Don Gates is a wonderful acupuncturist, not to mention a sensitive human being! My issues were neck pain / wrist pain from a fall in 2014, as well as a long term inability to sleep soundly ( since the birth of my son in 1982 ). Through his expertise, he lessened the pain factor over a very short period of time, and the sleep "issue" gradually disappeared (thank heavens). Fact is, the best sleep I ever had was on his treatment table! I believe I was one of his first patients...dating back to his being a student (before my fall in 2014). I would highly recommend him for whatever problems you may have, short or long term. Not only are his professional skills "top notch", but his kind- ness is without comparison! Respectfully submitted, John G. Edwards, D.D.S. read more

I suddenly double overed in pain on the tennis courts, after stretching my hamstring for a moment, I, of course, kept on playing. The next morning my whole leg was throbbing. Don quickly scheduled me in and his treatment relaxed the muscle. After a few more visits, my hamstring was better and I'm back on the tennis courts. I've been seeing Don for many years now for everything from sports injuries to hormone woes. He is the best acupuncturist I have ever seen (and I've probably tried over 20+ people). If I could, I would give him 10 stars. read more

I had been seeing Don for over 10 yrs. Four or five years ago I had a brutal depression and missed two appts. over a period of time. I would have been willing to compensate Don, but he chose to 86 me. read more

I am super stoic. I can take the pain and keep on going. I've broken toes while catering and still managed to pull off a sit down dinner for 250 people by fashioning a splint with duct tape and popsicle sticks (quelle McGyver!). I once got a grade 2 calf strain while playing tennis - heard that "pop" but kept on playing. I have knocked my back out more times than I can count by deciding it's a good idea to rearrange my whole house in the space of two hours, pick up two sacks of flour at once or move a fully loaded catering van by myself. I always bounced back. Always. Well, in August I lost my bounce. My back went out and I stayed in bed the requisite day with R.I.C.E. and the remote fully expecting my back to bounce back like it always did. No dice. I had developed sciatica. I always thought of sciatica as an old folks problem . .. as in: "How ya doing grandma?" "Oye, my sciatica is acting up something fierce" At first, I didn't even know what it was all I knew was that I couldn't stand without discomfort. I couldn't sit, I couldn't lie down. . . I just couldn't do anything to escape the pain. Nothing worked. Standing at my work station was torture. . even driving my car hurt. Being at work went from being a joy to being too painful to handle. It dawned on me that I had a career ending injury and I freaked. I went on vacation and just sat and rested and sat some more. My sister sent me to her acupuncturist and I think her and the combo of being off my feet worked wonders. It got better but the minute I got home to real life and standing for 10 hours a day, it all came back. Enter Don Gates. Like any good Yelper, I perused reviews and this guy had all 5 star reviews. .. good deal! So off I went for our first appointment. You fill out a very detailed patient form and bring it with you. Then he sits with you and asks you questions that meander all over the place - this is his way of getting to know you and detecting anything that might be affecting your energy or "Qi". Now, I know there are people who don't believe in this stuff but believe this, before seeing Don, I was seriously thinking of quitting my job and going back behind a desk. For anyone who knows me that is possibly the worst thing I could ever do. It would have been soul killing. Don saved my career and in doing so, saved my sanity. Even if you don't have an injury or specific pain but are just feeling off balance, I highly suggest you check out Don - he answers all your questions, is a natural healer who magically puts you at ease and he seems genuinely interested in your well being. I can't say this without it sounding cheesy but here goes: Don Gates will change your life for the better. Believe it! read more

My first ever acupuncture with Don was amazing! I was skeptical at first but I should just try it at least once, right? I am so glad I did and glad I picked Don from the trusty Yelpers! Don is a very calm and patient man has great understanding. He spends time listening to me and to learn about my history and my current lifestyle which help him to diagnose my problem(s). I do not see him very often but his notes during my past visits help him to refresh his memory about my history very quickly! My last visit to Don was for some serious back pain. I wasn't able to stand up straight/walk normal for 6 days. I had a hard time to get out of a chair or bed. I put ice pack on, I put heated pad on, I ran hot water in the shower on my back, I slept on the floor.... nothing helped. After half hour of some needle poking and cupping by Don, I got up the bed with NO pain at all whatsoever and I was able to even twist my back to stretch! Thank you! Thank you!! Thank you!!! My visits with Don not only cure my physical issues but it also calms my mind! You would walk away feel like walking on clouds. His healing hands, needles and cups saved my life!! I will keep coming back and do regular "maintenance"! If cars need tune up, so do our bodies and especially minds! Plan on relaxing and taking it easy for the rest of the day after your appointment. I think it's time for me to make that tune-up appointment now!! I look forward seeing Don at his new location! read more

