Katie Marienthal Smith has a very unique style of acupuncture compared to other places I've tried. Most places I've gone to have usually put the needles straight in or around your pain points. Katie's approaches almost the opposite at least for my experience. She told me about some science or something about how there's channels in your body to where reducing the pain actually comes from putting a needle on a completely opposite side of your body. For example, for my left thumb, she put needles around my right foot / ankle area. And for my neck pain on my left side she put needles around my wrist area. She puts needles in you until the pain level that you stated has gone down enough. When she's put enough needles in you she'll let you rest for 25 ish minutes like most acupuncture places. While the pain did go down while I was in the office it came back within an hour me going back to work, but I think that's to be expected since I have a computer job. So based on the high reviews I assumed continuing to go to Katie would probably lead to longer-term results. However, as of when I wrote this review Katie was only seeing patients in her office on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. While there was very minor pain relief, I'll admit I wasn't solid on the science of acupuncturing areas away from the actual issue. Especially since the pain relief was extremely temporary. In addition, despite me having a pain in many places in my body, Katie basically only worked on like 2-3 of my pain areas at time. Most regular acupuncture places have no problem putting needles all throughout your body. Is it possible I could have been better if I could actually see her 2-3 times a week? Possibly. But due to how busy she apparently was, it seems like it's only beneficial to go to her if you're a long-standing patient of hers. Or if you only have a few issues instead of many like me. read more

I went to Katie when I found out I had placenta previa and had a few sessions with her before my next fetal growth scan. She gave me some Chinese herbs to try and worked on me about four sessions. When I went for my next growth scan my placenta previa was gone! And I got amazing news that I was able to deliver my baby vaginally the way I had hoped. I am so grateful for Katie, her advice that she gave me as well as her amazing talent. I highly recommend seeing her for all things related to pre-and postnatal. read more

I cannot thank Katie enough for the care she has provided to me! I suffered from SPD (pelvis/hip) issues early on in my pregnancy (20 weeks) to the point I was using a walker/wheelchair and mostly bedridden with excruciating pain. After just one session, I was resting easier and have continued to see Katie weekly to help alleviate/manage the pain to the point I am mobile again with little to no pain on a daily basis. Katie took the time to answer my questions and find the targeted areas that provided me the greatest relief. Being pregnant, there are additional levels of concern, but Katie is very knowledgeable and answered questions putting my mind at ease about the whole acupuncture process. If you have never tried acupuncture or are hesitant, reach out to Katie as I am now a believer! read more

This review might be a bit premature, as I only underwent my initial acupuncture therapy yesterday afternoon. Nevertheless, it is difficult to articulate the incredible change I am experiencing after just one session. The severe shoulder and lower back discomfort that has troubled me intermittently (mostly persistently) for the last several years has vanished. I woke up this morning with a slight, dull ache, (likely from the percussion therapy) but now at 2PM, I feel pain free. pain FREE! I'm not sure how this is possible and even if the relief is temporary, I am grateful for it. I'm not claiming that Katie is a miracle worker, but this experience feels nothing short of miraculous to me. Katie's expertise is evident, I felt a strong connection to her personalized approach and explanations and her overall understanding of the human body and pain management. I approached the session with an open mind with a degree of skepticism, but now feel nothing but gratitude. Katie, thank you for listening to me and my body and helping me begin my healing journey. read more

I have been to a lot of different Acupuncturists over the years and I have never had as fast of relief as I have with Katie! She took her time to find where the pain was stemming from and adjusted until the pain completely subsided. She also worked on my anxiety and at the end of my service I felt like I was floating! I can not recommend her enough!! read more

I found Katie through Yelp and because of another user's experience with eczema. I had an awful eczema outbreak on my hands and legs. I saw dermatologists, my primary care doctor, and other acupuncturists and all to no avail. When I found Katie's information and her experience with treating eczema, I was excited to make an appointment. Katie was very informative and patient during each visit. In the first appointment, she really listened to my history and looked at my whole body health, not just where the eczema was happening. I loved that she looked at the root cause of what was happening. She advised me to try Chinese herbal supplements and do a yeast cleanse to help with my symptoms. And within a few days, I saw clearing on my hands and legs. After months seeing previous doctors and trying prescriptions, I was thrilled and relieved that this treatment was working and it was a natural treatment with no side effects. Katie is super patient and answers any questions I have. She has great information and understands each person's health! read more

