Emma Hart Acupuncture

Ethics, Lineage & Responsibility

At the heart of my practice is a commitment to care that is ethical, inclusive, and deeply respectful of the medicine I offer. I practise traditional acupuncture, rooted in East Asian lineages, with a deep sense of responsibility and gratitude.

I chose full-time, multi-year clinical undergraduate training to honour this tradition, and I actively reject the appropriation of acupuncture through fast-track or reductionist training routes. I recognise that I am South Asian, not East Asian, and therefore not culturally connected to this medicine or its lineage. I will always aim to support and uplift East Asian voices and businesses within and beyond my work.

Decolonisation & Inclusion

My practice is shaped by the values of decolonisation, accessibility, and social justice. I believe that everyone deserves access to care, and I aim to make my services as inclusive as possible for marginalised and underserved communities. This includes offering flexible pricing options and creating a welcoming, safe environment for all identities and bodies.

I use the term decolonisation with care. I’m trained and registered through the British Acupuncture Council (BAcC), but I recognise that current training pathways and professional structures can reflect systemic challenges such as high costs, barriers to access, and a disconnect from the medicine’s East Asian roots. Having worked within the organisation, I’ve witnessed how marginalised voices are underrepresented, and how systemic inequities affect the profession as a whole.

While my registration provides a level of professional recognition and patient safety, I don’t believe it legitimises my practice more than those trained outside of Western or institutional frameworks. I’m committed to challenging whitewashing, gatekeeping, and tokenism in the profession, and will continue learning from, crediting, and amplifying East Asian and other marginalised practitioners in my work.

I actively embrace an intersectional approach, acknowledging that identities such as race, ethnicity, gender, class, age, disability, and sexuality intersect to shape how individuals experience care. I aim to remove barriers for clients who belong to multiple marginalised communities and to remain alert to structural inequalities in how healthcare is delivered.

I am committed to supporting those from underrepresented or excluded backgrounds who may feel unwelcome in conventional clinical or wellness spaces, and to ensure my practice is one that uplifts and centres diverse patients.

Mental Health & Trauma Awareness

I take a consent-led, trauma-aware approach to care, recognising that acupuncture or any therapeutic work can bring emotional vulnerability. I aim to create a safe, non-judgemental space where all emotional and mental health needs are respected. This includes working gently, moving at your pace, and checking in as needed. You are welcome here exactly as you are.

Accessibility

Accessibility is a priority in my practice. If you have specific access needs — physical, sensory, emotional, cognitive, or otherwise — you’re welcome to get in touch before booking so we can make arrangements together. This includes support for neurodivergent clients: things like extra processing time, dimmed lights, no background music, or structured communication can all be accommodated. Your comfort and autonomy matter, and adjustments can often be made with just a little notice.

Gifts and Gratuities

While I appreciate the kindness of patients, to maintain clear professional boundaries I do not accept gifts. Your trust and wellbeing are my priority, and I believe a respectful therapeutic relationship is best supported without the exchange of gifts.

Environmental Responsibility

Sustainability means practising in a way that nurtures both people and the planet. I keep waste to a minimum, use reusable equipment wherever possible, and prioritise suppliers with ethical and environmentally responsible practices. I continually review and adapt my systems to ensure they align with my values.

This is a living document. I am committed to ongoing learning, transparency, and accountability, and I welcome feedback from the communities I serve. I will ensure that my continued professional and personal development is undertaken with integrity, curiosity, and respect for the traditions I practise.