All Teaching Faculty

With over 11 years of experience in the clinic focusing on injury treatment and structural integration, Sharon brings a wealth of practical information to the classroom. Her passion for optimizing the human form and function combines well with her adoration of academia. Endeavoring to provide guidance to her students as they study TCM, she relies on her own schooling, both in the Masters and Doctorate program at Five Branches University and her origins at the Brian Utting School of Massage in Seattle, Washington.

Sharon Adena teaches in the Departments of Western Medicine and Review and Assessment.

Marilyn Allen is a practice management consultant for the acupuncture profession. Her expertise includes office management, marketing, professional ethics and jurisprudence. With an M.S. in Management and Administration from Pepperdine University, she has honed her skills in several large complementary medical clinics. She is a consultant to the California State Board of Acupuncture for questions regarding health insurance coverage and malpractice insurance. Professor Allen is also the editor of Acupuncture Today, and is a co-author of the book Points for Profit: The Essential Guide to Practice Success for Acupuncturists. Marilyn Allen teaches in the Department of Complementary Studies.

Tim Archer teaches in the Department of Western Medicine.

Since graduating from Five Branches in 2001, Robert has been pursuing his passion for helping people with acupuncture and Chinese medicine at his Acupuncture and Massage Therapy Clinic in Hollister, California. Specializing in the treatment of pain and women’s health, Robert began his TCM studies at the Boston School of Shiatsu in 1992. Since then he has taught numerous courses at several schools including: Clinical Medicine, TCM Theory, Anatomy, Physiology, Shiatsu, Qi Gong, Taoism, Massage, and Business. In 2010, he completed a residency at the Liaoning University Hospital in Shenyang, China with Dr. Hao Xuejen. Robert's background includes a B.A. in Music Composition/Theory and extensive performing throughout the U.S. and Canada as a professional musician. Robert Barry teaches in the Department of TCM Clinical Training.

Marilyn “Mariposa” Bernstein is an alumnus of Five Branches University. She has a Bachelor of Arts in psychology, and has also studied theater and women’s studies. Mariposa has lectured at Dominican Hospital, Cabrillo College, The Way of Life, and at many health fairs. Her specialties include women’s health, weight loss, immune support, western herbs, and nutritional counseling.

Mariposa’s hobbies include dancing, outdoor activities, comedy improvisation, and travel. She has a private practice in downtown Santa Cruz. Mariposa Bernstein teaches in the Departments of TCM Clinical Training and Western Medicine.

Marketa Bilkova studied Western Medicine in the First Medical School in the Czech Republic. She received her Master’s degree in TCM from the Oregon College of Oriental Medicine. She had a private practice in Bellingham, Washington for eight years. In her clinical practice Marketa has deepened her study of pain treatment with Tan-style acupuncture, Five Element acupuncture and meditation. In her free time, she loves to kayak, knit and play with her two-year old son. She maintains a part-time clinical practice in Santa Cruz. Marketa Bilkova teaches in the Department of Western Medicine.

Narrye Caldwell has a B.A. in Journalism from Wesleyan University and is a graduate of Five Branches University. She has been in private practice in Santa Cruz and San Jose since 1990. She has completed advanced training with the Foundation for Shamanic Studies, and has a certificate in spiritual psychology from the Institute for Transpersonal Psychology. Narrye has 25 years of martial arts training and is a lineage holder in a number of styles including Tai Chi (Yang Chen Fu, 4th generation), Tai Chi Sword (Wu Tu Yeh, 3rd generation) Qigong (Ted Mancuso, 1st generation), and Bagua Zhang (Dong Hai Chuan 6th generation). She specializes in women’s health, internal medicine, emotional balance, spiritual healing, and nutritional consulting. Her website is www.narryecaldwell.com . Narrye Caldwell teaches in the Departments of TCM Clinical Training and Western Medicine.

Lynne Caryl L. Ac., owner and practitioner of Harbor Acupuncture, has over 25 years experience as a primary healthcare physician in Oriental Medicine. Introduced to acupuncture while writing her thesis in Japan, she became intrigued with traditional Asian medicine and began her life-long love and practice of this ancient science. Lynne received her Master’s degree from Five Branches University and was licensed in 1987. She has studied Chinese medicine at the Shanghai Hospital with Director, Dr. Huang focusing on diabetes, internal medicine and herbs; Beijing Hospital in endocrinology and renal clinics; Hang Zhou University in the children’s clinic, internal medicine and trauma and injury recuperation; Chengdu University in dietary medicine. Lynne has also done doctoral studies in Los Angeles and New York and is currently co-authoring a book with Dr. Jeffery Yuen. Lynne specializes in chronic degenerative conditions and endocrine conditions, focusing on diabetes. Her background teaching yoga and dance, provides an awareness of physiology and body movement that improves pain management, and trauma recovery. Lynne offers Face Reading as a diagnostic tool revealing one’s genetic gifts and challenges, differentiating habits from acute conditioning. Lynne has taught Argentine Tango for over 15 years, both here and in Argentina (and once in Fiji for fun.) She loves the elegance and grace of the dance. . She also enjoys snorkeling in warm waters, learning, and laughter. Lynne Caryl teaches in the Department of TCM Clinical Training

Flynn earned his Master's and DAOM degrees from Five Branches University.  He uses rapid and effective acupuncture techniques to address chronic issues such as insomnia, allergies, digestion and skin problems, mobility limitations, and long COVID. He incorporates Tai-Chi Qi Gong to develop unique acupressure and channel regulation techniques. Flynn specializes in non-invasive auricular and palm reflexology, and provides tailored self-care coaching and dietary recommendations.

Joanna Zhao, Academic Dean, has been Director of Five Branches’ TCM Clinic since she co-founded it in 1984. Her commitment to TCM began as a youngster in China, when she became interested in the work of her uncle, a famous TCM doctor. Joanna received her education from the Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine in the People’s Republic of China, where she trained in both Western medicine and TCM. She studied with noted medical doctors and acupuncturists Xiuyan Lu and Yuan Fang. Joanna has spent more than a quarter of a century teaching and practicing TCM in China and the U.S., working with local oncologists and developing specialties in cancer, immune diseases and mental emotional disorders. Joanna has lectured at the Five Branches’ International Symposium on Women’s TCM and on Pediatric TCM, and has been a guest speaker at the University of California, Santa Cruz. She has also been the lead speaker at national conferences on female reproductive cancer, and leukemia. She has led study tours to China since 1992, where Five Branches’ students and graduates study in Shanghai’s Shuguang Hospital and Zhejiang Chinese Medical University. Joanna is an accomplished musician, integrating Eastern and Western styles of music. Like her teacher and great-grandfather, she is also an excellent calligrapher. Professor Zhao teaches in the Departments of TCM Acupuncture and TCM Herbology, and is a faculty member of the Five Branches DAOM program.

Florence Chen received her Masters’ degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine from the American College of Traditional Chinese Medicine in California, and a Doctorate in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine from Five Branches University. She is a licensed acupuncturist in both California and New York, specializing in women's health, neuromuscular medicine and pain management, and dermatology/external medicine. When not practicing or teaching, Florence enjoys skiing, snorkeling, and backyard barbeques.

Carissa Cheung is a California-licensed, and NCCAOM-certified acupuncturist.  She has a private practice in Fremont, CA. She specializes in Womens Health, Pain Management, post stroke/surgery recovery, and gastrointestinal disorders.  In her leisure time, Carissa enjoys hiking, cooking, and gardening.  She is capable of communicating in English, Mandarin, Cantonese, Fujianese, and some Japanese.

Samson Cheung has been studying the I-Ching since 1986. From years of studying the Chinese Classics, he gained a profound understanding of Chinese metaphysics, Feng Shui, and Confucianism. In 2007, he helped established a nonprofit organization called the School of Yimutology. where he teaches the I-Ching and related subjects. Dr. Cheung promotes I-Ching culture, Chinese philosophy and Confucianism by incorporating these Chinese theories and teachings into modern city life.  Samson graduated from the University of California, Davis with a Ph.D in Applied Mathematics. He received a Master of Arts in Applied Mathematics, Mathematical Physics, and a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics-Physics from the University of Maryland. After his employment at Boeing and Intel as a computer engineer, he joined the Application Performance & Productivity (APP) Group in the NAS Division at the NASA Ames Research Center to develop Earth Science Modeling Framework (ESMF) and create parallel computational code for tropical cyclones study.

Ching Ching Chi is a DAOM, PhD Graduate of Zhejiang TCM University and licensed acupuncturist and herbalist in the state of California. She is a student of Professor's Fan Yongsheng, Fang Benzheng, and Wang Juyi, the most distinguished acupuncture physicians and herbalists in China.

Ching specializes in pain management, diabetes and its complication, stroke rehabilitation, cancer care and autoimmune disease. Ching is currently teaching in the Departments of TCM Theory and TCM Acupuncture.

