Rakhad Alrawi, MD, MPH
Biomedical Department, Master Program Faculty
Rebecca Baker, L.Ac., Dipl. Ac., DACM,
Chinese Herbal Medicine Department, Foundation Department, Master Program Faculty
Rebecca earned her Masters of Science degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) from CCMU in 2012. She is a Nationally Certified Diplomate in Acupuncture through the NCCAOM. She earned her BA from Fort Lewis College in 1995. Most recently, she earned a 100-hour certificate in Applied Clinical Nutrition from Texas Chiropractic College. Rebecca enjoys mountain biking and hiking. She has a private practice in Castle Rock, CO where she utilizes acupuncture, Chinese Medicine, nutrition and Reiki. She specializes in treating people with brain injury and migraines.
Joseph Brady, L.Ac., Dipl. OM, MSTCM
CORE FACULTY & CHAIR FOR CCMU RESEARCH DEPARTMENT
Clinical Medicine Department, DAOM Program Faculty, Master Program Faculty, PD Program Faculty, Research Department
Joe earned his Master’s degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine from the CCMU in 2006. Currently a clinic supervisor and faculty member at CSTCM, Joe is also on faculty at the University of Denver. An internationally recognized expert on healthy aging, Joe has spent over 25 years teaching t’ai chi, qigong and Traditional Chinese Medicine at the University of Colorado, Health Sciences Center, the University of Denver, and Metropolitan State University. Former columnist on healthy aging for the Rocky Mountain News, he has presented at many scientific and medical conferences including at the Harvard Medical School’s Osher Institute on Integrative Medicine and has twice been a featured presenter at the Oxford Roundtable at Harris Manchester College in the University of Oxford U.K. He currently runs his own clinic in Denver Colorado.
Jon Cacherat, L.Ac., Dipl. Ac., DACM
CORE FACULTY FOR TCM FOUNDATIONS & ACUPUNCTURE DEPARTMENT; CORE FACULTY FOR BIOMEDICINE DEPARTMENT
Biomedical Department, Clinical Medicine Department, Master Program Faculty
Jon has been a holistic warrior in Denver since 1996. He graduated with honors from the Massage Therapy Institute of Colorado. Jon went on to attend South West Acupuncture College in Boulder, Colorado. He served his acupuncture externship at the Boulder County AIDS project. In addition, he spent 135 hours studying trigger point dry needling and sports acupuncture. Jon graduated in 2001 with an MSOM. From 2003 to 2011, Jon was a lead therapist for a huge State of Colorado wellness program devoted to identifying and treating potential worker’s comp patients. This experience has given him a vast reservoir of hands-on clinical experience with treatment of musculoskeletal conditions. In 2020, Jon completed his Doctorate of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine with the Pacific College of Health and Science, including a 60-hour internship with UC Health Anschutz Hospital’s Internal Medicine Resident’s clinic at the CU School of Medicine. Jon maintains a practice specializing in myofascial, musculoskeletal, and sports medicine conditions. Jon has been a professor at CCMU since 2017.
Greg Cicciu, L.Ac., Dipl. Ac., MSTCM
Clinical Medicine Department, Master Program Faculty
Greg graduated from the Florida Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine. The idea of being a healer “is a way of life” was the original draw for Greg to study Traditional Chinese Medicine. A healer is someone who uses the tools they have to assist and teach others ways of improving their lives. He is a Nationally Certified Diplomate in Acupuncture through the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) and is a L.Ac. in Colorado. He is currently using his skills to treat patients of all ages and also massages horses. He has studied auriculotherapy intensively for the past five years. He is in private practice in Lakewood, Colorado.
Nicholas Conte, PharmD, MAc
Biomedical Department, Master Program Faculty
Nicholas Conte, PharmD, MAc worked as a Board Certified Psychiatric Pharmacist for 13 years before enrolling at CCMU. Dr. Conte graduated from CCMU with a Master’s Degree in Acupuncture in 2024. He also completed both his 200 hour Yoga Teacher certification (2017) and Ayurvedic Health Counselor certification (2019) in Asheville, NC.
Dr. Conte is relocating back to Asheville, where he plans to open a family acupuncture practice with his wife. He enjoys cooking, playing music and spending time with his dog.
