Acupuncture =
We’ll get right to the point.
Acupuncture =
“Qi,” or energy, moves through the body and the internal organs along channels or pathways called “meridians.” Meridians are similar to arteries, veins, and nerves throughout the body. When there is stagnation of blockages along the pathways, imbalance, dysfunction, disease, or pain can occur.
Acupuncture restores health by removing imbalances and blockages through the insertion of small, sterile needles into specific points of the body. The points of insertion are specifically chosen based on a patient’s needs and the goals of treatment, with the overall goal of allowing energy to flow freely through the body.
Acupuncture treatments are not painful; in fact, many patients feel nothing at all during the procedure, while others experience a prickling or aching sensation and still others feel a warmth of heaviness during treatment.
Common Uses
Many people think of acupuncture as a treatment for pain relief—and while it is undoubtedly effective in relieving pain, it is also so much more than that. Clients have come to Community Wellness Collaborative for relief from any of the following conditions:
If you’re curious as to whether acupuncture can help you with a specific issue, schedule a consultation with us. We’ll answer any questions you have and make sure you’re comfortable with what to expect from your acupuncture treatments.
Our Practitioners
We’ve got an amazing team of acupuncturists at our Adams Ave location in Normal Heights.
Michelle Coltart, L.Ac
Insurance Accepted: Most
Focus Areas:
- Chronic pain management
- Healing acute injuries
- Stress management
- Addiction recovery
- Mental health support
- Pregnancy support
Michelle Coltart, L.Ac. discovered the Chinese healing art of Acupuncture in the early 1990’s while working in the computer industry. After a co-worker suggested she get a treatment, she realized her true calling. She fell in love with this healing modality, instantly impressed by the effect it had on the health and wellbeing of herself and those she cares for. She began her studies by attending seminars and reading every book she could find; a few years later she left the world of computing and returned to school to explore the wonders of this medicine in-depth. Along the way, she has studied nutrition, herbology, postural analysis, and medical qi gong. Michelle’s passion for this medicine shows in her commitment to her patients. Her compassion, humor and gentle needle technique set people at ease. She delights that those she treats are as amazed by the effect as she first was.
Dr. Leda DeRose, DACM, L.Ac.
Insurance Accepted: Most
Focus Areas:
- Pain management
- Insomnia
- Mental health
- PTSD
- Anxiety and depression
Dr. Leda DeRose, DACM, L.Ac. began her career in Massage Therapy in 2011. She received her education at Pacific College of Oriental Medicine where she earned an Associates of Science degree in Massage Therapy and Asian Body Work, and graduated with a Masters in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Now a Licensed Acupuncturist, Leda integrates Traditional Acupuncture, Herbology, and Asian Body Work to fit individual needs. She is passionate about health, wellness, and practicing Traditional Chinese Medicine with compassion and a genuine connection. Leda is dedicated to lifelong learning, professional development, and personal growth. She believes in the principle of facilitating good health by promoting and restoring balance and integration of the body’s natural systems.
Dr. Maile Helgeson, DACM, L.Ac.
Insurance Accepted: Some
Focus Areas:
- Orthopedic & Sports Injuries (3 yrs specialty training with local expert Dr. Mark Kastner)
- Emotional Wellness: Stress, Anxiety, Depression, etc.
- Hormonal Management
Dr. Maile grew up in Coronado, Ca just across the bay from San Diego. In 1999, she pursued a Bachelor’s Degree in Anthropology from University of California in Berkeley, and then in 2003, she attended the Santa Barbara City College Marine Diving Technology Program and returned to San Diego in 2004. After having both knees rehabilitated with consistent acupuncture treatments, she eventually found her way to the Pacific College of Oriental Medicine. Specializing in orthopedic and sports medicine, she worked as an assistant for three years under the mentorship of Mark Kastner L.Ac and interned at USCD with the young athletes. Maile enjoys riding her bike around University Heights, eating delicious and nutritious food, and practicing Chinese medicine. She is honored to be an assistant in your healing experience.
Dr. Robin Persinger, DACM, L.Ac.
Insurance Accepted: None
Focus Areas:
- Mental Wellness: Stress, Anxiety, Depression
- Adrenal Health
- Digestive Disorders
- Sleep Disorders
- Fertility
Her first experience with alternative therapies was from her father as a child. He had, and still has to this day, a closet full of tinctures, teas, vitamins and a myriad of other old folk cures and modern natural marvels. Inspired by the amazing healing powers of acupuncture and natural cures, she now has over 15 years of education and devotion and continues the pursuit for growth and knowledge in the field. Received her under-graduate education from Bastyr University in Seattle, obtaining a bachelor’s degree in Natural Health Sciences, then her graduate degree at Pacific College of Oriental Medicine in San Diego. She has worked at several specialized satellite clinics including the Pacific Beach Homeless Clinic, the Seniors Clinic in downtown San Diego, and a HIV specific shift in Seattle Washington, and started her private practice in 2006. She is a strong advocate of AAIH’s mission statement and is honored to be a part of the movement towards affordable healthcare and the continued integration and education of alternative therapies in the community.