Hi, I’m Kathleen, a licensed acupuncturist practicing in Santa Cruz County.

I studied Traditional Chinese Medicine at Five Branches University, where I focused my studies in women’s health and orthopedic medicine. I also completed internships in Japanese style acupuncture and orthopedic acupuncture. With my background, I provide treatments that are gentle, yet effective, combining traditional techniques with anatomy-based styles of acupuncture. I specialize in treating pain, digestive disorders, and women’s health. I have additional training in neuromuscular facial and cosmetic acupuncture techniques.

I became curious about Chinese medicine during my own healing journey. When conventional approaches weren’t giving me the answers, I found myself looking for a more holistic approach to address the root cause of my symptoms. Through that process, I experienced the profound healing of Chinese medicine and root cause medicine, which has since shaped every aspect of my life. It also informs how I care for others. I believe true health comes from addressing the whole person- mind, body, and spirit-and supporting the body’s natural ability to heal by looking at lifestyle, diet, and environment.

My treatments blend the wisdom of Eastern medicine with the science of Western and functional medicine to support each person’s unique healing journey. My passion is helping people feel empowered to take better care of themselves. When we do that, we not only feel better physically, we start to notice positive shifts in every part of life.

When I’m not in the clinic, you’ll find me by the ocean, hiking, foraging for wild edibles, hunting for antiques, and cooking nourishing food.

Education

Masters in Traditional Chinese Medicine / Five Branches University 

Bachelor's of Arts / Environmental Studies and Economics / University of California Santa Cruz​

Licensing & Certifications

California Licensed Acupuncturist & Herbalist / California Acupuncture Board (CALE/CAB)

Diplomat of Oriental Medicine / National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM)

Advanced Facial and Cosmetic Acupuncture Certified / Michelle Gellis L.Ac.

​Microneedling & Nanoneedling Certified / Michelle Gellis L.Ac.​

Microneedling for Acupuncturists / AcuMicro

​Clean Needle Technique / CCAHM