Caitlin Dilli, L.Ac., Dipl. OM, DACM,
Biomedical Department, Clinical Medicine Department, Foundation Department, Master Program Faculty
Dr. Caitlin R. Dilli is a Doctor of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine, a licensed and board-certified acupuncturist, and clinical herbalist. Caitlin is trained in Cosmetic Acupuncture and Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture, and she regularly helps patients with headaches and migraines, women’s health concerns, fertility, stress and anxiety, altered sleep, and digestive disturbances. Her patient focus is on children, teenagers, adults, and elders. Caitlin holds a Doctorate of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine from the Pacific College of Health and Science, a Master’s of Science in Traditional Chinese Medicine from the Colorado Chinese Medicine University®, and a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Willamette University. She has published research on Parkinson’s disease and acupuncture through the University of Colorado. As a Colorado native, Caitlin yearns to be situated deep in God’s country and is miserably happy with a fly rod and a mountain stream. Her happy hour is practicing Qi Gong or teaching Spanish commands to her rescue pup Lola.
Justin DiPhillippo, DC, MS
Clinical Medicine Department, Master Program Faculty
Justin DiPhillippo is a licensed Chiropractor (DC) and a Board-Certified Functional Neurologist. He earned his doctorate from Palmer College in 2015, studied Functional Neurology at Carrick Institute of Neurology, and received his Diplomate from the American Chiropractic Neurology Board (DACNB) in 2017. He also attended West Chester University where he graduated with a Master of Science in Biology.
Justin has been treating patients in Pennsylvania since 2015. He works in an integrated clinical office in Southeastern PA alongside multiple disciplines that align their specialties to provide patients with optimal care. His goal and primary focus is to provide each patient with an individualized treatment plan combining structural, nutritional, and neurological rehabilitation.
Melissa Durgin, L.Ac., Dipl. OM, MSTCM
Clinical Medicine Department, Foundation Department, Master Program Faculty
Melissa is a Colorado native. She received a Bachelor’s Degree in Anthropology from CU Boulder in 2003 and a Masters of Traditional Chinese Medicine from CCMU in 2011. She is a Nationally Certified Diplomate of Oriental Medicine through the NCCAOM. She has been in private practice in Denver since 2011 where she specializes in women’s and children’s health. She lives in Englewood, Colorado with her husband, two children, three cats, and many chickens.
Hsiao-Wei Fang, L.Ac., Dipl. O.M., MSTCM, MS
CORE FACULTY FOR CHINESE HERBAL MEDICINE DEPARTMENT
Chinese Herbal Medicine Department, Foundation Department, Master Program Faculty
Hsiao-Wei holds a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration and Accounting from Seattle University in Seattle, Washington. She also received her Master of Science in Finance from the University of Denver. She later completed her Master of Science in Traditional Chinese Medicine from CSTCM. She is a Nationally Certified Diplomate in Oriental Medicine through the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) and is a licensed acupuncturist in Colorado. She is the owner and operator of Life Spring Acupuncture Clinic in Stapleton, Colorado. She is fluent in English, Chinese-Mandarin and Taiwanese.
Shanwen Gao, L.Ac., MSOM, BM (China)
Clinical Medicine Department, Master Program Faculty
Shanwen graduated from Guangxi College of Traditional Chinese Medicine with her bachelor’s degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine and later graduated from Royal University in Los Angeles, California with a Master of Science in Oriental Medicine. She practiced in Los Angeles before moving to Denver, where she was on the faculty at International Institute of Chinese Medicine. She is a licensed acupuncturist in Colorado. She specializes in Chinese Herbology and patent medicines, as well as the treatment of pain, women’s health care and immune deficiency.
James Gilchrist, L.Ac., Dipl. Ac., MSAOM
Biomedical Department, Master Program Faculty
Originally from Parker, Dr. Gilchrist left Colorado in 1998 to attend college in Utah. He interrupted his studies to serve a mission in Argentina, and among the lessons he learned there was that making healthy food choices and getting regular exercise were powerful tools for health and well-being. Upon returning home, Dr. Gilchrist decided he would learn all he could about natural health so he could teach these tools to his future patients. World events took Dr. Gilchrist overseas for a few more years, but he eventually found the path to realize his dream at Bastyr University in Seattle, Washington. There Dr. Gilchrist discovered the world of Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine, earning his Doctorate in Naturopathic Medicine, and his Master’s degree in Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine. Dr. Gilchrist specializes in working with children and adolescents, treating auto-immune conditions and behavioral issues with safe and effective natural therapies.
Zack Gutman, L.Ac., Dipl. OM, MSTCM
Clinical Medicine Department, Master Program Faculty
Zack graduated from Colorado Chinese Medicine University® in 2013 and is recognized by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) as a Diplomate of Oriental Medicine. He also completed an additional 500 hour program in 5 Element Acupuncture which specializes in treating psychological and emotional conditions. Zack has been the Assistant Clinic Director at CCMU since 2017. He currently has a private practice in Denver, Colorado.
