Dresden Holden, MAOM, L.Ac.
- Licensed Acupuncturist and Herbalist
- Masters of Acupuncture, Traditional Chinese and Integrative Medicine // AOMA Graduate School of Integrative Medicine // Austin, TX
Native to Ventura and Santa Barbara counties, my life has been a meandering path that has taken me far and wide. I am happy to be back in Santa Barbara, using the tools I have gathered along the way and sharing a healing space with my community.
I've always been a contemplative person which manifested as interests in poetry writing and journaling as a young person, which then led to an undergraduate degree in environmental literature, yoga teacher trainings, vipasana retreats and a couple years living at Mount Madonna Center, a yoga and retreat center located in the southern Santa Cruz mountains.
The study of yoga led to studies in Ayurveda and research into works by Dr. Vasant Lad and Dr. Douillard. It was at a silent weekend retreat at Mount Madonna Center where I met Vanessa Stone and began volunteering with the Amala Foundation. I eventually moved to Austin to continue studying energywork with Vanessa Stone through a series of apprenticeships. This style is steeped in the study of energetic anatomy and practices include hands-on, bodywork, plus self-inquiry meditations and contemplative art and writing.
With this foundation I went on to pursue a graduate degree in Traditional Asian and Integrative Medicine at AOMA Graduate School for Integrative Medicine in Austin, Texas. Advanced studies were in orthopedics and fertility.
In November 2023, I was diagnosed with advanced Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma and have a full removal of the thryoid gland in December 2023. As a result I have been on a journey learning all about integrative thyroid health and how to support the body through extreme healing.
Lastly, informed from my herbal and acupuncture practice, energetic bodywork studies and personal healing journey is Dresden Body + Wellness, a curated line of natural skincare products. Potent simplicity, these products are pure skin and soul food meant to balance and restore the skin barrier. Nontoxic ingredients are meticulously sourced to optimize quality while reducing environmental footprint.
CURRENT OFFERINGS:
Resulting from my range of studies is a unique treatment style that often weaves acupuncture with energywork, Reiki and bodywork. This creates a genuine and intentional space for deep rest and opens the door for profound healing.
I enjoy working with one patient per hour to provide attention to detail and care for the environment created in the treatment room.
Current specialties include women's health, fertility, orthopedics, sports medicine, stress and general wellness. Current modalities offered include acupuncture, Reiki, cupping, Red LED/Infrared therapy, and holistic microneedling.