Michelle Thelen, L.Ac. MSTOM

Clinical Experience & Credentials

Michelle Thelen, L.Ac. MSTOM (Master of Science in Oriental Medicine) received her training at Pacific College of Oriental Medicine in San Diego, which included over 3,500 hours of comprehensive Chinese medicine and allopathic medicine. This training included both Western clinical sciences including anatomy, physiology and pathophysiology, and Oriental medicine organ syndromes (Zang Fu) along with an extensive clinical training in acupuncture and herbal medicine.

In addition to private practice, Michelle has experience working with patients suffering from orofacial pain or jaw dysfunction at UNC Dental Faculty Practice (2014-2021). She still receives referrals from UNC for trigeminal neuralgia, TMDD, and other orofacial pain disorders.

With over 18 years of experience, Michelle is a skilled practitioner of many East Asian Medicine therapies including acupuncture, electro-acupuncture, ear acupuncture, herbal medicine, moxa heat therapy, cupping, tui na, and Traditional Chinese dietetics.

Specialty Training:

Orofacial pain specialist…  expertise with trigeminal neuralgia, TMJ, and other problems affecting the face, head, and neck. Release cervical spine with gentle rocking massage and orthopedic massage to reinforce treatments. Lectured for UNC residents and dental students.

Orthopedics… Michelle was a licensed massage therapist for 10 years before studying acupuncture. Ability to palpate soft tissues and release muscle tension using Chinese massage and acupuncture combination.

Thyroid… using a combination of acupuncture, nutritional advice, and herbal medicine Advanced training in thyroid dysfunction from both western and eastern experts. Implementation of acupuncture/herb protocols to address hyper and hypo thyroid.

Cosmetic/Facial Rejuvenation… certified Mei Zen (style of cosmetic acupuncture) practitioner with training in the use of facial needling to reduce fine lines, rejuvenate the skin, and beautify the complexion. More than just skin deep, many facial points cross over to help improve sleep, reduce pain and reduce imbalances of the body.