Ben Hawes, L.Ac., Dipl. OM, MAOM
Foundation Department, Master Program Faculty
Ben Hawes is a graduate of Brown University (1996) and the New England School of Acupuncture (MAOM: 2001). After practicing in rural Southwest Colorado since 2003, he moved to Denver full time in 2020. Ben has studied Kyojung Korean Physical Manipulation, has been practicing distal styles (Master Tung and Richard Tan’s Balance Method) since 2007, and completed an 18 month internship in Japanese Acupuncture with Jeffrey Dann, PhD in 2016. Besides acupuncture, he has studied craniosacral therapy with Pat Cunningham, LAc, has been a long-time student of shamanic healing practices with John Myerson, PhD, LAc. Additionally, Ben has been an instructor of Zen and pain-relief meditation since 1995.
Tara Heinrich, L.Ac., Dipl. Ac., MSTCM
Foundation Department, Master Program Faculty
Tara is a Colorado State licensed, nationally certified, and recognized Diplomate of Acupuncture by the NCCAOM, and is a member of the Acupuncture Association of Colorado (AAC). She received a Master of Science Degree from the Colorado Chinese Medicine University® in 2013 and has held a Massage Therapy License since 1999. She is the owner and operator of the Acupuncture Clinic in Parker Colorado.
Drew Henderson, L.Ac., Dipl. OM, MSTCM
Clinical Medicine Department, Master Program Faculty
Drew received his Bachelors of Science in Chemistry from Spring Hill College in Mobile, Alabama. His interest in neuroscience led him to graduate level studies in neuroanatomy and molecular pharmacology at University of South Alabama and neurophysiology at the University of Colorado. While becoming certified in Postural Integration, he began studying Chinese medicine with practitioners. He graduated from CCMU in 1993 and studied at Heilongjiang University of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Harbin, China in 1995. He is a Nationally Certified Diplomate in Acupuncture and Chinese Herbology through the NCCAOM and is a licensed acupuncturist in Colorado. He has a private practice in Boulder.
Parago Jones, L.Ac., Dipl. TCM
DEAN OF ACADEMICS & FACULTY; ADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTOR
Master Program Faculty, PD Program Faculty
Parago was the Clinic Director at Colorado Chinese Medicine University® from 2007 to In 2019 he accepted a position as the school’s Academic Dean, and became the Administrative Director in 2023. He graduated from CCMU in 1998, is a nationally certified Diplomate through NCCAOM and a licensed acupuncturist in Colorado. Since graduation, he has gone on to specialize in the neo-classical Japanese Meridian Therapy, moxibustion. He teaches, supervises, and is a member of the both Academic Leadership Team and Administration. He is also a nationally certified instructor and examiner for NCCAOM Clean Needle Technique.
Judy Lemieux, L.Ac., Dipl. Ac., MSTCM
Foundation Department, Master Program Faculty
Judy is licensed as an acupuncturist by the state of Colorado. She earned her Master of Science degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine from Colorado Chinese Medicine University® in 2003. Additionally, she is nationally certified as a Diplomate in Acupuncture through the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM). She is also a member and past president of the Acupuncture Association of Colorado. Judy also studied sports medicine acupuncture with Whit Reaves at Southwest Acupuncture College.
Robert Livingston, MD, L.Ac., Dipl. OM, MSTCM
Biomedical Department, Master Program Faculty
Robert received his MD from Dartmouth College in 1978, and completed a three-year residency in internal medicine at Cambridge Hospital in Massachusetts. He received an MS degree in human nutrition from Columbia University in 1975, and an MS in Traditional Chinese Medicine from SWAC/Santa Fe in 2007. He is both NCCAOM and ABIM certified. He has a lengthy practice in internal medicine, with over 20 years spent with the Indian Health Services in Arizona, and New Mexico, as well as being an emergency room, hospitalist, urgent care, and primary care provider in other facilities.
Jennie Luther, L.Ac, Dipl. OM, DACM
Foundation Department, Master Program Faculty
Jennie is a licensed acupuncturist in Colorado, and nationally certified in Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine (NCCAOM). She earned her Master of Science in Traditional Chinese Medicine from CCMU (2015), and her Doctorate in Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine with a focus on Integrative medicine from Pacific College of Health and Science (2021). She is also certificated as a Massage Therapy through Boulder College of Massage(1999), and is a Certified Craniosacral Therapist (2006). She has additional training in Visceral/Neural Manipulation through the Barral Institute, extensive training and experience in prenatal/postpartum bodywork, and in working with children with bodywork and Chinese Medicine. She currently has a holistic family practice in Centennial, CO, with a specialty in treating chronic pain and chronic health issues.