Hsinmin Chi earned a Master's degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) from South Baylo University, California. His prior education included a Master of Science degree in TCM from the Academy of Chinese Culture and Health Sciences, California, a M.S. degree in Electrical Engineering from Santa Clara University, California, and a M.S. degree in Physics from the University of Texas, Dallas. Hsinmin is in private practice at Unison Care Corporation in Mountain View, California. He specializes in pain management, anti-aging, Alzheimer's prevention, and Parkinson's disease. When he is not in the office or teaching, he enjoys gardening, hiking and Bio-healing (tree vs. human). For more information about his work go to: www.unisoncares.com.

Jim Chialtas is a San Diego native.  He received Bachelor’s Degree in Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology in 1997 at UC Santa Cruz. He received his Master’s Degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine (MTCM) at Five Branches University and a Doctorate in Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine (DACM) from Pacific College of Oriental Medicine in 2019. There, he began his instruction in Quantum Ju-Jitsu, a martial art that encompasses Ju-Jitsu, Yoga, and Restoration Massage Therapy training.  He started his private practice in 2003. Jim has trained extensively in Functional Blood Chemistry and Hormone analysis. When Jim isn’t seeing patients, he enjoys spending time with his family and dog Cheddar, working with wood, and getting into nature as much as possible. He teaches the Applying Lab result for TCM practitioners in the Bridge completion program.

Tracy Cone earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from the University of California San Diego in 1992. She spent ten years fundraising for progressive political causes before finding a passion for holistic medicine.

Tracy studied Western and Eastern herbalism with Christopher Hobbs, L.Ac. in 1998, and clinical nutrition at Bauman College (formerly IET) in 2001. She earned a Master's degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine from Five Branches University in 2005 with a specialty in Five Element acupuncture, and at the same time completed a four year apprenticeship with Raven Lang. Tracy maintains a private practice in Santa Cruz, California. For more information go to www.tracycone.com. She is a mom to two boys and a competitive outrigger canoe racer.

Tracy Cone teaches in the Departments of TCM Theory and TCM Clinical Training.

Marie Corwin earned a Master's degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine from Five Branches University. She also earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Earth Systems Science & Policy from California State University, Monterey Bay, California. 

Marie Corwin teaches in the Department of TCM Clinical Training.

Thomas Dicklin is a licensed acupuncturist with a Master's degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine from Five Branches University. He received Medical Qigong training with Dr. Jerry Alan Johnson at the International Institute of Medical Qigong, California. Thomas is a partner and acupuncturist at Communi-Qi Acupuncture in Santa Cruz, California, and has been a faculty member of the Five Branches Extension program since 2012.

Thomas Dicklin teaches in the Departments of TCM Acupuncture, Western Medicine and Complementary Studies.

Harry Zuohong Ding is a licensed acupuncturist in both Florida and California. He is the fifth generation of Menghe Medicine lineage- a traditional school of thought that originated from the Ming and Qing Dynasties, uniting diverse traditions of medical learning theories into one integrated medicine system based on ancient principles of practice. Harry received a Master of Oriental Medicine degree from the Atlantic Institute of Oriental Medicine in Florida, and is currently a DAOM Fellow at Five Branches University. He worked in the Department of Rheumatism in Longhua Hospital in 2010, specializing in the treatment of rheumatism, rheumatoid arthritis and other related diseases. Harry Zuohong Ding teaches in the Department of Review and Assessment.

Dr. Gary Dolowich graduated with honors from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine in 1971 and practiced Western medicine for seven years before studying at the College of Traditional Chinese Acupuncture in England. He integrates Five Element acupuncture, the bodywork system of Zero Balancing, and Jungian techniques, with Western biomedicine in his medical practice in Aptos, California. Dr. Dolowich first began teaching Chinese Medicine in 1983 as a faculty member of the Traditional Acupuncture Institute in Maryland. Currently he teaches at the Academy for Five Element Acupuncture in Florida and Five Branches University.

He has published articles in The Journal of Traditional Acupuncture, co-authored Ancient Roots, Many Branches: Energetics of Healing Across Cultures & Through Time, and written a book, Archetypal Acupuncture: Healing with the Five Elements. In his teaching, Dr. Dolowich brings together the Five Element approach, archetypal psychology, the I Ching, and the poetry of Rumi. The spiritual teachings of ancient China and the work of Carl Jung have long been an inspiration to him on his own life-journey. In his free time he enjoys kayaking, backpacking, gardening and poetry. His website is www.jademountain.net. Dr. Dolowich teaches in the Departments of TCM Theory and TCM Clinical Training and is a faculty member of the Five Branches DAOM program.

A California Licensed and Nationally Certified acupuncturist since April 2002, Chris has since been deeply involved in bringing forth his skills with a successful private practice in Santa Cruz, CA. His professional involvement expands into the arena of international specialization through his work in proliferating the findings of the Parkinson’s Recovery Project, both in Santa Cruz, and in Amsterdam. Chris maintains an office in the Netherlands, and lectures throughout Western Europe and the U.S. on Yin Tuina and the treatment for Parkinson’s. A member of the first graduating class of the Doctoral Program at Five Branches University, he is a full-time faculty member since January of 2008, teaching both clinical and academic courses. He is currently writing a book on the subject of Yin Tuina, one of his favorite Asian medicine treatment methods, expected to be released in 2012. Chris Ells teaches in the Department of Complementary Studies and TCM Clinical Training.

In private practice since 2000, Rachel Farber has been passionate about helping people live comfortably in their bodies and supporting them to make vital lifestyle choices. Her specialties include women’s health and mental-emotional health, including disordered eating, depression, addiction and hormonal imbalances.

Rachel Farber received her BA from Wellesley College in 1988 and MS from the American College of Traditional Chinese Medicine in 1999. She studied independently with Efrem Korngold, co-author of Between Heaven and Earth, during and after her formal studies and considers him her mentor. She has also studied acupuncture in Japan. Rachel is also a bodyworker since 1992 and has taught massage and Asian bodywork in several massage programs. She is also a mother of two, a dedicated practitioner and teacher of yoga, and a passionate seasonal food cook.

Dr. Feng worked at the railway employee’s hospital, where he was a leader of the acupuncture department for 20 years, from 1975 to 2008. He was the physician director of a TCM hospital in Oman from 1990 to 1991. He has taught and lectured regularly in Germany since 2001.

Francesca Ferrari received her undergraduate degree in History from the University of California at Berkeley, a Masters degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine, from Five Branches University and her Doctorate from the Beijing Western District Medical Qigong and TCM Research Institute in China. After years of Medical Qigong study with Professor Jerry Alan Johnson at the International Institute of Medical Qigong, she completed post-graduate training with Dr. Xu Hongtao at the Xiyuan Hospital in Beijing, China. She combines her hard-style qigong background with Medical Qigong. In teaching, Francesca blends her innate ability with the wisdom of her mentors to enhance her students’ diagnostic skills.

Francesca travels regularly to China for advanced study with her Master; she was chosen and inducted as an 80th generation lineage holder and inner disciple of the renowned Maoshan Daoist Temple, where the adept alchemist Sun Si Miao trained.

Francesca lectures internationally, emphasizing the importance of standing meditation, self-reflection and attention to subtle detail to cultivate enhanced qi flow and awareness. Her students, by fourth semester, will stand in meditation for one hour as part of the final exam. Francesca has been featured numerous times on both television and radio. She maintains a private practice where she combines her expertise in rare temple-style qigong with the best of western functional medicine. She enjoys teaching Medical Qigong Intensives and can be contacted at www.francescaferrari.com. With her rich fusion of style she brings energy and enthusiasm to her classes. Francesca Ferrari teaches in the Departments of Complementary Studies and TCM Clinical Training and is a faculty member of the Five Branches DAOM program.

After living abroad as the son of a diplomat, Galen Fisher majored in psychological anthropology at Swarthmore College, and then moved in 1969 to a homestead in Vermont where he raised goats, produced maple syrup, and became a professional builder. In 1975 Galen went to study Oriental Medicine at the Meiji Toyo Igakuin in Osaka, Japan, and then on to the College of Traditional Chinese Acupuncture in England. Since receiving California certification in 1980, he has also pursued extensive studies in yoga, Ayurveda, homeopathy, and Zero Balancing. Professor Fisher lives and works at Mount Madonna Center in Watsonville, where he practices acupuncture and pursues his fascination with cross-cultural medicine. He also maintains a maple sugar bush in Vermont. He loves travel, backpacking, and cross-country skiing. Galen Fisher teaches in the Department of TCM Clinical Training.

Cary Friedman received his Masters in Traditional Chinese Medicine from Five Branches University in 2002. Before attending Five Branches, Cary earned a Master of Science in Pharmacology, Toxicology from the University of California, Davis, and an Master of Science in Chemistry, where he looked for medicinal compounds in a plant used by first nation peoples. Cary is a certified Hepatitis C practitioner, and a Bioenergy Balancing practitioner and teacher. He has taught with the BBT for three years and is currently being trained in Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy. Cary's clinical practice in Santa Cruz, California focuses on working with individuals with HIV, HCV, stress and pain issues. He fuses Five Elements theory, Bioenergy Balancing and a biodynamic approach to Craniosacral therapy to address clients physical, emotional, and spiritual needs. When not in the clinic teaching, or studying, Cary can be found biking around the county, gardening, or enjoying hikes in local parks. Cary Friedman teaches in the Departments of Western Medicine and TCM Clinical Training.

