Interview with Jennifer Sylvia: A Journey Through Acupuncture, Massage Therapy, and Herbal Medicine
/This blog post features an interview with Jennifer Sylvia, a holistic health practitioner specializing in acupuncture, massage therapy, and herbal medicine. Jennifer shares her educational background, which includes studying at the Elderberry School of Botanical Medicine and completing a Doctorate in Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine from the Oregon College of Oriental Medicine. She discusses what led her into this field, particularly her personal experience with migraines, which she alleviated through acupuncture and massage therapy.
At her clinic, Jennifer offers a range of services such as acupuncture, massage, and herbal medicine, focusing on addressing the root causes of her clients’ issues, which can include pain, digestive problems, and sleep disorders. Her approach combines multiple healing modalities, and she provides personalized treatments for both acute and chronic conditions.
Jennifer is also deeply committed to creating a welcoming, inclusive space for all, including LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities. She emphasizes the importance of community, connection, and preventative care.
Q: Can you share your educational journey in holistic health and wellness?
A: My journey into holistic health began with a deep fascination for local herbal medicine. I spent hours in my backyard and local forests learning about native plants using my plant ID book. This self-study evolved into making medicinal preparations from locally grown herbs. However, I wanted more formal education and community engagement, which led me to the Elderberry School of Botanical Medicine in 2014. The program focused on wildcrafting, medicine-making, and clinical herbalism.
From there, I joined Integrate Health and Wellness PDX, a Chinese Medicine clinic, which sparked my passion for acupuncture and massage therapy. In 2015, I completed the 800-hour massage therapy program at East West College of the Healing Arts, with training in Swedish relaxation, Tuina, Deep Tissue, Craniosacral, and Pre- and Perinatal Massage.
In pursuit of even more knowledge, I enrolled in the Doctorate program at the Oregon College of Oriental Medicine. I graduated with both a Doctorate and Master’s in Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine, and I now see myself as a lifelong student, always eager to learn and grow.
Q: What inspired you to choose this profession?
A: My passion for integrative medicine and whole-body wellness took shape when I moved to Portland from Florida in 2010. Growing up, I had never experienced acupuncture or understood the therapeutic benefits of massage. As someone who struggled with migraines since age 12, I sought relief through conventional medicine without much success. But regular acupuncture treatments and massage therapy changed my life, reducing the frequency and severity of my migraines.
These sessions helped me see healthcare in a new light. I realized that small, consistent steps—like committing to acupuncture—could dramatically improve my well-being. This inspired me to pursue a career where I could help others feel empowered in their health journey, focusing on preventative care rather than reactive interventions.
Q: What services do you offer at your clinic?
A: At my practice, I offer a wide range of services, including acupuncture, massage therapy, and herbal medicine. I work primarily with individuals, but I also conduct group treatments and workshops, often collaborating with other wellness professionals. My goal is to provide a safe, welcoming space for all individuals, including the LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities.
Q: Do you specialize in treating specific conditions?
A: While most people initially seek acupuncture for pain relief, my comprehensive approach allows me to address a variety of other issues, including constipation, insomnia, menstrual disorders, and skin conditions. I believe in treating the whole person, and my intake process includes asking in-depth questions to uncover the root causes of discomfort.
Q: Why do your clients choose you?
A: I believe my clients come to me because I offer a multi-modal approach that combines acupuncture, massage, and herbal medicine. They appreciate that they can receive all these treatments in one session, allowing for a holistic healing experience.
Q: When and how often do you see your clients?
A: My office hours are Sunday-Wednesday from 9:30 am to 2:00 pm and Thursday from 4:30 pm to 9:00 pm. The frequency of treatments depends on each client’s condition. For acute issues, I recommend 1-2 sessions per week for 4-6 weeks, while chronic conditions may require 2-4 sessions per month for 3-6 months.
Q: What does a typical session look like with you?
A: Each session starts with an in-depth assessment to determine the root cause of a client's concern. I utilize a range of therapies, including acupuncture, massage, cupping therapy, gua sha, heat therapy, nutritional guidance, and herbal prescriptions. I also give clients stretching exercises and qi gong practices as homework to help them maintain their well-being between sessions.
Q: What is your payment structure?
A: I offer private pay options, and while I don’t accept insurance directly, I can provide superbills for clients to submit for reimbursement.
Q: How can potential clients contact you?
A: I welcome anyone interested in learning more about my practice to visit my website at www.WisewoodClinic.com or email me directly at WisewoodClinic@gmail.com. I look forward to working with new clients on their wellness journeys.
Q: Do you have any hobbies outside of your practice?
A: Outside of work, I love reading, biking, hiking, and spending time with my son exploring creeks around Kentucky. Since I’m new to the area, learning about the local flora and fauna is one of my favorite pastimes. I also enjoy crafting, particularly felting, clay, painting, and drawing.
Q: What’s one message you want to share with your readers?
A: I believe in the power of community and connection. We’ve been raised to think we must go it alone, but this mindset leads to isolation and poor health. I want to be part of the solution, walking alongside people as we work to regain our health and well-being as a community.
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