Maria Rafdal
LAc, MSOM, Dipl Ac | Acupuncturist
I am licensed to practice acupuncture in the state of Minnesota and am a certified diplomate with the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM). I earned my Master's Degree in Oriental Medicine (MSOM) from Southwest Acupuncture College in Boulder, Colorado where the professional degree program consists of 3092.5 hours in the five branches of oriental medicine: acupuncture, herbal medicine, physical therapy, nutrition and exercise/breathing therapy. This degree includes graduate level studies in Oriental medicine and Western science.
Following in my Grandfather's footsteps, a pediatric physician, I became interested in medicine at a young age. I decided on a career in Oriental Medicine after experiencing improvement in my own health through a combination of treatments from both Oriental and Western medicine.
I specialize in treating pain, women’s health issues, and pediatric care. Furthermore, I have focused training in ob/gyn, fertility and women’s health. These skills were enhanced greatly while training under renowned midwife and acupuncturist, Valerie Hobbs.
I practice a large range of acupuncture techniques including Japanese, traditional Chinese, Chinese herbal medicine, trigger point therapy, and auricular. My techniques also include adjunct therapies such as cupping, bodywork techniques: shiatsu and tuina, gwasha, moxibustion and Chinese nutrition. With this multitude of techniques and modalities, I am able to create an effective, holistic treatment plan focused on your unique needs. In addition to treatments, I tend to use Chinese herbs to supplement care and provide more desired results. Customization of herbal formulas are used to treat the specific pattern and constitution of your condition. My work and studies at Great Wave Herbal Pharmacy greatly added to my herbal education and skills.
I enjoy exploring the beauty of the state on foot and in a canoe. My husband, a Minnesota native, and I relish in taking frequent trips to the boundary waters and lakes around the state.
From our Clients
"I can’t say enough about how much I appreciate Maria! She has helped me with both acute and chronic conditions. I had just about given up and thought these were things that I just had to live with after feeling ignored by other medical professionals. Maria is the complete opposite, she listens and really cares about helping you. If you are on the fence about trying acupuncture, it is time to quit living in pain and make your appointment with Maria- you will not regret it!"
-T. S.