About Maria
I am one of the few second-generation acupuncturists with a lifetime of exposure to Chinese Medicine, with a Masters Degree in Chinese Medicine from Five Branches University of Chinese Medicine. My mother, Donna Leight, L.Ac. O.M.D. was a pioneer in Traditional Chinese Medicine with over thirty years of clinical experience.
I specialize in Women's Gynecological Health. I have completed a 6 year clinical internship in advanced acupuncture with renowned practitioner and speaker Holly Guzman L.Ac. O.M.D.(a specialist in Women’s Health and Infertility) and studied for 15 years with Kiiko Matsumoto, a Japanese acupuncturist renowned for her innovation, precision, and dramatically effective use of acupuncture.
I have a comprehensive background in Integrative Sports Medicine and Trauma. I received my B.S. in Kinesiology from San Jose State University and was a Firefighter for seven years, trained in emergency protocols. I have worked for five years in a physical therapy setting and later received certification in Integrative Sports Medicine, with Frank He, L.Ac. I specialize in the treatment of athletic injuries, musculoskeletal and pain related conditions.
Currently, I am on faculty at Five Branches University teaching TCM theory, Japanese (Kiiko Matsumoto ) style Acupuncture, and a clinical supervisor. I also have a private practice in Santa Cruz.
​
I accept insurance from Blue Shield, and other insurance providers, call or email to learn more.
​
Discounts provided for Senior (65 and up) and students with valid ID.
​
WHAT PEOPLE SAY
Shasta T.
Maria is a very gifted healer and is very knowledgeable about the physiology as she has a degree also in kinesiology. Whenever my back is hurting she is the acupuncturist I go to. She's very precise and takes her time to get all of the spots so I feel much better when I leave. She helped me be able to continue playing beach volleyball even after some injuries. I love maria and anyone who goes to her will love her too.
Robin S.
I first saw Maria after a car Accident. Whiplash Neck. I was getting great results when I was rear ended in a second car accident. In addition to a second whiplash neck I suffered a concussion with migraine headaches. Over the course of the treatment time not only did I get headache relief but the soft tissue damaged has now healed and I don't think I felt this good before the first accident Besides the healing and relief from the injuries of the car accidents my overall health has benefited as I am as healthy as I have ever been in my life.
Nancy P
I've been seeing Maria since August of this year and she has almost cured my back and neck problems. In addition to a great bedside manner and a relaxing atmosphere, she bills insurance and works with patients so her treatments are affordable. Best of all, she is totally thorough - treatments are long but she makes sure she takes care of what ails. I LOVE her and highly recommend her!! 5++++ stars!