Katie is the best! I was having severe hip pain which would prevent me from walking normally. In just one session I felt a huge relief! Katie took the time to make sure her work was targeting the right area which took a little trial and error and I really appreciated that. Her treatment is not one size fits all! While I hope my pain is resolved, she'll be my first stop if it returns! read more

I've been going to Katie for acupuncture for 5 years...and I'm somehow JUST writing a review. The truth is, I could write a 5 star review after every appointment with her. Over the years I've been working with Katie, I've had many challenges with my physical and mental health. Getting a treatment from her is more than just getting acupuncture. Her approach is unlike any other acupuncturist I've ever worked with and I learn something new from her every time I go in. From helping me to re-build and nourish my body and spirit after years of orthorexic eating tendencies, to working with me to address the root causes of insomnia, hormone imbalances, thirst, hunger, fear, anxiety....I have become so much more resilient in mind, body and spirit because of my time with her. My most recent challenge has been a pretty bad hormonal imbalance after coming off of birth control at the end of 2021. I've been severely bloated for several months, only able to sleep with cannabis and I'm not getting my period so at my appointment with her this week, she created a custom herb formula for me. Last night, I slept the first "sober" night of sleep, without any cannabis, alcohol or cbd in over 5 years. I'm already seeing how the herbs are going to help my body to regain balance so that my cycles will become regular again. Acupuncture is an invaluable medicine for healing the root cause, and I'm so grateful that I've gotten to work with someone with so much wisdom and experience in an amazing, ancient medicine. If you're even considering trying acupuncture for anything you're struggling with, take my word for it and book a treatment with Katie. read more

Katie has helped me with chronic issues that have bothered me for over a year, as well as issues I didn't even realize I had! I initially went to Katie for skin issues that doctors were not able to diagnose or treat. It was beyond frustrating to see doctor after doctor who would look at me and say, "hmmmm...I have no idea what is wrong with you, but sure looks uncomfortable and painful." Gee, thanks! I remembered having gone to an acupuncturist years ago for other issues and she was able to help me, so decided to give it a try for my current condition. My former acupuncturist is no longer in the area, so I found Katie through Yelp and saw her 5-star reviews. I contacted her and I could already tell I would like her just through our phone and email interactions. She not only provides great and effective acupuncture treatments, she also gives me natural tips and guidance for my overall health and wellbeing. From my diet, to supplements, beauty products, books, activities...the list goes on and on. I'm so thankful for all of the recommendations she's given me and they've all been helpful. Katie is healing me from the inside, out and has made me feel like myself again. I'm so grateful to Katie. My only complaint is that Katie is helping me so much that I don't have to see her as often anymore! Thank you, Katie, for all that you've done for me! read more

I have been going to Katie for about 5 months now for my chronic lower back pain and sciatic nerve pain. She is amazing and has helped me so much! She is invested in her patients and really takes the time to get to know you and what treatment works best for your needs. Katie's office is in a great location, easy to find, extremely welcoming, and decorated so nicely. From the moment you walk in, you feel relaxed and her calm and extremely friendly personality makes you feel so comfortable. I highly recommend Katie, I have learned so much from her and have had incredible results from her treatments!!! read more

First experience with acupuncture, and thanks to Katie it's been a good one. After half a dozen visits I am getting a very noticeable reduction in shoulder tendinitis pain. Recommend. read more

My husband and I were trying to get pregnant for 8 months. My period was irregular and my OB told me just to keep on trying but I knew I couldn't track my ovulation because of my irregular period. After one meeting with Katie she put me on a full regiment to regulate my period and within 2 months I was pregnant! She was so helpful and understanding, I highly recommend her to anyone with fertility issues. I also just felt super comfortable around her and telling her everything which is more than I could say for my OB! Thanks Katie! And "your" baby says thank you too :) read more

