Aloha Kākou!

My name is Pomaikaikealoha (Pomai) Nakoa, and I am a Licensed Acupuncturist dedicated to whole-person healing through Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Five Element Acupuncture. My treatment approach is rooted in compassion, collaboration, and the belief that true healing happens when we care for and treat the root, the physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of a person, and not just the branch, their symptoms.

My journey to becoming a healer began in high school when I experienced chronic abdominal pain that went undiagnosed for over two years and later progressed into seizures. After feeling frustrated and overlooked by conventional medicine, I met an acupuncturist who specialized in gastrointestinal and chronic pain conditions. Within two months of her treatment, I was symptom-free. That experience profoundly changed my life and inspired me to pursue this medicine so I could help others find hope and healing when they feel they have run out of options. I earned my Master of Science in Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine as Valedictorian from Alhambra Medical University, an institution offering dual English and Mandarin programs. I received extensive training in Acupuncture, Chinese Herbal Medicine and Nutrition, Tui Na (Chinese bodywork), and more from professors, clinic supervisors, and mentors educated at many of China’s leading medical universities who practiced in high-volume hospitals throughout China. I also hold dual bachelor’s degrees in Technical Theater and Psychology from Occidental College, backgrounds that continue to strengthen my communication, creativity, empathy, and patient-centered approach to care.

My clinical training has taken me from Hawaiʻi to Ecuador and California, where I treated a wide range of acute and chronic conditions in diverse clinical settings. In addition to my TCM education, I completed certification in Five Element Acupuncture, allowing me to blend two complementary traditions of Chinese medicine. Simply put, TCM provides a thorough framework for diagnosing and treating, typically, physical patterns of imbalance and Five Element Acupuncture helps address the deeper constitutional, emotional, and psycho-emotional aspects of health. By integrating both approaches, I am able to tailor each treatment to the individual, supporting not only symptom relief but also long-term resilience, balance, and overall well-being.

My clinical specialties include gynecological and hormonal health, gastrointestinal disorders, orthopedics, as well as psycho-emotional conditions, and I have worked with patients with many other health concerns as well. I am happy to meet you where you’re at on your health journey; I strive to create a space where you feel heard, understood, and actively involved in your healing process. I believe that listening is one of the most important parts of medicine, and I pride myself on providing thorough assessments, thoughtful treatments, and well-tailored treatment plans. Following a treatment session of acupuncture and various other treatment modalities, I may incorporate Chinese herbal medicine and patient education that may consist of nutrition, movement and breath work directives as well as other lifestyle recommendations, rooted in Chinese Yangsheng practices (self-cultivation practices focused on nourishing life to promote health and longevity). I empower my patients with practical tools they can use beyond the treatment room, so that they can remain proactive in their healing process.

Outside of the clinic, you’ll usually find me climbing, hiking, gardening, foraging, crafting, woodworking, welding, or spending time in and around wai (water). I deeply value community, meaningful connections with loved ones, and creating with my hands. My connection to nature continually reminds me of the body’s remarkable capacity to heal when given the right support. I look forward to supporting you wherever you are on your health journey. Whether you’re seeking relief from physical symptoms, emotional balance, or a deeper sense of well-being, I would be grateful to partner with you in your care.

Aloha Kākou! My name is Pomaikaikealoha (Pomai) Nakoa, and I am a Licensed Acupuncturist dedicat... Read More

Dr. Kirsten West grew up in Wilkesboro, NC and found her passion for chiropractic and holistic health from being a patient at very young age. Through this experience and witnessing firsthand the positive changes in her health as well as her families, she decided to pay it forward and pursue a career in Chiropractic so that people can make positive changes in their health journey while solving health challenges naturally.

Kirsten graduated in 2011 from North Carolina State University and went on to attend Logan University outside of St Louis, Missouri. While at Logan, she was chosen by faculty to tutor students in the areas of Biochemistry and Anatomy as well as be a peer-mentor to fellow students in the clinical setting. In April of 2015 she graduated with a Doctor of Chiropractic Degree & Masters of Sports Science and Rehabilitation.

Dr. West continues to pursue learning opportunities in functional medicine, pediatrics, and sports science through seminars and other continuing education. When not seeing clients, she enjoys outdoor activities (hiking, floating, kayaking), spending time with her pup Chance and exploring all that the Asheville and surrounding areas have to offer.

Dr. Kirsten West grew up in Wilkesboro, NC and found her passion for chiropractic and holistic he... Read More