Anna Goldfarb received a Master's in Traditional Chinese Medicine from Five Branches University . She earned a M.D., and a M.S. in Physiology and Biophysics from Georgetown University, Washington D.C.

Anna Goldfarb teaches in the Department of Western Medicine.

Jian An Guo,  Prof. of Five Branches University, L.Ac. 1989 graduated from Henan University of TCM.  He worked at Henan Luoyang Orthopedic and Traumatology Hospital and completed a variety of orthopedic surgery in more than 1,000 cases. He is good at treating Orthopedic diseases with a combination of TCM and Western Medicine. He got his Master of Medical Science from the China Academy of Chinese Medical Science in 1996 and worked at the Institute of Orthopedics and Traumatology. He has published 5 books and more than 10 professional papers. He also had been in charge of 3 research issues. As a professor since 2008, he teaches human anatomy, acupuncture, Chinese remedial massage, and Chinese Orthopedics at Five Branch University (San Jose).

In 1972, age 13, Holly studied acupuncture with help from the Chinese Embassy in Afghanistan where she lived. There, she was given a booklet on curing deaf mutes. A few years later, Holly traveled to the Guang Zhou School for the Deaf Mute in China to see the successful acupuncture protocol in action. She also witnessed acupuncture anesthesia in major surgery, and national health care programs utilizing Chinese herbs. In 1979, Holly attended the New England School of Acupuncture, and a year later assisted Ted Kaptchuk to open an acupuncture program at a state hospital, a first in 1980. Ted Kaptchuk, head of a medical dept. at Harvard, explores the hardest questions on healing. In 1983, Holly joined the first graduating class of ACTCM. Concurrently, she assisted Miriam Lee, (who treated 10 patients an hour, 8 hours a day) and studied with Yat Ki Lai, expert on herbal safety, from Lai’s lineage treating royalty. Lois Johnson M.D., an oncologist, is Holly’s mentor for advanced western herb studies, and Daoist Jeffrey Yuen inspires her applications of Chinese spiritual aspects in health. She has been greatly influenced by Kiiko Matsumoto, known for unsurpassed acupuncture results, with whom Holly continues to study with today. www.KiikoMatsumoto.com. In 1985, Holly became one of the first faculty members of Five Branches University. She returned to the Orient for seven months in 1987, to continue her training in Chinese medicine including doctorate studies at the Hefei TCM Hospital #1, Beijing TCM Hospital, and, with Kiiko, at Manaka Hospital in Japan. Holly regularly lectures at major Chinese Medicine symposiums, one of the very few unpublished speakers with this honor. She is a contributing author in Acupuncture in Practice, The Natural Health First Aid Guide, and Breast Cancer/Breast Health. Holly has practiced in Santa Cruz, California since 1983, specializing in women’s health, pediatrics, immune issues, cancer, and epilepsy. She currently teaches for the Masters, Doctorate, and Extension programs at Five Branches and offers students clinical training externships at her private practice. Her hobbies include growing Chinese and Western herbs, surfing and beekeeping. Holly Guzman teaches in the Department of TCM Acupuncture. 

Kristina Hanley is a California-licensed, and NCCAOM-certified acupuncturist. She received her Master’s in Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine from the Oregon College of Oriental Medicine in Portland, OR in 1998 and has a Bachelor’s degree in Psychobiology from the University of California, Santa Cruz. Kristina is an Acupuncture Detoxification Specialist, certified by the National Acupuncture Detoxification Association. She has worked as an acupuncturist in the San Francisco jails. and as an acupuncturist at the Portland Alternative Health Clinic, which is an integrative health clinic that serves homeless people who are addicted to drugs and alcohol. Kristina has also worked as an acupuncturist at mental health centers and HIV clinics. Since 2003, she has been working as an acupuncturist in the Complementary and Alternative Medicine program at the Santa Cruz Women's Health Center, and is in private practice in Santa Cruz, California. Kristina Hanley teaches in the Department of Complementary Studies.

Wanshan Hao graduated from Beijing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Currently Professor Hao holds the positions of professor, chief physician, academic advisor and clinical supervisor for doctoral and master students at Beijing University of TCM. He has worked in the field of Shang Han Lun as a teacher, practitioner and researcher for decades. Professor Hao has been invited to South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, Australia, France, and the Czech Republic to give lectures and professional talks. Professor Hao also has extensive clinical experience in treating diseases related to respiratory system, digestive system, cardiovascular system, and other difficult and complex diseases using classical formulas.

Frank He obtained his Bachelors and Masters degrees’ in Medicine from the Department of Acupuncture at Liaoning University of TCM, in the People’s Republic of China. He won every scholarship available at his medical school and graduated Summa Cum Laude. He currently is a DAOM Fellow at Five Branches University.

Frank was raised in a remote village in northern China. He spent two years in family practice with his grandfather in the early 1980s, then began practicing there as a barefoot doctor in 1986. In the village, Frank treated various conditions not commonly seen in the city. The village offered a family practice setting where he worked as a general practitioner for children and adults.

Frank knows sports and how to treat sports injuries. He was a champion decathlete while in medical school and was an amateur boxer for five years. He has helped thousands of patients return to the sports field, including weekend warriors and Olympic gold medalists. Active in athletic activities in the greater Bay Area, Frank has won medals in track and field, and won the Nankai Cup volleyball tournament.

Frank is a Qualified Medical Evaluator (QME) appointed by the State of California, one of the few actively practicing Acupuncturist-QMEs among over 10,000 acupuncturists. Frank has earned a reputation for his extensive knowledge, skills and passion. Radiologists often refer to him as “Frank He, MD” because of his superior clinical judgment. Well published and respected in the field, he is an international lecturer traveling around the world to promote acupuncture and Chinese medicine. Frank has appeared in numerous local and national publications – particularly in the areas of sports medicine, anti-aging, stress management, seniors’ health, and women’s health.

Frank has a patent pending approval for a specially engineered acupuncture needle and has developed a unique acupuncture technique called Muscle Channel Technique (MCT)™ which has clinically proven to be effective in pain management and injury healing. Professor He teaches in the Department of TCM Acupuncture and is a faculty member of the DAOM program.

Stephanie He graduated with honors in 1985 from Tianjin University of TCM and earned certification to teach TCM in China at the university level. After graduation, she worked for thirteen years as a physician and instructor at the First Teaching Hospital at the Tianjin University of TCM, which is one of China’s major TCM institutions for treatment, instruction and research. In Tianjin, Stephanie’s supervisor was Professor Shi Xuemin, a famous expert in the acupuncture department in China and abroad.

Stephanie specializes in the treatment of stroke, gastrointestinal disorders, geriatrics, neuropathies and internal medicine disorders. She has published numerous research articles in nationally recognized journals of TCM in China on subjects including high cholesterol, depression, and gout. In her free time she enjoys cooking, hiking and working out at the gym. Professor He teaches in the Department of TCM Clinical Training. For more information about Dr. He, go to www.stephaniehe.com

Kea Hedberg received her Bachelor of Arts in Women’s studies from Brown University. She then went on to obtain her Masters in Traditional Chinese Medicine from Five Branches University. During her TCM training, she discovered her chosen specialty in Classical Five Element Acupuncture. She continued with post-graduate and advanced clinical training in Classical Five Element Acupuncture with Khosrow Khalighi. In 2004, Kea studied in one year of silence with Cheri Huber at the Zen Monastery Peace Center. Kea has a passion for learning and growing that emanates as a teacher and practitioner. She brings her whole self to her work and supports her clients to heal on the deepest level.

Kea maintains a private practice in Santa Cruz, California where she lives with her husband Darren and two children. Kea loves to dance, practice yoga and spend quality time with friends & family.

Professor Denise Hsu received her medical degree from the Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine and had been trained in both Chinese medicine and Western Medicine with the specialty of Orthopedics surgeon.  She is a licensed Acupuncturist and Herbalist with the California Medical Board and a certified Acupuncturist with the NCCAOM in the United States.  She had served as the Examination Committee member of NCCAOM since 1997 and supported the California Acupuncture Board exam for many years since 1986. Also, she had been elected as the Commissioner of NCCAOM for 9 years. She joined Kaiser and has been working in the specialty in Pain Management since 1998. She had been the Chair and professor of the Chinese Medicine Department at the American College of Traditional Chinese Medicine for over 12 years. She has over 30  years experience of teaching and practice in acupuncture and herbal medicine in the United States. Currently, She has been teaching Diagnosis classes in the TCM theory department since 2016.

