Hi, I’m Melissa! I’m a Gen-Xer, creative, animal lover, and healer. Acupuncture and herbal medicine have been my passion for over 20 years. I practice using a nurturing and detailoriented style.
The human body has interested me from an early age, leading me to earn a B.A. in Biology at Harvard and enroll at UCSF Medical School. But the hospital environment wasn’t a good fit, and after receiving acupuncture sessions for my own ailments, I began training in holistic healing, acupuncture and herbal medicine. My approach is both evidence-based and intuitive.
I earned my Master's in TCM at the American College of Traditional Chinese Medicine (ACTCM) in 2004. ACTCM was one of the first accredited schools in America to train aspiring students in acupuncture. I spent time volunteering at community clinics (St. James Infirmary) and working in retail herb shops (Elephant Pharmacy) before going full‑time with my practice. I also spent a year training with Dr. Lifang Liang in her busy SF clinic which supported women receiving IVF. While there, I assisted in authoring her textbook on TCM Gynecology.
In 2008, my practice moved to Alameda to serve this wonderful island community. This office location (opening in 2025) is a new chapter and focus. As a member of the COVID‑cautious community, I still practice my own masking and aerosol precautions when I’m out in the world. I have lived experience managing my own sensitive body (multiple chemical sensitivity) and am always listening to accommodate your sensory needs.
My practice centers the safety of the COVID‑cautious and vulnerable members of our community. I keep literate on the latest research on COVID and long COVID, so that you can feel confident adding me to your care team. High filtration masks are required for all patients, and I wear an N95 while in the office.
My needle technique is gentle, so even patients who are nervous about needles leave the office deeply relaxed. I’ve tended to bodies of athletes, dancers, musicians, computer engineers, executives, builders, teachers, chefs, designers, gardeners, kids, seniors and more. Looking forward to serving you!
