Hi, I’m Jennifer Carino

Growing up in a family of healthcare providers, I had the unique opportunity to work with my parents in various healthcare settings and volunteer at hospitals. While everyone expected me to follow in their footsteps, I took a different path and studied Broadcast Communication Arts instead!

Not long after graduating, my life changed when my boyfriend was diagnosed with a cancerous brain tumor. This experience turned our world upside down, but it also sparked a deep interest in cancer treatments.

I started exploring holistic approaches, learning about acupuncture and herbal remedies, drawing from my upbringing in healthcare. With the help of our wonderful acupuncturist, we began to incorporate holistic practices into our daily lives. We transformed our diet, embraced yoga, received acupuncture treatments, took herbal supplements, and cleaned out toxic products from our home.

As I navigated this journey, I realized that my family’s healthcare background was a natural part of who I am. The positive effects of acupuncture and herbal treatments on my boyfriend's recovery ignited a passion for healing that led me to change careers.

I went on to earn my Master’s degree from the American College of Traditional Chinese Medicine in San Francisco, graduating in 2001. Now, with over 20 years of experience under my belt, I've had the pleasure of treating thousands of individuals both in person and online.

I feel incredibly grateful to have shared over 20 healthy years with my boyfriend-turned-husband, Jack. Although he passed away in 2019 after facing a second brain tumor, his spirit continues to inspire me every day. Jack always encouraged me to embrace my “second life.”

When I'm not in the clinic, you can find me hiking the beautiful trails in Marin, enjoying jazz concerts with friends, playing with my adorable dog, Leggs Benedict, or traveling to new and exciting places with my husband, Mike.

I can’t wait to join you on your healthcare journey and help you live life to the fullest!


My Approach

I find support in meditation and Buddhist philosophy. After completing the San Francisco Zen Center’s yearlong “Contemplative Caregivers Course,” I learned to incorporate compassionate care, presence, meditation, and Zen teachings into my personal and professional life.

Along with private practice, I worked for Stanford University on a National Institute of Health (NIH)-sponsored research study, “Acupuncture for Depression During Pregnancy: A Randomized Controlled Trial.” This showed a reduction in symptoms and response rate similar to those in standard depression treatments.

Research

As a form of gratitude for my supportive friends and family, I paid it forward and volunteered with the Charlotte Maxwell Complementary Clinic in Oakland providing acupuncture treatments to low-income women living with cancer.

Volunteer

Specialized Trainings AND Certifications

  • The Art and Science of Obstetrics, Oakland, CA

  • The Treatment of Children’s Diseases with Chinese Medicine, Oakland, CA

  • Mei Zen Acupuncture System for the Abdomen: From Fertility to Weight Loss, NYC

  • Mei Zen Cosmetic Acupuncture System for the Face and Neck, Los Angeles, CA

  • Traditional Chinese Medicine and Complementary Care for People With Cancer, Oakland, CA

  • Mastering the Thyroid, Burlingame, CA

  • Functional Lab Chemistry, Emeryville, CA

  • Japanese Acupuncture Techniques, San Francisco and Oakland, CA

  • California Acupuncture License, L.Ac.

  • Clean Needle Technique

  • CPR and First Aid