Lucy Hu comes from a family of healthcare practitioners. Her great grandfather was a doctor of Traditional Chinese medicine and her two older sisters earned Western MD degrees in China. Lucy received her medical degree from Shenyang University in Shenyang, People’s Republic of China, in 1961 and worked as a pediatrician and instructor at the Dalian Children Hospital from 1961 through 1979. Lucy graduated from the Chinese Acupuncture Medical Institute of Hong Kong in 1982, with diplomas in Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine. In her three decades of medical experience, she has specialized in pediatrics. Lucy became a licensed acupuncturist in California in 1987 and obtained her National Certification (NCCAOM) in both Acupuncture and Chinese Herbology. In 2004, Lucy presented a case study of a child with a severe genetic metabolic disorder at the International Conference on Diagnosis and Treatment of Difficult Diseases by Herbal Therapy and Acupuncture in Hangzhou, China. She treated the child with success unobtainable by Western methods. After 12 months of treatment, the child’s health and quality of life continued to improve significantly. Lucy maintains a private practice for adults and children in Santa Clara, California. Her interests include classical music and cooking, especially the healthy Chinese herbal soups so favored by her students. You can visit her website at http://lucy.hu.googlepages.com/. Professor Hu teaches in the Departments of TCM Clinical Medicine and TCM Clinical Training and is a faculty member of the Five Branches DAOM program.

Darren Huckle holds a B.A. in environmental studies from UCSC, and received his Master’s degree in TCM from Five Branches University. It was while studying with Christopher Hobbs that he became interested in TCM. TCM resonated with his background in ecology and natural history. He believes TCM is a system that empowers people to heal along with natural systems such as Golden Shield Qigong.

Darren has more than 10 years of study and practice in holistic health modalities, including Chinese and Western herbology, nutrition, and organic gardening. He is a practitioner and teacher of Golden Shield Qigong, and has a private practice in Santa Cruz. In addition to teaching at Five Branches, Darren has taught at UCSC’s Holistic Health Department. Darren stewards and teaches at the Living Pharmacy, a medicinal garden visited by Five Branches students. Darren’s areas of specialty include: digestive health, fertility, adrenal fatigue and gynecology. In his free time he enjoys Chien Lung Kungfu, bicycling, hiking, wildcrafting, meditation, and spending time with his family. You can contact him at www.rootsofwellness.net or www.goldenshieldqigong.com. Darren Huckle teaches in the Department of Complementary Studies.

Mary Huse was an ER and critical care nurse for 18 years before finding her way to acupuncture. She graduated from Traditional Acupuncture Institute in Maryland in 1990 and Santa Barbara College of Oriental Medicine in 1993. Her deep love and knowledge of the Five Elements is expressed through her theory classes, clinical rounds, and internships at Five Branches University. She blends her background of Western medicine, TCM and Five Elements to best support her patients and maintains a full-time practice in Santa Cruz. Professor Huse teaches in the Departments of TCM Theory and TCM Clinical Training.

LeTa Jussila, is a graduate of Five Branches University and has also studied at the Zhejiang Chinese Medical University in Hangzhou, China. She has a diverse background and holistic approach to medicine. LeTa owns Optimal Health and Fitness, a Santa Cruz based company focusing on integrating breath and connection to nature through physical movement and has a private practice, The Santa Cruz Center for Traditional Medicine in Santa Cruz, California, where she practices integrative medicine. She specializes in sports injury, metabolic syndrome, weight loss and food as medicine. LeTa has had a very high success rate with helping men and women lose weight, eliminate food allergies and learn how to exercise properly. In her free time, LeTa is a documentary filmmaker, classical violinist and world traveler. LeTa teaches Career Development in the Department of Complementary Studies.

Christine Klein is a graduate of both the first graduating class of Five Branches as well as a DAOM graduate in the first doctoral class of Five Branches University. She graduated with a B.A. in English Literature from San Francisco State University. In private practice in Santa Cruz since 1987, her specialties include: pain management, pulmonary and digestive disorders, immune problems, gynecology, internal medicine and scalp acupuncture. Christine volunteers at the Rice Project in Carmel, Ca. (supporting needy families of Monterey county). She has taught Acupuncture II, theatre, internship and TCM Qigong at Five Branches University. Her interests include meditation, hiking and medical Qigong. She currently studies Medical Qigong with Dr. Bingkun Hu Ph.d. Dr. Klein currently teaches in the Departments of Complementary Studies and TCM Clinical Training.

Qi Kou is a licensed acupuncturist in California and a licensed TCM physician in China. He was born and raised in a family with a lineage of Chinese medicine. He received his Master's degree in Chinese Medicine from the Beijing University of Chinese Medicine in 2012, and another Master's in Traditional Chinese Medicine from Five Branches University. He practiced as an attending TCM physician at Bao Yu Tang, Chang’an Hospital before he moved to California in 2016. Qi’s clinical practice in the bay area, California focuses on working with individuals on pain management, mental health, women’s health, and pediatrics Tuina. When not in the clinic and teaching, Qi enjoys reading, traveling, writing poetry, and practicing QiGong. He also dedicates to Yiching research. Qi teaches in the Departments of Acupuncture and TCM Clinical Training.

Dr. Eva Kwong is a DAOM, Graduate of Five Branches University and licensed Acupuncturist in the State of California. She specializes in Auricular Medicine and served an apprenticeship with the Auricular Medicine pioneer Dr. Huang, Li Chun. Dr. Kwong has more than 20 years of experience as a TCM doctor and educator. She was previously an active member of United California Practitioners of Chinese Medicine and is now Executive Director of the Academy of Auricular Medicine.

Dr. Fengli Lan received her Ph.D. in Chinese Medicine (CM) after 11 years of full-time education and training at prestigious universities and hospitals of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) in Hebei province and Shanghai, China. She has over 20 years of professional experience in Chinese herbal medicine and acupuncture, including teaching, research, practice, and extensive publications. She did her postdoctoral research project at Shanghai Jiao Tong University, China, sponsored by the China Postdoctoral Science Foundation. She was a Professor and Graduate Advisor at the Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, a Guest Professor at the Faculty of Philosophy of the University of Vienna, and a Visiting Faculty at the University of California, Santa Cruz, and the University of California, San Diego. Lan has provided excellent patient care for over 20 years. She specializes in the areas of classical acupuncture, acupuncture research and practice, internal medicine, and gynecology. She has published 36 internationally peer-reviewed journal papers (12 indexed in PubMed, 4 indexed in CSSCI), 38 book chapters, 27 conference papers, and 24 books on TCM foundations, classics, acupuncture, gynecology, mental and emotional disorders, and the philosophy of Chinese Medicine.

Dr. Lan is currently a CA & NCCAOM Licensed Acupuncturist and Herbalist, and a faculty member at Five Branches University. She teaches in the departments of TCM Theory and Clinical Medicine, Clinical Training, and Research.

Jessica Jing Lao has been a TCM skin rejuvenation specialist since 1995. She was a lecturer and Director for the Teaching Management Department at Zhejiang College of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Since 2010, she has taught TCM skin rejuvenation, basic theory of TCM, TCM diagnosis, herbs, food therapy, and Tai Chi to both local and foreign students at  Zhejiang Chinese Medical University. Jessica’s specialties include TCM facials, facial massage, facial acupoints massage, acne treatment with acupuncture and herbs, Chloasma treatment with acupuncture and herbs, weight loss treatment with acupuncture and herbs, beauty herbs, and beauty foods. Jessica completed her Masters degree in TCM at Five Branches University in 2012. She graduated from Zhejiang Chinese Medical University with a specialty in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) in 2004, and completed her Master Course of skin care at Huadou Beauty College of Hong Kong in 1994. She is a member of the TCM Beauty Committee, a branch of the National Traditional Chinese Medicine Association in China.

Thomas has great passion for the inner alchemy practices found in Daoism and other eastern traditions, both as a vehicle for self transformation as well as a means to promote healing ranging from the physical to the spiritual. After completing massage certification, Thomas found energetic medicine to be his passion, and by 1999 he was deeply moved to the study and practice of medical qigong. By 2006, he completed the highest level of training and certification available from the International Institute of Medical Qigong and Henan University of TCM. While studying in China on five separate occasions, Thomas received lineage into the Dragon Gate sect of Daoism at Qingchengshan (青城山) in Sichuan. Through these experiences, and his deep commitment to the practices, Thomas has absorbed and embodied the essence of energy medicine and transformation. In addition to Thomas' study and practice of Daoist medicine and healing, he also has a very close association with the great Indian saint Mata Amritanandamayi, better known as Amma, or the hugging saint. He serves on staff for her tours in North America and abroad, absorbing her deep wisdom and compassion for the human condition. Thomas currently teaches medical qigong, energetic medicine, and core mysticism, while offering energetic healing sessions to his students and clients. For more information about Thomas go to: www.inneralchemycenter.com

Sally Lewis holds a TCM Master’s and DAOM degree from Five Branches University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology from Lake Forest College in Illinois. Sally has been in private practice since 1987. She incorporates Esogetic Colorpuncture, a healing technique developed by German Naturopath and Acupuncturist Dr. Peter Mandel into her treatments, using colored light on acupuncture points to affect balance in the body. She also integrates Medical Biomagnetism, developed by Dr. Issac Duran Goiz, into her treatments to help balance the ph of the body, and neutralize bacteria, parasites, viruses and other diseases. Sally completed a three-year program in Spiritual Direction at the Mercy Center in Burlingame, California. She specializes in treating pain and working with spiritual and emotional issues, including PTSD. Aside from practicing acupuncture and Chinese herbalism, Sally enjoys gardening, hiking, and swimming with the dolphins in Hawaii. Sally Lewis teaches in the Department of TCM Clinical Training.

