“While change is primarily internal, forms of being can influence other forms of being. This ability for one thing to influence another is called gan ying, which is usually translated as “resonance”.
If Qi is the link, resonance is the method.”
- Ted Kaptchuk, The Web That Has No Weaver
Hi :) I’m Dr. Maritza
Functional Medicine Practitioner
Doctor of Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine
Mental Health Specialist
WHAT I DO
I help people who struggle with the physical symptoms of anxiety, trauma and stress, create a personalized holistic approach to their mental health that is doable, enjoyable & sustainable.
Unlike conventional approaches like cognitive therapy or pharmaceutical medications which only address one aspect of mental health symptoms, I combine evidence-based strategies, and Chinese Medicine approaches with neuroscience-backed techniques so that they can experience optimal mental and physical resilience.
HOW I GOT HERE
From an early age, I was captivated by the profound relationship between the human brain and mental health, driven by a desire to practice medicine.
During my time at the University of Chicago, working in the research lab of the Chief of Neurology, I encountered the limitations of conventional medicine. While analyzing brain slices and navigating quiet lab hours, I realized that the true essence of transformation comes from working directly with people. This revelation fueled my desire to make a more impactful difference.
Upon completing my Bachelor's degree, I joined a clinical neuroscience and psychopharmacology research lab, but soon found myself disillusioned by a system focused on blocking, sedating, and numbing symptoms. My journey took a pivotal turn when I discovered Chinese Medicine. The holistic approach of this practice, rooted in nature, captivated me and marked the beginning of my own journey toward true health—starting with the decision to quit alcohol.
The effects of this transformation were profound. As I delved deeper into holistic medicine, the elimination of alcohol brought remarkable changes: my energy and presence flourished, and I experienced a vibrational shift that enhanced my environment, relationships, and overall well-being. This was my first conscious change that brought upon the awareness of the spiritual & energetic impacts of altering my 3 dimensional experience.
MY PERSONAL STORY
My transformation became even more profound during a challenging relationship marked by a mental health crisis. After my partner's suicide attempt and subsequent diagnosis with bipolar disorder, I witnessed firsthand the limitations of conventional pharmaceuticals. Despite their use, my partner struggled with persistent negative thoughts and unresolved past traumas, revealing the need for more than just medication.
The chronic stress of the relationship took a severe toll on my own health, leading to debilitating joint pain and extreme food sensitivities. Western medicine offered their typical response of “your labs are normal”, but Chinese herbal medicine provided relief. Advanced functional lab tests revealed significant deterioration in my stress axis, adrenals, and cortisol levels as well as my digestive system.
By adopting new lifestyle habits, an anti-inflammatory diet, customized supplementation, and nervous system regulation, I achieved profound relief from physical and emotional pain. This experience underscored the interconnectedness of mind and body and the necessity of a fully rounded holistic & functional approach to mental health.
MY MISSION
Today, my mission is to support individuals in overcoming anxiety, trauma, and burnout through a comprehensive approach that transforms every dimension of their experience: brain, body, and beliefs to create lasting mental health results and optimized resilience.
Degrees, Certifications & Advanced Education
Biology B.A., The University of Chicago 2014
Neijing Nature Based Studies, Apricot Grove 2019-2020
Master’s in Traditional Oriental Medicine, Emperor’s College 2020
Doctor of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine, Pacific College of Health and Science 2021
Integrative Somatic Trauma Practitioner Training, The Embody Lab 2022
Huangdi Neijing Advanced Clinical Studies, Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences 2023
Advanced Functional Medicine Clinician, Kharrazian Institute, (In Progress)
Tao of Trauma Practitioner, ( In Progress)
