Dorion Simmons, MSOM, LAc, LMT - Licensed Acupuncturist & Massage Therapist
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Dorion Simmons, licensed acupuncturist and massage therapist at CTCA at Western Regional Medical Center says of his role: “I love making a difference in the lives of my patients, their caregivers and my fellow stakeholders. I love my job.”
Simmons began his schooling in massage and acupuncture theory at the Wisconsin Institute of Natural Wellness in Racine, where he earned a diploma in massage therapy. His training included extensive didactic and clinical experience in massage therapy totaling over 600 hours in subjects including Shiatsu, Reiki, Tai’ Chi, and Yoga.
After attending a program in general studies at Carthage College in Kenosha, Wisconsin, Simmons enrolled in Midwest College of Oriental Medicine where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in nutrition and a Master of Science in Oriental Medicine degree.
As part of his academic studies, Simmons specialized in traditional Chinese Medicine with additional training in Tui’ Na, Korean and Japanese acupuncture techniques, auricular therapy, and Western sciences. He also held multiple internships where he focused on treating patients with chronic pain and fatigue, menstrual disorders, HIV, allergies, and inflammatory bowel disease. Simmons holds National Certification in Acupuncture (NCCAOM) and National Certification in Massage Therapy (NCTMB).
In 1994, Simmons joined the complementary medicine team in a supportive role at CTCA at Midwestern Regional Medical Center in Zion, Illinois. Simmons’ became the sole massage therapist in 2000. In addition to providing therapy his responsibilities included teaching, mentoring, public speaking, and community outreach. By 2006, Simmons had added traditional Chinese Medicine/ Acupuncture to his skill set.In December 2008, Simmons moved to Arizona for the opening of CTCA at Western Regional Medical Center.
Simmons explains that he joined CTCA at a very young age because he was looking for more than a job: “I found co-workers that were willing to teach, managers that wanted me to excel, support from upper management, and a Chairman who took the time to remember my name. I love coming to work everyday, and I love the challenge of winning the fight against cancer.”
Simmons loves working at CTCA because: “Under the CTCA model of care, everyone in the conventional and complementary medicine departments come together to make a difference in the lives of our patients. We support the whole body by supporting the mind, body and spirit.”
Simmons notes that acupuncture and massage therapy can help patients manage side effects of cancer treatment. When he is not serving cancer patients, Simmons enjoys spending time with his family and good friends. His interests include sports, traveling and technology.
Other Acupuncturists at Western
- Adam Kerievsky, ND, LAc, FABNO
Naturopathic Physician & Licensed Acupuncturist