As a healthcare professional, finding the right care and attention for my body isn't the easiest task due to my schedule or commitment to helping myself. Seeing Katie in just a few sessions has given me the realization of how important self-care is and what I've been missing all along. Her knowledge, bedside manner and beautiful oasis-office puts me right at ease and gives me the confidence in referring my patients to her. Everyone could use relief from all the physical, emotional and chemical stressors in our lives and Katie's skill set will not disappoint. She has become a staple in my healthcare routine and I look forward to working alongside her. I can't thank you enough, Katie, for making me feel whole again! read more

I would highly recommend Katie for acupuncture! Her treatments are very effective. Katie is very knowledgeable, professional, and has a holistic view. With acute back and neck pain for years, I have tried many acupuncturist in the last 15 years.....a few were great, some good, but many not that effective. So when my orthopedic doctor recommended her and thought I would give Katie a try. I am very glad I did....she is the best of the best. read more

I would like to recommend Katie Marienthal for acupuncture! I have suffered from Migraine headaches quite often the last year and so I was referred to Ms. Marienthal. She was amazing! She is very professional, thorough, and has such an extensive knowledge of her field. I have not had a migraine since starting with her! I highly recommend her for any of your acupuncture needs! She is terrific! Kathryn Smith Newport Beach, CA read more

Dr. Katie joins the ranks of one of top healthcare experts that I have been treated by. Her wealth of knowledge and intuition, care and guidance has changed my health and well being. I called Dr. Katie a few months ago, absolutely desperate to see someone to help me feel less lethargic - something that I thought was caused by seasonal allergies. I actually wasn't expecting someone to be in the office, at a very odd time on a Saturday. Dr. Katie called me right back and saw me that day. She placed me on a regimen of affordable supplements that have served to enhance my sense of wellbeing and energy levels. One of the things that is apparent about Dr. Katie is that she is a genuinely caring person. She is devoted to making you feel better and she is so kind and so caring. If you care about your health and improving the quality of your life, do make a consultation appointment with her. I feel more focused and calm since I have seen Dr. Katie. I urged my husband to see her too and he has had similarly great feedback. My boss as well as another coworker are also on their way towards making appointments. I look forward to a long relationship with her! read more

When it comes to your health, every patient wants a practitioner who's professional, knowledgeable and passionate. Without a doubt, Katie embodies all of these traits! Within my first few sessions, I immediately noticed a reduction of stress and pain. Her vast knowledge of Acupuncture, Diet, Supplements and Holistic Treatment has really opened my eyes to the power of Eastern-Medicine and Spiritual Care. If you're looking to improve your quality of life, I couldn't recommend her more! read more

It took a long time for me to try acupuncture because needles have always made me feel uneasy, but Katie was recommended through a friend and I decided to make my first appointment because my doctors weren't able to offer solutions or help for my symptoms (related to post-pill acne, hormones, and reproductive health). I am SO thankful I decided to try acupuncture! It has helped me tremendously and I'm confident that it will continue to help me feel better and healthier. Katie has made me feel so comfortable and I look forward to my appointments so much. As a bonus, I've also noticed that I don't feel as stressed or anxious as often as I used to. I have nothing but positive things to say about Katie and I've recommended acupuncture to several friends and family members. I love it! read more

Katie has a lovely demeanor and wonderful healing energy. She is extremely caring and thorough and clearly appreciates the mind/body connection. I feel very hopeful that she will be able to help me with my presenting concerns and I always feel relaxed and calmer after my acupuncture treatments. My leg tightness (IT band syndrome) has abated and Katie is diligently working on my other issues as well. She has a wealth of knowledge about supplements and food sensitivities and I feel fortunate to have found her in my search for a skilled acupuncturist! read more

I have been experience stress-related anxiety and someone recommended I try acupuncture with Katie Marienthal. My body is very sensitive to treatments, and she took that to heart and really eased into it. I felt like my body was really respected. The needles can feel a bit strange at first (I was a first timer). But, as I relaxed into the table I started to feel energy open up, my body relax, and a really zen-like state come over me. She checked in on me regularly, and had lovely music playing. I was finally able to really quiet the mind and my relaxed state lasted long after the treatment was over. The table and office area was very clean and approachable. I would highly recommend Katie Marienthal for acupuncture treatments! read more

