I began my study of Chinese medicine in the late 1980's. I was first drawn to the vast richness and depth of Chinese medicine through my practice of classical martial arts. Over the decades, I learned various methods of hands-on therapies for the treatment of injuries that would occur during training. I also learned how herbal medicine has been safely and effectively used for millenia to support athletic training. After completing my undergraduate degree and working for a few years as a translator I realized my true calling was in the study and practice of Chinese Medicine.


I received my Master of Science in Traditional Oriental Medicine from Pacific College of Oriental Medicine in 2001 and completed a sports medicine and orthopedics internship treating collegiate athletes at the University of California, San Diego. After obtaining my California State Acupuncture license in 2002, I began to actively study Classical Chinese Medicine under Dr. Jeffrey Yuen, an 88th generation Daoist physician and priest. I continue to study with Dr. Yuen to this day with the belief that it is my responsibility to keep growing as a physician for the sake of my patients. The rich tradition that Dr. Yuen teaches has allowed me to successfully help many patients with difficult neurological complaints, autoimmune disorders and a wide range of functional diseases.

I have personally experienced the shortcomings of the conventional medical system which primarily focuses on the suppression of symptoms and the disempowerment of patients. This motivated me to devote my practice to empowering my patients to take back control of their health and break free from their dependency on medications.

I use a combination of acupuncture, herbal medicine, nutraceuticals, tui na, qi gong, and dietary therapy integrated with functional medicine (customized lab work) to decipher the mystery of each unique patient. Although it is a challenging path, I find it immensely rewarding and cannot imagine doing anything else.


I have practiced and taught classical Chinese martial arts and health practices in the US and internationally for decades. A student at heart, I spend much of my free time reading or thinking about how to be a better physician for my patients. My goal is ultimately to help unlock the miraculous healing capacity that is contained in every individual.


Since beginning my practice in 2002 I've worked closely with many primary care doctors, orthopedic surgeons, neurologists and gasteroenterologists to provide heart-felt care to thousands of patients.

The Acupuncture Center of La Jolla has been serving Southern California since 1989.

Throughout the years, we have worked as a part of the community to provide complementary methods of healing that best serve our patients. We coined the phrase, "Chinese Medicine for an American Lifestyle" back in 1989 to establish our desire to bring this most ancient form of healing into the modern world.

Just ask our patients. They are, after all, our biggest advocates. Ask any of their friends and family as well...more than likely, they are patients, too.

We invite you to come and experience the difference that acupuncture can make in your life.

Providing safe, gentle, effective care which produces positive results quickly. Dr. Smith's specialties include Pain Elimination (for acute and chronic pain), Digestive disorders, Allergies and Auto-Immune diseases, Stress, Anxiety and Insomnia.

Acupuncture in Old Town Scottsdale specializing in Macular Degeneration (AMD), pain relief, sleep disorders, and emotional issues.

Holistic Acupuncture Wellington offers a variety of health solutions stemmed from traditional Chinese medicine wisdom: acupuncture, massage (tuina), cupping, moxabustian and medicinal herbs. Based on ancient methods of pulse and tongue diagnosis, you can expect a high-quality treatment, tailored to your constitution, diet, and lifestyle.
A professional and safe environment to heal your physical, emotional and spiritual body.
ACC provider & member of Acupuncture NZ