My path into this work came via two inspirations. Academically, I have always been drawn to the health field, completing both a B.S. in Health Promotion/Exercise Science and an M.A. in Wellness Management. Experientially, I found healing in the form of instructing for the Outward Bound Wilderness School, spending extended periods of time immersed in the daily rhythms of the natural world, and teaching my students about good self-care and the value of self-awareness. For me these paths merged in the study of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine, a system of healing that incorporates the wisdom of the natural world and the development of self-awareness into a way of restoring balance to our often stressed and overworked body systems.

To help someone sleep better, experience less pain, emerge from emotional distress, or feel more vital and energized is to set in motion the healing of a person. The results people have being treated with Chinese Medicine can be amazing, and I feel grateful for being able to take part in the process. I value the role this medicine can play in complementing other forms of healthcare, as well as providing hope when it seems like nothing else is working. I find great joy specializing in this medicine and look forward to helping you cultivate your health.

 

As a graduate of the Oregon College of Oriental Medicine, the foundation of my education is based on the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). As a practitioner, this means that I ask detailed questions and observe physical characteristics in order to determine the patterns of imbalance occurring within one’s body. These imbalances often manifest as physical or mental/emotional symptoms, and it is the wisdom of TCM that recognizes that BOTH reduction of symptoms AND addressing underlying causes are key aspects to supporting the longterm improvement of a patients overall health.

As a patient, the experience is often one of feeling listened to, and that time and sincere attention are being given to your health concerns. Treatments usually involve some degree of massage or therapeutic touch, and this, by most anyone’s standards, is healing in and of itself. This medicine also encourages greater self-awareness about ones’ own body and health, and implores that it’s practitioners serve as both healer and educator. In this way, this medicine seeks to empower people into better longterm health and toward development of a greater capacity for good self-care.

In using TCM I have a variety of tools to address individual health concerns, including: needles, herbal medicine, warming techniques (moxa), electro-stimulation, friction-type massage (cupping and gua sha) and acupressure-type massage (Shiatsu). In addition, I have also been trained in Channel Theory or Tan-style acupuncture, which is known for it’s ability to quickly and effectively address all kinds of pain. I also have training in Japanese techniques which emphasize a subtler and more gentle approach. This system relies on palpation of the abdomen, our physical/emotional center, as a primary source for determining diagnosis.

 

I was treated by Colleen Gibson for several health problems, including migraines, low back pain, anxiety, and a badly sprained ankle. Her treatments allowed me to stop taking daily migraine and pain maintenance medication in addition to reducing my need for acute migraine medication. I was also able to stop taking Paxil for anxiety. No other therapy has been so successful. I was able to control the pain of the sprained ankle with acupuncture and herbs, and I truly believe regular treatment considerably reduced my recovery time. I highly recommend Colleen, with her kind, caring manner and excellent patient care. She has greatly improved my quality of life.
Brooke, Age 31

Not only is Colleen a skillful practitioner, she's also a great health advocate. In addition to acupuncture and herbal treatments, Colleen supported me in paying more attention to my body, preparing and asking questions of my allopathic doctors, and connecting to different health services. Colleen was clearly invested in my well-being: she followed up with me, contacted me outside of appointments about treatment strategies, and sought out resources on my behalf. Also, Colleen is just generally funny, warm, relaxed and extremely compassionate – all of which makes her easy to talk to and a pleasure to work with.
Jessica, Age 32

Cheerful, positive, caring, informative, are all examples of what I experienced whilst being treated by Colleen Gibson. I was experiencing side effects from chemotherapy treatments and my weekly acupuncture appointments with Colleen were the highlight of my week. Colleens' delightful personality and dedication to my comfort during appointments far exceeded my expectations. She is a natural, knowing when and how to share information, so that I could understand the benefits of the treatments. I would highly recommend Colleen for your Chinese medicine/acupuncture needs.
Moira, Age 56

Colleen has been treating me for arthritis in my knees and hands. I have become very possessive of Colleen as “my” acupuncturist. She has many exceptional talents, especially her special gentle touch with the needles. Her intuition and communication skills provide professionalism in the treatment room that promotes trust and respect. Her sensitivity to which treatments work best and suit my needs have been very positive in my progress. I have gained physical strength, flexibility, and understanding from both her physical and mental touch. I highly recommend her as an acupuncturist. She is an exceptional, gentle and strong presence with a remarkable healing touch.
CM, Age 47

Colleen has been my acupuncturist for approximately 1 year. I always look forward to seeing her. Her enthusiasm and dedication to her job is unparalleled. I have been very impressed with her caring attitude and her ability to make me relaxed before each treatment.
Howard, Age 74

 

Colleen is a wonderful teacher.  She is warm, kind and puts one at ease almost immediately.  As my Outward Bound Instructor, she guided me gently but with surety through my self-healing process.  Her infectious smile and compassion helped me to begin my journey of self-love.  I am so grateful that Colleen was my instructor and would recommend Outward Bound to everybody because of the experience I had with her on our trip.  In short, Colleen is amazing!
Sara, Age 19