milkweed’s philosophy

  • mission

    I founded Milkweed Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine to work towards a world in which everyone is equipped to meet life from a place of empowerment and wellness. I strive to work alongside patients to help them cultivate vitality and resilience, know their strength as well as their vulnerability, embody their authentic selves, and manifest their potential.

  • values

    We focus on human connection, compassion, and love as foundational for healing.

    We believe in the innate goodness of people and the potential for wellness and growth.

    We continuously hone our clinical knowledge and skills to offer the best possible diagnoses and care.

  • All are welcome

    Milkweed is a safe space where all can feel supported physically, mentally, and emotionally. We wholeheartedly welcome people of all abilities, ages, genders, sexual orientations, races, and backgrounds.

    We are committed to making this medicine accessible. If cost is a barrier, please let me know, and we’ll work together to find a solution.

Explore Treatment Offerings

Hi There, I’m Joanna (she/her)

I’m the founder of Milkweed Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine and a licensed acupuncturist and East Asian herbalist. Through one-on-one inquiry and gentle needling, my individualized treatments seek to address the root causes of illness and discomfort, uncover new ease within our bodies, and connect us more deeply with ourselves. I practice with compassion, non-judgmental presence, and a commitment to constant learning.

I first received acupuncture 20 years ago – and was immediately captivated by its precision, simplicity, and effectiveness. Around that time, I also began practicing yoga, meditation, and breath work, and reading about nutrition, health, inner development, wisdom traditions, and their areas of intersection. I’ve always been fascinated by the ways we care for ourselves, others, and the earth, and the ways we make meaning.

I initially pursued a career in environmental policy and community development, but soon realized – or rather, gathered the courage to admit to myself – that I most wanted to help individuals transform their lives from the inside out, one-on-one. In my early 20s I also began experiencing chronic pain from Hypermobility Spectrum Disorder, along with its host of related physical and emotional impacts. This experience continues to inspire and inform my work with a deeper appreciation of illness, healing, and finding wholeness and liberation within no matter the circumstances.

As a five element acupuncturist, my approach is thorough and grounded in compassion, connection, love, and the classical roots of East Asian Medicine. In the treatment room, each unique lived experience is honored. I absolutely love practicing this medicine, stewarding healing and transformation in those I support.

Born and raised in Watertown, MA, I am delighted and grateful to serve my home community of Greater Boston. I hold a Bachelor of Science with Distinction in Earth Systems from Stanford University, and a Masters of Acupuncture and a Diploma in Chinese Herbal Medicine from the Academy for Five Element Acupuncture in Gainesville, FL.

Outside the treatment room, I love to cook, talk and laugh with family and friends, spend as much time outdoors as I can, open-water swim in Walden Pond (during the warmer months!), and make nature-inspired art.

credentials & Professional Affiliations

Education:

Masters of Acupuncture and Diploma in Chinese Herbal Medicine from Academy for Five Element Acupuncture

Bachelor of Science with Distinction in Earth Systems from Stanford University

Licenses & Certifications:

Licensed Acupuncturist and practitioner of Chinese Herbal Therapy by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Board of Medicine Committee on Acupuncture (License Number 291083)

Diplomate of Oriental Medicine (Dipl.O.M.) with the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine

Clean Needle Technique Certified

Adult First Aid, CPR, and AED Certified through the American Red Cross

Reiki Level 1 Certified

Professional Affiliations:

Member of the Acupuncture Society of Massachusetts