Dr. Juan Li received her MTCM degree from Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine and DAOM degree from Five Branches University. She has more than 20 years progressive experience as a Traditional Chinese Medicine doctor, scholar, and educator. Dr. Li was an Examiner Certificate of national TCM licensing examination in China, top 1% TCM doctors selected. She taught students as an associate professor in Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine hospital. Juan is also an Executive Council Member of World Federation of Chinese Medicine Societies (WFCMS). She loves her job as a TCM practitioner. She Concluded 4 TCM researches and clinical trials with grant and published more than 30 TCM research papers and 2 professional works. Dr. Li is a specialist in pediatrics and internal medicine.

Nancy Lowe was in Five Branches’ first graduating class in 1987, and now is a member of Five Branches' first DAOM graduating class. Prior to studying TCM, she was a massage therapist. Nancy loves the challenge and satisfaction that comes from working with patients and teaching at the University. She is a general practitioner with experience in treating a broad spectrum of maladies, specializing in the treatment of pain. Nancy has been in private practice since 1987 and has been teaching in the Five Branches clinic since 1993. She enjoys knitting, reading, gardening, being in nature and the pursuit of happiness. Nancy Lowe teaches in the Department of TCM Clinical Training.

Mary received her undergraduate degree from Ohio State University and her Law degree from Capital University in New York. After receiving her Master’s degree from Five Branches University she moved to Gettysburg, Pennsylvania where she worked in an integrated medical practice. Since returning to Santa Cruz, she established an externship at the Santa Cruz Veterans Hall to teach students how to treat veterans with acupuncture. Her passion is Five Element Acupuncture. Her current interest is Shamanic Studies through the Harner Foundation. Mary F. Lyell teaches in the Department of TCM Clinical Training.

Raqib Lynn-Katz is a graduate of Five Branches University and has been in private practice since 1992. In 1994, she began teaching classes and seminars for Kan Herbs, a local Chinese Herb company. Her areas of specialty include women's health, pain management, emotional imbalances, children and teens. Raqib Lynn-Katz teaches in the Department of TCM Clinical Training.

Dr. Boya Ma holds a DAOM from Five Branches University, an M.S. in TCM, as well as an M.S. in Statistics. She underwent her residency at Highland Hospital in Oakland, CA, as well as at numerous hospitals in Beijing, China, including the prestigious Peking University People's Hospital. Dr. Ma specializes in the Five Yun and Six Qi methodology and its application with Chinese herbs and acupuncture. She is also an expert in pain management. 

Jaime began his martial arts training in 1965, studying Aikido, Judo, Jujitsu and Karate. He is a second-degree (Nidan) Black Belt in Judo, and is one of the highest-ranking and recognized Sifus in the world-renowned Plum Blossom International Federation. In 1972, Jaime began his TCM studies with the famous Grandmaster Doc-Fai Wong, Ph.D., in San Francisco, California, who represents direct second-generation lineage to Yang Cheng-Fu. He earned his Master's from Five Branches University and is a California state certified Traditional Physical Therapist. Jaime has been training champions in Yang-style Tai Chi Chuan and Choy Li Fut Kung Fu for over 30 years. He was president and head instructor for San Francisco City College’s Martial Arts program and a Tai Chi Instructor at the San Francisco Medical College of Acupuncture. As an active member of the Santa Cruz Juvenile Justice Delinquency and Prevention Commission, He was instrumental in bringing acupuncture into the juvenile hall for the treatment of incarcerated youth. He also provides instruction, educational counseling, and physical fitness programs for at-risk youth. Jaime is on the advisory committee for the Santa Cruz County Office of Alternative Schools where he introduced martial arts into the physical education curriculum and helped to establish physical fitness standards. Jaime is currently a professor and clinician specializing in Traditional Body and Movement Therapy for health, rehabilitation and injury recovery. He is the founder and director of the Golden Dragon Health and Physical Fitness Programs and maintains a private practice in Santa Cruz, Monterey, and Big Sur, California. Jaime Marquez teaches in the Department of Complementary Studies.

Anita Chen Marshall received a Doctor of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (DAOM) from American College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, California; a Master of Science in Traditional Chinese Medicine from the Academy of Chinese Culture and Health Sciences, California; a Doctor of Pharmacy from the University of the Pacific, California; and a Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy from the University of Washington.

Anita is a licensed acupuncturist and herbalist in California, and certified nationally in Acupuncture and Herbology, Dipl.O.M. (NCCAOM). She is the founder and director of Sequoia Healing Center for Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine. For more information refer to: http://dranitamarshall.com/

Anita Chen Marshall teaches in the Department of TCM Herbology.

Jennifer’s Chinese medicine training includes an extensive traditional apprenticeship, with over 17 years of study with Dr. Vince Black, Miranda Warburton, PhD, and the North American Tang Shou Tao Association (NATSTA). Jennifer received a Master’s in Traditional Chinese Medicine from Five Branches University. She also earned a Master's in Medical Anthropology from Northern Arizona University and completed a graduate research fellowship with the National Cancer Institute’s Office of Cancer Complementary and Alternative Medicine (OCCAM) at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). She is a Certified Instructor with both the American Organization of Bodywork Therapies of Asia (AOBTA) and the NATSTA. Jennifer currently sits on the Board of Directors for the American Association of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (AAAOM) Jennifer Minor is the founder of Six Harmonies Traditional Medicine Center, Inc. in Los Gatos, California, home to a Chinese medicine clinic, a traditional Chinese medicine apprenticeship program and traditional gongfu training. The center is instrumental in bringing alternative healthcare to underserved communities through their Navajo Healthcare Project in partnership with CasaBESU.org. Jennifer Minor teaches in the Departments of TCM Acupuncture and TCM Clinical Training.

Doc has been practicing Chinese medicine since 1989 in Los Gatos, CA, and teaching Chinese medicine since 1996, both in the clinic and classroom. He is also a former member of the board of directors and is currently the associate chair of the Theory Department.

His election to the Five Branches Board of Directors in 1995 came as the school transitioned to a not-for-profit organization and successfully sought federal accreditation. This was a time of great growth for the school with academic and student body development.  Academic programs were greatly enhanced, and federal certification brought funding for student loans.

Leaving the Board of Directors as Chairman in 2000, Doc took an academic sabbatical and bought land deep in the Santa Cruz mountains, where he designed and built an off-the-grid craftsman home. Surrounded by forest overlooking Monterey Bay, his home reflects his values of form and function, integrating a thoughtful relationship with the land.

Doc returned both to student life and teaching in 2006 with the first Five Branches Doctorate (DAOM) program, finishing in 2010 with the presentation of his Capstone paper A Clinician’s Inquiry and the Unspoken Words: A Discussion of Didactic Inquiry.

With over three decades of a busy and successful practice in the modern Bay Area, Doc brings his extensive clinical and academic experience to the classroom with three academic classes: The Introduction to Chinese History and Philosophy, Case Studies I & Case Studies II.

These three comprehensive classes, built on the foundation of cultural and clinical literacy, are rooted in (US) level doctoral inquiry and research; the academic foundations of a successful modern Chinese medical practice.

Maria Mitchell is one of the few second-generation acupuncturists with a lifetime of exposure to Chinese Medicine. Her mother, Donna Leight, L.Ac. is a pioneer in Traditional Chinese Medicine with over thirty years of clinical experience. Maria specializes in Reproductive Health. She completed a six-year clinical internship in advanced acupuncture with renowned practitioner and speaker Holly Guzman L.Ac. (a specialist in Women’s Health and Infertility) and studied for 10 years with Kiiko Matsumoto, a Japanese acupuncturist renowned for her innovation, precision, and dramatically effective use of acupuncture. Maria has a comprehensive background in Integrative Sports Medicine and Trauma. She received her B.S. in Kinesiology from San Jose State University and was a firefighter for seven years, trained in emergency protocols. She worked for five years in a physical therapy setting and later received certification in Integrative Sports Medicine, with Frank He, L.Ac. Maria specializes in the treatment of athletic injuries, musculoskeletal and pain related conditions. Currently, Maria shares a practice in Santa Cruz, with her mother Donna Leight L.Ac. and Holly Guzman L.Ac. For more information go to http://www.mariamitchellacupuncture.com/ Maria Mitchell teaches in the Departments of TCM Theory and TCM Clinical Training.

Bina Moghaddam received a Master’s of Science degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine in 1996 from the Academy of Chinese Culture and Health Sciences in Oakland, California, and a DAOM degree in 2008 from Five Branches University. She has had extensive apprenticeships with several masters of Traditional Chinese Medicine including Dr. Miriam Lee. She practices her own unique style of acupuncture treatment combining the trainings she obtained from her mentors, and treats a broad spectrum of ailments, including general internal and preventive medicine, pain management, gynecological diseases, weight management, and cosmetic and facial rejuvenation acupuncture.

