Integrative & Alternative Medicine Additional Resources
SevenPonds suggests the following resources and experts for those interested in learning more about integrative medicine.
National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health
The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health is the lead federal agency within the National Institutes of Health dedicated to scientific research on complementary and integrative health approaches. NCCIH funds and conducts rigorous studies on practices such as acupuncture, meditation, yoga, and natural products, providing evidence-based information to help the public and healthcare professionals make informed decisions.
National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine
Established in 1982, the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine provides professional certification that validates entry-level competency in acupuncture and Oriental medicine. NCCAOM certification or examination scores are required for licensure in 46 states plus the District of Columbia. The organization maintains a searchable directory of board-certified practitioners. (Note: Effective February 2026, the organization is now the National Certification Board for Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine, or NCBAHM.)
Academy of Integrative Medicine
The Academy of Integrative Medicine is a global, interprofessional community of healthcare providers, researchers, and academics dedicated to treating the whole person—mind, body, spirit, community, and planet. Formed in 2013 through the unification of several holistic health organizations, AIHM provides education, certification pathways, and a professional home for practitioners across all integrative health disciplines.
American Academy of Medical Acupuncture
The American Academy of Medical Acupuncture is the sole physician-only professional acupuncture society in North America, representing MDs and DOs trained in both modern medicine and acupuncture. Founded in 1987, AAMA promotes the evidence-based integration of acupuncture into Western medical practice and provides resources for patients seeking qualified physician-acupuncturists.
American Chiropractic Association
The American Chiropractic Association is the largest professional chiropractic organization in the United States. ACA advances the chiropractic profession through advocacy, research support, and collaboration with other healthcare disciplines, with a focus on higher standards and patient-centered outcomes.
American Osteopathic Association
The American Osteopathic Association is the professional home for more than 197,000 osteopathic physicians (DOs) and students nationwide. AOA serves as the primary certifying body for DOs and accredits osteopathic medical colleges, championing the distinctive osteopathic philosophy that emphasizes the body’s inherent ability to heal itself.
Center for Mindfulness in Medicine, Healthcare and Society
Based at the University of Massachusetts Medical School and founded by Dr. Jon Kabat-Zinn in 1995, the Center for Mindfulness in Medicine, Healthcare and Society pioneered the integration of mindfulness into mainstream medicine. It developed and disseminates Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), the eight-week evidence-based program now offered in hospitals and clinics worldwide.
National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy
The National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy is a 501(c)(3) non-profit association devoted to the holistic integration and education of aromatherapy into complementary healthcare practices and self-care. Founded in 1990, NAHA promotes high standards of education, ethics, and integrity in the practice of clinical and holistic aromatherapy.
Multidisciplinary Association of Psychedelic Studies
Founded in 1986, the Multidisciplinary Association of Psychedelic Studies is a non-profit research and educational organization working to develop legal, equitable access to psychedelics for healing and personal growth. MAPS advances clinical research—most notably on MDMA-assisted therapy for PTSD—educates policymakers, and provides honest public education about the risks and benefits of psychedelics.
Johns Hopkins Center for Psychedelic and Consciousness Research
Johns Hopkins Center for Psychedelic and Consciousness Research is the leading psychedelic research institution in the United States, established following a landmark 2006 study on psilocybin led by Dr. Roland Griffiths. The Center investigates psychedelics for treating depression, addiction, PTSD, and existential distress, and explores the neurophysiological mechanisms underlying consciousness and therapeutic applications.