Craig Maginness, JD, MA
Foundation Department, Master Program Faculty
Craig Maginness is the creator of Well B-ing Business training designed to help alternative wellness practitioners master the business end of their practices. He is also the managing member of ExIn Global Strategies through which he consults with and teaches people with businesses how to be better businesspeople. Craig has launched and run several small business of his own as well as assisting countless other entrepreneurs, including Chinese medical practitioners, in launching successful businesses. He has taught business in both formal settings including the Executive MBA at Colorado State University, the College of Business at Johnson & Wales University and DU’s Center for Professional Development. He has also taught businesspeople in less traditional settings including programs he designed to help immigrants and refugees and people getting out of incarceration find economic opportunity. Craig has a BA from Dartmouth College, an MA in economics from the University of Colorado at Denver, and a JD from Syracuse University.
Amy Malone, L.Ac., Dipl. OM, MSTCM
Master Program Faculty, PD Program Faculty
Amy holds a Colorado state license as both an acupuncturist and a registered nurse. She received her BSN from the State University of New York at Buffalo and her MSTCM from the Colorado Chinese Medicine University®. She is nationally certified by the NCCAOM as a Diplomate of Oriental Medicine. While looking for answers to her own health issues, she discovered the power of acupuncture and herbal medicine and set out to share the amazing benefits of TCM. She has a clinical focus in women’s health, mental wellness, and digestive disorders. She uses her experience as a registered nurse in addition to her training in Chinese medicine to help facilitate healing, with a special interest in helping other health care providers. She has a private practice in Lakewood, Colorado.
Rui Nan, L.Ac., Dipl. Ac., MM & BM (China)
CORE FACULTY FOR DAOM PROGRAM
Chinese Herbal Medicine Department, Clinical Medicine Department, DAOM Program Faculty, Master Program Faculty, PD Program Faculty
Rui Nan, a third-generation practitioner of Chinese Medicine, earned her Bachelor of Medicine from Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine in 1998 and her Master of Medicine from Beijing University of Chinese Medicine in 2002. With several published texts, Rui Nan is a highly qualified practitioner. She holds a National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) certification in acupuncture and is a licensed acupuncturist in Colorado. She currently runs a private practice on the CCMU campus. Rui Nan has dedicated recent years to a careful and thorough study of classical Chinese Medicine texts, gaining insights beyond what is typically found in textbooks. She has achieved excellent treatment results for a variety of diseases.
Amy B. Otzel, MS, LPC, LMHC
Foundation Department, Master Program Faculty
Amy B. Otzel, PC, LMHC, is a retired U.S. Army Behavioral Health Sergeant and Iraq War veteran whose personal trauma healing and health recovery journey has enhanced her contribution forward in helping service as a skilled psychotherapist, passionate educator, and dedicated advocate. She holds three Master level graduate degrees in Psychology (Southern CT State University), Professional Counseling (Central CT State University), and Integrative Health & Healing (The Graduate Institute); served as a Readjustment Counseling Therapist with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Vet Center Program; co-owned a health & wellness nutritional market; co-chaired several professional and peer advocacy and outreach initiatives; facilitated myriad continuing education seminars; became a published songwriter; and established her private practice, Inner resource Psychotherapy, LLC. At present, Amy is continuing the mission in the states of Georgia, Florida, and Connecticut at Inner Resource Therapy located in Saint Marys, Georgia. She remains committed to holistically minded empowerment-based practices promoting health, healing, resiliency, and personal growth opportunities with military members, veterans, and their families. Maintaining proficiencies in conditions of trauma and stress as well as integrative mental healthcare, Amy routinely contributes as a professional development educator; a Yale University Department of Psychiatry Lecturer; a certified holistic stress management instructor; and an Advanced Level-3 Breath-Body-Mind teacher blending practices of coherent breathing, mindfulness and meditation, and Qi Gong.
Angie Pierce, L.Ac., Dipl. OM, DAOM
CORE FACULTY FOR CHINESE HERBAL MEDICINE DEPARTMENT
Biomedical Department, Chinese Herbal Medicine Department, Clinical Medicine Department, Master Program Faculty
Angie earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Colorado Boulder in 1991 and after 20 years in the Healthcare field, went back to school and earned her Masters of Science degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine from CCMU in 2013, and completed her Doctorate of Acupuncture & oriental medicine from CCMU in 2024. Angie has practiced tai qi, and Qi gong for over 20 years and finds time to dance at least once a week. She is certified by the NCCAOM in oriental medicine and is a licensed acupuncturist in Colorado. Angie has an acupuncture and herbal medicine practice in Denver Colorado where she says her specialty is people.