Top notch care, my back feels great. I walked in hurting and walked out relaxed with a huge decrease in back pain. Very professional, very knowledgeable, great experience. Highly recommend. read more

Katie is great! While training up for an Ironman race this year, she has helped me sort out my overall health and wellness with acupuncture, health supplements and diet advice. My recovery from workouts has never been better and my sleep quality and energy has improved. I look forward to all of my appointments - they are very relaxing and completely stress-free. Katie's energy is very relaxing and caring, which helped me as I was nervous about acupuncture and generally tightly wound up. I highly recommend Katie Marienthal if you are looking to solve health issues or or if your are looking to get more out of your mind and body. read more

Katie Marienthal has CHANGED my life and SKIN issues! I would recommend Katie for anyone struggling with stress, eczema, menopause (night sweats), depression.....because I had all of the above due to my skin related issues. I could write a book about all the skin struggles I have suffered in the past 19 years and still would not begin to tell my story! I was diagnosed with Eczema 19 years ago after many different test (blood, biopsy, elimination,yeast, gluten diets, charcoal pills, clean eating, juicing, sauna treatments, over the counter and prescription creams) have seen TOP notch skin doctors and specialist and still no changes in my skin. My skin would look as if someone poured HOT water on it and it was burned about 10 months out of the year =( I even had a fire fighter ask me how I got burned once! I learned to cope and to buy clothes that would hide my arms and legs even during warm days. I met Katie this year at Yogaworks in Costa Mesa, CA while she was doing a stress bead presentation...and what do you know....I had a flare up on my arms! She noticed and began to ask me questions and even asked to examine my tongue! =) In mind I was thinking why does this person want to see my tongue....a question or exam no other doctor had ever explored! I took her business card filed in my purse and went about my day. I did for a second think maybe I will make an appointment with her....I have nothing to lose! a month or so went by and I ended up with the worse flare up of my life. I was desperate and scared and didn't know what to do...however, I knew I couldn't live in pain with my flare ups anymore. I called Katie and the rest is history.....Here you go! Well here is my testimony about Katie! I have pictures to prove what I am about to share but would prefer not to make anyone sick (so I won't share unless you want to see them) if so please email me directly at adrianaclass@yahoo.com In August of 2015 I suffered the worst skin flare up of my life! Katie immediately scheduled an appt. for me in her office and had a consultation within a couple days. We reviewed my medical history during my consultation. Immediately she said that she would be able to help me because her aunt had a similar skin issue a few weeks back and she relieved her breakout. I still had reservations because I had never had success with other treatment (s)! The first treatment was a cupping method that was not the most comfortable treatment because my skin was raw and sensitive...I continued with second cupping treatment and HERBS (a few different herbs she prescribed) within 1 week my skin had gone from a SEVERE 10 to a about a 4 (on scale of 1-10 with 10 being most severe).....I continued with my herbs and the other recommendations she made for my situation and what do you KNOW the FLARE up WAS 95% gone!!!! IT was a MIRACLE....my husband could not believe his eyes nor could I! It been almost 2 months and my skin is healthy, beautiful and GLOWING....I am still taking herbs and continue to communicate with Katie about my health. I am beyond grateful to KATIE for healing my "ECZEMA" or whatever my body was fighting.....Katie- THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart for helping and healing me. NAMASTE. ARoth Costa Mesa read more

I've had hip pain for the past 2 years. I've tried massage, chiropractic, stretching, exercise, rolfing, etc with no improvements. I've tried acupuncture in the past but after one treatment with Katie my hip pain decreased from a 6 to a 2. For a week my hip felt the best it has in the past few years. Katie makes you feel incredibly comfortable, both in conversation as well as on the table. She also recommended supplements to help with some digestive and nervous system issues. I most certainly will be back and recommending her to all of my friends! read more

