Feel Better. Live Better. Healthier, Together!
Dr. Joe Phiakhamta, DAOM, L.Ac
I am a state-licensed and board-certified acupuncturist with a Doctorate and Master’s in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine from AOMA Graduate School of Integrative Medicine in Austin, Texas. My training includes advanced clinical work in acupuncture, herbal medicine, cupping, and Tuina (Chinese bodywork), as well as specialized certification in SAAT (Soliman Auricular Allergy Treatment), acupuncture detox, and the holistic treatment of Lyme disease, tick-borne illnesses, and complex allergy syndromes.
Over the years, I’ve combined this training with hands-on experience in pain management clinics, rehabilitation centers, and community health programs for underserved populations. I’ve also completed intensive externships in integrative nutrition and fasting-based medicine, and volunteered my skills to help communities affected by natural disasters, military veterans, and individuals overcoming addiction.
My approach blends the best of Traditional Chinese Medicine and functional medicine. I have collaborated with leading MDs, including Dr. Sommer White and Dr. Xiao Mei Zhao, to support patients with autoimmune conditions, gut health imbalances, chronic pain, fertility challenges, and difficult-to-treat disorders. This integrative background allows me to look deeper than symptoms, helping patients find answers and long-term relief when conventional care has not been enough.
At my clinic, I specialize in chronic pain, allergies (including Alpha-Gal), gut health, Lyme and tick-borne illnesses, mold and environmental sensitivities, and complex multi-system conditions. My goal is always to understand the whole person, not just the condition, and to guide patients toward balance, resilience, and sustainable wellness.
"The part can never be well unless the whole is well." -Plato
Board Certification & Licensure
State of Tennessee | Acupuncture License (L.Ac)
National Certification Commission for Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) | Diplomate of Oriental Medicine (Dip. O.M.)
SAAT (Soliman Auricular Allergy Treatment) | Certified Practitioner
Holistic Practitioner for the Treatment of Lyme Disease and Tick-Borne Illnesses | Certified Practitioner
Acupuncture Detox Specialist (ABS) | Certified Practitioner
American Organization for Bodywork Therapy of Asia (AOBTA) | Certified Practitioner (ABT-CP) - Inactive
Clinical Neuroscience in Pain Management | Candidate
What is a Doctor of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (DAOM)?
A Doctor of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (DAOM) is the highest level of education in the field of acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It’s a post-graduate program that takes 2–3 years to complete and goes far beyond the basics, focusing on advanced clinical practice, research, and teaching.
As a DAOM, I’ve been trained to diagnose and treat complex health conditions by looking at the whole person—physical, emotional, and mental well-being. The program included advanced study in acupuncture, herbal medicine, clinical diagnosis, and specialized treatment methods like moxibustion, cupping, and tui na massage. I also received extensive training in TCM theory, acupuncture points and meridians, nutrition, and integrative approaches to healing.
In the United States, DAOM programs are accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (ACAOM). Completing this doctorate not only strengthened my ability to care for people with difficult or chronic conditions but also prepared me to help advance the field of acupuncture through research, teaching, and clinical leadership.
My Journey into Acupuncture and My Beliefs on Health and Healing
My journey into Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) began in the winter of 2009 when I was struggling with a persistent viral infection. Despite following my primary care physician’s prescribed medications and trying over-the-counter treatments, nothing seemed to help.
Frustrated with the lack of progress, I was recommended to see a physician who was certified in medical acupuncture. To my surprise, after just one acupuncture session, my illness completely resolved. That experience sparked my curiosity and led me to learn more about acupuncture. Through research, I discovered TCM and was drawn to its holistic approach to health, which ultimately inspired me to pursue it as a career.
My decision to study TCM was guided by my belief in the importance of balance—both internally and externally. I see health as a dynamic state that includes not just the body, but also the mind, spirit, lifestyle, and diet. As a practitioner, I dedicate time to understanding each patient’s unique needs. I believe that real healing begins with listening and creating space for patients to share their full health picture—emotional, mental, and physical.
In my practice, I use natural methods tailored to each individual. My goal is to offer the highest standard of care with thorough, in-depth visits and minimal wait times. I also emphasize education and coaching so patients feel empowered to play an active role in their own healing.
Throughout my training and career, I’ve been blessed with the support of family, friends, and mentors. Their encouragement has made this journey even more fulfilling, allowing me to combine my passion for helping others with the wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine.