Our Clinic

Our Approach

Holistic wellness is a health strategy that considers all areas of a person’s life and how they interact with their surroundings. Instead of depending primarily on a medical approach to cure illness and disease, holistic wellness asserts that all persons may play a part in their own well-being. It entails considering the health of the mind, body, and spirit in order to enhance overall well-being.

While we have specific treatments, our goal is for you to begin your journey to full health rather than treat it symptomatically. Therefore, our integrated approach incorporates both research-based and time-tested treatments combining Chinese medicine, acupuncture, naturopathy, cold laser (LLLT)/photobiomodulation, and functional medicine.

Rather than taking a traditional disease-centered focus, we address the underlying causes of disease using a patient-centered approach addressing the whole person, not just an isolated set of symptoms.

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Our Vision

At Acubalance we are dedicated to promoting the Daoist principle of Yang Sheng – to nourish life – fostering freedom, harmony, healing and effortless abundance for ourselves, our clients, our families, our community, and our planet.

Our Acupuncturist and Chinese Medicine Doctors

Dr. Lorne Brown

B.Sc, CPA, Dr. TCM, FABORM, CHt, CLT, RTT, OBAAM
“In my commitment to lifelong learning, sharing knowledge, and helping others in health and wellness, I founded Acubalance Wellness Centre, the first Traditional Chinese Medicine clinic in British Columbia dedicated to reproductive health and fertility.”

Dr. Ryan Funk

Dr. TCM, FABORM, OBAAM
He is dedicated to working with clients to help them develop their lifestyle, diet, and mind-body practices that will optimize their fertility and increase their overall well-being.

Dr. Valentina Romanov

Dr. TCM
Valentina Romanov was originally exposed to alternative medicine as a young child growing up in Russia. Both her grandmother and mother practiced chiropractic, massage, and herbal therapies.

Julia León

R.Ac
Julia’s passion for acupuncture stems from her personal journey with reproductive health challenges. She specializes in hormone balancing, menstrual health, fertility, gynecological disorders, pregnancy, menopause, and more. Julia has received advanced training in fertility and reproductive health.

Dr. Sophie Ma

Dr. TCM
Sophie is a trilingual Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practitioner with over 20 years of experience across China, Japan, and Canada. Specializing in acupuncture, herbal prescription, and TCM techniques, clients most often come to her for chronic pain management, gynecology, and anti-aging concerns.

Annie Hou

B.Sc, Dr. TCM
Annie Hou is a registered Doctor of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Dr.TCM). Born in Taiwan and relocated to Vancouver at a young age, Annie graduated with a BSc degree from UBC and completed the Doctor of TCM program at PCU College of Holistic Medicine. She is dedicated to helping people achieve optimal health.

Dr. Kali MacIsaac

ND, HBSc
“I am willing to challenge the idea that health equals the absence of disease, and I am interested in pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in order to help my patients achieve their highest potential. I’m here to help you find out why.”

Dr. Ashley Damm

ND, BSc
“Medicine and its language can be daunting. It is my goal to simplify, educate and empower you to make informed decisions about your health journey.”

Lorianne Slauenwhite

Siobhan Brennan

As clinical director, I have built and empowered a team of integrated fertility experts and practitioners who have become internationally known for treating infertility and pregnancy support, as well as fatigue, anxiety, digestive issues, hormonal imbalances, and pain. Our integrated approach incorporates both research-based and time-tested treatments combining Chinese medicine, acupuncture, naturopathy, and functional medicine.

Year after year, I’m proud that Acubalance is recognized for its exceptional patient-centered care and has been repeatedly named in Georgia Straight’s Best of Vancouver Awards for acupuncturists and naturopathic clinics.

I’m an advocate for integrative health and wellness and strive to inspire others to learn, share and help. After leaving a career as a CPA and receiving my Dr. of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Dr.TCM) at Vancouver’s International College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, I continued to pursue training in hypnosis, functional medicine, cold laser therapy, Psych K, Neuro-Linguistic Programming, Rapid Transformational Therapy (RTT), and Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) to allow me to offer an integrative approach to assist your body’s innate ability to heal your pain, digestive disorders, anxiety, hormone imbalances, and reproductive health issues.

