Sam Lai, LAc

Hi!

(she/her)

Hi! I’m Sam and I am a California Board-Certified and NCCAOM National Board-Certified acupuncturist practicing on Unceded Ohlone Land, in Berkeley, CA. My practice focuses on optimizing whole-person wellness and is informed by Traditional Chinese Medicine and the gentle techniques of Japanese Meridian Therapy. 

I opened up my private acupuncture practice to create a welcoming and nourishing sanctuary where I can support folks who are experiencing challenging physical and/or emotional transitions. As a queer, mixed-race Chinese practitioner, I'm passionate about offering inclusive and trauma-informed care, especially for folks who might feel unseen by conventional medicine.

In 2024 I trained as an apprentice in Whitfield Reaves’ Acupuncture Sports Medicine Apprenticeship program. I have a keen interest in using anatomically based assessments and precision-needling techniques to address sports medicine and orthopedic concerns, alleviate pain, enhance mobility, improve performance, and aid in recovery. 

Originally from the island of Guam, I moved to the West Coast to study art and design strategy. I worked in startups and arts organizations prior to studying East Asian Medicine at AIMC, Berkeley.

During my studies, I interned at UC Berkeley, treating Cal’s Division 1 student-athletes for orthopedic issues and pain management, and at Charlotte Maxwell Clinic, a free clinic serving low-income, underserved, and immigrant women with cancer. I was also a student fellow for Influential Point, a social venture organization working towards advancing health justice, diversity, equity, and inclusion in the East Asian medical community. 

I currently live in Berkeley with my partner Sarah and our little red dog Benji (we're backyard beekeepers, bee-lieve it or not!). When I'm not helping people feel their best, you might find me with a good book, camping in the great outdoors, or on the hunt for the best bowl of noodle soup or the flakiest croissant. I am also currently creating a balance in my movement studies between weekly CrossFit sessions and strength training, and the study and subtle yet powerful flow of Da Yan Wild Goose Qigong.

Looking forward to meeting you and working together! 🌈

Education & Credentials

✹ Master of Science in Traditional Asian Medicine – Acupuncture and Integrative Medicine College, Berkeley

Acupuncture Sports Medicine Apprentice Program with Whitfield Reaves

✹ Master of Business Administration, Design Strategy – California College of the Arts

✹ Bachelor of Fine Arts, Photography – San Francisco Art Institute

✹ Bachelor of Arts, Interdisciplinary Visual Art – University of Washington