North Portland Wellness Center

I was rear ended 3 weeks ago. I was in much more pain than I had expected because it didn't seem like a very serious accident (I was also in a much more serious accident 10 years ago). I learned that I could get acupuncture covered through my accident claim.

I've had 3 treatments with Lili and already feel so much better. Lili is warm, insightful and is incredibly intuitive. Her pins always feel like they go exactly where they need to. I feel supported in many ways, have had some intense emotional releases and leave my appointments feeling so relaxed and calm. I would definitely recommend getting acupuncture as quickly as possible after an injury - don't wait!

I also had a body work session with Emily last week - it was amazing! She did a very effective combination of deep tissue, joint mobilization, stretching and ended the session with some cranio-sacral. She is strong, steady and calming and clearly knows the body very well.

All I can say is that I can't wait to see Emily and Lili on the same day (next week!!) and I definitely recommend going for the 1.5 hour massage.

Pros: Warm environment, great practitioners, friendly staff

Cons: none!

Posted 05/23/09

I never really thought that acupuncture could be so great. I used it as a last resort for shoulder pain, but now I wish I had tried it a long time ago!

North Portland Wellness Center staff are friendly, and knowledgable. The facility is very cozy and makes you feel real comfortable.

I highly recommend them.

Pros: Great appointment times available

Posted 05/13/09

The North Portland Wellness Center sets the bar very high for what a holistic healing center can mean to the community. From the genuinely pleasant reception staff to the mellow, comfortable waiting areas to the exceptional care given by every practicioner (I have personally received chiropractic care, acupuncture and massage), the center strives to make you feel like you are in a place of wellness and positivity...without coming off as a cloyingly new age establishment. Dr. Petersen has, hands down, provided me the best chiropractic care I have ever received. Whether for treatment or prevention, you owe it to yourself to schedule an appointment.

Pros: too many to list

Cons: none

Posted 05/06/09

I have gone to the NPWC since it opened, and have recieved chairopractic and acupuncture services. The practicioners are professional and always take time with me, always remember who I am. The evironment is beautiful and and calm. It is the perfect place to go for a little slice of peaceful well-being.

Pros: soothing environment, great practicioners,

Posted 04/09/09

I discovered the NPWC when a coworker referred me. Since then I have been receiving acupuncture and massage on a regular basis (check out their deals if you book a massage with an acupuncture or chiropractic treatment). I've found all of the healers there to be extremely professional, compassionate and masters of their chosen modality. The clinic is beautiful and run in a very professional manner. I especially enjoyed the class I took there on eating an Anti-Inflammatory Diet, and I know they are offering qigong classes right now. Go check it out!

Pros: Focus on educating the patient, Many services under one roof

Cons: Practitioners so popular--sometimes hard to get in!

Posted 03/18/09

after or during a workday, my visits to NPWC serve as a welcome respite from the stress that lies outside the door. staff is friendly and greeted me by name after one visit. my acupuncture session was awesome.

Pros: great location, atmosphere and staff

Cons: What are the drawbacks?

Posted 03/17/09

Life is busy and times are tough, it's a blessing to have such amazing practitioners all in one place - saving me time, gas money and headaches. Between Kristen with her deep tissue massage - effective and complete, yet never invasive and still relaxing - and Kirsten with her gentle, holistic approach to chiropractic work (she uses more techniques than just adjustments, and all with a gentleness that's cured me of my apprehension about chiro) my back and neck pain is well under control for the first time in a while. Colleen, a recent addition to the North Portland Wellness Center "family", is an amazing acupuncturist. Not only does she treat my specific complaints, but she addresses the underlying energetic imbalances that are causing them, leaving me feeling just...better. She makes me feel utterly comfortable and taken care of. Well, they all do! Who knew getting healthy could be this enjoyable!

Pros: everything is smooth and efficient, from scheduling to handling insurance

Cons: nada

Posted 02/26/09

A cozy wellness center in the NE, the N PDX Welness Center offers quality alternative health care. Great personal attention and skilled acupuncture practitioners!

Posted 02/26/09

I recently received an acupuncture treatment from Colleen Bunker to address some issues I have been coping with for awhile. She was very skilled with the needles, and administered the treatment while keeping me comfortable and at ease. Heat lamps were also used to enhance the treatment and before I knew it I had dozed off to sleep! The room was soothing and comfortable, and she attended so well to my needs as a patient. On top of that, I noticed a reduction of my symptoms immediately. I was very satisfied with my choice of acupuncturists and recommend her highly.