Bina has worked at Kaiser Permanente, San Jose for the past 12 years, is a consultant for the Osher Center for Integrative Medicine, UCSF, and has worked at Stanford as part of a research team studying the impact of acupuncture. She also has a private practice at Healthstyle; an integrative medical center in Campbell. She has many years of experience as a clinician, lecturer, and researcher in the field of Chinese Medicine. Her lifelong passion is to help others through compassionate healing to achieve their optimum state of health and well-being.

Bina Moghaddam teaches in the Departments of TCM Acupuncture and TCM Clinical Training as an associate professor.

Ms. Xiu Fen Pan received her Doctor of Medicine degree from China Medical University in Taiwan where she majored in Zhongjing Theory and pulse studies. She studied with Professor Zhang Yang and has been practicing Traditional Chinese Medicine in public hospitals in Taiwan for over ten years before moving to the United States. Ms. Pan specializes in internal medicine, including cardiology, endocrinology, respiratory disorders, dermatology, gastroenterology, gynecology, and obesity. She is currently enrolled in the doctoral program at Five Branches University, advancing her knowledge of the latest research in TCM.  Xiu Fen Pan teaches in the Department of TCM Medicine and TCM Clinical Training.

Growing up as a member of a distinguished medical family in southern China, Jeffrey Pang was privately educated to join a lineage of traditional Chinese doctors spanning several generations. In 1968, he received his M.D. (training in both Western medicine and TCM) from the Sun Yat Sen University of Medical Sciences located in Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China. In 1984, Jeffrey emigrated to the U.S. and became a licensed acupuncturist in California. His experience includes ten years of clinical practice in Guangzhou and Hong Kong hospitals, and 25 years of private practice. A principal member of the Five Branches’ faculty since its inception in 1984, Professor Pang leads the review and development of Five Branches TCM curriculum as Theory and Herbology Department Head. He has been a contract acupuncturist with Kaiser Hospital, and Santa Teresa Pain Management Center since 1997 and currently maintains a private practice in San Jose, California. His areas of specialization include joint pain, visual disturbances, dermatological diseases and immune system disorders. Jeffrey balances his full-time TCM career with Taiji exercises, camping in Yosemite, swimming and planting fruit trees from cuttings given to him by his students. Professor Pang teaches in the Departments of TCM Theory, TCM Herbology, TCM Clinical Medicine and TCM Clinical Training and is a faculty member of the Five Branches DAOM program.

Heerei Park received both a Master's and Doctorate from Five Branches University. She graduated from Seoul National University College of Nursing, Korea in 1977 and has worked at Dominican Hospital in Santa Cruz, California on the oncology and med-surgical units. Heerei is a licensed acupuncturist specializing in pain management, women’s health and internal medicine. In her free time she enjoys traveling, cooking and gardening. Heerei Park teaches in the Department of TCM Herbology.

Tunan received his Master's in Traditional Chinese Medicine at Five Branches University in 2012, and he is a licensed acupuncturist in California. He was born and raised in a family with a lineage of Chinese medicine. Tunan specializes in Master Tung Acupuncture and classical herbal treatment. He focuses on addressing the root problems and utilizes acupuncture, acupressure, and cupping to provide immediate relief to his patients. He translated Dr. Huang Huang’s renowned work, “Huang Huang’s Guide to Clinical Application of Jingfang,” into English in 2021. Currently, Tunan teaches in the Departments of Herbal Medicine and TCM Clinical Training, he teaches Formula classes.

Kate Perkins graduated from San Francisco State University in 2000 with a degree in creative writing and a minor in holistic medicine. During her time there she met and studied with Angela Wu, a licensed acupuncturist who taught classes in Chinese Medicine privately in her home. As a student of Mrs. Wu, she became inspired to become an acupuncturist herself and enrolled at Five Branches University, concentrating her studies in Five Element Acupuncture. Kate studied with Khosrow Khalighi in San Francisco, California, completing a two-year course of study in Five Element theory, diagnosis and treatment. She continues to meet with an advanced group of Five Element practitioners twice a year to discuss case studies, bring patients, and deepen her knowledge of this system.

Kate has a part -time practice in downtown Santa Cruz, California where she practices Five Element acupuncture, treating the spirit as the root of illness. Through her life’s work of continuing to uncover the mysteries of the human spirit and its relationship to wellness she conveys her passion for the Five Element system through the theory classes and clinical internships she teaches. Kate enjoys going for walks in the redwoods, studying foreign languages, traveling and spending time with her young son. Kate’s website is http://www.locuststreetacupuncture.com. Kate Perkins teaches in the Departments of TCM Theory and TCM Clinical Training.

Judy Pruzinsky is a graduate of Five Branches University. She specializes in Classical Five Element Acupuncture, having studied with JR and JB Worsley and Khosrow Khalighi. Judy has trained in Medical Qigong at the International Institute of Medical Qigongin California, directed by Jerry Alan Johnson. She has several teaching certificates in the Wu Style of Chi Gung from BK Frantzis. Her spiritual practice is rooted in her long-term Zen meditation practice. She received lay ordination with Tenshin Reb Anderson. Classical Five Element practice addresses patients' spiritual and emotional imbalances in addition to their physical discomforts and diseases. Her Medical Qigong practice enables her to treat deeply without the use of needles. In her Chi Gung classes people learn how to help themselves with practices they can do at home. She currently has a Chinese Medical practice in Aptos and in Half Moon Bay, California. Judy Pruzinsky teaches in the Departments of TCM Theory and TCM Clinical Training.

Faculty at Integrative & Sports Medicine Center, Former Associate Scientist at Amgen Inc., Former Research Assistant at University of California, Davis, Former Research Assistant at Stanford Univeristy.

MTCM, Five Branches University B.A., Environmental Studies and Economics, University of California, Santa Cruz George Samuel teaches in the Department of TCM Clinical Medicine.

Dr. Christine Sanmiquel received both her Master's (MTCM) and her Doctorate (DAOM) degrees at Five Branches University and has been teaching acupuncture channels and points since 2010. In addition, she has developed and taught courses in women’s health, pediatric behavior, qigong, meditation, and mindfulness among others to the public while she has a private practice in Orange County. She specialized in women's health, family care, and pediatrics. Christine currently teaches a research course in the Bridge completion program.

Bill Schoenbart has been practicing traditional Chinese herbal medicine since 1992 and maintains a clinical practice in Santa Cruz, California. Bill is the associate chair of the Department of Herbology at Five Branches University, and he teaches classes in Chinese herbal medicine and medical theory to acupuncture students. He is the author of two books on Chinese medicine, and he is also the current editor of the Botanical Safety Handbook and is an editorial reviewer for the American Herbal Pharmacopoeia. He works as a consultant to herbal product companies with the goal of providing sound advice regarding the development, manufacture, and maintenance of high quality, safe herbal products

Eleonor Mendelson received her Master’s Degree in TCM from Five Branches University and then continued her studies to earn her doctorate degree, with an emphasis on pain management and endocrinology. Prior to enrolling at Five Branches University, Eleonor worked for over a decade as a physical therapist in hospitals, out-patient clinics and in-home care in her home country, Israel. She was also a lecturer on behalf of the health education department. Since graduating from Five Branches University in 2000, she has worked as the Admissions Director and is also in private practice at the Five Branches Santa Cruz Health Center. Eleonor joined the Five Branches faculty in 2008 and currently teaches in the Department of Acupuncture. Beyond her professional duties, Eleonor is a wife and mother to two daughters. She enjoys cooking, taking care of her bonsai plants, making jewelry, and dancing Zumba.

Susanna Shen graduated from Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine in the People’s Republic of China in 1986, where she trained in both Western and Traditional Chinese medicine. After graduation, she worked as a TCM doctor in a Chinese hospital, supervising interns and teaching TCM Theory. When she came to the U.S., Susanna worked at the Pain Management Center in Los Angeles and later taught at the American College of TCM in the Bay Area.

Since 1996, Susanna has returned to China every summer to work and train in hospitals and clinics, sharpening her skills in needling techniques, TCM gynecology, facial rejuvenation and aging prevention, and the treatment of rare and difficult diseases using TCM and herbs. Her specialties include chronic fatigue, GI disorders, stress, facial rejuvenation, gynecology and internal medicine. Susanna enjoys photography, travel, and cooking.

Susanna Shen teaches in the Departments of TCM Herbology and TCM Clinical Training.

Sally Sherriff is founder and director of Healthy Dragon Healing Arts in Santa Cruz, California. From 1981-83, Sally lived in Taiwan and studied Chinese language at Taipei Normal University. She holds a Bachelor of Arts Magna Cum Laude, in Chinese Language and Culture from San Francisco State University, California. Further studies led her to Japan, where she spent six years studying Japanese language and medicine in Tokyo. Sally received Certification in Traditional Oriental Medicine, in Japan, 1993.

Dr. Sherriff holds a Master's degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1999 and received her doctorate degree in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine from Five Branches University, 2016. She maintains a private practice in Santa Cruz, specializing in pediatrics, family health and pain relief.

When Sally is not in her clinic or teaching, she enjoys gardening, yoga, studying, singing, playing harp and cooking. She also enjoys family time with her husband and their two children. Sally Sherriff teaches in the Departments of TCM Clinical Medicine and TCM Clinical Training.

