near these areas, your support can make a meaningful difference.
How You Can Help
At the Tennessee Acupuncture Council (TAC), we believe in the power of community and collaboration. As licensed acupuncturists, students, and supporters, we have a unique opportunity to make a significant impact during this crisis. Here’s how you can contribute:
- Volunteer Your Time and Skills
Licensed acupuncturists and students can offer their expertise in community health initiatives. Whether through providing acupuncture sessions, supporting volunteers/emergency workers/communities, or educational resources, your skills can help promote healing and well-being in affected areas. TAC is currently enrolled and is receiving training from Acupuncturists Without Borders.
For Acupuncturist and students wanting to get involved fill out this form: Tennessee Acupuncture Council Hurricane Helene Volunteer Information and Relief Form
- List Community Needs
Consider Needs and support of these areas affected. We do not want to get in the way of allowing emergency workers/crews and other personnel to help meet the community’s needs. Make a list of what areas need and keep TAC updated. Share information about the impact of Hurricane Helene and the ongoing needs of our communities on social media and within your networks. Awareness is crucial in mobilizing support and resources. - Donate Supplies
Basic necessities, such as food, clothing, and hygiene products, are in high demand. Organize supply drives within your clinics or communities to gather items that can be distributed to those affected by the hurricane. - Join the Tennessee Acupuncture Council
As a member of TAC, you’ll be part of a larger movement dedicated to supporting our communities, advocating for our profession, and ensuring access to acupuncture and holistic health treatments during times of crisis. Your membership helps strengthen our collective voice.
Donations
- Second Harvest Food Bank of East Tennessee is registered as a 501©3 nonprofit organization. Contributions are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law, tax identification number 58-1450139. Currently all donations when a financial gift is made via Gift Options, the donor may check the second box which reads “Yes, this is an honor or memorial gift”. Once the box is checked, the donor can input “in honor of Miranda Genese Hill Scholarship Foundation”.
- To TAC By Mail- If you are a vendor or company wanting to mail samples or donations for TAC outreach/community events please email: for the best mailing address and to get your resources where they need to go. Thank you!
Resources for Assistance
Here are some important resources for those affected by Hurricane Helene:
– American Red Cross: Provides shelter, food, and support for those impacted by disasters.
– FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency): Offers assistance programs and resources for recovery. Additional information regarding these resources can be found at: www.disasterassistance.gov. The FEMA helpline: 1-800-621-3362.
– TEMA (Tennessee Emergency Management Agency): Provides updates, resources, and support for those affected by emergencies in Tennessee.
– Local Community Resources: Reach out to local shelters, food banks, and community centers for immediate assistance and support options.
– East Tennessee Foundation: is uniquely positioned to advise philanthropy across our region and provides multiple giving options to support current and future needs.
– United Way Tennessee : has created a fund to specifically help those affected by Helene. You may designate your donation to a local United Way or where it is needed most at the discretion.
–Appalachian Voices Resource Guide – State-by-state breakdown of emergency management resources, shelters, donation drop-off locations, verified organizations accepting donations and more. (KY, NC, SC, TN, VA)
– Appalachians for Appalachia – County-by-county breakdown of local resources, travel advisories and more. (NC, TN)
– Small Business Association Resources: Emergencies
–Hurricane Helene Information and Updates | Representative Diana Harshbarger
http://harshbarger.house.gov/
Together, We Can Make a Difference
The recovery process will take time, but together, we can help Eastern Tennessee rebuild and heal. As practitioners and supporters of acupuncture and holistic medicine, we have a unique role to play in promoting wellness and resilience in our communities.
For more information on how to get involved or to make a donation, please designate your donation “Hurricane Helene Community Support”.
Let’s come together to support Eastern Tennessee in this time of need! TAC is also coordinating with the American Society of Acupuncturist, Acupuncturists Without Borders and other states impacted by the Hurricane.
Contribute to GOLDEN NEEDLE ACUPUNCTURE, HERBAL & MEDICAL SUPPLY in support of their efforts to provide treatment supplies to LAcs in NC’s disaster areas.