Posted 02/18/09

I Googled chiropractic care and massage with my zip code ( 97127) and North Portland Wellness Center was at the top of the list. I had biked and bused by their location on N Vancouver and Alberta a few times so out of name recognition I went to their site. They are located in a beautifully renovated three story house (pictures of renovation process on website). The building is clean, quite and homey. They offer tea and water while you wait for chiropractic, massage, acupuncture or Chinese and homeopathic medicine. I was there for an initial chiropractic appointment with Dr. Kristen Petersen. Her manner was patient and informative, while her approach was deeply effective. Second, I went for a massage. The massage therapist (Sarah) went right to work. I had read on the website that she specialized in chronic pain care and it was apparent. Her deep tissue massage released a lot of my built up muscle tension.
Another plus for NPWC is that they give a 5% discount for each session if you bike or use public transit to get there. Thumbs up!

Pros: Quiet and thoughtful environment

Cons: Just wait

Posted 01/30/09

Cannot say enough good things: beautiful, calming space, extremely helpful and kind staff, wonderful massage from Kristen Davis, LMT, and to end it all, paying a small copay(!) through Kaiser Permanente, the list goes on.

The restored building is beautiful (and convenient!) and while I waited for my massage (I was early) I had a nice cup of tea and relaxed to the calming music wafting from the ceiling. Kristin was great--she worked on a shoulder that chronically pains me, and then gave me an incredibly relaxing body massage to finish out my time. As other reviewers mentioned, she did deep tissue work where it was required and segued seamlessly to different kinds of strokes and pressures to melt away my stress!

The ladies behind the counter had done all the leg-work on my insurance information and all I had to do on the way out was swipe my card! A great experience from start to finish!

Posted 01/27/09

For those of you who haven't heard Dr. Culbertson has moved her practice to North Portland Wellness Center, lucky for us! Being an active person I thought the aches and pains endured days after working out is to be expected, but Dr. Culbertson made me realize that this pain didn't have to exist. The chiropractic care I received from Dr. Culbertson allowed me to keep the pace I wanted in my physical activity, as well as eliminate aches and pains in daily life. If you are new to chiropractic care, or just looking for a different Doctor of Chiropractic I would highly recommend visiting Dr. Culbertson at the North Portland Wellness Center.

Pros: Welcoming setting

Posted 01/20/09

Kristen Davis, LMT at North Portland Wellness Center is phenomenal! My back was a mess due to pushing myself physically in various activities. I couldn't ignore the pain any longer, especially when it reminded me 8 hours every day as I sat at my desk. Her range of varying pressures was impressive. She began with a soft touch, but when I requested deep-tissue she was able easily transition. For those of you who have Kaiser, she is on their panel, so it was only $25 for my massage. Times are tight for many of us financially right now, but investing money to feel happy and healthy was worth every penny.

Pros: Calming atmosphere & friendly staff

Posted 01/20/09

I've been going to Lili for several months for treatment at the North Portland Wellness Center. She really knows her stuff, and has already helped me rehab an old neck injury from a car accident, a strained ankle, and has also addressed my chronic colds, combining acupuncture with diet changes and lifestyle changes. I find her empathetic, caring and competent. All of my friends who have visited the Wellness Center have been impressed with their services. I would recommend any of their staff; they are well-trained, wonderful folks!

Posted 01/19/09

If everyone's experience of healthcare could be like mine at North Portland Wellness, we would all feel a whole lot better! I mainly see Annabelle for acupuncture and herbs, but I also see Kirsten for chiropractic adjustments and Katie for nutrition and dietary counseling. (And of course, most days I come in, I see Gene at the front desk.) They ALL help me feel relaxed about my health, enpowered about what I know about my body, and inspired to do what I can to improve my quality of life. It's wonderful knowing I can contact them anytime over email or phone to ask questions or give them updates on what's happening. I always feel like they have the time to listen to and support me as I get well and I can't say strongly enough how powerful that is for me. I am so very happy that North Portland Wellness is in my neighborhood and that there are so many wonderful people under one roof! What a gem this place is!

