Why did you become an acupuncturist?
I became an acupuncturist because I felt so much better after being treated myself, beyond what I sought treatment for. My practitioners were attentive, kind and compassionate, and that inspired me. I discovered that this medicine contained a web of connections from body to mind to spirit that spoke to me more profoundly than anything I’d experienced before, except for yoga. I became certified as an Iyengar Yoga teacher before I made the transition to Chinese medicine. Acupuncture presented an opportunity to take energetic bodywork to a deeper level.

What distinguishes you from other acupuncturists?
The most important reason someone chooses me is that I listen to them, address their questions and concerns, and then—based on that initial chemistry—they decide to trust me. I care deeply about my patients, take them seriously, and they connect with that. I give them my full attention and frequently stay in the room with them the entire treatment. I find techniques, protocols and tools with which they resonate. If someone is too sensitive for needles, I might apply essential oils on acupuncture points. Someone might need a blood test, or a referral to another medical professional, or dietary suggestions. I have a gentle touch. I treat my patients according to what they need, not according to a style of treatment.

What do you enjoy most about your work?
When a new patient explains their health history and I am able to explain the unique pattern of their disharmony, they are grateful that I understand, and I enjoy that moment of connection. I am thrilled when someone steps off the table and exclaims “wow!” when we both see the immediate impact of their treatment. When someone has a stubborn or chronic condition, they might not be able to hold the initial results for more than a day, but they get a sense of where we can go with this, and that motivates them to continue with treatment. That moves me deeply. I enjoy offering solutions and options that they feel are workable. I am very happy when a patient returns after a successful course of treatment for support in another area, and then chooses to come in for a seasonal “tune-up.”

What is the biggest misconception you hear about acupuncture?
I hear two big misconceptions: acupuncture only treats pain and that it has to hurt in order to work. First, ours is a comprehensive medical system and has the potential to treat many conditions (the World Health Organization lists 30 conditions with research to back the efficacy of treatment, and up to 40 additional ones, with research caveats). Second, there are many styles of needling, plus effective acupressure techniques. I can achieve results with techniques appropriate to my patient, without alienating them. And usually, once the first few needles are in, the patient becomes more relaxed and then we find the appropriate way forward together.

How do you stay healthy in your own life?
I try to stay healthy by taking a moderate path and trying to make good choices. When life becomes out of balance, as it invariably does from time to time, I try to lighten up and go with the flow until I can correct course. I need fresh air and a walk with my dog, a bowl of soup, a few yoga poses and a steady dose of New Yorker cartoons. I like to laugh. I listen to music. I believe in the power of a cup of tea. And, of course, I take herbs and receive acupuncture.

Learn more and get in touch
kathleenport.com
kathleen@portfamily.com
(310) 230-0280
Twitter

Visit
2211 Corinth Avenue, Suite 202, Los Angeles, CA 90064

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Why did you become an acupuncturist?
I grew up in a family of Western doctors and pharmacists, so I always thought I’d become a professional healthcare provider. Oriental medicine attracted me most because of its characteristics of balancing and harmonizing to heal the whole person. It is very natural and so effective. For me, being a doctor of Oriental medicine is the best way of life because it is what I love to do.

What distinguishes you from other acupuncturists?
I was first licensed in Japan. Then I studied in China, and then got licensed in California. My background allows me to use Japanese style acupuncture treatments that are very gentle, subtle, and comfortable for patients. I am certified in a very innovative Chinese acupuncture modality for post-stroke conditions and dementia—Stroke Rehab Acupuncture: Xing Nao Kai Qiao Therapy. I am a faculty member and supervisor at Emperor’s College of TOM in both the Masters and Doctoral programs. I am the leading acupuncturist at the college’s Stroke Rehabilitation & Dementia Care Clinic. I give seminars nationwide and also in other countries, such as Japan and Brazil. I enjoy interacting with foreign people and inspiring them with the beauty of acupuncture.

What do you enjoy most about your work?
I love interacting with my patients. During treatments, we discuss various aspects of their lives—hobbies, sports and business. They always know what I don’t know, and to be exposed to something unknown is very exciting. I also love teaching—to students who just entered the school, as well as to those who are already licensed and in the doctoral level program. I learn more by teaching them. When patients are better and show a big smile, I realize that I’ve chosen the right step.

What is the biggest misconception you hear about acupuncture?
That an acupuncture needle has to cause an electric sensation (acupuncturists call this “de qi”) in order for it to work. There are many forms of acupuncture needling, and many are not invasive and still very effective. There are even some that are used to stimulate the skin surface without ever penetrating. Often in research, they refer to non-invasive needling as “sham acupuncture,” but this is actually considered contact needling and can be as effective as other types of acupuncture. I often use this kind of contact needling to treat small children and people who are sensitive to or afraid of needles.

How do you stay healthy in your own life?
I play soccer on a weekly basis to keep myself healthy and fit. I also like to go to the mountains, camp, and fly fish. Putting myself in nature always refreshes my soul and spirit.

How have people described an acupuncture treatment with you?
My treatments are like “mixed juice.” I customize treatment protocols by combining Japanese and Chinese styles, depending on the condition and constitution of the patient. If one person needs apple, then I put more apple; if one needs orange, then I add more orange to the juice. I always seek to accommodate my patients and deliver the most effective and most comfortable treatment possible.

Learn more and get in touch
maedaacupuncture.com
maedaacupuncture@gmail.com
(310) 891-1111

Visit
3248 Sepulveda Blvd., Torrance, CA 90505
1807 Wilshire Blvd., Santa Monica, CA 90403

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