I'll keep it quick. I got hurt on the job.PE teacher. Rough, right? Little did I know the risks. I picked up a basketball and BAM! Sciatica. OK for a few days, and then one day I tried to stretch it out and BLAMMO! KAPOW! MORE BATMAN NOISES! I can't move. Literally. I'm putting all my effort into not vomiting from pain. The whole back of my left leg is tingling like it's radioactive and pulsing with pain like an evil ET heartlight. So I go to the ER and they prescribe Percocet and bedrest. So now I know that sciatica LAUGHS at percocet. If it was a grudge match it would be a pin in 3 seconds and percocet would still be on the ground struggling to regain consciousness. A full week goes by. I'm calling into work every morn explaining that I'd love to be there but I can't walk without wanting to cry. Finally 7 days in I decide 50 million Yelpers can't be wrong and go see Dr. Gates. I don't really believe in much of anything. I don't know for sure what he did. And I'm not saying it's a miracle. But he treated me on Friday after a full week of bedrest did next to nothing, and by Monday I was back at work and actually doing my job. So... in my little world, that's a miracle. If you have pain and it's not going away, you owe it to yourself to check it out. read more

The idea of accupuncture is unnerving if you've never done it before; I mean really, who wants to have a bunch of needles stuck in them?! When you first meet Don, you get a wonderful sense of calmness and caring. You realize he is exactly the person you want to take you on this journey you've embarked on. He is able to ask the right questions and to prescribe exactly what you need to feel your best. I have recommended Don to a number of people and they were all as impressed as I was with his knowledge and sensetivity. He is truly a healer. read more

I went to see Don about a year ago and I did acupuncture therepy for at least 6 months and I finally stopped when I didn't get any relief to my problems. Worse yet the herbal medications I was given really made me sick. I have high blood pressure and the medicines he had given me was spiking my blood pressure to very dangerous levels so I stopped taking it. I don't plan to go back again. read more

I just recently started seeing Don for neck and shoulder tension and found his treatments to be quite effective. He has a very calm and soothing manner and I found him to be very thorough in answering questions on diet, vitamins, etc. I feel like he has thoroughly researched the products that he recommends and trust that I am in good hands with Don. i would definitely send my friends and family to him. read more

OMG, how could I have forgotten to review Don Gates all this time! He's helped me deal with so many things: 1. Relief from the tension in my neck and shoulders from stress with acupuncture and cupping (is that the term?) 2. Averting or shortening colds and flus with Chinese herbs 3. Anxiety & insomnia with acupuncture and herbs 4. He even treated a bulbous spider bite with a herbal tincture For those of you who've never tried acupuncture or Chinese medicine, please call Don. He's got the best bedside manner, a soothing voice, a calming presence, and the patience of a saint when you ask questions. read more

Don Gates is amazing! I have been to many acupuncturists, and Don's combination of solid expertise and focused presence make for a winning combination. I was impressed by his spot-on analysis of my health status just by describing a few issues happening in my life. He has successfully reduced my upper extremity Repetitive Stress Injury (RSI) pain, and I now know that regular acupuncture visits will keep my pain in check and I can avoid surgery to my hands and arms. What a blessing! I also went to see Don for chronic stomach pain, and that is now gone too. I give him my highest recommendation and encourage you to give him a try! read more

