Business Details
23 Years
experience
Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine in Oakland, CA
With over 30 years of experience in the healing arts, I founded the Temescal Acupuncture Center in 2003 to provide integrative care rooted in traditional Chinese medicine. My practice combines classical meridian-based acupuncture with Western anatomical techniques, specializing in chronic pain management, orthopedics, and sports medicine. As an Associate Professor at the Acupuncture and Integrative Medicine College in Berkeley for over a decade, I developed advanced protocols for treating musculoskeletal conditions using trigger point therapy.My approach prioritizes patient-centered care, addressing immediate concerns like back pain or allergies while fostering long-term wellness through lifestyle adjustments. Recognized as the East Bay Express' top acupuncturist in 2010, I collaborate with over 150 Kaiser Permanente physicians to deliver complementary care that bridges Eastern and Western medical traditions.
Services
Acupuncture
Electro-Acupuncture
Herbal Medicine
Non-Insertion Techniques
Cupping
Details
- Year established: 2003
Highlights and features
- 30+ years of experience in healing arts and acupuncture education
- Hybrid treatment approach combining traditional and Western techniques
- Integrative clinic serving North Oakland since 2003
- Recognized as East Bay Express' top acupuncturist in 2010
- Collaborates with 150+ Kaiser Permanente physicians for chronic pain management
Associations and certifications
- California Acupuncture Board
- National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM)
Services
Acupuncture
Acupuncture involves inserting fine needles at specific points to stimulate neurochemical responses. This technique addresses chronic pain, allergies, and musculoskeletal issues through both traditional meridian theory and modern anatomical understanding. Treatments promote natural healing and stress reduction.
Electro-Acupuncture
Electro-acupuncture applies gentle electrical currents to needles for enhanced pain management. Particularly effective for musculoskeletal conditions, this method amplifies treatment effects by regulating muscle function and improving localized circulation through controlled stimulation.
Herbal Medicine
Custom herbal formulations provide gradual healing through natural ingredients. These remedies strengthen organ systems and immune function using time-tested combinations that complement acupuncture treatments while addressing underlying health imbalances.
Non-Insertion Techniques
Non-insertion methods use gold/silver needles or Japanese Shoni shin tools for skin contact without penetration. These techniques safely treat children, sensitive patients, or weakened individuals while maintaining diagnostic accuracy and therapeutic effectiveness.
Cupping Therapy
Cupping employs glass jars to create suction that improves blood circulation and identifies pain sources. This technique combines liniment application with sliding movements to address both localized and widespread musculoskeletal discomfort.
People
Brian Barlay, L AC
Founder & Lead Acupuncturist
With 30+ years in acupuncture, Brian graduated from the American College of Traditional Chinese Medicine and trained in China. He taught at AIMC Berkeley for over a decade and founded Temescal Acupuncture Center in 2003 after 18 years in the Oakland community.
Questions
What conditions do you treat?
We specialize in chronic pain, sports injuries, allergies, headaches, and women's health issues using acupuncture and herbal medicine.
Do you accept insurance?
Yes, we work with major providers including Kaiser Permanente, Aetna, Blue Shield, and UnitedHealthcare. Check with your carrier for coverage details.
How do I schedule an appointment?
New patients can call or text 510-654-7040 to book their first visit with Brian Barlay, L.Ac.
What happens during the first visit?
Initial consultations include health history review, treatment planning, and a 60-90 minute acupuncture session focused on your primary concerns.
Is the clinic accessible?
Unfortunately, the clinic has six steps at the entrance. Please notify us in advance if you require special accommodations.
