My Journey to Acupuncture

My journey into acupuncture began through a deeply personal experience that ultimately changed the direction of my life.

​

In 2004, my husband and I experienced the heartbreaking loss of our twin daughters during a high-risk pregnancy. That loss profoundly affected me, and in the years that followed, I struggled with anxiety, depression, and finding a sense of balance in my life.

With the support of mental health professionals, counseling, and medication, I began navigating the emotional challenges of grief and recovery. During this time, our family continued to grow, and we were blessed with two more children. Although motherhood brought tremendous joy, the emotional effects of my earlier experiences remained, along with the challenges of adjusting to a new community and raising a young family.

​

Despite the support I had received, I continued to feel overwhelmed and disconnected from the sense of well-being I had once known.

​

Discovering a New Approach to Wellness

​

I had heard about acupuncture, and something about its philosophy and whole-person approach to health resonated with me. I decided to schedule my first appointment, hoping to find additional support for my physical and emotional well-being.

 

What I experienced was remarkable to me.

 

After that first treatment, I felt a sense of calm that I had not experienced in years. The constant internal humming and buzzing sensation that had accompanied my anxiety began to quiet.

 

For the first time in a long while, I felt more like myself.

 

I continued receiving acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine, and over time, I noticed meaningful improvements in my overall well-being. Eventually, I was able to discontinue the medications I had previously relied upon, under appropriate medical guidance.

 

Acupuncture became an important part of my personal wellness journey. While everyone's experience is different, mine inspired a lasting appreciation for the possibilities of individualized, integrative healthcare.

 

From Patient to Practitioner

 

As I continued receiving treatment, I frequently shared with my husband how much acupuncture was helping me.

 

One day, he suggested that I consider returning to school to study acupuncture myself.

 

The idea immediately resonated with me.

 

Within a few months, I enrolled at the Academy of Chinese Culture and Health Sciences, beginning a new chapter in my life.

 

What started as a personal search for balance and well-being became a passion for learning Traditional Chinese Medicine and helping others.

 

Bringing My Experience Into My Practice

 

My journey has shaped the way I approach patient care.

 

I understand how challenging it can be when physical discomfort, emotional stress, disrupted sleep, low energy, and other health concerns begin to affect everyday life.

 

I believe that every patient deserves to feel heard, respected, and supported. I take the time to understand each person's health history, concerns, and goals so that treatment can be tailored to their individual needs.

 

Today, at my practice in Pleasant Hill, I provide acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine care for a variety of concerns, including pain and injuries, stress and anxiety, sleep disturbances, digestive health, low energy, headaches and migraines, jaw and TMJ discomfort, women's health, and fertility support.

 

I also have a special interest in facial rejuvenation acupuncture, combining specialized facial techniques with a whole-person approach to skin health and healthy aging.

 

My Philosophy of Care

 

I believe that health is more than the absence of symptoms. It is also about feeling comfortable in your body, maintaining a sense of balance, and being able to participate fully in the activities and relationships that matter to you.

 

My goal is to provide thoughtful, compassionate, and individualized care in a welcoming environment.

Every patient has a story, and I consider it a privilege to be part of their healthcare journey.

 

I look forward to welcoming you to my practice.

 

Dr. Gina Marks, DAIM, L.Ac.
Licensed Acupuncturist | Pleasant Hill, California