Patti Polman, L.Ac., Dipl. Ac., Dipl. TCM
Foundation Department, Master Program Faculty
Patti graduated from CCMU in 1994. She received her Associate’s Degree in Dental Hygiene from Indiana University and worked as a dental hygienist for more than ten years before studying Traditional Chinese Medicine. Patti is a Nationally Certified Diplomate in Acupuncture and Chinese Herbology through the NCCAOM and is a licensed acupuncturist in Colorado. Patti currently has an Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine practice in Denver Colorado, specializing in gentle Japanese acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine for the whole family, including pediatrics.
Billy Quintana, L.Ac., Dipl. OM, MSTCM
Biomedical Department, Clinical Medicine Department, Master Program Faculty
Billy obtained his Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Science with a focus in Chemistry from Colorado College in Colorado Springs, Colorado in 2007. After realizing he had a special interest in how our surroundings affect our holistic health, Billy attended the CCMU in Denver, Colorado. Currently, he holds his master’s in Traditional Chinese Medicine, is certified by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) in Oriental Medicine and is a licensed acupuncturist in Colorado. Billy has a special interest in cosmetic acupuncture, skin disorders and Chinese herbology. He currently has a private practice in Denver, Colorado.
Scott Richardson, L.Ac., Dipl. Ac., DAOM
Foundation Department, Master Program Faculty
Scott has 6 years of graduate and post graduate education in acupuncture and needling therapy. He received a Masters and Doctorate degree from Pacific College of Oriental Medicine in San Diego California. In additional to his training in the US, Scott also studied at Chengdu University in China and did an apprenticeship in Taipei, Taiwan. He has over 15 years of experience treating athletes and will often combine multiple modalities like manual therapy, Acupuncture, Dry Needling, Injection Therapy, and sports taping to achieve effective and long lasting results. Scott is the President Emeritus of the Acupuncture Association of Colorado. As an Ironman Triathlete, Scott has a unique insight into the needs of athletes and active people. Scott has a private practice in Denver Colorado.
Carol Ridsdale, L.Ac., Dipl. Ac., Dipl. TCM
Clinical Medicine Department, Foundation Department, Master Program Faculty
Carol graduated from the Colorado Chinese Medicine University® in 1994, having previously accomplished an Associate of Arts degree in Physician Assistantship and Chair-side Dental Assistance certificate program. Carol has practiced TCM since 1995, while volunteering her time with 9 Health Fairs as a phlebotomist. She is Assistant Clinic Director at the Colorado Chinese Medicine University®.
Camille Rodriguez, L.Ac., Dipl. Ac., MSTCM
Clinical Medicine Department, Master Program Faculty
Camille began her professional career in Emergency Medical Services as a paramedic in 1995. She earned her Master’s Degree in Acupuncture at the Colorado Chinese Medicine University® in 2012 and shortly after earned her Master’s Degree in TCM at the Colorado Chinese Medicine University®. She is a Nationally Certified Diplomate in Acupuncture through the NCCAOM and is an L.Ac. in Colorado. Camille has been treating patients in her private practice since September 2012 in the Centennial area.
Lisa Rundall, L.Ac., Dipl. OM, DACM
Clinical Medicine Department, Master Program Faculty
Lisa is a Doctor of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine, she received her doctorate from Pacific College of Health Sciences and a Masters of Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine from the Colorado Chinese Medicine University®. A nationally-certified diplomate in Oriental Medicine from NCCAOM, she is the owner of Moon River Clinic, LLC. in Denver’s LoHi community. Her work as a yoga instructor and community care giver continue to be meaningful pursuits, and serving as a Death Doula.
Chris Schultze, L.Ac., Dipl. Ac., MSTCM
DEAN OF STUDENTS AND REGISTRAR
Master Program Faculty, PD Program Faculty
Chris has a degree in chemistry from Rutgers Newark College of Arts and Sciences, and worked as a chemist subcontracting for the United States Environmental Protection Agency for eight years. She owned a health food store for fifteen years. Chris graduated from Colorado Chinese Medicine University® with her Master of Science in Traditional Chinese Medicine in December 2018, and is presently the Registrar of CSTCM.
