About ITEA:

Mission and Vision

Mission 

The Mission of the Institute of Taoist Education and Acupuncture is to provide a deep and comprehensive education in the theory and practice of Classical Five-Element Acupuncture, based on the teachings of J.R. Worsley. Our educational program develops the professional skills and inner capacities of our students to be effective healers and inspiring teachers, and engenders in them a deep understanding and respect for the integrity of the human body, mind and spirit as it exists within nature. 

Vision 

The Institute of Taoist Education and Acupuncture will be locally and internationally recognized as the premier college for providing transformative learning and contributing to the health and well-being of current and future generations. 

“As a retired teacher I am very impressed with the consciousness involved in planning the curriculum. It is set up for maximum learning in small pieces with spiraling to keep deepening the knowledge!”
Terry T.

Educational Objectives

Graduates of ITEA will possess:

  1. A thorough theoretical understanding of Classical Five-Element theory and its place in East Asian philosophy and in history, as well as a personal awareness of the Five Elements and how they interconnect people with nature.

  2. The ability to use the Five Elements in clinical practice in order to recognize disharmony in their clients, formulate a Traditional Diagnosis, develop an appropriate treatment plan, and provide appropriate care.

  3. Competence and interpersonal sensitivity in the application of the technical skills of assessment used in Classical Five-Element Acupuncture, including pulse taking, palpation, and discernment of color, sound, odor and emotion.

  4. Competence and interpersonal sensitivity in the application of the technical skills of treatment used in Classical Five-Element Acupuncture, including acupuncture and moxibustion. 

  5. Important qualities of a health care practitioner including listening and communication skills, the ability to build rapport, and a commitment to conducting oneself in a professional and ethical manner with clients and colleagues.

  6. A sufficient knowledge of western medical terminology, pharmacology, diagnostic procedures and treatment methods to enable effective communication with clients and other health care providers.

  7. The capacity to practice in a safe and prudent manner, including the ability to recognize emergency conditions and other circumstances that may necessitate referral to—or consultation with—other health care providers.

  8. The ability to inform the public and potential future students about the philosophy of Classical Five-Element Acupuncture and its benefits.

Nature
as Your Teacher

  • Learn to observe yourself and others without judgment and without being judged.
  • Learn that there is no real failure — only opportunities for increased learning.
  • Learn that the journey is more important than the destination.
  • Learn to act rather than react. Learn how to listen deeply.
  • Learn how to meaningfully touch the lives of others.
Hybrid Track Catalog 2025-2026
Begin Your ITEA Journey
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