integrative healthcare

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.

Tian Chao Herbs and Acupuncture is committed to improving our clients health and providing our clients with the highest quality Acupuncture care by combining our professional knowledge and skill of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture treatment.

We are a practice of passionate professionals who believe in working with our patients to maintain and improve their health through Traditional Chinese Medicine. We work together to provide the highest quality Acupuncture care to serve you for all of your medical needs. We believe in providing comprehensive health services to our patients in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. We also believe in educating our patients as we work with them to achieve the best health possible.

I work with people tired of trying conventional methods and seeing little change. I provide a combination of natural and drug-free treatments that take them from feeling frustrated to free and living the fullest potential of their life. They are healthier, stronger and more empowered in their body.

I am dedicated to helping you be as active as you wish and live a pain-free life, whether the pain is emotional or physical. Whether you suffer from an acute or chronic condition or injury, I can work with you to lessen pain and speed healing.
I can work with you to bring your life back into balance through psychotherapy and/or acupuncture. Through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy you can learn to change unhelpful thoughts and behaviors which leads to the vicious cycle of negative emotions or dysfunctional relationships. Acupuncture can help alleviate stress, improve mood, sleep and physical ailments without medications or work as an adjunctive treatment to your prescribed medications.



Think of it as your opportunity to form a partnership for better health. The more you take part in your healing process, the more successful it will be



One practitioner integrating two modalities towards wellness.