Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Dr. Felice Chan. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Dr. Felice, thanks for joining us today. It’s always helpful to hear about times when someone’s had to take a risk – how did they think through the decision, why did they take the risk, and what ended up happening. We’d love to hear about a risk you’ve taken.
From as young as six years old, I knew I wanted to be a doctor. Growing up in Hong Kong, I was immersed in a world where Western medicine was the norm. The closest clinic to my home was a Western one, and whenever I had the flu, I would visit and leave with a prescription for pharmaceuticals. It felt natural to follow this path. I pursued neuroscience and pre-med in college, dedicated two years post-graduation to conducting clinical research in the allergy and immunology department of a hospital, and prepared myself for medical school—I even took the MCAT. Everything was lined up perfectly for a traditional career in Western medicine.
But then, I paused. Something didn’t feel right. I had invested so much time and effort, yet pursuing Western medicine didn’t sit well with my gut. It felt disconnected from my values. I longed for a system of medicine that prioritized addressing the root cause of illness and viewed the body as a holistic entity, not a collection of isolated symptoms. That’s when I turned inward and back to my roots—to my identity as a Chinese woman born and raised in Hong Kong.
I made the decision to take a 180-degree turn and pursue Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It was a risk that shocked my family, friends, and colleagues. The doctors I worked with at the hospital didn’t understand my decision and were vocal about it. “You’re throwing your life away,” some said. Others questioned how I could abandon such a “promising” path. My parents, initially stunned, took a year or two to come around. They had always supported my dreams, but this shift was hard for them to comprehend at first. They worried about my future and whether this unconventional choice could sustain me—emotionally, professionally, and financially.
The journey wasn’t easy. TCM is often misunderstood in the West, dismissed by some as “voodoo medicine.” Yet, I saw something profound in its 5,000 years of history and traditions, coupled with the growing body of modern clinical research that validates its effectiveness. I poured my heart into my studies, learning not only the technical skills but also the philosophies that make TCM so unique. This was a medicine that resonated deeply with me—a medicine that saw the body, mind, and spirit as interconnected, treating the whole person rather than just the symptoms.
Over time, as my passion for TCM became undeniable, so did my happiness. My parents, initially hesitant, began to see how confident and fulfilled I was. That’s what ultimately shifted their perspective.
Today, I see patients in my clinic who experience real, tangible healing. They come to me after trying everything else, often skeptical at first, but leave feeling better. For them, and for me, TCM isn’t just a practice—it’s a lifeline. Looking back, taking the leap from Western to Eastern medicine was the best decision I ever made. It wasn’t just a career change; it was a return to my roots and a reclamation of my values. This risk brought me home to who I truly am and what I’m meant to do.
Dr. Felice, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
I am Dr. Felice Chan, a Chinese Medicine doctor and acupuncturist based in Los Angeles. My practice is rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), which encompasses acupuncture, herbal medicine, holistic healing, Chinese nutrition, Chinese movement therapies, and functional health. I am the founder of Felice Acupuncture, a holistic clinic located in Culver City, where my mission is to help patients heal by addressing the root causes of their health concerns and guiding them toward long-term well-being.
What sets me apart is my deep commitment to education and accessibility. I am passionate about sharing the principles of TCM with those who may be skeptical or unfamiliar with this ancient medicine. My goal is to demystify it and show how it can seamlessly integrate into modern lifestyles. Through my Instagram platform, where I’ve built a community of over 350,000 followers, I advocate for health and wellness by providing practical tips, empowering people to take charge of their healing journey, and showcasing TCM as a lifestyle—not just a treatment option.
In addition to my clinical work, I am an entrepreneur and the co-founder of Moonbow, a TCM-inspired skincare line. Moonbow is a labor of love born from my desire to share the benefits of TCM on a larger scale. The line is crafted with TCM herbs, blending ancient traditions with modern formulations to inspire holistic wellness through skincare.
What I am most proud of is the trust my patients and followers place in me. Whether it’s through hands-on treatments at my clinic or sharing wellness practices online, seeing people feel better, empowered, and more connected to their health is the most rewarding part of my work.
At Felice Acupuncture and through Moonbow, my mission is to make TCM accessible, practical, and relatable for everyone, no matter where they are in their healing journey. TCM is more than just medicine—it’s a way of life, and I’m here to guide my clients toward living it fully.
Putting training and knowledge aside, what else do you think really matters in terms of succeeding in your field?
Other than training and knowledge, I believe fearlessness is one of the most critical qualities for succeeding in this field. When we graduate as acupuncturists, we carry the vision of revolutionizing wellness and health in the United States. However, stepping out of school, we quickly realize that we must also embrace the role of entrepreneurs—a skillset rarely taught in medical school. This dual responsibility requires courage, adaptability, and determination.
Success comes from following your dream with unwavering commitment. It means connecting with like-minded individuals in the wellness space, sharing the profound beauty of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) on platforms like social media, and continually advocating for the value of preventative medicine, even when it feels like an uphill battle. Our current medical culture often focuses on insurance-driven treatments for already-diagnosed illnesses, leaving preventative care underappreciated. This paradigm can make it challenging to attract patients who are unfamiliar with the proactive benefits of TCM.
But change doesn’t happen overnight. By staying persistent, sharing your passion, and educating others about the holistic and transformative power of TCM, you plant seeds of awareness. Keep sharing, keep dreaming, and don’t give up. Our place in the healthcare system is evolving, and it’s our role to ensure that TCM finds its rightful place in the lives of those who need it most. Remember, every step you take as an advocate for this medicine brings us closer to a healthcare model that truly values wellness, balance, and prevention.
Any advice for growing your clientele? What’s been most effective for you?
The most effective strategy I’ve found for growing my clientele has been sharing TCM tips and insights online in a way that’s approachable, easy to understand, and digestible. Simplicity is key—breaking down complex theories into bite-sized, practical advice makes the medicine more accessible and relatable to a wider audience. By doing this, I’ve been able to spark curiosity and draw people in. Once they realize that they have the power to heal themselves, they feel inspired and empowered to explore alternative health solutions that help them feel their best. It’s essential to step out of your comfort zone and confidently share this incredible medicine, even in the face of skepticism. TCM is backed by thousands of years of tradition and, more recently, decades of scientific research that validate its effectiveness. By simplifying and showcasing the beauty and potential of this medicine, you not only build trust but also help shift perceptions and encourage others to embrace holistic healing. Get out there, share your passion, and remember—complex ideas can often be conveyed with simple, effective content. You’ve got this!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.feliceacupuncture.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/felice.acupuncture/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/felice-chan-b57a69ba/
Image Credits
Mikaela Hawkins