Emily Sealy, L.Ac., Dipl. Ac., MSTCM
Biomedical Department, Foundation Department, Master Program Faculty
Emily has a Bachelor of Science degree in Integrative Healthcare, and a Master of Science degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine (MSTCM). She is a Nationally Board certified Diplomate in Acupuncture by the NCCAOM. After struggling with chronic illness since adolescence, Emily first found holistic healthcare by learning Reiki in 2007. This propelled her into the world of alternative medicine. A friend recommended acupuncture and CHM later on, which created such profound changes that she felt inspired to learn more. Emily is passionate about helping empower patients on their own healing journeys.
Debra J. Shapiro, L.Ac., MSTCM, BS
Clinical Medicine Department, Master Program Faculty
Debbie began work as an acupuncturist in 1992 after graduating Pacific College of Oriental Medicine (now Pacific College of Health Sciences) with a Master’s degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine – with a continued emphasis exploring the application of Chinese herbal medicine to more harmoniously regulate emotions. Debbie has 30 years of classroom instructional experience, including yoga. She has served presidential roles with the Acupuncture Association of Colorado (‘97-’99), and operates her private practice.
Christopher Shiflett, L.Ac., Dipl. OM, DAc
ASSISTANT DEAN
Chinese Herbal Medicine Department, Clinical Medicine Department, Distance Education Department, Foundation Department, Master Program Faculty
Christopher was educated at CSTCM/CCMU. He received a Masters of Science degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine and then earned his Doctorate of Acupuncture, and is a Nationally Board certified Diplomate of Oriental Medicine in acupuncture and herbal medicine therapies by NCCAOM. He has also studied Traditional Chinese Medicine at the Shaanxi College of Chinese Medicine in Xianyang, China. He was drawn to Traditional Chinese Medicine after receiving a diagnosis of Crohn’s disease, an autoimmune disorder that affects the gastrointestinal tract. After being introduced to Chinese medicine by a Taiji instructor, he took the steps to begin a path in the medical field. He developed both a love and devotion to Chinese herbal medicine as he was able to find solutions for his own symptoms and illness that simply were not offered or available with the western medical care he was receiving.
Donna Sigmond, L.Ac., Dipl. OM, DACM
Biomedical Department, Master Program Faculty
Donna earned her Master of Science in Acupuncture degree from Southwest Acupuncture (2004), and Doctor of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine degree from Pacific College of Oriental Medicine (2019). She is also certified Genomic Medicine Clinician, Certified LEAP Therapist (CLT), and Certified NADA (National Acupuncture Detoxification Association) Specialist.
Melati Stevens, L.Ac., Dipl. Ac., DAOM
CORE FACULTY FOR CLINICAL MEDICINE DEPARTMENT
Clinical Medicine Department, Master Program Faculty
Dr. Melati Stevens is a nationally board-certified and licensed acupuncturist and herbalist with a dual-specialization in Oriental Medicine in Santa Monica, CA, where she received her specializations, earned a DAOM, and expanded her interests in Rehabilitative Medicine, Fertility, and Cardiology. She completed her MSTCM at CSTCM, gaining proficiency in conjunct modalities including Cupping, Auricular, and Electro-Stimulation Acupuncture. Internal and Physical Medicine, extensively experienced in the treatment of Sports Medicine, FunctionalMedicine, and Immunology. She completed her doctoral residency at Emperor’s College of Traditional Oriental Medicine.
Maya Suzuki, L.Ac., Dipl. Ac.
Clinical Medicine Department, Foundation Department, Master Program Faculty
Heather “Maya” Suzuki lived and worked in Japan as an acupuncture and moxibustion therapist for over 10 years. Maya studied acupuncture at Toyo Shinkyu Senmon Gakko. She apprenticed and worked at Acura Acupuncture Clinic. During school Maya also became a member of Iyashi No Michi Kyokai and Tanioka’s Daishiryu shonishin styles. In 2015 she attained dual licensure in Japan and the U.S. She is a nationally certified Diplomate of acupuncture through the NCCAOM. Maya teaches Japanese acupuncture nationally and internationally, is the main translator and a mid-level practitioner for Iyashi No Michi, and is a mid-level practitioner of Daishiryu. She volunteers as a translator for the North American Journal of Oriental Medicine where she publishes articles on Japanese acupuncture. She owns and runs Bumblebee AcuTherapy, where she utilizes Japanese acupuncture and shonishin, as well as moxibustion to mainly treat perinatal and pediatric conditions. Maya has many hats. She owns and runs Bumblebee AcuTherapy, teaches Japanese acupuncture workshops around the US and internationally, and is the main translator and a mid-level practitioner for Iyashi No Michi. She is also a mid-level practitioner of Daishiryu style pediatric acupuncture. Maya is the head coordinator and translator for the Annual In-Touch Japan Seminar in Japan. She also volunteers as a translator for the North American Journal of Oriental Medicine where she has published several articles about Japanese acupuncture. She is passionate about allowing acupuncturists to improve their technical skills and therefore their clinical results via Japanese style needling and moxibustion. Maya founded and teaches the online Japanese acupuncture educational school, ShinKyu University, aimed to educate acupuncturists around the world in Japanese acupuncture and moxa techniques.
