I'm lucky that over the years Dr Ara has always had her office near places Ive either lived or close to family so I can pop in during a visit. Over the last 12 years I've followed her from pasadena, to SF, and now see her every chance I get when I visit family in Santa Barbara. She knows exactly what to do whether my neck hurts, my hormones are whacky, or I want a little microneedling. Highly recommend read more

No Yelp Elite member reviews yet? Hmm, okay, let me take a stab at it. I had bought a Groupon for Dawna Ara and it was soon to expire. So I tried calling but I didn't get a response. In the voicemail, she prompted to book via the website. You check the website and the only date that was available was the day after the Groupon's expiration date. Hmm...Plan B. Decides to email her directly and email Groupon just in case I can't use it. Groupon responsed and said they would give me credit in Groupon money if I never used the deal. Dawna also responded and after exchanging a few emails, we had settled on a date. So if you have problem getting through her, I would say email is the way to go. The date arrived and finding this place wasn't too difficult via GPS. However, it's a residential building and does not have any company name posted. Look for the house with the little white fence. I walked in and just saw candles lit and chairs with literature on the table. I also saw an Iphone but I figured that was hers. I was finally greeted by Dawna after what looks like the owner of the building came in and shut the door. Dawna does everything herself. So there's a bit of a wait before, during, and after the session. This was my first time at acupuncture and I actually did feel something working immediately after I finished the treatment. I came in for multiple ailments but she concentrated on the main aspect of my problem. BTW, the treatment was relaxing since I was lying down for 30 minutes but the actual treatment was a little bit shorter than I expected compare to the other reviewers. Also the massage was a bit shorter than I expected. Nevertheless, this place should be tranquil enough after she updates it with some furnishings since it is really bare at the moment. Thus, not bad for the Groupon rate. Note to add, if you ever check out the bathroom, it feels a bit slanted. read more

Dawna has been treating me for a variety of issues for several months now, and I am so grateful for the time I get to spend on her table! She checks in with me at every session regarding my physical, mental, and emotional states, and each session is tailored to where I am at. She is warm and compassionate in conversation, while also being very precise and attuned in her treatments. I have experienced acupuncture with several different practitioners, and I really love the unique way Dawna brings in elements of acupressure and massage to her work...it's my favorite part, to be honest. She has also started me on herbs for the first time in my life, and I appreciate having care practices I can take home and utilize in between treatments. We are working on healing some long-term issues I have been living with, and I am so thankful to have her on my team. I wish I could visit more often. Thank you for everything, Dawna! read more

I've gotten a couple of private messages from Yelpers asking if I've experienced benefits from acupuncture. The short answer is YES! The long answer is that you have to be devoted to a way of life (and it's a simple way, so don't freak out or get a lazy). When I don't go or take the herbs (which are WAY better than the 1000's of mgs of ibuprofen I was taking) then my "issue" comes back. When I get regular acupuncture and take my herbs, it's literally like freakin' magic. Dawna has been able to fix what my very good gyno could not. Eat well, go see your "doctor" (Dawna) and take your herbs. read more

I never really knew what to think of Acupuncture... It seemed like it would hurt. IN FACT, it does hurt when you get an acupuncturist that is not skilled or has terrible bedside manner. However this is NOT the case with Dawna. Dawna was able to calm my nervousness and treat some of my ailments, which included Eczema and Anxiety. One time she had no availability and I went to another acupuncturist; that person stabbed me and it injured the muscle in my hand for a week! I like Dawna's treatment and procedures so much, that I recommended my girlfriend to go see her as well! Now I know what to think of Acupuncture, and I like it, as long as Dawna's doing the needling :) read more

I have recurring discomfort in my shoulder and upper back, which had grown to a horrible, throbbing pain. Dawna was able to get me in right away. She felt the knots in my shoulder and back, then put the acupuncture needles in. After relaxing for about 30 minutes, she came in, removed the needles and gave me the best deep tissue massage I've ever received. I will definitely be going back to see her soon! read more

