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About Monica

Monica Cater, Licensed Acupuncturist
Focus Areas

 

Woman's health

Sports injuries; acute & chronic

Digestive conditions

Anxiety & stress

Headaches & migraines

My Story

 

Prior to studying acupuncture, Monica earned a Bachelors of Science degree in Business Management from the United States Military Academy, West Point, NY and served over 22 years in the Army as a leader and manager.  

Monica’s introduction to acupuncture came in 1999 as she had been experiencing chronic pain for a few years.  After seeking years of various medical interventions, she eventually found acupuncture and that is what changed the direction of her life.  Through her experience as both a patient and practitioner, Monica experienced the transformational results of acupuncture and is passionate about sharing the amazing benefits of this medicine with others.  Here is her story…

 

“About twenty years ago, I awoke after surgery blurry eyed and disoriented from the anesthesia.  I felt so awful and prayed the surgery fixed my chronic issues.  For six months following the surgery, I endured regular injections as a follow-up measure and treatment.  My pain subsided yet only for a year or so…then the chronic pain returned.  I remember thinking to myself, ‘There has to be a better way.’

 

     Over the next decade, I sought alternative medicine and studied ways to help heal my body.  I found new ways to improve the quality of my life and enjoyed the benefits of each tremendously.  I studied Dr. Deepak Chopra, and his teachings regarding a holistic view of life and Ayurveda medicine.  I dived into practicing yoga, meditation, and Pilates. For awhile, I received acupuncture, chiropractic, and Chinese herbal treatments.  The treatments prevented me from having additional surgeries and contributed greatly to my overall health and well-being. However, since the military healthcare insurance did not cover the treatments, the expense did not allow me to continue them as my body required.

 

     About nine years ago, my pain became so excruciating I sought Western medicine again.  After the doctors told me the only option was surgery, I knew I had to go back to acupuncture and pay whatever it took to heal.  With each session of acupuncture, I had some relief from my chronic pain.  The pain became less severe and I felt different…calmer, lighter, more peaceful.  As I continued the regular treatments, the pain slowly went away and I realized I was getting other benefits from the acupuncture.  I was able to deal with stress better and had a clearer mind…life was overall much better.  So I continue with acupuncture treatments to this day to keep myself balanced and allow well-being.

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     After answering the call to serve my nation in the Army for over 22 wonderful years, I retired from the military and answered another call--a call to help people heal and improve their wellness. I have such great enthusiasm for acupuncture and the role it plays in my life.  I have read numerous articles on the successes of acupuncture in helping military service members with Post Traumatic Stress Disorders and Traumatic Brain Disorders. I am inspired by the fact that the military is becoming more open and accepting of acupuncture as a way to treat patients.  As the military is taking big strides in establishing wellness centers that offer integrative medicine, I seek to be part of that revolutionary movement.”

 

With Bluewater Acupuncture, I am excited to share my passion and my experience of this amazing medicine.  My intention is to partner with you on your incredible healing journey and to be a source of support, encouragement, and knowledge so you can achieve your tremendous potential in wellness, balance, and vitality.

Licensures and Memberships
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*Doctorate Degree in Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine, Pacific College of Health and Science

*Master Degree in Acupuncture, Maryland University of Integrative Health

* Post-Baccalaureate Certification in Chinese Herbs
*Acupuncturist, Licensed in Maryland

*Member of the Maryland Acupuncture Society

*Member of the National Acupuncture Detoxification Association

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