David Teitler, L.Ac., Dipl. Ac., Dip. TCM,
Chinese Herbal Medicine Department, Master Program Faculty
David Teitler has been practicing acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine in Carbondale since 1997. His journey in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) began at the Colorado School of Traditional Chinese Medicine (now Colorado Chinese Medicine University®, or CCMU), where he studied from 1993 to 1995, laying the foundation for his nearly three-decade career.
David’s approach to healing is characterized by personalized attention and carefully listening to patient aspirations in health. Acupuncture treatments and herbal remedies are tailored to the specific needs of the individual to promote Universal wellness.
As a board-certified practitioner, David successfully treats a wide range of conditions, including back and knee pain, tendonitis, fatigue, digestive issues, depression, anxiety, and women’s health concerns. His true specialty lies in the treatment of respiratory conditions and immune system enhancement.
David’s expertise in respiratory health is particularly valuable in Colorado’s dry climate. He has developed a keen understanding of how the arid environment affects lung function. His proficiency extends to conditions such as sinusitis, allergies, and chronic cough; honed-in on modifying treatments to address these unique challenges.
This specialized knowledge led David to found Dr. Dave’s Herbal Medicine, a small company focusing on remedies for respiratory conditions. His expertise on the topics of sinusitis and allergy care has led him to teach at acupuncture schools in Colorado and Arizona.
For seven years, David served as lead acupuncturist with the Calaway Young Cancer Center at Valley View Hospital in Glenwood Springs, CO. This experience deepened his understanding of integrating TCM with modern cancer care. His commitment to expanding knowledge in this field led him to study with the oncology team at the Yunnan Provincial Hospital in Kunming, China.
David’s dedication to learning is evident in his international pursuits. Fluent in Chinese and Spanish, he embarked on a self-guided herbal medicine study in China in the summer of 2023, exploring medicinal plants in their natural habitats. This global perspective enriches his practice and allows him to connect with a diverse patient base.
When not treating patients, David finds great joy in nature and family life. An avid outdoorsman, he can be found skiing in various locations during winter, from Spring Gulch and Williams Peak to Aspen Highlands. Summers see him gardening, hiking, and backpacking. His passion for nature extends to mushroom foraging, where he applies his keen eye and knowledge to discover culinary delights in the forest.
Stephen Ulmer, MSTCM
Chinese Herbal Medicine Department, Master Program Faculty
Stephen Ulmer is a Traditional Chinese Medicine herbalist. He graduated in 2014 from the Colorado Chinese Medicine University® in Denver with a Master’s degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Stephen has managed Yan Jing Supply, the oldest Chinese medicine pharmacy in Denver, for more than 6 years. This position has allowed him a unique experience in helping the general public with herbal recommendations and fulfilling practitioners’ formulas for 1000’s of patients.
Robin van Maarth, L.Ac., Dipl. OM, DACM
CLINIC DIRECTOR; CORE FACULTY FOR CLINICAL MEDICINE DEPARTMENT; CORE FACULTY FOR TCM FOUNDATIONS & ACUPUNCTURE DEPARTMENT
Clinical Medicine Department, Foundation Department, Master Program Faculty
Robin got her first ever acupuncture treatment at the CCMU student clinic over 25 years ago, which sent her on the path to eventual practice. Robin is a Colorado native and has been licensed to practice acupuncture in Colorado since 2009. She maintains a general practice in Denver in a multidisciplinary healthcare office and has a practice in Englewood, CO. She graduated from Touro Health Sciences College Graduate Program in Oriental Medicine in New York City and earned a Doctorate of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine from PCOM. She is a nationally certified Diplomate of Oriental Medicine through the NCCAOM.
Caylor Wadlington, L.Ac., Dipl. Ac.
Clinical Medicine Department, Foundation Department, Master Program Faculty
Caylor began his oriental medical studies in Santa Fe at the Kototama Institute, where instruction focused on classical Japanese-style acupuncture. After completing that two-year acupuncture program in 1982, he traveled to Taiwan to attend the Taipei Institute of TCM. He then completed his Doctorate in Oriental Medicine at SAMRA University of Oriental Medicine in 1988 where he focused on Chinese medical translation work. He is a nationally certified Diplomate in acupuncture through the NCCAOM and is a licensed acupuncturist in Colorado. He practices in Denver, Colorado.