Don Gates, LAc - a happy client. - Acupuncture Near Me - Oakland, California

Don has cult-like following and yes everything they say is true. He really is that good! I have been going to him for many years and he has helped me with a lot of problems. Like anything, finding the right Accupunturist is about the right fit. I had tried anther one before who my friend had recommended. But her needling was so painful and the herbs she gave me resulted in terrible migraines. I was nervous to try another one. But Don was perfect for me. The first time I had Accupunture with him I felt amazing euphoria. Imagine the most incredible drug high but natural and healthy. I thought I could get hooked to this! But I'm afraid that only happens the first time you get your chi unblocked. Still each time I would leave feeling like I had been to the spa, relaxed and refreshed. People told me my eyes sparkled and my skin glowed. I originally went for foot pain. But he has also helped me with back pain, knee pain, menstrual troubles, depression and stress. I really like his needling technique, it can feel like a little elecrtrical jolt, but that's how I know it's working. And he pays attended that he has connected with the chi asking for feedback when neccessary. He is also down to earth, with a wicked irrevernent sense of humor, which I really do enjoy. The office is lovely and soothing with a beautiful collection of Buddhist art. My only complaint is I wish he worked more then Monday, Wed, Friday. But good for him escaping the tyranny of the 7-day work week. If you are thinking of trying Accupunture give it a go, he is the best. read more

When looking for a local Acupuncturist I found Don and couldn't be happier. He really took the time to approach my issues holistically and takes a very blended approach to medicine. If a problem is better served through western medicine, he's honest about it and will set you on the right treatment plan. My last visit was for a lower back injury. He was intuitive, gentle, and really helped me out during a difficult time. He treated me with Acupuncture, massage, and a few other modalities and in the end it helped me heal. I was on the verge of going under the knife for a surgical approach and following his treatment I was able to heal surgery free. Don's incredibly knowledgeable and a careerist in Traditional Chinese Medicine. His prices are reasonable and has a gentle healing touch. You won't be disappointed. Very professional. read more

Don is especially adept at listening and taking in his clients stories and needs. I was pleasantly surprised at how much time we took to go over my initial history and how intent and caring he was - so very refreshing! His office is roomy, comfortable and soothing and even though sometimes those darn needles hurt I know that it's all for the greater good. Don has been a valuable resource for the wide variety of questions I've thrown his way and always follows up via a phone call or email. I highly recommend him! read more

Don Gates is an amazing healer. I have seen him twice for assistance in my attempts to leave nicotine behind. His techniques and after care have been wonderful. His ability to research alternatives was very helpful. Im on my third attempt at leaving nicotine behind, and i can tell you ... being in southern California leaves me missing several gems of the bay area and Don Gates is one of them. Don is the first alternative healing practitioner that didnt leave me feeling like i had just been blessed by some wierd witchy lesbian. Dont get me wrong, I love alternative healers and alternative options, but, i want a professional point of view.. not someone who simply wants to rub my heart chakra. Thank you Don! read more

Don Gates is a wonderful. He really seems to appreciate what being a doctor is all about. He was recommended to me by another mother who sought his advice when she had given her child antibiotics and wanted to build up her immunity and digestion again. When I called him, it was 9 p.m. on a Friday night and my little one was ill with an ear infection. I was quite concerned. He got back to me 8 a.m. the next day with recommendations and herbs. He treated my son and we had great results. (No antibiotics!) Moreover, he called to check in on us more than once to keep tabs on his progress. I firmly believe that quality of care, knowledge and professionalism like this is what is bringing acupuncture and other traditional, natural healing modalities out of the realm of spa treatment fluff and into its rightful place as primary care for the whole family. read more

Don is a talented and knowledgeable health care provider. I have been searching for a doctor to help me with a variety of surface and long-term imbalances, and Don's approach was comprehensive and immediately effective on all levels. I often feel like he's an angel come to visit me in my life. I have that much gratitude for his support. He is fun and empathetic, such a great combination. In one session we can enjoy a good snicker about some common cultural misperception, and then minutes later he switches gears to listen attentively to me talk about my deepest sources of tension. He is a natural. read more

Don helped me with acupuncture for a rotator cuff injury, when I was sick and pregnant, and also prescribed some herbs for my son when he had trouble recovering from a constant cold. Great holistic approach to wellness. Also the thing with the needles for sinus pressure...instant relief! read more

Don is a fantastic acupuncturist. He is attentive and a good listener, which is really something in a health professional. He really cares about his patients, and always goes the extra mile. Don has treated me for a variety of ailments, and I have always been satisfied with the results. A couple of colds were basically knocked out of my system by his expert needles -- and he treats chronic conditions well too. I am always happy to recommend Don to friends -- they always report back happily that his treatments were great. read more

I highly recommend Don Gates! He has a warm and welcoming presence that makes you feel at ease despite what might be going on in your body or your life. He bedside manner is kind and compassionate. And hs expertise in Chinese medicine and accupuncture is vast. You'll be in good hands and leave feeling better than when you arrived! Sincerely, Michele Molitor read more