I was very skeptical of acupuncture before my appointments with Katie but the treatments have diminished my back pain and helped me relax and sleep better. She is incredibly knowledgeable, kind, and works wonders at her job! She quickly responds to phone calls and emails and is an overall joy to be around; I always look forward to my appointments. No other treatment has brought results so quickly or consistently. Highly recommend to all! read more

Katie has helped me work through by body's physical response to stress in addition to helping me feel more balanced in general. She is very professional and has a comforting and healing presence. She has helped me look a little outside of the box about life and healing. I initially chose her because she accepted my insurance, but she has exceeded expectations in looking at healing the root problem (how I process stress) instead of focusing on the symptom (clenching jaw). read more

Managing chronic pain has been an ongoing problem for me the last three years. My pain is located in the most inconvenient of places, the left part of my scrotum and my left sit bone. These pains have gravely impacted my life and have forced me to abandon physical hobbies (e.g. sports and gym), sexual activity with my significant other, and much more. Western doctors have not been able to solve the problem despite an overwhelming amount of testing which included blood work, urine test, ultrasounds, CAT scans, and MRIs. The only evidence procured were herniated discs in L4, L5, S1; however, I do not have lower back pain typically associated with these herniated discs. Moreover, the nerves pertaining to these herniated discs are not linked to the areas I have pain. Without any explanation of what is causing my pain, I have resorted to treating the my pain symptoms. Therefore, I have been involved in physical therapy and chiropractic therapy. Even though these therapies helped lower my pain, my problem was never truly solved. Recently, I have turned to acupuncture. Katie Marienthal is my licensed acupuncturists. Now before I begin my review of Katie, I want to address the issues most of us [who are not acquainted with acupuncture] think about. The first issue was my fear of being pricked by needles. More importantly, I have always questioned the validity of acupuncture. I have now been treated by Katie three times. Every time has been phenomenal, and now the needles are my friends. The easiest way to enjoy the experience and receive the full health benefits of acupuncture, is to relax. In doing so, the initial needle prick will not feel more than a small pinch. If you ascertain full relaxation, the punctured needle will help calm your muscles. In this tranquil state, clearing your mind is possible. Thus, for me the experience is both a physical and mental restoration. In totality, the needles are not our enemies and acupuncture really can work for you. After the very first treatment I noticed immediate relief in my scrotum and sit bone. And unexpectedly, I felt my muscle relaxation in my abdomen. This provided me with more mobility and a sense of energy. Katie also prescribed me two herbal remedies based on my hectic life; the first was to rehabilitate my liver and the other was to manage my cortisol (stress) levels. The herbal remedies have helped lower my pain levels and help me engage in a deeper sleep. Moreover, in my daily life I feel less stressed and have more energy to be productive. Katie has a plethora of knowledge in the realm of acupuncture and her practice is extremely proficient. She provides specific, effective treatments plans based on your pain problems. I think some bonus points can be awarded for her charismatic personality and her dedication to her patients. I highly recommend Katie Marienthal. I will continue to see her because she is a solution to my problem. With her treatments, I will be restored to the man I once was. read more

I went to Katie Marienthal in last ditch effort to alleviate a horrible rash that I had been fighting for about 2 months. Prior to my visit with Katie, I went to the dermatologist several times to figure out what was the cause and to find relief. The dermatologist prescribed me 5 different medications, (one strong antibiotic and 4 topicals) to address my symptoms with no real conclusive diagnosis. None of the medicines prescribed helped. I was absolutely miserable! I went to Katie to get a different opinion and perspective. Needless to say, I was able to get a relief from my rash within one visit. By the next appointment, Katie was able to fine tune her treatment, suggest dietary modifications and take a more aggressive approach in getting to the root cause of my horribly itchy rash. Through acupuncture, herbs (both oral and topical) and diet modifications, I was able to get rid my of rash within a couple weeks. Later, I decided to follow up with my dermatologist (still had a follow-up appointment scheduled) and confirmed that my rash was a more unusual symptom of celiac disease, in which according to the dermatologist, there is no cure. I was told that the rash may take 4-6 months to go away. Thanks to Katie, she was abIe to get to the root cause of my rash, formulate a treatment plan and help me get rid of my rash within 2 1/2 weeks. I will definitely continue to see Katie in the future. read more