As a child Po-Lin Shyu spent many weekends working in a relative’s herb shop in Taiwan, observing the treatment of patients and the preparation of herbal formulas. He graduated from San Francisco State University with a Pre-Physical Therapy degree in the late 1980s, and received his Masters of Science degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine from the Academy of Chinese Culture and Health Sciences in 1993. Po-Lin interned at Shu Guan Hospital in Shanghai, China, studying internal medicine and gynecology. While in China, he received training in Tuina with Dr. Wei Shu-Yin. Since 1987, Po-Lin has been working at Wu’s Healing Center under Angela C. Wu, L.Ac. He owned his first herb shop in 1989 in San Francisco, and opened an acupuncture clinic in Cupertino in 1995. Po-Lin has been working intensely with Dr. Wu on fertility treatments since 2000 and is well-known for his expertise in treating injuries with TCM. To learn more about Professor Shyu please visit: http://www.nurtureacupuncture.com.

Shawn was introduced to Chinese medicine in 2003 through his early studies in Taijiquan, and in 2008 graduated from Five Branches University with a Master’s in TCM. While studying at Five Branches, he was introduced to the Tang Shou Tao system of Chinese internal martial arts and medicine by Jennifer Minor. In 2006, Shawn joined North American Tang Shou Tao Association (NATSTA) and began training in the Chinese internal martial arts. He trained with Jennifer Minor and Miranda Warburton, two of NATSTA's most senior instructors and the founders of Six Harmonies Traditional Medicine Center, for 16 months in a nationally recognized clinical apprenticeship in Jin Shou Tuina™ - a unique and comprehensive style of tuina associated with the martial arts lineage held by NATSTA. Licensed both nationally and in California, Shawn enjoys a thriving private practice, Lokahi Acupuncture, in San Jose, California. He combines Tuina, Acupuncture and CranioSacral Therapy in a focused treatment setting often giving herbal and diet/nutriment recommendations, as well as qigong or other exercises to support his patient’s progress at home. Shawn specializes in the treatment of: acute and chronic pain syndromes, digestive dysfunction, insomnia/anxiety, cancer support, and stroke rehabilitation. Shawn Smolinski teaches in the Departments of TCM Acupuncture and TCM Clinical Training.

Having studied at Five Branches University, Phu Tran maintains his private practice in chiropractic and acupuncture in San Jose. He specializes in musculo-skeletal problems and sports injuries. Dr. Tran teaches in the Departments of TCM Acupuncture and TCM Clinical Training.

Jacquelyn Van Deusen-Byrd received her Masters in Traditional Chinese Medicine from Five Branches University. She teaches in the Department of TCM Herbology.

Jean Vlamynck has been cultivating her energy with Qigong and Taiji for over 25 years. She began her private practice as a Certified Massage Practitioner in 1987, with treatments including polarity energy work. She graduated with a Masters of TCM from Five Branches and became a California licensed, nationally certified acupuncturist in 1992. As part of the first Five Branches post-graduate program in China, Jean completed four months of studies at Zhejiang Chinese Medical University in Hangzhou, China, which included studying with Qigong and Taiji masters. In 1999, she attained her Master’s degree in Medical Qigong from the International Institute of Medical Qigong, and since then has been teaching and treating with Medical Qigong. Jean initiated and co-founded the Medical Qigong program at Five Branches. Jean has been in private practice since 1992. In her free time she enjoys hiking and swimming. Jean Vlamynck teaches in the Departments of Complementary Studies and TCM Clinical Training.

Tentcho Voynikov received a Master’s in Traditional Chinese Medicine from Five Branches University, a Ph.D in Pharmacology from Kinki University School of Medicine in Japan, and a M.D. from the Medical Academy in Sofia Bulgaria.

Tentcho was a Researcher in Brain Neurophysiology for the Torii Nutrient Stasis Project, E.R.A.T.O., Japan Research Development Corporation, Dept. of Physiology, Toyama Medical and Pharmaceutical University from 1992-1994. In 1996, he became a licensed Doctor of Oriental Medicine in Bulgaria and established a private practice. From 2004 through 2012, Tentcho worked in his own Clinic of Chinese and Oriental Medicine in Bulgaria, was the head of the Traditional Chinese Medicine department at the Medical Center in Albena, Bulgaria, and lectured on Acupressure at Sofia State University “St. Kliment Ohridski”. Tentcho speaks Bulgarian, English, Russian, German, Japanese, French, Czech, Polish and Italian. Tentcho teaches in the Departments of Western Medicine and TCM Clinical Training.

Janice Walton-Hadlock received her Master’s in Traditional Chinese Medicine and Doctorate in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine from Five Branches University, and her B.A. in Biology from the University of California, Santa Cruz. She is the founder of the Parkinson’s Recovery Project (www.pdrecovery.org), a non-profit organization that provides free information about the latest findings regarding the cause and treatment of Parkinson’s disease from the perspective of Asian medicine. She is a founding member of the Parkinson's Treatment Team of Santa Cruz, and a member of the European branch of the Parkinson’s Recovery Project, the Parkinson Stichting of Amsterdam, also a non-profit. Both the Treatment Team and the Stichting focus on treating people with Parkinson’s disease and training health care practitioners in the use of techniques she developed. Janice is an active researcher in the field of Parkinson’s disease. Her findings have been published in many journals, including the peer-reviewed American Journal of Acupuncture, and the Journal of Chinese Medicine. Her analysis of a Parkinson’s drug study was published in the New England Journal of Medicine’s correspondence section. Janice is the author of four books: Trouble Afoot, a book about the underlying causes of idiopathic Parkinson's disease and the effective treatment for this disorder (published by the Parkinson’s Recovery Project, 2008, 690 pages), Medications of Parkinson’s or Once upon a Pill (Parkinson’s Recovery Project, 2003, 650 pages), Tracking the Dragon, a classroom text on advanced channel theory (published by Fastpencil.com, 2010), and Yin Tui Na: Techniques for Treating Dissociated Injuries (published by Fastpencil.com, 2012). All are available at www.pdrecovery.org Janice’s specialties include channel theory, scar tissue work, and Yin Tui Na. In her private practice, she primarily treats movement disorders, including Parkinson’s disease. Her other long-term interests include Western medicine, modern physics and chaos theory, and raja yoga practice and theory. Janice Walton-Hadlock teaches in the Department of TCM Clinical Training.

Chao Wen (Joann) completed her B.D.S, M.S., D.D.S. in Dental School and has practiced in pediatric Dentistry.  Dr. Wang successfully runs a private practice with a staff of 9 employees, one anesthesiologist, one associated pediatric dentist, and one orthodontist for over 20 years. She earned MTCM at Five Branches University in 2017 and practiced part-time at private acupuncture health centers. Besides work, Dr. Wang likes to travel, bake, and spend time with her dogs. Dr. Wang teaches in the western medicine department.

Faculty and department chair / clinic director in San Jose campus, Since 2004. Douglas Wang received his Medicine degree in 1982 from Qinghai University Medical School in China. He continued his medical studies at the International Psychiatrist Training Center offered through the WHO and Shanghai Psychiatry and Hygiene Center where he received the title of Neuro-Psychiatrist. He pioneered the first series of seminars for physicians treating substance abuse, and established the first substance abuse program in Qinghai Province; this program employed a combination of Western medical and TCM treatments for its participants. Professor Wang earned his Master’s degree in TCM from ACTCM in San Francisco, Doctoral degree in TCM from Five Branches University. He has California state licensure, National acupuncture and Chinese herbology certificatios. Professor Wang has held numerous teaching positions in China and the U.S. including President of Bo-Ai Special Hospital in China and Director of the Chinese Bilingual Program, Assistant Dean of Academic Studies at ACTCM, clinic director at Five Branches University, San Jose campus and department chair of integrative medicine at Five Branches University. Professor Wang specializes in stroke, paralysis, chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia, mental illness, emotional / behaviors disorders, and drug addiction. He is in private practice, and his hobbies include hiking and skiing. Professor Wang teaches in the Departments of TCM Herbology, Clinical Medicine and TCM Clinical Training and is a senior faculty member of Five Branches DAOM program.

President of Hong Kong Association of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Professor at the University of Hong Kong School of Chinese Medicine, Professor at the Chinese University of Hong Kong School of Chinese Medicine.

BS (China), TCM, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, China Former President, Xuan Wu TCM Hospital, Beijing, China Former Standing Editor, American Journal of Integrative Medicine Former Senior Professor, China Academy of TCM, Beijing, China Former Editor-in-Chief, Journal of Chinese Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Neuromuscular Medicine and Pain Management Specialization

Professor, Chief Physician, Liuzhou Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine Oncology Department, Director of the Liuzhou Chinese Medicine Oncology Institute, Graduate Advisor of Internal TCM at the Guangxi Traditional Chinese Medical University. 

In his early life, Dr. Alan Wong was in poor health. He became interested in the study of medicine as he searched for ways to help regain his health. Dr. Wong completed medical school at Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York and did his residency in internal medicine at Stanford University. His professional work experience includes private practice and group practice with the Permanente Medical Group, and principal physician at Lockheed Missiles and Space Corporation. Dr. Wong is certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine, and has completed the Medical Acupuncture training program at UCLA.