In order to help advance Traditional Chinese Medicine, acupuncture, functional medicine, and naturopathy, I created one of the largest online sources for acupuncture & functional medicine continuing education at ProDSeminars.com and Medigogy.com, now under the Healthy Seminars banner.

In 2015, I founded and co-chaired the world’s first Integrative Fertility Symposium conference bringing together reproductive endocrinologists, urologists, and natural fertility practitioners (acupuncturists, naturopathic doctors, and functional medicine practitioners) at the Integrative Fertility Symposium in Vancouver, Canada.

I’m passionate about my work and enjoy sharing my knowledge and expertise in many areas including:

publishing the Acubalance Fertility Diet
pioneering laser acupuncture protocol for fertility.
appearing as a fertility expert on TV, Radio, magazines, and newspapers including the Globe and Mail and Macleans Magazine.
presenting at fertility conferences and meetings throughout North America, including the 2012 annual meeting of the Canadian Fertility and Andrology Society (CFAS), the Society of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Canada (SOCG), Pacific Coast Reproductive Society (PCRS), and the Science Advisory Panel of Assisted Human Reproduction Canada (AHRC)
Presenting at Chinese medicine conferences such as AOMA (Texas), FSOMA (Florida), AAAOM (Chicago & LA), ICCM (Tel Aviv, Israel), TCM Kongress (Germany), IICMC (Australia), and IFS (Vancouver BC)
being the first Canadian certified as a fellow of the American Board of Oriental Reproductive Medicine (FABORM)
lending my expertise on numerous other boards and advisory panels as well, including the Quality Assurance Board of the British Columbia College of Traditional Chinese Medicine & Acupuncture (CTCMA), and the PDA Advisory Panel for the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM)
being the first appointed “Natural Products Expert” to the Clinical Research Ethics Board (CREB) for the University of British Columbia
participating in the Fertile Souls Clinical Excellence in Fertility Professionals (CEFP)

Dr. Ryan Funk graduated as a Doctor of Traditional Chinese Medicine from the International College of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Vancouver, BC. He then pursued postgraduate studies, completing 500 hours in Gynecology and Internal Medicine at the Anhui Hospital of TCM, Hefei City, China.

Ryan is a Fellow of the American Board of Oriental Reproductive Medicine (ABORM) and believes that true healthcare is a partnership. He is dedicated to working with clients to help them develop their lifestyle, diet, and mind-body practices that will optimize their fertility and increase their overall well-being.

Bronwyn’s previous practice was with the Westside Midwives, where she worked primarily with pregnancy-related conditions such as nausea, fatigue, eczema, high blood pressure, cervical ripening, and the usual aches and pains of pregnancy. Her career has spanned various other settings as well. For the past 3 years, she has worked in a physiotherapy clinic focused primarily on orthopedic medicine. Concurrent with a private practice, she has had a contract with the PHS Community Services Society in the downtown eastside of Vancouver for almost ten years, where she treats patients with various conditions, including addictions, injuries, HIV, and mental illness. Furthermore, at BC Women’s Hospital in partnership with the University of BC, Bronwyn worked from 2005-2008 on a study performing acupuncture on chemically dependant pregnant women.

Allison is a licensed Acupuncturist and a registered member of the College of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners and Acupuncturists of British Columbia. She began her studies at Pacific College of Oriental Medicine in New York City and went on to complete the four-year practitioner of Traditional Chinese Medicine program at the International College of Traditional Chinese Medicine of Vancouver.

Allison is a fellow of the American Board of Oriental Reproductive Medicine (ABORM), a member of the Obstetrical Acupuncture Association (OBAA), a Certified Laser Technician (CLT), and a Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT-200). As an avid believer in affordable health care, Allison has volunteered for numerous years at various community acupuncture clinics in Vancouver including Poke Community Acupuncture and The Village Community Acupuncture.

She has specialized training in treating pain and injury as well as fertility and reproductive health. As a stage 3 Endo Warrior herself, Allison is extremely passionate in helping treat the pain and symptoms of endometriosis. Allison believes in truly understanding the holistic picture of every individual’s health in order to provide exceptional care that surpasses the boundaries of the physical, mental, and emotional levels. She believes that each patient is a unique case that requires understanding, skill, and above all else, compassion.