Don is great!! He is very nice and gentle. As a Hair Stylist, I work a lot with my hands. I had this pain in my elbow three years ago and Don treated me. I was amazed because the next day the pain was gone! read more

Although Don was highly recommended to me, I wasn't sure what to expect from him or acupuncture. After only three sessions with him, I think it's safe to say that if I had any expectations, he would have far exceeded them. Don is an amazing healer- he has a gift that is far greater than his long list of credentials. As he was recommended to me, I would love to have the opportunity to recommend him to others. read more

Don is very thorough, kind, intuitive, and an amazing healer. I have seen him for a variety of troubles such as - neck pain, allergies, stress - and the results have been great. I am not surprised at all of the other rave reviews here. I have seen other acupuncturists, allergists, and doctors for the same issues and Don is the best. read more

My wife and I have been to many acupuncturists over the years at least 15 if not more, and Don is simply the best. My 84 year old wife has severe arthritis in both of her knees and the doctor she was seeing said see needed knee replacements. That was over four years ago. She started going to Don on a regular basis. It was weekly for a few months and now it is monthly. That was over four years ago! Don also does Chinese herbs and he gave her a blend that has increased her energy especially in the morning. Don studied in China, keeps up to date on acupuncture, listens to patients really well and doesn't over promise or over sell his services. He is also a really nice person and very reasonably priced. He is following strict Covid guidelines. We can't recommend him highly enough! read more

I cannot sing Don's praises enough, he truly is an incredible and thoughtful healer. Every one of his sessions brings my body and mind so much balance and serenity- I would go weekly if I could! He has single handedly put me back together on two occasions - first I was unable to move my head or shoulders due to a muscle spasm and later a terrible eversion twisted ankle. After 2-5 sessions I was back on track. He is wonderful, caring, calming and takes his time. Don is also extremely knowledgable in both eastern and western healing techniques as well as herbal remedies. He approaches an issue holistically and intuitively - he addresses lifestyle, work and even diet when looking to understand what ails you. You leave feeling as though a friend has been caring for you. This review is long overdue! read more

DG is the man! Was expecting to find an older chinese herbalist to come out and help me at Dons office, and out pops a younger white man! Don does great work.Takes the time to get to know you and diagnose everything.He explains things well so you know how the body works and what he feels is exactly going on. He was on. For this being my first acupuncture session I felt like I had been to Don for years. The stomach was feeling much better in no time.Will be back to continue working on other issues very soon! read more

I've been consistently impressed with Don's expertise and knowledge of his practice. I would recommend him to anyone seeking acupuncture. I was not even sure what acupuncture could do for me when I went for the first time, and since then a whole world of alternative medicine has revealed itself to me. I doubt that just anyone can practice acupuncture with the level of proficiency that Don has proven to have. Each session has been a success, and has improved the quality of my life and health. His herb prescriptions have also helped a great deal and work really well in conjunction with the needling. I'm moving to Germany soon, and wish I could take him with me... :) Thanks Don! BK read more

Don Gates is simply put, gifted. And intuitive. And full of authentic care in regards to your health and well being. I had never tried acupuncture, and was, in fact, a bit of a skeptic. Don put me at ease, asked lots of questions about my habits and health before we ever even thought of getting down to the business of needle work. You can tell he loves what he does and wants to help his clients. My first visit was an absolutely magical experience, which brought tangible results felt for days. I repeated often at first, and then as necessary, having a newly uncovered, chronic issue, but one that was helped greatly by Don's ministrations to bring under control. His gentle, accurate and effective skill is something that I absolutely treasure, knowing that you don't find practitioners at his level of expertise everyday. I've sent both my uber-skeptical, anxiety-ridden, high school-aged daughter, and my already-a-fan-of-acupuncture husband to Grand Acupuncture Center and both came back with glowing reports on Don's skills and quiet, intuitive, professional manner. The Grand Acupuncture Center's waiting room sets the tone, with its beautiful Asian-influanced style, comfortable seating, relaxing instrumentals to sooth you, plus an amazing selection of interesting books and reading material to choose from if you happen to be early or need to wait, which is rare. Each room is immaculate, comfortable and private. There is also plenty of parking, both street and behind the building. On the fence? Don't waste another second! Just go in and let Don work his magic and start feeling better today. I will always be SO grateful I finally did! read more

