Dr. Dawna Ara, DACM, LAc.

I was first introduced to Eastern Medicine in 1995 after suffering from leg pain which severely restricted my range of motion and my ability to walk. My mom took me to see a Shiatsu therapist who treated me with acupressure and herbal remedies. I admit I thought it was a bit hokey pokey at first but the healing was undeniable. By the next day the pain was 90% gone and I was able move around without excruciating pain.

The young me was so impressed that I was inspired to study human biology in college. I also studied nutrition and massage therapy because I wanted to know how the body worked and how I could help people to achieve the same results that I experienced.

After college I worked for a few years as a massage therapist and decided to further my education in medicine which led me to receiving a Master's Degree from the Acupuncture & Integrative Medicine College in Berkeley, Ca. 

After completing my Master's degree, I went on to study functional medicine from the Institute of Functional Medicine as well as completed a functional medicine mentorship with the Kalish Institute. Later I received my doctorate in Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine from the Pacific College of Health & Science.

I have spent the majority of my practice treating women’s health and pain conditions including fertility, miscarriages, IVF, pregnancy, menstrual irregularities such as, PMS, PCOS, endometriosis, painful periods, symptoms of pre and post menopause, such as weight fluctuations, foggy thinking, mood changes, and hot flashes. I provided assisted reproductive treatments (ART) for IVF transfers at reproductive clinics in the Los Angeles and San Francisco areas. I also have advanced training in treating digestive issues, mental health, chronic pain, fatigue, immune disorders, and allergies.

I use acupuncture, functional medicine lab testing, nutritional supplements, herbal remedies, bodywork, and dietary and lifestyle recommendations that are carefully chosen to be personal to you and your story.

I believe perfect health is unique to you and with just a little guidance you can enjoy a happy life free of aches and pains while spending less time in doctor’s offices. Welcome to my world!