Mary Jean Brinkman

My path to Chinese medicine came through my own personal health struggles. I was referred to an acupuncturist after having been diagnosed with Interstitial Cystitis. I was desperately looking for relief and answers and what I found was a practitioner who cared, was compassionate, and really listened to my needs. I also found more relief from my symptoms than I anticipated and left each appointment feeling relaxed and renewed.

This experience inspired me to make a radical shift in my life.  I had spent the first ten years working in social services with the elderly and disabled populations and was ready for a new direction.  Becoming an acupuncturist and Chinese medicine practitioner felt like a natural next step for me and once I decided on that path, I knew that was what I was supposed to do.  I feel lucky everyday to have discovered this as my life’s work.  This medicine not only offers beauty and simplicity, it is also highly effective and it allows me to continue to work with and help people.  I feel passionate about this medicine and helping people find their own path to wellness.

I believe in living the principles of Chinese medicine in my own life. I follow a whole-foods diet, practice Qigong, exercise regularly, and spend as much time as possible outdoors. Nutrition is a particular passion of mine, and I love helping people incorporate healthier choices into their daily lives. It is truly an honor to support my patients on their wellness journeys, and I am always happy to answer any questions about how I may be of service to you.

When I’m not in the office, you’ll likely find me exploring local hiking trails, paddling in my kayak, tending to my garden, curled up with a good book, or spending time with my husband and friends.

My Training & Credentials

I am board-certified in acupuncture and Chinese herbology and hold a Master’s Degree from the Oregon College of Oriental Medicine (OCOM). After completing my education at OCOM, I traveled to Nanjing, China, where I had the opportunity to work alongside several doctors affiliated with the Nanjing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine. This immersive experience deepened my understanding of Chinese medicine and refined my skills as both an acupuncturist and herbalist.

In addition to my training in Chinese medicine, I hold a B.A. in Sociology and Human Relations from St. Cloud State University. I am also a certified Qigong instructor through the Ling Gui International Healing Qigong School. My advanced studies include:

• Shen-Hammer Pulse Diagnosis
• NAET (Nambudripad’s Allergy Elimination Techniques)
• Sports/Orthopedic Acupuncture
• Kiiko Matsumoto/Nagano Style Acupuncture

I am also committed to advancing the field of acupuncture and have served for six years on the board of the Oregon Association of Acupuncturists (OAA).