Resources:
1. Emergency training this Tuesday, October 8th. This training will run for 6 hours from 11 AM – 5 PM Eastern Time. It is worth 6 NCCAOM PDAs. Here is the Zoom information you will need: Topic: AWB Emergency Training for the Southeastern United States
Date: Tuesday, October 8th
Times:
- 11 AM – 5 PM ET
- 10 AM – 4 PM CT
- 9 AM – 3 PM MT
- 8 AM – 2 PM PT
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/
Meeting ID: 891 4617 9758
Welcome to the Tennessee Acupuncture Council: Empowering Wellness Through Acupuncture. Join the Tennessee Acupuncture Council!
At the Tennessee Acupuncture Council, we are dedicated to representing the voices of licensed acupuncturists (L.Ac.), students, and supporters. The term ‘Acupuncture’ encompasses many specialists across our great state. As a professional membership organization, we embody core values such as integrity, excellence, and a shared commitment to making acupuncture an accessible treatment option for all Tennesseans.
Our mission is to foster a supportive community where practitioners of acupuncture and herbal medicine can connect, share knowledge, and advocate for the benefits of acupuncture and integrative health. Together, we strive to elevate the standards of practice and ensure that every Tennessean has the opportunity to experience the system of medicine and benefits acupuncture.
Why Join Us?
- Community & Support: Network with fellow practitioners who share your passion for holistic healing.
- Continuing Education: Access resources and training opportunities to enhance your skills and stay updated on industry developments.
- Advocacy: Be part of a collective voice advocating for the recognition and integration of acupuncture within the healthcare system.
By joining the Tennessee Acupuncture Council, you are not just becoming a member; you are joining a movement to promote wellness and expand treatment options for those throughout Tennessee. Together, we can make a lasting impact on the health and well-being of our communities.
🌱 Let’s cultivate a healthier Tennessee—one needle at a time! 🌱
For more information on membership and how you can get involved, visit our membership page or reach out to us today!
Meet the TAC Board
Dr. Alexandria Russell, D.Ac., L.Ac.
President
Alex is an NCCAOM diplomate and licensed acupuncturist (L.Ac.) in Tennessee. She graduated at the top of her class from Jung Tao School of Classical Chinese Medicine in 2021. In 2022 she went on to finish her Doctorate of Acupuncture (D.Ac.) at Five Branches University. She specializes in general wellness, psycho-emotional support, various orthopedic pain, digestive symptoms, fertility and reproductive health, just to name a few. One of her hobbies involves keeping up with evidence based acupuncture practices and research. Alex is the president of the Tennessee Acupuncture Council and is serving on the nominations committee for the American Society of Acupuncturists (ASA). She has a passion for mentoring up-and-coming acupuncture students. She lives in Norris with her husband and grandparents and enjoys hiking, reading, and traveling.
Dr. Bonnie Forrester, DACM, L.Ac.
Vice President
The Vice President of the Tennessee Acupuncture Council is Dr. Bonnie Forrester, D.A.C.M., L.Ac., Dipl.Ac. She specializes in the treatment strategies for sports medicine, pain management and gastrointestinal disorders. She values spending time with her family of six, continuing education, botany, yoga and enjoying the arts. The Forrester family loves to play in the beautiful hills and valleys of the Appalachian Mountains. They have a small family farm where they focus on raising chickens, foraging and growing plants. Dr. Forrester’s journey towards studying Eastern Medicine grew from her love of permaculture, farming and herbalism along with experiencing firsthand the results she experienced from acupuncture and herbal medicine. The practice of Eastern Medicine views beings, the heavens and the world as interconnected, inseparable and interdependent. This holistic approach to health and wellness is in alignment with her views of how people have the ability to live a harmonious lifestyle that enriches their quality of life. Her mission is to continue to share the gifts of Eastern Medicine with others in order to improve lives.
Melissa Feigel, L. Ac., AP
Treasurer
Mel has been helping people balance their bodies naturally since 2008. Before relocating to Chattanooga, TN in early 2021, Mel spent over 13 years practicing in Florida, where she was a founding clinician in a private group acupuncture practice with specialties including pain management, sports injuries, athletic performance, pre/post-surgical orthopedic rehabilitation, mental health, OB/GYN, pediatrics and pre/postnatal care. There, she had the pleasure of working with athletes at all levels, from kids injured on the playground all the way up to the NFL, NCAA, CrossFit Games, Team USA, Team Canada, and many others. She is dually licensed in FL and TN and has been the Treasurer of the Tennessee Acupuncture Council since late 2021.