I have a serious fear of needles, so I've never done acupuncture, but I'm pregnant and the kiddo was breech, and all sorts of legitimate-sounding people said to try moxibustion to turn the baby. So I turned to yelp to find someone who could help me. Dawna had high ratings, a June special on pricing, and I knew how to get there, so I emailed her for an appointment. She was super fast to get back to me, even though it was after hours. When I went in, she was incredibly professional without being cold, and not at all the flaky sort of chanting-type I'd kind of envisioned in my head. She explained everything to me really well and was very personable and nice the whole time. And it didn't hurt! At all! Honestly, I'm not sure if she used needles or not, because you can do it at home without them, but I'm pretty sure she did because I saw something sticking out of my toes. But I couldn't tell you if it was needles or post-it note glue - that's how little I felt. She gave me some moxibustion sticks to take home, and joyously, it worked! The kiddo is now turned around and in the right position. I'm not sure if he would have turned on his own or not, so I say, full credit Dawna! If I ever need acupuncture or any other services again, I'm not going to bother looking on yelp a second time - Dawna's my gal. read more

Here is my wife's review: "I went to Dawna for pain in both of my feet. This happened after my pregnancy. I have never had trouble with my feet. Both of my feet were sore and had shooting pains in the heels. After 3 sessions of acupuncture and an awesome foot massage, my feet felt 100% better. Dawna is really impressive as well. She is very familiar with medical conditions and informed me that my legs still had swelling and gave me suggestions about my diet. When I arrive, she always asks about my feet and energy. I have never had acupuncture before and I am hooked. Dawna really knows her stuff and I have not been disappointed with her services. I would recommend her services without a doubt!" read more

I have received acupuncture from several doctors, and I must say that Dr. Ara (though she insists that you call her Dawna) is amazing. She is completely professional, and yet so warm and nurturing at the same time. I can tell that she really cares about her patients, and goes above and beyond the call of duty to take care of them. I feel completely at ease on her table. She uses a gentle touch to put in the needles; sometimes I cannot even feel them going in! During my last treatment, she also went out of her way to massage out some of the tension in my neck and shoulders that was contributing to some of the physical problems I have been having. No other acupuncturist has ever done that! Most importantly, Dawna takes a holistic approach, thinking of mind, body & spirit while she is treating her patients. I know this because she has done bodywork on me, used needles, lent me books on health and nutrition and also spoken to me about my anxiety and how I can learn to relax. She has researched certain ailments for me on her own time and sent me information to help me - like I said, going above and beyond. I highly recommend her to anyone!! read more

I am a huge believer of acupuncture, and easily found acupuncturist in Honolulu and Boston when I lived in each place. I have gone to an acupuncturist weekly for over five years. But couldn't seem to find a good one in Los Angeles for over a decade. Though I had gone to both Chinese and Western acupuncturists for awhile, but after a couple of treatments, none of them seem to fit. Then I found Dawna. And really it was like that, I knew after one treatment that it was just right. Finding an acupuncturist like Dawna is like having the luck to find a needle in a haystack. She is an amazing healer. Its not just that she is attentive, a good listener, and has a soft touch but she really knows what she's doing. I had a knot along my spine for ages that I was just living with it, that made my breath thready. I tried everything cranial sacral, rolfing, other acupuncturists you name it, I tried it - I also have a meditation and yoga practice, but I just couldn't beat it. Two treatments with Dawna and it was gone. Looking back it scares me that I lived with it for so long. It was completely unnecessary! So long story short, if you are ready to fix your ailments and you really want to heal, go see Dawna. She's the real deal. read more

I hadn't had acupuncture in several years at least so it was with great pleasure that I experienced a return to it under the skilled hands of Dawna. I actually asked for a hybrid treatment of both acupuncture and trigger point massage as I really needed some tension worked out as well and the combo was a great success. Her knowledge of herbal remedies was also a great addition and have been enjoying a new-found energy level, reduced tension and greater alertness since just the first session. I visited her for the first time this past week and immediately booked a session for this coming week. I'd recommend her to anyone looking for a tune-up or more serious health concerns. read more

I've blabbed all over town about how awesome Dawna is. I can't believe I've neglected to do so on Yelp. Time to fix that! Dawna has helped me with everything from garden variety stress to bizarre ailments that defied reason. Without a doubt, she's the best acupuncturist I know. Need more convincing? Try going to her when you have a headache. I did so last week and after placing only *one* needle, it was gone. If that doesn't sell you, then nothing will. read more