In addition to his medical training, Dr. Wong is interested in the application of modern clinical research methodologies to the study of TCM. He has a strong interest in integrative medicine and believes that optimal care of patients requires the combined use of Western medicine, TCM, and mind-body medicine. In his free time he enjoys Tai Chi and hiking. You can learn more about Dr. Wong on his website: http://alanswongmd.googlepages.com/. Dr. Wong teaches in the Department of Western Medicine and is a faculty member of the Five Branches DAOM program.

Stephen Woodley received his Masters of Science degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine from The Academy of Chinese Culture and Health Sciences in California. He has taught hundreds of students focusing on TCM foundations, diagnosis, and TCM herbal medicine. Stephen is the director of Shang Han Lun Seminars and a CEU provider, specializing in Classical Chinese Medicine.

Stephen Woodley teaches in the Departments of TCM Theory and TCM Herbology.

Natasha Worrell-Merrett received her Masters in Traditional Chinese Medicine from Five Branches University and currently serves as the Department Chair for Review and Assessment.

Dr. Guanhu Yang
Dr. Guanhu Yang graduated from Zhejiang College of Traditional Chinese Medicine (MD) and Nanjing College of Traditional Chinese Medicine (MS) and served as Assistant Professor at Wenzhou Medical University. In 1993, Guanhu joined the staff of Toyama Medical and Pharmaceutical University in Japan, and from there he went to Kanazawa Medical University for his Ph.D. study in lung repair. After completing his Ph.D., Dr. Yang continued his research in pulmonary biology at Cincinnati Children's Hospital as a postdoc and then research scientist.

Dr. Yang has been running two acupuncture clinics in Ohio, USA. He is currently a Clinical Professor at Ohio University and Chair Professor of the US-China Joint Institute for Acupuncture & Rehabilitation Medicine at Wenzhou Medical University. Dr. Yang also served as director for the SHI acupuncture school, vice president at American TCM Association a few years ago, and supervised the doctoral program at the American Academy of Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine and other 10 medical universities in the World. He is the president of the Chinese Medicine Luobing Society of America. During his career, Dr. Yang published 10 books and over 70 research articles on basic biology and traditional Chinese medicine, and work as an editor and reviewer for numerous renowned SCI journals. Dr. Yang also is an associate Editor for the International Journal of Clinical Acupuncture. He also is Vice president of the World Federation of Chinese Medicine digestion Committee and Endocrine Committee.

Peter Yang graduated with a B.A. from Beijing Foreign Languages Institute in China. He earned an M.A. in sociology from Beijing Foreign Studies University and a second M.A. in American Social Studies from the University of Kansas. He was a professor of English and Chinese for 11 years at Beijing Foreign Languages Institute (Beiwai), China, specializing in the design, teaching and testing of CFL, ESL, EFL, translation and interpretation, and cross-cultural studies. From 1986 to 1993, he was a professor at the University of Kansas, teaching Chinese language, Chinese cultural traditions, and Eastern civilization. He worked as an adjunct professor at Myotherapy Institute, teaching Chinese breathing exercises and acupressure. Professor Yang has also done translation and interpretation for corporations. Professor Yang teaches in the Department of TCM Theory.

Dr. Yang received his M.D. from Beijing Medical University in China in 1968. He worked at Bethune Medical Science University as the chief surgeon. He came to the U.S. in 1987 and is a licensed acupuncturist. He has been a board director of CATCM and a professor at University of Herbal Medicine. He specializes in neurological diseases especially Parkinson’s Disease, sports injury, and unspecified pain.

Dr. Yao is a Professor at Five Branches University and a Visiting Professor at International Jing Fang Institute in Nanjing University of TCM. He earned his Master of Medicine degree (M. Med.) in 1988 from TB & Thoracic Tumor Institute, Capital Medical University. In the same year, he was hired as an Attending Physician for Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital’s Internal Medicine and Central Research Lab. He had completed his medical internship，resident and TCM training at Shanghai No. 1 Hospital, Shanghai No. 6 Peoples’ Hospital and Shanghai 2nd TB Hospital. In 1990, he earned scholarships to become a Visiting Scientist at Palermo University School of Medicine in Italy and relocated to Bay Area to serve as a Visiting Scholar at Stanford University School of Medicine (1991-1994). After licensed by California Acupuncture Board in 1995, Dr. Yao started an acupuncture and herbal service at the AIDS Clinic in Santa Clara Valley Medical Center specializing in the treatment of side effects caused by HIV medications. To honor his service for AIDS patients, Santa Clara County Government awarded him the Lesley David Burgess Lifetime Achievement Award in 1999. Dr. Yao received his DAOM degree from Five Branches University in 2013 under the supervision of Prof. Huang Huang. In 2014, he was selected by Prof. Wang Qi, a National Master of TCM and Member of Chinese Engineering Academy, as an apprentice and continues to study as a member of the Advanced Class of Wang Qi Apprentices.

Danling Zhang, deeply influenced by her family who believed in the power of Chinese medicine, received a Bachelors and Masters degree in Medicine from Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine in China. Following graduation, she became an instructor, supervisor and physician at the university’s affiliated hospital. Danling finished her two-year residency at Dandong Women’s and Children’s Hospital, specializing in acupuncture research on thyroid diseases.

Danling has published numerous papers on eye acupuncture, muscle channel theory and thyroid diseases. She received her Doctor in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine degree from Five Branches University in 2011.

Danling maintains a private practice in Sunnyvale, California, specializing in pain relief, women’s health and thyroid conditions. She can be reached at danlingacupuncture.com.

Professor Zhang teaches in the Departments of TCM Acupuncture and TCM Clinical Training.

Kevin Zhu received his degree in 1988 from the Beijing University of Chinese Medicine and Pharmacology, where he studied for six years. He worked as the Physician-in-Charge and as a Lecturer for nine years at the Beijing First Teaching Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Kevin served as the chief secretary for the National Academic Symposium and organized four symposiums on male diseases, urology, skin diseases, cancer, gynecology, and gastroenterology. He developed the Acupuncture and Herb Treatment Software with the Qinghua University in China, and participated in the compilation of eight professional books. From January 1999 to May 2001, Kevin worked and taught at the Texas College of Traditional Chinese Medicine. He was the manager of the herbal pharmacy at the school’s clinic, in addition to supervising the clinical training for student interns. He was also a professor at the American College of Traditional Chinese Medicine in San Francisco. Kevin specializes in pain management, dermatology and urology. He has years of experience utilizing a wide spectrum of TCM modalities, including herbs, acupuncture, Tuina, and moxibustion to provide an integrated TCM treatment plan for his patients. In his spare time, Kevin enjoys reading, swimming, table tennis and hiking. Professor Zhu teaches in the Departments of TCM Acupuncture, TCM Clinical Medicine, and TCM Clinical Training.

Wenying Zhu is a graduate of Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Pharmacology. She has nearly 30 years of experience treating a variety of diseases with acupuncture and Chinese herbs. In addition to teaching at Five Branches University, Julie maintains a private practice in Fremont, California, specializing in women’s health and pain management. Professor Zhu teaches in the Departments of TCM Acupuncture and TCM Clinical Training.

Greg Zimmerman received a Master of Science degree in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine in 1996. While practicing and teaching traditional Chinese medicine, he has continued his studies in the disciplines of Tuina and Acupuncture Orthopedics, Jing Fang and Classical Canonical Medicine, and Acupuncture Science. Greg is currently completing his doctoral research at China Medical University in Taichung, Taiwan, and lectures for China Medical University and Taipei Medical University. He is a consultant and lecturer with Sun Ten Pharmaceutical Company and the owner of Retreat Acupuncture located in downtown San Francisco. Greg has taught many topics in TCM and has been an editor and co-author for textbooks related to traditional Chinese herbal formulas as well as an author of SCI journal publications. Before diving into Chinese medicine, Greg earned a BS in Biological Sciences. Greg Zimmerman teaches in the Departments of Herbal Medicine, TCM Theory, and TCM Clinical Training. He also teaches Biology.

Dr. Bingzeng Zou received his MB/BS degree in medicine in 1983 at the Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine and received his Ph.D. degree in integrative Chinese and Western medicine with a concentration in orthopedics and traumatology at the China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences in 1994. He practiced as a Chinese medicine and orthopedic physician at the Institute of Orthopedics and Traumatology at the China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing from 1983 to 1996 before he moved to the USA. He earned a Doctor of Chiropractic degree from Life University, Marietta Georgia in 1999.

Dr. Zou has over forty years of expertise in practicing and teaching acupuncture and Chinese medicine. He was a professor and the Academic Dean at Southwest Acupuncture College in New Mexico while maintaining a private practice. Dr. Zou was a professor and Academic Dean at the American College of TCM in San Francisco. He is an NCCAOM Diplomate since 1999 and served as a subject matter expert on the Biomedicine Exam Development Committee (EDC). Dr. Zou has served as a site visitor/site visit chair of the Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine (ACAHM) since 2006. Dr. Zou currently teaches in the Department of Western Medicine.