Tatiana has extensive experience in reproductive wellness, offering care for women with hormonal imbalances, painful periods, PCOS, and pre and postnatal care. She also offers support for moms-to-be with symptoms ranging from nausea/vomiting, miscarriage prevention, back and hip pain, sciatica, cervical ripening, breached babies, and labour prep. She also treats a variety of concerns including anxiety, stress, digestive health, and pain management. Tatiana’s passion for helping others is demonstrated through her treatments, leaving patients feeling heard, understood, and cared for.

She understands what it means to be a compassionate and caring healthcare practitioner and is committed to helping her patients heal both mentally and physically.

When not in the clinic, she is busy rock climbing, road cycling, or reading about new research and information on health and wellness.

Kevin (he/they) is an acupuncturist, qigong & yoga practitioner, and artist who has been fascinated by the functions of the body for as long as he can remember. He graduated Magna Cum Laude from Pacific Rim College and is a certified E-RYT 500 yoga teacher.

In his first career as a ballet dancer, Kevin continually returned to acupuncture and yoga as potent tools to heal from various injuries and illnesses. As such, his practice weaves modern somatic sciences with eastern healing arts. Kevin believes everyone’s health journey is a unique work of art. His clinical practice is ignited by discovering each person’s distinct alchemy of vitality and providing patients with a heart-centered, research-based space to address:

Fertility, prenatal, and postnatal care
Digestive and hormonal issues
Anxiety and stress-related conditions
Musculo-skeletal pain
Queer- and POC-aware care

Kevin has trained in tui na (Chinese medical massage), reflexology, medical qigong, Shadow Yoga, non-violent communication, and polyvagal theory to support western science and the body’s full spectrum of health and wellbeing: both short- and long-term. In his spare time, you can find Kevin experimenting in the kitchen, making music, dancing, learning about new cultures, and exploring the natural world (oceans and sunsets are his favorites!)

Dr. Kali MacIsaac is a registered Naturopathic Doctor (ND) with the College of Naturopathic Physicians of British Columbia. She is a member of the BC Naturopathic Association (BCNA) and the Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors (CAND). Prior to medical school, Kali earned an Honours Bachelor of Science degree in Biomedical Science from the University of Waterloo where her passion for healthcare developed. Following this, she attended the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine (CCNM) in Toronto, Ontario, for a 4-year accredited naturopathic medicine program.

Dr. MacIsaac works as a general practitioner and has a clinical focus on digestive health, reproduction and fertility, endocrinology, and hormonal balance. She has completed the full curriculum of Biological Medicine certification with the Paracelsus Klinik Lustmuhle, as instructed by Dr. Thomas Rau MD, as well as a full curriculum in microscope technology from BiomedX. She believes in the power of an empowered patient and develops individual treatment protocols to inspire patients to take an active role in their health.

Dr. MacIsaac is also actively involved in educating the public about health and naturopathic medicine through speaking engagements and media appearances.

Dr. Ashley has always had an interest in the intricacies of the human body and its resilience. She strives to understand the why behind symptom patterns and uses this information to educate her patients on how to support the body’s intrinsic ability to heal.

As a naturopathic doctor, Dr. Ashley takes a holistic approach, using your comprehensive health history, appropriate diagnostic/functional testing, and clinical findings to determine the root cause of your concern. She uses her understanding of the body’s physiology to develop creative, evidence-informed treatment options. Together, we establish an integrative plan that works for you. The process is reinforced with strategic monitoring and adjustments as needed, supporting you every step of the way.

Education:

Dr. Ashley obtained her Bachelor of Science degree in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry at Simon Fraser University with Cooperative Studies in Research and Development. Following this, she obtained her Doctorate of Naturopathic Medicine from Boucher Institute of Naturopathic Medicine. She is a registrant with the College of Naturopathic Doctors and a member in good standing with the British Columbia Naturopathic Association and Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors.

Dr. Valentina Romanov

Valentina Romanov was originally exposed to alternative medicine as a young child growing up in Russia. Both her grandmother and mother practiced chiropractic, massage, and herbal therapies. After moving to Canada, Valentina spent her teen and young adult years involved in sports, where her passion for health and wellness became more evident. She completed a personal fitness trainer diploma, and worked in that field for over 10 years. While living abroad in England, Valentina met an acupuncturist who helped resolve some health issues, and opened her eyes to the beautiful world of Traditional Chinese Medicine. This experience drove her to expand her knowledge, and upon returning to Canada, she enrolled at the Tzu Chi International College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, where she completed the Acupuncturist, Herbalist, and Doctor of TCM programs.

