Safe, effective acupuncture and herbal therapy.
Matt Brown LAc, MAOM provides optimal health and lasting relief from the heart of Gorham Village
I believe in a holistic approach, taking time and listening deeply to address symptoms while uncovering their root causes. With extensive training in acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, and cupping, I tailor each treatment to foster lasting relief. Your well-being is my top priority. I’m here to support you on your journey to better health.
Pain and Injury
Stress and Anxiety
Depression
Insomnia
Headaches and Migraines
Women’s Health
Fertility
Respiratory Conditions
Long Covid
Lyme Disease
About Acupuncture
Acupuncture was first developed in China more than 2,000 years ago and remains one of the most commonly practiced forms of medicine on the planet. The World Health Organization has found that acupuncture is performed in more than a hundred countries, and is effective for more than a hundred health conditions. [source]
In essence, acupuncture helps the body help itself. A great deal of research shows that the placement of needles at specific points has myriad effects--stimulating blood flow, reducing inflammation, and releasing endorphins among them--that restore homeostasis and facilitate healing. [source]
Acupuncture is also relaxing. While resting on a warm table, with gentle music in the background, patients can take a break from the hustle and bustle. Because acupuncture soothes the nervous system, even those with busy minds are able to enjoy the experience and find peace in their day.
About Herbal Therapy
Chinese herbal medicine is one of the most powerful - and often overlooked - healing modalities in the world. Strong enough to treat chronic illness, yet virtually free from the side effects of pharmaceuticals, it deserves to be more widely understood. Herbs are rarely administered singly but in complex formulas which address main symptoms while balancing the body as a whole. The interplay of herbs has a synergistic effect which makes them both stronger and safer.
Following my studies with Winnie Chow, an expert on ancient Chinese formulas, I completed a fourteen-month master class with Heiner Fruehauf of Classical Pearls and The Healing Order. I'm proud to offer Classical Pearls formulas at Riverlight, which are the cleanest and most effective on the market.
Herbal formulas may be recommended in the course of one's acupuncture care or herbal consultations can be conducted separately. Some conditions which patients often endure without satisfactory treatment can benefit from long-term herbal therapy, including Lyme disease (and other tick-borne illnesses), Long Covid, endometriosis, allergies, infertility, and chronic fatigue.
FAQs
Is acupuncture covered by insurance?
I'm out of network with all insurance companies at present. However, I'm happy to provide you with a superbill that you can use for reimbursement should your plan cover acupuncture.
What happens at the first appointment?
The first appointment is longer than subsequent ones (90 minutes rather than 60) so that I can learn about your health history and goals, form a diagnosis and treatment plan, and answer any questions. You also receive acupuncture during the initial appointment.
Can I do acupuncture and still receive other treatments?
Absolutely! I'm a firm believer in integrated medicine, and I'd be happy to collaborate with your doctor, PT, or chiropractor to get you the best results.
Can I get cupping or moxibustion?
Absolutely. I use adjunctive therapies depending on what the patient wants and needs. For instance, a patient with Raynaud's is likely to receive moxibustion, a form of heat therapy involving the plant mugwort. A patient with upper back and neck pain is likely to receive cupping, which is akin to massage.
Does acupuncture hurt?
The needles are so thin that patients sometimes can't feel them at all. Other times there's a mild sensation that goes away within seconds.
I'm curious but also skeptical. Is acupuncture right for me?
It's natural to be skeptical about things we haven't experienced. I was! Luckily, you don't have to believe in acupuncture for it to work. I certainly recommend that people give it a shot and see if they find relief, but you'll never feel pressured at Riverlight. We're just here when you need it.
About Matt
Matt Brown, LAc, MAOM earned a master of acupuncture degree with a specialization in Chinese herbal medicine from the New England School of Acupuncture at MCPHS. He is a nationally licensed acupuncturist and herbalist with experience treating a variety of health conditions including chronic pain, anxiety and depression, digestive disorders, menstrual irregularities, and more.
Teachers who have greatly influenced Matt's practice include Winnie Chow (Shang Han Lun herbal formulas), Whitfield Reaves ("Mastering the Treatment of Injury and Pain"), and Heiner Fruehauf (Chinese alchemical herbal formulation).
Before studying Chinese medicine, Matt worked as a case manager for veterans experiencing homelessness. He is committed to forming open, trusting, and supportive relationships with his patients, which he believes are vital to the healing process. A Gorham native and graduate of Gorham High School, Matt enjoys cooking and playing music in his free time.
Visit Riverlight
88 State Street
Gorham, Maine 04038
Phone
(207) 572-9004