Interview with Alexia Bennetts, owner
Q: How did you get involved in this business?
A: There are two acupuncturists and an esthetician at Calm Spirit Acupuncture. I have a degree in biology from the University of Colorado Boulder and went on to get a diploma in Chinese medicine. I graduated in 1999 and opened a clinic in Golden, and in 2004 took over Calm Spirit Acupuncture in Arvada and have practiced there since. Melissa Dunford graduated from George Mason University with a master’s degree in applied mathematics and worked in the field of mathematical modeling and systems development for many years in the Washington, D.C. area. Melissa moved to Boulder to study at Southwest Acupuncture College. Her training included more than 3,000 hours of education and more than 1,000 hours of clinical practice. In addition to studying acupuncture and Chinese herbology, Melissa has passionately studied nutrition, yoga and meditation.
Q: What distinguishes you from other businesses in your category?
A: We have lower rates, $60 per visit; we offer package deals and extended hours; and we are open evenings on Tuesdays and Fridays, all day on Saturdays. We are able to offer greater availability with two acupuncturists working in the office. We take insurance while many acupuncturists do not. We try to make herbal medicines affordable by selling them near cost, and we do various types of pain treatment, including Dr. Tan’s balance style and some Nambudripad’s Allergy Elimination Techniques. We also do facial rejuvenation acupuncture and facials by a professional esthetician.
Q: What do you like best about your line of work?
A: Helping people feel better, and helping people find solutions to their health issues when nothing else has worked. Also, providing a natural health solution with little to no side effects.
Q: What is your business’ biggest challenge?
A: Affordability when insurance does not cover treatments, and getting patients to commit to the number of treatments needed for their condition.
Q: Something people might be surprised to learn about you or your business:
A: I grew up on a farm, was raised in Golden and am now raising four young boys in the Arvada/Golden area.
Profile
Business: Calm Spirit Acupuncture
Address: 11890 W. 64th Ave., Arvada
Hours: 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday, Wednesday, Thursday; 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Tuesday and Friday; 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday
Founded: 1998
Contact: 303-467-5337,
Employees: 5
