Just as impactful as hearing from an advisor is hearing from a fellow entrepreneur. We had the chance to ask the owner of Innovative Acupuncture Center, Sarah Breaux, about her journey in this industry. As she brings holistic natural medicine to Henderson, she shares what she wishes she knew when she got started and where she sees the industry going.
- Tell us about how you got started and your background.
SB: Greetings, I’m Dr. Sarah Breaux, OMD (Oriental Medical Doctor), a Las Vegas native deeply committed to enhancing well-being through natural methods. My journey into holistic healing began in my early 20s when acupuncture effectively reversed my severe chronic asthma. This transformative experience sparked a profound commitment to natural healing, inspiring me to study and apply acupuncture techniques to aid others. I earned my bachelor’s degree in Biology from UNLV in 2013 and subsequently completed my Master’s of Science in Oriental Medicine in 2019. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, I obtained my license in July 2020 after passing all national and state boards. This milestone led me to establish the Innovative Acupuncture Center in January 2021, which I dedicated to providing compassionate care and support to others on their healing journeys.
- What challenges did you face when starting your business?
SB: One of the primary challenges I faced when starting my own business was keeping costs low, as my husband and I were funding everything ourselves. Having financed both my undergraduate and graduate studies, which were quite expensive, I understood the importance of financial management. The biggest overhead cost was commercial space, and finding my own space was not within my budget, so I sought alternative rental options. Fortunately, I found a wonderful doctor willing to rent out her space when not in use, which helped keep overhead costs down. Another challenge was my lack of previous business experience, leading to struggles with imposter syndrome and doubting my capabilities. However, my best friend Erica, whom I met in graduate school and was a business major, continuously reassured me that I had all the necessary skills to succeed. Her support helped me persevere. She introduced me to the Small Business Administration (SBA) and their free mentorship program (at the SBDC), which proved invaluable given my tight budget. SBDC advisors simplified the seemingly complicated business tasks, reviewing and optimizing systems, aiding in hiring my first staff members, and encouraged me to find and secure my own commercial location in Henderson. What began as a daunting succession of obstacles turned into an incredible learning experience, pushing me to grow and expand in ways I never thought possible. I am grateful for all of the support I received from my husband, family, friends and mentors making it all possible.
- What resources or information did you wish you had when you got started?
SB: When I started my business, I wished for a comprehensive handbook outlining tasks in a structured step-by-step order. It would have alleviated stress, guiding me through registration, licensing, accounting, and marketing while seeing the big picture. As I aimed to grow, I sought resources on organizational structure, expansion, and efficiency. Hearing success stories from local entrepreneurs would have provided inspiration and practical insights. Access to such resources would have boosted my confidence and motivation, offering guidance and knowledge crucial for navigating the complexities of entrepreneurship.
- What do you think is next for healthcare?
SB: As for what’s next for healthcare, I believe we’ll continue to see further integration of diverse healing modalities, including traditional practices like acupuncture, into mainstream medicine. This integration will foster more holistic and patient-centered approaches to care, addressing not just physical symptoms but also mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Additionally, advancements in technology will likely revolutionize healthcare delivery, making services more accessible and personalized. Overall, the future of healthcare holds exciting possibilities for enhancing patient outcomes and overall wellness.
- What is next for your business?
SB: Looking ahead for our business, we’re excited to be settled into our brand-new Innovative Acupuncture clinic space in Henderson, NV, with a team of three passionate individuals. Our new space provides us with the opportunity to expand our services and reach even more individuals seeking holistic healthcare solutions. As we continue to grow, our primary focus remains on our patients’ well-being. We are dedicated to providing the highest quality care and the most innovative solutions while helping as many people as possible to feel better, faster. Each day, we strive to deepen our impact on the community, fostering health and wellness for all who walk through our doors. We’re truly grateful for this opportunity to make a positive change in people’s lives.
For more information on Innovative Acupuncture Center, be sure to check out their website at www.innovativeacupuncturecenter.com.