Dr. Gretchen, a pioneering acupuncturist, played a pivotal role in launching the Integrative Medicine and Health Department at Mayo Clinic Jacksonville from 2019 to 2022. She then transitioned back into full time private practice with Dr. Christine at A Way of Life Acupuncture in 2022.
Dr. Gretchen graduated with a Masters of Science degree in Oriental Medicine from Southwest Acupuncture College in Albuquerque, NM in 2008, and has focused her clinical work on mental health concerns, trauma relief, pain management and complex cases with an emphasis on family care.
During her graduate studies, Dr. Gretchen delved deeper into Japanese Hari-Style Meridian Therapy under the tutelage of Master T. Koei Kuwahara and his senior student, Dr. Ehrland Truitt. This gentle yet powerful style of acupuncture, focused on addressing root imbalances, became a cornerstone of her practice philosophy.
Born in Massachusetts and raised in a health-conscious environment, Dr. Gretchen developed a keen understanding of holistic health principles early in life. Growing up in a Macrobiotic family instilled in her the belief in the importance of balance across all aspects of life.
Her extensive experience and ongoing education have shaped Dr. Gretchen's holistic approach to health and wellness. She believes in tailoring treatments to individual needs, drawing from a range of modalities including acupuncture, moxibustion, bodywork, herbal medicine, dietary therapy, exercise therapy, and lifestyle adjustments.
Dr. Gretchen's commitment to health extends beyond her practice. She served as Program Director for Acupuncturists Without Borders from 2007-2010 and as Vice President and Program Coordinator for The High Desert Hari Society from 2008-2018. She also served 2 terms on the Board of Directors for the Florida State Oriental Medical Association including one term as Vice President.
Outside of her professional endeavors, Dr. Gretchen finds joy in her personal pursuits, including her passion for Latin Dancing and Koryu-Ryu Karate-Do, in which she holds a Ni-Dan (2nd-degree black belt). She also gets great joy and satisfaction out of continuing to enrich her skills in acupuncture through ongoing study and collaboration with master practitioners both domestically and in Japan to enhance her clinical effectiveness and personal growth.
With a dedication to lifelong learning and a genuine enthusiasm for helping others, Dr. Gretchen approaches each day with a sense of fulfillment, eager to support her clients on their journey to improved health and well-being.
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Feel Better. Enjoy Life.
Gretchen Lorenson, A.P., MSOM, Dipl. OM., A.D.S.
NCCAOM® Board Certified Acupuncture Physician
Diplomate of Oriental Medicine
Master of Acupuncture Oriental Medicine
Certified Hari Traditional Japanese Acupuncture Practitioner
Certified Taishi Shonihari Pediatric Acupuncture Practitioner
Certified Kampo Chinese/Japanese Herbal Medicine Practitioner
Certified Acupuncture Detoxification Specialist
Certified Koshi Balancing Structural Acupuncture and Sotai Practitioner
Certified in Clean Needle Technique
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Over 40 Years Acupuncture Experience