Our Story

Rooted in Tradition, Growing for the Future

Welcome to CCATCM! We’re proud of our journey – one that spans over 40 years in education, with nearly two decades dedicated specifically to advancing Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Acupuncture training. Our story is built on a deep respect for ancient wisdom, a passion for healing, and a commitment to empowering students like you.

Home CCATCM History

The Vision

Blending Ancient Wisdom with Modern Healing

It all started with a dream. Our founders, Dr. Diana Tong Li and Dr. Franklyn Shi Chen, envisioned a unique place of learning—a college that would close the gap between time-honored Eastern traditions and effective Western practices. They initially founded a successful massage therapy college in 1998 but felt a strong pull toward their true passion: acupuncture and the vast world of TCM.

Driven by this vision, they transitioned their focus, first offering continuing education and then dedicating themselves fully to creating a comprehensive Acupuncture program.

The Birth of CCATCM

In 2008, the dream took shape. Recognizing the need for dedicated Acupuncture training in the Maritimes, Dr. Li and Dr. Chen established the Canadian College of Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (CCATCM). In September 2009, we proudly welcomed our very first class of aspiring acupuncturists.

This wasn’t just about creating another program but building a community centered on a hands-on learning philosophy. We integrated the unique Acupressure Massage program developed by our founders, bringing TCM theory to life right from the start and ensuring our students learn by doing.

Growth, Innovation, and Expanding Horizons

Since those early days, CCATCM has continued to evolve, always striving to provide the best possible education.

Natural Nutrition (2019): We expanded our offerings to include a Holistic Nutrition Counselor Diploma, which blends TCM principles with modern nutritional science.
Flexible Learning (2020): We introduced a Blended Delivery Acupuncture Diploma, offering more flexibility for our students.
Raising Standards: We've partnered with other leading institutions to elevate TCM and Acupuncture education in Canada continually.
National Vision: Under the leadership of CEO Ravee Ming Chen (since 2018) and VP Alina Chen (since 2024), we're expanding our reach, aiming to bring high-quality TCM education to students across North America.

Quality, Community, and Career Success

Our Commitment to You

Today, CCATCM stands as a respected leader in holistic health education. We are:

Accredited & Recognized: Registered with the Nova Scotia Department of Labour and Advanced Education and recognized by numerous national and international bodies (NACC, FTCMCC, WFMAS).
Student-Focused: Our programs are eligible for student loans, making a career change more accessible.
Community-Driven: We foster a supportive environment where students learn, grow, and achieve their professional goals together.
Impactful: Through our hands-on training and dedicated graduates, we've positively impacted thousands of lives.

Our history shapes who we are, but our focus is on the future – empowering the next generation of skilled, compassionate healers. We invite you to become part of the ongoing CCATCM story.

Acupuncture Diploma Program

Continuing Care Assistant Diploma Program

Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioner (TCMP) Diploma Program

Natural Nutrition Counselor Diploma Program

Doctor of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Dr. TCM) Diploma Program

Workshops/Continuing Education

Acupressure Massage Diploma Program

Pursuing Masters & PhD Degrees

Dr. Li-Chen Signature Courses

Regular Courses

Class Schedule

Our Story

Rooted in Tradition, Growing for the Future

The Vision

Growth, Innovation, and Expanding Horizons

Our Commitment to You