Had a great experience! the location great, I walked in to a place that made me feel like I was on vacation it was warm & homey. the music she played made it easy for me to get into the healing energy head space. I felt like she really listened to what my issues were & was able to even acknowledge deeper rooted parts of the problems. Thanks Dawna! you've really got skill. can't wait to see you again soon! & I can't wait to tell everyone I know. read more

This was my first time doing acupuncture. I got my pass from Groupon, but definitely will be going back. Dawna was great - talked to me about my back and where I was hurting. She did a great job with the treatment and I felt great afterwards. Only downside was that there is no sign on the door and since Dawna is the only one working there, I was sitting by myself in the waiting area for about 10 minute without seeing anyone. Since it was my first time, I didn't know if I was supposed to knock or ring a bell or say something ... So a sign that said, "treatment in progress. someone will be with you shortly" or something like that would have made me feel much better and less awkward while I waiting. read more

I have a disk in my neck bulging out of place and it's pinching nerves causing cervicogenic headaches, plus a nice case of occipital neuralgia. these headaches can be a by-product of poor prolonged posture or severe stress. I had come to a place where it was hard to turn my head, and I was sleeping with just a rolled up towel under my neck and living with the ice/heat/Advil/ice/heat/Advil routine. I went to see Dawna and she asked me very thorough questions about my health and pain issues, and you know what, she really LISTENED! Since Dawna specializes in this type of pain, she was able to give me excellent advice about moving forward, and together, we devised a plan that would help me get back to normal. I went to see her three times a week, and with acupuncture and massage, I very soon began to feel less pain and better range of motion. Dawna also taught me how to relax and BREATHE! Those with stressful jobs and home lives will understand the meaning of that. I no longer sleep on a rolled up towel, and if you don't know what Heaven that is, try the towel method yourself sometime. : - ) Dawna is an empathic blessing and has helped me tremendously. I had never had acupuncture or massage before I went to see Dawna, and didn't know what to expect. I did not feel the needles as I feared I would. She uses sterile, disposable, surgical "spring" style stainless steel acupuncture needles. I really didn't feel a thing. All my concerns gone. Amazing! I look forward to the tailored massage as well. I walk in with a headache, walk out, without! Please call the number and go see Dawna. Her office is beautiful and serene. read more

Dawna is the best! I was having really uncomfortable wrist pain/ tingling that radiated all through my forearm and she was able to relieve all that tightness in only three sessions. With her use of acupuncture and massage therapy I came out feeling like a brand new person. thank you so much Dawna!! read more

I went in to see Dawna for an injured hand and came out with a breakthrough! The thing about Chinese medicine is that it gives you a whole picture of who you are through various layers of study. I hadn't thought about how my injury could be related to something that seemed entirely separate. But a keen, intuitive, highly skilled acupuncturist/practitioner of Traditional Chinese Medicine would know. And Dawna is that. I've been to many acupuncturists. Some were good, some were just adequate. And what set them apart was how much they connected (or not) to their patients. The ones that I thought were really good were the ones that went above and beyond the clinical diagnosis and was able to assess my needs from multiple angles. Dawna definitely has that ability to get to the root of the problem. She has that healing touch. I know I'm in capable hands. read more

Very professional and nice! She asks a few questions to understand what exactly she should do. Accommodates to your needs and makes sure your comfortable before starting the acupuncture. After she's done, she leaves you alone for 20mins while the needles work their magic. She comes back and takes out the needles and does cupping which felt amazing. read more

My appointments with Dawna are soothing, stress/anxiety relievers and my mental health is in order when I leave. Her passion for acupuncture and helping people is obvious. Conversation with Dawna is very casual but important because she's trying to determine what concerns you have and how she's going to treat you. I often refer to her as my miracle worker because afterward, I feel whole again and so refreshed that I cant wait for my next appointment. I would recommend Dawna (and I have to friends) to anyone who is looking for an alternative approach to their situation/condition. Plus she's sweet, nice and positive -- which makes for a well rounded visit for sure! read more