Pros: beautiful space, bike discounts, insurance billing, hot tea, timely practitioners, events/classes

Posted 01/17/09

My back pain is gone, thanks to Marianne Banke, LAc! Two days after lifting something way too heavy for me, I woke up with muscle spasms in my back that had me screaming in pain. (My cat wouldn?t come near me!) With Marianne?s combination of gentle acupuncture and Tuina massage (and some friendly advice about ?the correct way? to lift large items), I felt immediate relief. After just 1 treatment, the screaming had stopped; after 3 treatments, I was able to move freely again without pain. As a humble acupuncturist, she insists on giving all the credit to thousands of years of Chinese medicine. Whatever. What I know is: my sprained back made a miraculous recovery. Kudos to Marianne and acupuncture!

Pros: warm, friendly, and beautiful environment

Posted 01/16/09

I am extremely happy with my treatments from Colleen Bunker, L.Ac. She is attentive, calm, funny, and very good with the needles. I found my treatment to be relaxing while I was there and very rejuvinating afterwards. I always leave feeling so much better than when I arrived! She not only has relieved my aching back but has offerred me suggestions for self-care outside of acupuncture. I have had lots of acupuncture and I found that Colleen was able to address my issues from a few different needling techniques -- and I am a huge fan of the moxa she uses! Thank you --

Posted 01/13/09

Glenda Culbertson, who recently moved her office to N. Portland Wellness has changed my life. She is super attentive, knowledgeable, and trustworthy. She has helped me in my process to overcome chronic pain and has not given up on me. I was referred to her randomly by someone at OHSU and it was truly fate because I have never found someone who's helped me so much in my 10 years with chronic pain.. Glenda really understands that it isn't just pain in a certain body part, but that it is a component of a stressful lifestyle/ my body's holding patterns. She gives her honest advice, listens, and alters her treatments according to your body. PLUS N. Portland Wellness is a beautiful, inviting, warm office. Good luck in your personal journey to health!

Pros: Friendly staff, great doctors, lots of different treatments, clean & new building

Cons: None

Posted 01/11/09

This was my first time at the North Portland Wellness Center and I can't wait to go back again! I have gotten many massages in the past and the one I received from Rachel was by far one of the best! As soon as I walked in felt at ease and everyone I encountered was very friendly and attentive. The building is just beautiful and really seems to promote a stress-free environment. I would definitely recommend coming here if you are looking for an exceptional massage experience in a relaxing and peaceful space.

Posted 01/05/09

I love the North Portland Wellness Center. I have gone there for both massage and acupuncture in the past. Annabelle is a wonderful acupuncturist who makes you feel comfortable even if it's your first time. I just found out that my chiropractor is moving her practice to North Portland Wellness Center next month. Glenda is awesome. She practices holistically taking the time to understand your pain and why it is there before adjusting. She made me feel very comfortable with my first visit and has helped me learn how to live a healthier life. She teaches Yoga too. I have been attending her Yoga classes for about a year and have never felt better!

Posted 12/25/08

I was referred to North Portland Wellness Center back in May and have never looked back! My unease about receiving acupuncture was quickly put to rest by Lili Scott, a Licensed Acupuncturist. She has been nothing but wonderful and has guided me through some major life changes without ever pushing or judging. I would recommend North Portland Wellness Center to anyone and have actually referred family and co-workers to them. The center is beautifully and tastefully designed, with a soothing and comfortable environment. You can tell a lot of work was put in to make this place so inviting. The office staff are always friendly and helpful. Whether you are new to the area and looking for an acupuncturist or are wanting to try it out for the first time, look no further.

Posted 12/17/08

I am in the salon/spa business and have been receiving regular massages for a few years now. I must admit that I am pretty picky when it comes to a good massage. I moved to Portland last spring and was upset to have left a great massage therapist and weary of finding a new one...until I met Rachael. She is a wonderful therapist with a great education, gentle & caring demeanor, fun personality, and strong hands! A great combo in my book!

Posted 12/15/08

I am so glad to have discovered the North Portland Wellness Center. Going to the chiropractor--very good, Kirsten Peterson--is like going to the spa. The atmosphere is very calm and soothing, and staff are all very friendly and professional!

Pros: I love everything about this place!

Posted 12/08/08

This spot is a wonderful retreat. I have the best acupuncture treatments here and every one is so good.If one is not available you can go to anyone else with confidence. It is a bit out of the way so make your appointments during low traffic times if you can.

