Melissa Pereira Gelin, L.Ac.
Pain Management
Melissa specializes in pain management with a gentle and integrative approach, combining both Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) protocols and Kiiko Matsumoto Style (KMS) acupuncture techniques. KMS clinical approach integrates the work of master Japanese acupuncturists to create a highly effective treatment style that relies on abdominal and channel palpation. Melissa has developed a holistic approach to pain management that treats the whole person intrinsically as well as the specific site(s) of pain. Melissa treats any type of pain, but she especially excels in treating pain that has both physical and mental/emotional components and may appear chronic, complex and/or without cause.
Melissa received her undergraduate degree in Psychology with a minor in Bio-physical studies from Lewis & Clark College. As a post-graduate interested in health care, Melissa then worked for a decade as a strategic market analyst on projects for pharmaceutical companies, studying large employer disease management and tactical models. Frustrated by the gaps in the traditional U.S. medical system, Melissa began her Masters degree program in Traditional Chinese Medicine at Five Branches University in Santa Cruz, CA.
During her graduate studies, Melissa had severe autoimmune complications during her first pregnancy in the midst the most stressful time of her life. Despite the odds (90% chance of disease recurrence during subsequent pregnancy), she applied her integrated knowledge of health care, nutrition, stress reduction, and spiritual mindfulness to have very healthy second pregnancy five years later. Melissa is convinced by both her personal and professional experiences that true healing comes from the connection of mind/ body/ spirit. Non-judgmental in her approach, Melissa provides a safe, supportive environment and encourages patients with her positive attitude and ongoing self-care advice.
When not working, Melissa enjoys playing and traveling with her two sons in and near the ocean, mountains, and trees that make our area so special. She is a native to Santa Cruz and can often be found outside.