I cannot recommend Don too highly. I have been seeing Don for over a decade for one thing or another. I have recommended many friends to him and all have also kept seeing him. He has helped me with eczema and other skin issues, digestive issues, many colds, recovering from surgery, and general energy and well being. I have also worked with him to prepare for and recover from intense endurance events. I haven't come across anything that Don hasn't been able to help with. read more

I saw Don Gates years ago and I still tell people how amazing he is. I was suffering from chronic strep throat and panic attacks. Several doctors at Kaiser recommended I have my tonsils removed and kept putting me on antibiotics. Rather than go through a tonsillectomy as an adult, I went to see Don to seek alternative treatment. Not only did my chronic sore throat quickly disappear, my anxiety and panic attacks did as well. He recommended diet changes and some sessions of acupuncture. I am truly amazed by the difference it made. He is a great listener and brings an incredible perspective with a wealth of knowledge to approach ailments. Thank you Don! read more

Don Gates is an incredible Acupuncturist and wonderful healer. I started going to him to increase my fertility and continued seeing him throughout my pregnancy. Whenever I'm feeling sick, tired or stressed Don helps! He has a calm and soothing presence and obviously knows what he's doing. I highly recommend him! read more

Healing hands, needles and heart! Don is a true Mother Theresa-esque holistic health provider that serves so many folks in the East Bay that otherwise could not access acupuncture. I truly admire his commitment to the health and well-being of his patients! Thanks for inspiring me and others!! read more

5 stars! Everyone has already said everything there is to say. Also, if you're thinking about an doing accupuncture but are at all nervous - Don's the one for you. He'll walk you through the process and make sure you're comfortable with what he's doing and how it all works. And his willingness to listen, and helpful recommendations were a wonderful antidote to my traditional doctors. read more

I went to see Don Gates because i was suffering from a concussion and did not want to medicate myself through my recovery. The results were immediate and in fact i feel more balanced and centered than i have in a long time. Don is welcoming and truly has a calm and healing energy. Every session with Don has proved to be very effective. I've since decided to continue seeing him to help me manage everyday stress. I highly recommend seeing him. read more

Don Gates really knows his stuff! Over the years, Don has helped me with numerous acute and chronic health challenges, such as hip, neck, and back pain, digestive issues, insomnia, menstrual cramps, seasonal allergies, a rash from poison oak, congestion, fatigue, colds, persistent cough, and heart palpitations. (Yes, people like me help Don pay his rent!) I appreciate that Don tailors each session to treat whatever needs attention that day, using acupuncture, cupping (he has a great technique where he slides the cups to relieve muscle tension!), herbs, salves, or tinctures. By using a multi-faceted approach, Don is able to offer relief for just about any issue I bring to him, and, on those rare days when I arrive without a specific need, he does a treatment that helps relieve stress and leaves me feeling euphoric. No matter the state in which I arrive at Don's office, I always leave feeling better. In addition to possessing an impressive depth and breadth of knowledge, Don is also an exceptionally kind, empathic person. read more

I left the clinic after my first visit with two adjectives in mind - compassionate and professional, a combination so rare it is worth celebrating. I'm coming back for more. read more

I highly recommend Don Gates. Amazing, awesome, the best acupuncturist around. He's intuitive and truly one of the most genuinely nice people I've met. Consider yourself lucky to be a patient of his. I'd recommend him to anyone! Go already. read more

I so look forward to my regular treatments with Don. He is quite gifted and gets just the right spots for whatever I'm dealing with at the time, from physical ailments to overall well being and even addresses emotional issues occasionally. I always feel lucky when I find a practitioner of this caliber and I highly recommend him on a regular basis. read more

Don is Great (with a capital "G"). I have been to him a handful of time and each time gone away feeling much better. He has a caring way that immediately puts you at ease. If ever anyone mentions interest in acupuncture treatment I do not hesitate to recommend Don. read more

Don Gates is so passionate and enthused in his practice of Traditional Chinese Medicine / acupuncture, it's a joy every time I am on his table to receive a treatment from him. He is anxious to share his knowledge with his patients and takes time to answer all questions and explain, what to many, is a mysterious practice of treating various diseases and symptoms. Another huge plus is that he is genuinely such a nice warm, likable person. If it is acupuncture you seek, do not hesitate to see Don for help. read more