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.

Damian McCleod is a NY state licensed acupuncturist and has a Masters of Science Degree in Acupuncture from Pacific College of Oriental Medicine (PCOM). Damian’s introduction to the actual practice of acupuncture came after having undergone his second reconstructive knee surgery. At the suggestion of his fellow martial artist and graduate of PCOM, he started receiving acupuncture treatments at the college’s clinic. After having first hand proof of the power of acupuncture, he dedicated himself to the pursuit of Chinese Medicine.

A major influence in his studies came from the martial arts, which he has been a practitioner of since 1993. Damian currently works with martial artist and other athletes in the treatment of musculoskeletal disorders, with a focus knee pain.

Part of Damian’s philosophy on medicine stems from his undergraduate education; he received a Bachelor’s Degree in Fine Art from the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York. His view is, understanding the complex is a matter of having a firm grasp of the fundamentals. Whether you are creating a detailed painting or addressing a patient’s illness, seek out the underlying nature of what it is you’re observing – then you will know how to proceed.

The human body is a self-healing organism; this is the most powerful medicine that exists. Here at Integrative Acupuncture, we treat your whole body, not just symptoms. If you are interested in learning about the self-healing possibilities within your body, please contact us for a consultation appointment. We have many services to offer including acupuncture, herbal supplements, nutritional evaluation, infrared sauna, and diagnostic testing.

Because Your Health Matters Most....
Serving Orange County Since 1982

Tara Akuna is a Registered Acupuncturist practicing beside the majestic seaside in West Vancouver. She graduated from the International College of Traditional Chinese Medicine of Vancouver and received her diploma of Traditional Chinese Medicine, which includes Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine. Tara has a special interest in sports acupuncture, nutrition, autoimmune diseases, stress related disorders, and pain and tension. She also commonly treats: digestion issues, insomnia, depression, anxiety, women's health, infertility, and healthy food introduction to babies.