With her background and personal experience, Valentina is passionate about treating acute and chronic musculoskeletal issues, as well as gastrointestinal, and mental-emotional conditions. In more recent years, Valentina has gained a deeper interest in fertility and reproductive health while going through a personal journey with her wife to become a family of 3.

In her free time, Valentina enjoys lifting weights, exploring foodie and coffee establishments, traveling with her family, and spending time by the ocean.

Julia León is a licensed Acupuncturist, specializing in holistic healing. She graduated from the International College of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Vancouver, BC.
Julia’s passion for acupuncture stems from her personal journey with reproductive health challenges. She specializes in hormone balancing, menstrual health, fertility, gynecological disorders, pregnancy, menopause, and more. Julia has received advanced training in fertility and reproductive health.

Julia believes in the transformative power of informed healthcare guidance to achieve harmony in the body, heart, and mind.

Beyond acupuncture, she is trained in the NADA protocol for substance misuse and mental health support. Julia works as a relief acupuncturist in Vancouver clinics, offering community-based NADA protocol sessions.

Julia’s diverse background includes interests in contemporary dance, yoga, macrobiotics, and early childhood education. Originally from Chile, she lived, studied, and worked in various countries before making Vancouver her home with her husband. Julia welcomes you to discover holistic health possibilities with her.

Sophie is a trilingual Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practitioner with over 20 years of experience across China, Japan, and Canada. Specializing in acupuncture, herbal prescription, and TCM techniques, clients most often come to her for chronic pain management, gynecology, and anti-aging concerns.

Sophie takes a holistic approach to healing through treating the whole body instead of solely focusing on the problem area. This supports the evaluation and treatment of root causes instead of symptoms and provides a personalized experience for each client. She encourages her clients to be actively involved in their personal journey to better health and help integrate preventative herbal medicine for long-term health benefits. Clients often benefit from improving their overall health and well-being in addition to their initial concerns.

Born in China, Sophie graduated from Shanxi Traditional Chinese Medicine University Hospital with top distinction. She moved to Japan post-graduation, where she practiced at the IMAI clinic and was also an adviser at the Beijing TCM Japan branch in Tokyo. In 2005, she relocated to Vancouver, Canada where she specialized in acupuncture and obtained the TCM certification. She is currently a PhD candidate for acupuncture at the Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine under the supervision of Master Ronggang Li based in Vancouver. As part of the Ph.D. program, she visits China to engage in extensive training while immersing herself in the local hospitals to learn techniques at the forefront of TCM.

Sophie is a free spirit, a dancer, and an avid swimmer. She enjoys playing the guqin, an ancient Chinese instrument and loves to cook for the enjoyment of her family and friends.

Annie Hou is a registered Doctor of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Dr.TCM). Born in Taiwan and relocated to Vancouver at a young age, Annie graduated with a BSc degree from UBC and completed the Doctor of TCM program at PCU College of Holistic Medicine. She is dedicated to helping people achieve optimal health.

Annie is tri-lingual (Mandarin, English, and Taiwanese) and has experience treating patients of various ethnicities and ages. Her passion and practice focus includes sports injuries and pain management, cosmetic acupuncture, and hormone health.

After becoming a mother in 2021, Annie navigated physical and emotional postpartum symptoms, which led her to dedicate her professional development and treatments to supporting reproductive health and postpartum recovery. She combines traditional treatments with modern research and evicence informed approaches to maximize results.

If you are looking for a facial glow, resolution of pain & injuries and balanced hormones then book with Annie.

Our Clinic

Our Approach

Our Vision

Our Acupuncturist and Chinese Medicine Doctors

Our Naturopathic Doctors

Our Front Office Team

Lorianne Slauenwhite

Siobhan Brennan

Acubalance

What We Treat

How We Treat

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Conscious Fertility Podcast

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888 W 8th Ave #208
Vancouver, BC V5Z 3Y1, Canada