She’s a learning junkie. In addition to having a Master’s degree in Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine and multiple advanced certifications, she holds a Doctorate in Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine and is completing a specialization program in Sports Medicine Acupuncture. She has published two academic book chapters on Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine use for Western physicians in the MD-focused journal Clinical Obstetrics and Gynecology and has written on utilizing Orthopedic Acupuncture for athletes for the journal Medical Acupuncture. She has also taken adjunctive classes through Harvard Medical School.
When she’s not taking care of others, she takes care of herself by running, climbing, exploring the beautiful mountains, disappearing into the wilderness for days, and reading everything she can get her hands on. She also occasionally teaches Eastern and Western medicine and sometimes dips back into her former career as an independent accounting consultant for local medical practices.
M. Rachelle Poffenberger, MSOM, L.Ac
Secretary
M. Rachelle Poffenberger, MSOM, L.Ac is a practitioner of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Acupuncturist and Herbalist, graduating Magna Cum Laude from Florida College of Integrative Medicine in 2009. Practicing Eastern Medicine for 15 years, she’s traveled the world advancing her knowledge in alternative and complementary healthcare modalities to offer more effective treatments for modern disorders.
She left her private practice in Orlando and moved to Nashville in 2018, building her network in the integrative and alternative medicine space. She provided both in office and in home treatments throughout the greater Nashville area, where she mainly supported birthing people through labor, delivery, and postpartum. She still offers in-home and concierge care to Nashville families through her practice, TCM Concierge.
While the focus of her practice has largely been in fertility and reproductive health, she believes that the same principles of balance and sustainability applied throughout the stages of family planning can also be applied to the stages of building (or rebuilding) physical and mental health.
In June of 2022, her and her husband, Adam, took over ownership of the Modern Acupuncture Cool Springs location in Brentwood, TN and in 2023 partnered with Karman Gossett, D.Ac for ownership of the Murfreesboro location as well. Between her 3 practices, her aim is to make traditional medicine easy to understand and integrated into everyday health and wellness. By increasing accessibility to Eastern Medicine, she hopes to create a more integrated relationship between a person’s health and wellness.
Serina Scott, L.Ac.
Board Member At Large
Serina Moore Scott holds two Masters degrees in Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine, with more than 4,500 hours in training. She is a nationally Board Certified and State Licensed Acupuncturist in both Tennessee and California. She has 29 years experience, and enjoys working with adults and children to improve a wide variety of health complaints. Acupuncture stimulates the body’s ability to heal itself, therefore treating a wide range of conditions. Scott specializes in chronic conditions, including pain, allergies, autoimmune and endocrine disorders, women’s health, stress, and smoking cessation. She served as a professional board member on the Tennessee Advisory Committee for Acupuncture for eight years. This is her fourth year serving on the TAC Board. When she’s not at work she enjoys spending time with her family, hiking, and just about anything outdoors. She has a deep connection with nature, which sparked her love for traditional medicine.
Our Philosophy
United for Integrity and Access: The Tennessee Acupuncture Council’s Commitment
At the Tennessee Acupuncture Council (TAC), we honor and respect the rich tapestry of traditions in acupuncture and herbal medicine. Our diverse backgrounds and practices unite us in a common mission: to enhance the integrity of our profession and increase access to quality care for all Tennesseans.
We believe that collaboration is key. By working together, we can advocate for the legal protections necessary to uphold our practice and ensure that acupuncture remains a recognized and respected option within the healthcare landscape of Tennessee. Our efforts not only aim to protect our profession but also to enhance the overall quality of healthcare available to our communities.
Join us in this vital mission. Together, we can create a future where acupuncture and herbal medicine are accessible to everyone, enriching lives and promoting holistic health across the state.
🌱 Let’s stand together for our profession and the well-being of all Tennesseans! 🌱
For more information on how you can get involved and support our efforts, please visit our website or contact us today!