Posted 11/27/08

A healing center! I woke up one morning in such pain I was crying. I had an acupuncture appoint ment scheduled later that day but I really felt like I needed some massage therapy as well. I had only been to the center twice before . I called Jean at the front desk, she immediately made a call to Sarah Coderre, an LMT. Jean called me back to let me know that Sarah would come to work early for me! I only had an 30 minute appointment with Sarah but in that time Sarah worked out what felt like 5 years of deep rooted pain. I had a catharsis! I released deep emotional stress, plus my back and neck felt so much better! I finished up with acupuncture from Annabelle Snow. When I left North Portland Wellness that day I felt as though a heavy burden had been lifted from me. It was an emotional and physically moving experience!

Pros: All women staff.

Posted 11/19/08

I have been under a lot of stress recently, and my bad habits have intensified because of it. My weight increased and had started to become a health issue. I've struggled for as long as I can remember to stick with good habits and eat the right foods. Sometimes I feel like I don't even know what "the right foods" are anymore! Katie gave me answers that I had been searching for for a long time, and my life has changed drastically because of it. She is a Naturopathic Doctor, so has the clinical knowledge to advise me, but also a background in Life Coaching, so can also be a huge help with motivation and getting to the root of my problems. Not to mention that she has an amazingly warm, nurturing personality that makes you feel at home right away. I've referred a friend to her, as well, who had equally good results for her digestive problems. I finally feel like I'm on the right track and am so lucky to have found her!

Pros: quality naturopathic care, professional yet down-to-earth, environmentally consious

Cons: none?

Posted 11/19/08

I first went to N. Portland Wellness center after injuring my back. This was my first experience with alternative medicine, and chiropractic. I met with Dr. Kirsten Peterson and after a bit of time, she referred me to Lili Scott for acupuncture. The combined work of these two practicioners really helped me out immensely; not only with my physical pain, but also to deal with some really emotional and stressful times. The thoughtful and compassionate care at this center really helped me look at myself and make some lifestyle changes. As well, I have referred two friends to the center and they also have glowing reports. So, all I can say is, you ladies are great!

Posted 10/18/08

I was lucky enough to discover NPWC after they first opened. Annabelle Snow has been such an amazing support to me. When the doctor told me that I would definitely either need a cortisone shot or surgery to help alleviate my 'frozen shoulder', I knew I could get help through acupuncture. I am totally free of any pain or restriction in my shoulder, and I'm back to doing yoga, which I never imagined I'd be able to do again. Not only is she skilled in her treatments, her calm presence and patient listening are so appreciated in my visits. Everyone working at the center is professional, very thoughtful, and strives to make your experience a relaxing one. And Jean always remembers me at the front desk! (I am always appreciative of people remembering me by name) Their dedication to a healthy, "green" environment, is closely aligned with their philosophy of overall general good health. I would highly recommend North Portland Wellness Center to anyone.

Pros: Ambience, Quality care, Professional yet down to earth "real" people, on a bike lane

Cons: maybe parking??

Posted 10/10/08

THE STAFF AT THIS CLINIC ARE VERY ACCOMMODATING WHEN YOU HAVE TO RESCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENTS, ON SHORT NOTICE. THEY ALSO LISTEN TO YOU WHEN YOU HAVE A CONCERN ABOUT YOUR HEALTH AND THEY ARE GOOD AT OFFERING SUGGESTIONS TO HELP YOU WITH YOUR HEALTH CARE ISSUES

Pros: AMBIENCE VERY GOOD MUSIC DOES NOT REPEAT

Cons: LIMITED STREET PARKING

Posted 10/01/08

If you live in North Portland (and even if you don't) this is the best place to get a massage. They have a special where you can pre-purchase three massages at a discounted rate. I found this was a great way to try out the various massage therapists and their styles. Each one was amazing though and now it's hard to choose who to see! I just live around the corner, so it's great to mosey over and get a massage and then just walk home (without the stress of getting into a car and driving through traffic to get back). I think the thing that struck me, was that I used to think of massage as more of a luxury and now I'm recognizing how important it is to my overall health (decreased stress and fatigue, less back and neck pain). I'm finally learning that taking care of me is not frivolous. It's essential. I hope you find this place to be as healing as I have!

Pros: Serene atmosphere, neighorhood-oriented, affordable

Cons: None!

Posted 09/18/08

Dr. Kirsten Petersen is the best Chiropractic doctor I've ever had. She takes the time to understand the issues and underlying causes. Not only does she do effective adjustments, but she also works on the surrounding muscles using massage. I've never had any other chiropratic do that! She's very caring and committed. Her focus is on solving the problem and helping you feel better. I feel very lucky to have found her!

