Dr. James Berry, DACM
- Doctorate Degree in Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine | Pacific College or Oriental Medicine, San Diego
- Master’s Degree in Acupuncture | Academy for Five Element Acupuncture, Gainesville, FL
- Bachelor’s Degree in Health Science
- Nationally certified by the NCCAOM as a Diplomate of Acupuncture
- Licensed by the Medical Board in the state of MT to practice Acupuncture (MED-ACU-LIC-110532)
- Extensive training in Traditional Chinese Herbal Medicine | Academy for Five Element Acupuncture, Gainesville, FL
Being of Service
It is an honor to be practicing Classical Five Element Acupuncture in Kalispell! Let me take a moment to introduce myself. I am Dr. James Berry, DACM, one of two acupuncturists and doctors of Chinese medicine in our clinic that I run with my daughter, Dr. Devynne Berry, DACM. I feel blessed to call Montana home and feel even more fortunate to get to bring a classical approach to this beautiful medicine to the area. Through my offerings of Five Element Acupuncture in Kalispell, I am excited to be of service to the Flathead Valley community!
This page will hopefully allow you to learn a little bit about me and how I think about healthcare, while introducing you to the version of the medicine that I love & practice!
Please do not hesitate to reach out with questions, concerns and curiosities! Feel free to contact me directly through the Jing Shen Healing Arts contact form with specific questions/curiosities about acupuncture treatments, traditional herbal remedies, or any of the other services I provide!
Live a life you are passionate about!
I am passionate about sharing an understanding that draws on tradition, philosophy, and Medicine that dates back thousands of years. Rooted in Taoist philosophy and considered a complete system of medicine in some parts of the world. The medicine goes well beyond the treatment of chronic pain and is capable of addressing many health conditions in addition to relieving symptoms of disease in the body.
Drawing on nearly 20 years of practical experience, education, and expert training, I am proud to have been integral in helping families move beyond some of the most complex and/or stubborn physical, emotional, and spiritual issues. I feel fortunate to have worked with and helped countless people from all walks of life find relief and rediscover what it truly means to feel “whole” while finding a renewed sense of joy and purpose.
Classically Trained
With a background in therapeutic massage and a bachelor’s degree in Health Science, my experience in the wellness field is extensive. Formal acupuncture training began at The Academy for Five Element Acupuncture (AFEA) in Gainesville, FL. Through a 4-year graduate study program, I earned my Master’s Degree in Acupuncture while also completing an extensive Chinese herbal program. This initial training totals nearly 3000 hours of study & clinical training. The academy is one of only a handful of accredited schools in the country that still focuses on the Classical Five Element tradition while integrating Traditional Chinese Medicine principles into their herbal studies program.
Unique Path of Study
At its most basic level, to study acupuncture and to practice authentically is to cultivate the ability to recognize disruption in the natural rhythms of the body. I chose a unique path of study that remains true to the original nature of Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine. This requires a deeper and broader understanding that goes beyond what is typically taught in most institutions today. This understanding allows for a greater impact with the most gentle approach. Acupuncture does not have to be unpleasant or involve pain.
Beyond the Master’s Degree which is the standard for licensure in Montana; I chose to spend an additional two years pursuing a Doctorate in Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine (DACM) at Pacific College of Oriental Medicine. The additional training of the Doctorate program focused on finding a balance between Eastern and Western medicine as a way to improve patient care.
Listen with ears of tolerance. See through the eyes compassion. Speak with the language of love.
My Own Journey
I found my way to practicing acupuncture in Kalispell through my own personal journey. I have had a lifelong interest in eastern philosophy and martial arts, which eventually led me to Tai Chi and Qigong practices. These ancient meditative practices, rooted in traditional Taoist philosophy, believe that the laws and cycles of nature are the perfect models for health and well-being. My study of these traditions made FIVE ELEMENT ACUPUNCTURE & CHINESE MEDICINE feel like the obvious next step.
I pride myself on being a gentle, professional, and compassionate practitioner with an innate ability to listen, connect to and meet people where their needs are. My dedication to the medicine, its traditions, and its philosophies have been an invitation to live and practice authentically. I believe this approach brings a deeper understanding of how our bodies, hearts, and minds are intended to function when the natural rhythms are restored. When we align our physical experiences with the mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects of our struggles, we can go beyond the surface and treat the root of illness.
People often seek out an acupuncturist to treat pain, however, this approach has allowed me to treat many conditions and a wide variety of diseases and/or health concerns. I’ve developed a passion for the mental-emotional aspects of my work. I am humbled daily to witness the tremendous impact and the renewed spark for life as we bring joy back into people’s lives.
Treatment Options
One area of wellness that gets little attention that I am proud to have had a significant impact on the lives of the community that I work with is in the area of mental & emotional health. The most rewarding work I have done is in the mental health field, treating ranges of depression, stress, and/or anxiety.
Our work in the field of trauma recovery and PTSD has been life-changing for our patients and their families. People are finding hope and healing from what some would consider unimaginable traumas/abuses. It’s always an honor to be trusted with their care and to be able to have a positive impact on their journey.
Physical Wellness
I have successfully treated many physical conditions of the body such as migraines, arthritis, insomnia, asthma, allergies, skin conditions, digestive issues, chronic pain, tinnitus, or acute or chronic injuries. Classical Five Element Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine can help with neuropathy whether we need to address the nervous system or increase blood flow to improve blood circulation. I have had excellent results in treating women’s health issues, especially women’s reproductive problems (PMS, PCOS, endometriosis, menstrual irregularities, etc.).
Mental & Emotional Wellness
People often seek out an acupuncturist to treat pain, however, our approach has allowed me to treat many conditions and a wide variety of diseases and/or health concerns. Through experience with various conditions, I’ve certainly developed a passion for the mental-emotional aspects of my work. I am humbled daily to witness the tremendous impact and the renewed spark for life as we bring joy back into people’s lives.
Spiritual Wellness
Through my years of experience, I have learned that feeling “whole” again is different for each of us whether healing from chronic pain, anxiety or life’s tragedies. Still, I have witnessed the potential of treatments rooted in the principles of this natural and holistic medicine. It restores hope as equally as it restores health. What would feeling like your best self feel like to you? It’s possible! Reach out, and let’s have a conversation! Thank you for being here!
Office Hours
community links
322 2nd St. W, Kalispell, MT
149 Main St., Kalispell, MT
Two Office Location
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Ph: (406)309-3483