Let me introduce myself. My name is Linda Ketcham. I have a Masters Degree in Oriental Medicine from Pacific College of Oriental Medicine here in San Diego. I am a licensed acupuncturist and a national diplomate in acupuncture. I have been practicing at my clinic, Jade Healing Arts in San Diego for nine years.

 Do you know that "acupuncturists" in California are licensed to practice Oriental Medicine? Oriental Medicine is a complete, holistic approach to health. Modalities used are acupuncture, herbology, nutrition, therapeutic massage, therapeutic exercise and magnetic therapy. 

In my practice I am interested in treating the immediate symptoms as well as the cause of the problem. Many of my clients also have a western medical doctor and come to me with their western diagnosis. I believe that clients are owed the best of both Eastern and Western medicine. Eastern and Western approaches can compliment each other. For example Eastern Medicine helps to reduce the discomfort caused by radiation and chemotherapy. 

In my practice I specialize in the treatment of pain, preventive medicine, gynecological problems, nutritional counseling, respiratory problems such as asthma, digestive problems and pediatrics. I offer a "Wellness Program," a "Cleanse/Detox Program" and a "Stop Smoking Program." Many clients come to see me because they feel "out of balance" in body, mind or spirit. I also offer hands on energy healing sessions. 

I am currently creating a series of classes for clients to help support their health through creativity, stress reducing techniques and therapeutic exercise. 

Most of the public has no idea of the educational requirements which must be completed in order to take the California Acupuncture Exam, in order to practice Oriental Medicine. The Oriental Medicine Program at Pacific College takes four to five years to complete. The classes required include acupuncture, oriental medicine, herbology, massage, nutrition and therapeutic exercises. About one-third of the classes were western and included biochemistry and pharmacology. It took me five years to complete the masters program and clinic practice. After graduation I took and passed the California and National Acupuncture exams.

After being licensed I opened my practice. I continued to assist my mentor in his clinic for two years as my own practice developed. In later years I assisted with classes at Pacific College. 

I continue to take classes to enrich the service I bring to my clients. Classes have included cranial sacral therapy, non surgical facial rejuvenation, advanced herbal studies, "Body Talk," classes to help stroke victims recover, and reiki. 

I have a background in fine arts with a BFA in painting. I have enjoyed teaching arts and craft classes in a museum setting as well privately. 

I have served on the Board of Directors at a school for children with learning disabilities where I also created and taught the art program. When I have a chance you can often find me in my garden working with my bonsai and seiki.