Emory Wilder, MD
Biomedical Department, Master Program Faculty
Emory has been teaching at the undergraduate and graduate level in Integrative Health Care and the Life Sciences since 2004. Emory holds a M.D. degree with training in Energy Medicine, Massage (LMT), and Yoga. Currently, Emory teaches in Integrative Health Care at Metropolitan State University of Denver, Red Rocks Community College, and Georgian Court University.
Nicholas Wismann, L.Ac., Dipl. Ac., MSAOM
Foundation Department, Master Program Faculty
Nicholas originally earned his bachelor’s degree in Integrative Physiology at the University of Colorado. After studying abroad in Kunming, China he returned to the U.S. first attending massage school then attending Bastyr University to earn his graduate degree in Chinese Medicine. He is a nationally certified Diplomate in acupuncture through the NCCAOM and is a licensed acupuncturist in Colorado. He has served as a medical volunteer in the barrios of San Jose, Costa Rica, worked in a progressive assisted living center in Seattle, studied sustainable medical practices in Cuba, worked in several low-income clinics, studied medicine in both Shanghai and the Yunnan Province of China. He currently maintains his private practice in Centennial, Colorado.
Joseph “Joe” Wollen, L.Ac., Dipl. Ac., MSTCM
Clinical Medicine Department, Master Program Faculty
Joe has invested years exploring and implementing a grand study in the Asian Health Arts: Taijiquan and Qigong, blossoming to include earning his MSTCM degree from the Colorado Chinese Medicine University® in Denver, Colorado, in 2009. Further education includes his martial arts studies of the Ghost Bat style in Kung Fu and Lung Mo Xing Yi Quan; Tien Tao meditation, and Bagua Zhang. In 2019, Joe became an ordained 22nd-generation Taosit Monk of the Longmen Dragon Gate sect from the Quanzhen (Complete Reality) School.
Steven Wong, L.Ac., Dipl. Ac., PhD (China)
Clinical Medicine Department, Master Program Faculty
Steven recently returned from an 11-year stay in Beijing, where he received both his Master’s and PhD in Acupuncture and Tui Na from Beijing University of Chinese Medicine in 2015 and 2019, respectively. He was worked in the nationally recognized Guoyitang clinic in Beijing for over seven years. The tui na lineage of his graduate advisor for both degrees, Prof. Yu Tianyuan, primarily stems from the Imperial School of Tui Na, but also pulls from other traditions and schools. The acupuncture lineage he studied for over four years was that of Dr. Guo Tingying, a recognized Shanxi master of acupuncture and lineage holder for the Guo family technique. The herbal lineage he studied for over six years was from Prof. Li Xingguang, a disciple of the National Master Yan Zhenghua. He has published numerous articles in Chinese, as well as both dissertations. He specializes in orthopedic, dermatological, gynecological and organ disharmony diseases. In 2015, he also became a formal disciple of Baguazhang Master Gao Jiwu, the lineage holder of the Gao Branch of Liang Style Baguazhang.
Rick Woodward, L.Ac., Dipl. Ac., DACM,
Clinical Medicine Department, Foundation Department, Master Program Faculty
Rick graduated and received his diploma at CCMU in Fall 2001. His interest in Chinese medicine started after years of working in the Psychology and Western Medical fields. He specializes in the treatment of pain, anxiety, stress and insomnia. He also did a month of intensive clinical training in Bejing in 2006. He enjoys many outdoor activities, especially mountain biking, hiking and golf. He has a practice in Littleton, Colorado.
Drew Xilin, Laoshi, BS
Foundation Department, Master Program Faculty
Zhu Xilin, also known as Drew, was born in Beijing, China, and began studying Wu Style Tai Chi Martial Arts under Chinese Master Wang Pei-sheng before graduating from high school in 1982. He also studied Taiji Qigong and its therapeutic applications for restoring health and recovering from physical injuries. Drew later studied Ru-yi Taijiquan under Master Shi Ming, featuring on Bill Moyers’ PBS series “Healing and the Mind – The Mystery of Qi”. After graduation, Drew worked as a researcher at the Qigong Science and Research Center in Beijing, studying the physical effects of Qigong and Taiji traditional theory. Drew moved to the United States in 1995 and taught Taiji and Qigong classes in the Denver and Boulder area since 1996 between the Southwest Acupuncture College in Boulder and the Colorado Chinese Medicine University® for 17 years. Drew is currently practicing Chinese Taoist Healing, and has a hobby as a ballet performer participating in ballet shows with local ballet companies and academies since 2009.