After struggling with Peri-menopause, thyroid problems, depression and anxiety and chronic numbness in my hands, a friend referred me to Dawna. Dawna made me feel very welcome and comfortable and took time to listen to me. After the first treatment I felt a bit jittery and very positive, I never felt jittery again after that first time, the positivity has stayed with me though. She also recommended me Chinese herbs which I have been taking every day since the first time. I have been seeing her every Monday for almost a year I think, and my life has changed dramatically. I normally walk in babbling and stressed out and walk out grounded and positive for the rest of the week. I love my weekly treatment and my ailments are way less, I am about to graduate into Menopause without too many side effects and my numbness is only present if I don't sleep well. My depression and anxiety are reduced to about 10% which is huge for someone who has been struggling with that her whole life. Dawna also helps with finding the right nutrition and I feel comfortable enough to tell her when I cheated because she doesn't judge and make me feel like she is there for me 100% Thank you Dawna. read more

I have had upper back pain for years now, and after trying different massage therapies, I finally decided to give acupuncture a try. I read the great reviews on yelp for Dawna and decided to book my first appointment about a month ago. I am happy to report after 4 sessions, I have noticed a significant reduction and improvement in my back pain. I look forward to my weekly sessions, where to my surprise and delight, I am so relaxed with the needles on my back, that Dawna has to gently nudge me to wake up!! Dawna has a very serene aura about her , when I first met her, I was surprise since she was so down to earth... I was not sure what to expect . The location is also perfect. A restored older house that's as unpretentious as she is. read more

Dawna is hands down one of the nicest practitioners you will ever meet. She truly cares about her patients and is an excellent listener. I enjoyed going to see her, even though my problem was not getting better. And she was honest and told me that since it was not improving, she recommended stopping treatment for the time being. But she tried everything within her power to help me before terminating the treatment. The herbs that I bought from her were very reasonable in price - $10 to $25. The treatments themselves were also very reasonable. Oh, and there was no pain involved! I would highly recommend Dawna to anyone and would trust her with any of my family members! read more

Dawna is amazing. I got pregnant the first full cycle of acupuncture. I went every week during first trimester and experienced little to no nausea. She really listens to your questions and concerns and is also a great massage therapist. I look forward to all my visits with her! read more

I was never a believer in acupuncture, after exhausting all other efforts to relieve stress and eliminate my OCD habits I reluctantly dragged myself to Dawna after finding her on the internet. The BEST thing I ever did, she has taken more time than my doctors trying to pinpoint my issues. I have been feeling better than I have in a long time. My OCD habits have completely diminished, so much so that my husband even noticed! Dawna has changed my life and that hour I spend once a week with her I look forward to all week long. If you are reluctant to try acupuncture, don't be....go see Dawna Ara! read more

Needles can be freaking scary, but Dawna with her down to earth energy, sense of humor, and gentle hands makes sticking needles all over feel great. I went in when I was diagnosed with thyroid cancer and she's made my thyroid life transition as easy and comfy as possible. She's competitively priced, helps you use your insurance, and has ample parking right off the freeway in a quiet neighborhood. Go see her and feel better! read more

I have never done Acupuncture before, and I did not know what to expect. Dawna made the whole process so easy. She made me so comfortable that I barely noticed anything at all. I can also tell that she is a very honest person, she recommended that I follow up with another person who can help me with my knee hip and foot pain, do some Yoga and see a podiatrist. My knee, foot and hip pain feel better today than yesterday. Thanks Dawna. I really enjoyed our conversation yesterday. I wish more people were like you. read more

Dawna Ara has been a magnificent find. I spent my summer in CA and started seeing her for TMJ treatments. I wear a nighttime splint molded by my dentist and even though my headaches are rarer than they use to be, my face is still tense and tired in the morning. Dawna gave me my first true night's sleep in many years. My face, jaw and neck actually felt like they had rested. I had forgotten how good morning could feel! For me, the effects last several days and steadily improved throughout the rest of the summer. She really retrained my jaw muscles to sleep when the rest of my body does. She's also an incredible listener and answered all my questions thoroughly before treating me. And she has a loving bedside manner. Wish we had her in the Northeast! Thank you Dawna! read more

