Dr. Shannon Dolphin earned her Doctorate of Acupuncture with a specialization in Chinese Herbal Medicine from Pacific College of Health and Science in 2025. During her training in Traditional Chinese Medicine, she completed clinical externships at Rady Children’s Hospital and the RIMAC Sports Center at UC San Diego. There, she focused on sports medicine acupuncture under the mentorship of Ian Armstrong and studied Japanese Meridian Therapy with Elizabeth Talcott. Dr. Dolphin further advanced her training through a post-graduate internship in both theoretical and practical Kampo Herbal Medicine, along with advanced studies in Cosmetic Facial Acupuncture for aesthetic enhancement. With nearly three decades of clinical experience across diverse healthcare settings, Dr. Dolphin brings a deeply integrative approach to patient care, blending Eastern and Western medical traditions. Her healthcare career began with a Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy from the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee in 2002 and has continued through over 25 years of active licensure and practice. Her extensive clinical background includes work in hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, outpatient clinics, and home health. She also served for 13 years as Director of Rehabilitation Services at a San Diego inpatient skilled nursing facility. In addition to her acupuncture training, Dr. Dolphin has completed over 400 hours of advanced education in Myofascial Release and Kinesio Taping, supporting her work with both chronic and acute conditions. Dr. Dolphin is deeply committed to lifelong learning and delivering comprehensive, patient-centered care. She resides in Encinitas with her husband and enjoys an active lifestyle, including competitive outrigger canoe paddling and racing, running, and yoga.
