Warning: This story discusses sexual assault that may be triggering for some readers. For those seeking help, the Battered Women鈥檚 Support Services crisis line is 604-687-1867 or toll-free 1-855-687-1868.
A Surrey acupuncturist convicted of sexually assaulting two clients cannot apply for his acupuncture licence to be reinstated until 2055.
Mario Luis Ibarra was charged with two counts of sexual assault on June 22, 2023. He pleaded guilty on Nov. 5, 2024 and was sentenced on Feb. 13, 2025. He was given a conditional sentence of two years minus a day. Included in his sentence was the condition that he not practise acupuncture or any occupation that requires him to touch any person during his job.
A from the College of Complementary Health Professionals of BC outlines how, between November 2015 and October 2016, he sexually assaulted two clients while providing acupuncture. It noted that two clients filed complaints with the college, one on Sept. 12, 2022, and the second on Jan. 3, 2023.
The inquiry committee from the college described Ibarra's conduct to be "extremely serious."
Ibarra can apply for the reinstatement of his licence on July 1, 2055, but he must meet all legislative and bylaw requirements, which include being of good character and not posing a risk to public safety.
Resources:
BATTERED WOMEN'S SUPPORT SERVICES
BWSS offers support and assistance for those in crisis, including community resources and referrals to transition houses, lawyers and medical services.
- Crisis Line at 604-687-1867 (Metro Vancouver) or toll-free, 1-855-687-1868
- Email: intake@bwss.org
- Website :
If you or someone you know needs help with an abusive home situation, resources are available:
SURREY WOMEN'S CENTRE
Surrey Women鈥檚 Centre is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to support women and girls facing gender-based violence and to help care for women and children escaping violence.
- info@surreywomenscentre.ca
- 604-589-1868