I'm an extremely skeptical person. Acupuncture definitely helps with muscular aches and pains, but I wasn't sure it would help me achieve my pregnancy goal. I started seeing Dawna in September 2012 for fertility. She told me that for women with no physical issues preventing pregnancy, usually her patients get pregnant within about 3 cycles of treatment. I decided to try it before resorting to clomid or spend a ton of money needlessly on IVF. For the first month, I went every week, then after that every other week (but obviously the recommended course is going to be different for everyone). We worked on my general health and any aches and pains that may arise and bother me during that time. I started to look forward to seeing her because she is such a caring person that I felt like I was going to see a friend. Towards the end of the third month (around Christmas time), I started to get discouraged and decided to make an appointment in January to consult with my ob/gyn for clomid when lo and behold, I was pregnant after trying without success on my own for almost a year! After I found out the good news, I converted my January Dr appointment to the first prenatal appt. I continued to see Dawna throughout my first trimester to help with nausea and balancing the chi in my body. I was still skeptical (maybe it was just a matter of time and I could have gotten pregnant on my own), but then I referred a friend to Dawna, and my friend got pregnant after 1 month's treatment. I think I'm starting to become a believer now. read more

After months trying to conceive with no success, I decided to try acupuncture before resorting to a fertility clinic. Mind you, we had been using a fertility monitor and charting, so we were timing everything perfectly, and yet no luck. Dawna was wonderful - warm and open, thorough in her assessment, and extremely skilled in inserting the needles. And wouldn't you know, just TWO weekly sessions with her and I was pregnant! That was the only thing we did differently that cycle, so I'm positive her treatment (which included the acupuncture sessions, dietary suggestions, and some Chinese herbs) did the trick! I continued to see her once a week throughout my first trimester, which really helped keep the nausea, insomnia, and fatigue manageable. The sessions were also very relaxing - it's one of the few times I'm completely disconnected from the world and have a chance to just relax! And she gives a great neck massage afterwards. :) Whatever ails you, do not hesitate to see her. She is the absolute best! read more

Without exaggeration, this is probably one of the best acupuncture experiences IN THE WORLD. I have had acupuncture in LA, Hawaii, NYC & a few places in between (see some of my previous reviews/horror stories) and this place is LITERALLY in a class by itself! SOOO wonderful, let me count the ways: - Feels more like a spa than a medical office -You are greeted by the aroma of burning candles and freshly brewed tea -Nearly PAIN FREE needles -Dawna includes SO MANY EXTRAS that I don't think other places have even thought of, such as: heated table warmers on the massage beds, warm PLUSH blankets extra padding on massage tables extra padding on face bolster beautiful, relaxing music playing hand sewn pillows and beautiful, rustic, unique furniture abounds Dawna also has a license in MASSAGE THERAPY and often includes a short but incredibly BLISSFUL MASSAGE at the end of each session. A-N-D hold on to your seats- she costs about 1/2 THE COST OF EVERY OTHER ACUPUNCTURIST IN TOWN, INCLUDING THE PAINFUL ONES, SO SO ONES, AND NO MASSAGE INCLUDED ONES!! Yes, you read me correctly- she CHARGES LESS and GIVES MORE than every other acupuncturist you or I have probably ever visited!!! You tell me in what other industry can you PAY LESS and RECEIVE MORE than the industry standard, time and time again! Run, don't walk...but just don't interfere w/my much needed visit! Surprisingly, you can get in w/just a day or so notice as well (unlike at other places often)- it really is a miracle. The lady has HEALING HANDS. Go see for yourself!! read more

i can't believe i hadn't thought to yelp my new favorite acupunc yet... while sort of 'over' the whole groupon thing like most everyone else, i'm glad i jumped at that one because it led me to dawna. my acupuncturist in my former home of portland set a pretty high standard, and i have to say, dawna has met the match. she's great at what she does, she's attentive and witty and kind, and i hope she never gets too busy to fit me into her apparently rapidly-filling schedule! (glad to see she has so many positive yelp reviews; it's wholly deserved.) i haven't had a practitioner who combines massage therapy along with acupuncture before, and i'm a complete massage wimp, but i'm adjusting because it really does help. (sure, she looks like this adorable little lady but look out, she can totally pull a vulcan death grip ;) a lot of people seem to still think acupuncture is scary or painful or whatever else, and of the few acupuncturists i've seen, i would send any newbie to dawna in a second, as her approachable nature and excellent bedside manner will put anyone at ease. read more