Posted 09/12/08

I have been visiting the NPWC and several of the practioners there for over a year now, and I can't say enough positive things about the professionalism, competence, loving care, and deep perception of them all. I am especially fond of Annabelle Snow, who has this amazing way of making one feel deeply nurtured, listened to, and just generally more healthy. Several of my friends have also been under her care, and we all joke that Annabelle is the one who got us all pregnant. I began seeing Annabelle after experiencing fertility issues, and not only was I able to conceive (!!!) after being told that I was infertile (by a reproductive endocrinologist), but I kept seeing her throughout my pregnancy and now into the postpartum period. At each step of the journey, she has tailored my treatment and care to what my body needed at that time. Annabelle is by far the most gifted acupuncturist/herbalist that I have seen throughout many years of treatment, and I just can't say enough about her character, competence, and loving energy.

The NPWC is located in a gorgeous restored house in NE Portland -- lovely light, calming interior, and gentle touches that make receiving various treatments feel like the most relaxing vacation. Many of the practitioners accept insurance, so this is also a huge bonus for those of us who have insurance plans that allow naturopathy, acupuncture, etc. I simply cannot recommend this place enough!!!!!!!

Posted 08/25/08

Annabelle Snow at the North Portland Wellness Center is just a gem of a find for acupuncture here in Portland, Oregon. Ever since I met her, I?ve been impressed with her kind disposition, insightful questions and comments about one?s state of mind (and body), and calming use of overall good energy. Every time I leave Annabelle?s office I feel relaxed, more healed, and all tingly with the effects of the acupuncture. I sleep well, have much less of a bad stress level, and am able to feel like I?m ?starting over?. In addition, the North Portland Wellness Center is just a wonderful facility/home to receive a treatment in. There are acupuncturists, massage therapists, and more. Annabelle is also a herbalist and has made some excellent choices while working in conjunction with me; certain herbs have helped with my digestion, stress levels, and sleeping patterns. NPWC has warm accented lighting, soft music playing in the background, a nice supply of health/spirituality related magazines to choose from while you?re waiting, and a constant stock of hot teas and cold water to soothe you. I had not been to an acupuncturist before, and after going to NPWC and working with Annabelle, I doubt I?ll ever go anywhere else.

Posted 08/20/08

I was inspired to write here because I believe so highly in the quality of the practitioners and the services at the North Portland Wellness Center. Each provider carries an extremely high level of professionalism and it was clear right away to me that there is a deep honoring of the the human body and spirit. I came in because my body needed attention and I came out with a greater sense of peacefulness and ease -- way beyond what I expected! Thank you and I would highly recommend your services.

Posted 01/23/08

From the moment I walked through the doors of the North Portland Wellness Center, I was welcomed and felt immediately comfortable. Although I have taken part in Acupuncture several years ago, the transformation this time on my body, has turned me into a true believer, that chinese medicine works. My physician, Lili, took the time to understand me as an individual, with my concerns and pain, and over a short period of time, has been able to bring my body back to a healthy, active state. I just felt as though I was able to relax and focus and knew I would be taken care of gently and professionally.

I highly recommend the North Portland Wellness Center for all of you wellness needs.

Pros: Comfortable, safe feeling in the clinic

Cons: developing neighborhood

Posted 01/19/08

I used to be the type of person who avoided healthcare (both mainstream and alternative health practitioners) until i discovered acupuncture as a form of finding both relaxation and treatment for plantar fasciitis and other sports-related injuries. However not all acupuncturists are the same, you need to shop around just as you do for any type of service. I have done that and now consider Annabelle Snow of the North Portland Wellness Center to be one of my primary health practitioners. Treatment from my "official" PCP did nothing (take ibuprofen and do some stretches is what he'd said), treatment by a podiatrist did very little, but fortunately Annabelle's acupuncture treatments have greatly reduced my injury flair-ups. In addition, I've been treated with Chinese herbs for some menstrual issues and have had surprisingly good results, better than ibuprofen or anything else I've tried.

I live in North Portland so the Center itself is conveniently located (just south of Alberta on Vancouver). Its one of several recent renovations to the area- I saw the building before it became the Center and it was a delapitated old house that looked like it should be condemned. Yet the space is now gorgeous, with hard-woods and a cozy environment when you walk in the front door. I've met several of the staff and all have been friendly. I would recommend the Center to anyone looking for alternative healthcare (or mental health therapy, I believe they have that too with some sort of Buddhist twist to it) in North/NE Portland.

Pros: very professional, friendly,

Cons: parking is tight

Posted 01/16/08