DAOM Student Testimonials

This page features selected testimonials from students and graduates of the Doctor of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (DAOM) program at Colorado Chinese Medicine University (CCMU). These reflections highlight aspects of clinical skill development, theoretical integration, and application of traditional Chinese medicine principles in professional practice.

Reflections on Clinical and Academic Experience

The testimonials presented here provide insight into how students have applied DAOM coursework and clinical training to their ongoing practice. Reflections include changes in diagnostic reasoning, treatment strategies, and patient outcomes as experienced by practitioners with varying levels of prior clinical experience.

Individual Testimonials

Natalie Franciose, LAc, DipOM, DAOM

I returned to do the DAOM program after 7 years of being in practice, and the depth of knowledge has changed the way I treat tremendously. It has been deepening. The most noteworthy changes are the diagnostics and pulse taking skills, which are based heavily on the Qi of the patient.  I love reading ancient texts and weaving their wisdom into my practice, along with diving into scientific research. This program has shifted the way my mind sees theory, my patients and their symptoms, and I love the new treatments and skills we utilize, immediately. While it is a lot of work, managing school, business, and life, I already see how this program will benefit my practice in the years to come.

Valerie Lam LAc, DiplOM, DAOM

The CCMU DAOM program has been very beneficial to my practice and my growth as a practitioner. The CCM theory focuses on regulating Qi and balancing the Five Elements to improve Qi flow. Point selection is rather straightforward in that all treatment is based on the patient’s pulses and not just the symptoms the patient is experiencing. I have had some great results in the clinic and many patients with chronic pain have been able to walk out pain-free for the first time in years. I have patients tell me that my treatment feels very different and relaxing compared to other practitioners and are amazed at the results even if they were initially skeptical of how few needles I use. The DAOM program has provided me with more knowledge and more methods to help my patients. The course material is novel and fascinating, and the program is well worth the time and effort.

Angie Pierce LAc, DiplOM, DAOM

The DAOM program has given me new information and techniques to bring into my private practice immediately. I am seeing excellent results with my patients with fewer needles-I already used very few and now use even less. The number of patients I see in a week has increased since starting the program as well. One of the biggest takeaways from the program is an increased knowledge of the medicine I practice and the many different ways to look at a presenting disharmony in any person.

Jenny Kao, DAOM student from California

I’ve been studying in the DAOM program at CCMU since August 2024. Even though I live in California—where there are so many acupuncture and TCM schools—I chose to fly to Denver every four months. The reason is simple: CCMU is the only DAOM program that truly teaches Dao & Qi Medicine and Classical Chinese Medicine based on pulse balance, without mixing Western medicine into the curriculum.

After a full year of study, I can honestly say my decision was absolutely right. This year at CCMU has been incredible.

The Principal’s teachings on Dao and Qi Medicine opened my eyes to why things work in the body and how to apply those principles directly in clinic. If I ever have clinical questions, the Principal is the best person to ask—his understanding feels almost otherworldly, as if he came straight from heaven with full knowledge of how the universe operates.

All of the DAOM instructors are the same—so much wisdom, so much real clinical experience (20+ years each!), and so much heart. They teach with dedication and compassion, and they make learning fun. There’s no pressure, no stress—just joy, inspiration, and deep understanding.

Even after just one year of training, my patients can already feel the difference. They’re genuinely happy with the results they’re getting.

This DAOM program doesn’t just help us earn a doctoral degree—it trains us to confidently face any clinical challenge using only the pulse and classical treatment methods. It has completely transformed the way I practice.

Yawen An, DAOM student from California

I’ve been studying in the DAOM program at CCMU since last year, and the depth and value of this program are beyond words. The teachers and the Dean are incredibly knowledgeable, kind, and supportive. My classmates and I have never experienced learning to be this enjoyable and inspiring.

Within just one year, I’ve noticed remarkable growth in my understanding and clinical skills, and my patients’ satisfaction has improved as well. I truly love CCMU and will continue to dive deeper into the wisdom of Classical Chinese Medicine. I give my highest recommendation to this amazing and unique school!

Anne Tan,  DAOM student from Singapore

I have been here for my Doctorate in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine degree (DAOM) course in Traditional Chinese Medicine 3 times this year–from the outside it looks simple and humble with no decorations at all, just red window shades against the dark beige walls. However it is one of the most interesting buildings I have ever been inside.
It has long carpeted corridors filled with countless photos of past students and teachers, beautiful varied paintings of nature and chinese calligraphy. There’s a supply store full of everything from herbal formulas to healing crystals (pink quartz, selenite, carnelian etc) to CCMU memorabilia (caps, bottles, t-shirts etc) to sweets & snacks!
Last but not least all the people here are friendly and down to earth. Don’t be surprised if you meet one or two very calm and grounded beings since a few integrative health practitioners (TCM Physician, chiropractor, physiotherapy, massage) have their treatment rooms here.

 

Common Themes from DAOM Student Experiences

Across testimonials, several recurring themes can be identified:

• Enhanced diagnostic reasoning grounded in classical Chinese medicine concepts

• Greater confidence in clinical decision-making and planning

• Practical application of theory to real-world patient care

• Development of an integrative approach to treatment that balances traditional and clinical insights

These themes reflect the DAOM curriculum’s emphasis on advanced clinical competence and integration of theory with practice.

Additional DAOM Program Resources

For further information about the DAOM degree program, please explore related academic pages including program Overview, Curriculum, Admissions Requirements, Tuition & Fees, Scholarships, and Fact Sheets. These resources offer comprehensive details to support prospective students in understanding program expectations and structure.