i first came to dawna by way of groupon. i never had acupuncture before, and dawna really made the experience superb! she first sat with me for a brief consultation inquiring about my various ailments. she's extremely personable and really listens. in that first session i was treated for my lower back pains and cramps. when the session was over and i got up to get dressed, i felt like i had gotten up from a 10-year sleep. my body felt so relaxed and heavy, and i felt light-headed and a bit dizzy. dawna told me that sometimes that happens, particularly for first-timers. i was so surprised that i could feel so relaxed, it was almost confusing. she explained that for the healing process to really begin, you have to get to the parasympathetic nervous system. i had to frequent the bathroom about five times almost every half hour after that. (i had to call her to ask if it was normal. haha.) the second session i had was to treat my cold/flu and allergies. i just had my third session today and i'm feeling so good, so relaxed!!! i always look forward to acupuncture with dawna. i was treated today for allergies and lower back pain. i received acupuncture, cupping, and massage. i'm breathing easier and not sneezing and blowing my nose as much. my back has been a problem for a long time, so i think for my back to really get better, i need to schedule my appointments more regularly rather than sporadically (every few months). her new location is lovely and cute, with no hassle parking (located on a quiet residential street). i can't recommend her highly enough! read more

I have gone to see Dawna a few times now and I absolutely love that I've found a holistic medical practitioner in my area. I've had back pains for the longest time and after my first visit with Dawna much of the pain was gone. She even helped me with a bad cough I had, which went away in a few days. Dawna is amazing and her treatments have even helped me with my insomnia. read more

Dawna gets 5 star reviews for a reason --- she is dang good. My husband has a touch of OCD and Dawn knows how to hit the pressure points in his brain. He has been getting acupuncture to treat this for a while, but never experienced acupuncture and pressure massage which helped greatly. It was also crazy to find out she is the cousin of Dr. Amen from the Amen Clinic. The practice of brain health must run in the family. read more

Dawna is very nice and professional. Her needles do not hurt (I went to an acupuncturist who was not good once so I think I know). The place is gorgeous and serene. I'd recommend going here. The massage was fantastic. One of the best I've ever had. Price is good if I have a coupon but on the pricier side if you don't. But this is not something to bargain on. read more

There are no words to describe Dawna's knowledge and skills set for acupuncture. She made my mom's lower back pain disappear in a few sessions. Not only her treatment techniques are unique but she is such a nice person! If you're looking for a great acupuncturist and herbalist, I highly recommend you give Dawna a visit for an effective acupuncture treatment. read more

I have been trepidatious about allowing someone to stick me with needles. However, I was told that acupuncture could alleviate some of the pain I experience in my joints after working out. I went to see Dawna for my first acupuncture experience. She was very attentive and extremely intuitive about the sources and causes of my pain. She was very professional and I will gladly go see her again. read more

I have been to skeptical of acupuncturist for different reasons, one being they say you have to go back 10-15 times to get full results. But found Dawna to be well trained, very sensitive to my needs, and well beyond my expectations. I've had only 3 treatments for possible carpel tunnel Due to my 15 years as a massage therapist and am thrilled to say I may only have one or 2 more treatments to go. She knew exactly where all my spots of pain were all the way up to the back of my neck. I would highly recommend her to anyone. read more

Dawna is not a normal acupuncturist. She's a HEALER who is passionate about what she does and you can tell in the ways she listens and treats your body. I love the way she combines acupuncture and massage therapy to heal the pain and relieve stress. Had I not been in a car accident, I would have never met her. She's absolutely wonderful and I highly recommend her to anyone who's looking for an acupuncturist you can trust. read more

I moved away from Los Angeles many years ago and hardly ever look back. But there are a few things things that I do miss about tinsel town, Native Foods, Real Food Daily and Dawna Ara for acupuncture. She works wonders with those blades of steel!!! How can my foot feel better after she sticks a needle in my hand?! I don't know, but Dawna knows and that's all that matters! read more