Very relaxing environment. Competent and caring acupuncturists. Affordable pricing. I go mainly to regulate my nervous system and release stress from busy work weeks. This place offers everything I need. read more

Such a great place for those looking for affordable acupuncture. Have been here a few times, and each time have been seen by a different acupuncturist, each of whom have provided excellent care. Fairly easy to get an appointment, even on the same day. Cash or check only, so be prepared! read more

At an affordable price, this amazing community health resource exists so your health doesn't require a big price tag. You just have to fill out a simple, straightforward form prior to making an apt, $40 something for your first visit then a sliding scale starting at $20 each visit after. For muscle strains, migraines, and hormonal imbalance I have gotten acupuncture throughout the years. Just like finding any health practitioner, you have to find the right ones that work with you though. (Acupuncturist Holly my go to here.) Tucked between Piedmont and the Grand Lake neighborhoods, Oakland Acupuncture Project is truly a gem find. Behind a secure home turned business/office door, one steps into a calming waiting room before entering the treatment room. Several comfortable, lounging type chairs are spaced throughout the treatment room which also contains different sized pillows to accommodate each person's individualized treatment. An acupuncturist speaks with you about the intention behind your visit then gets you comfy and places the needles. Peaceful music streams through as the medicine works its magic through the needles for 30 mins - an hour. Then you leave one step closer to optimal health. read more

Acupuncture, I've been told, can be a helpful integrative medicine therapy for managing various cancer-related symptoms and side effects of treatment. On my initial visit, I met with Dana, who listened to my heath history and current status. She was very understanding. Dana took me to the treatment space and what to expect. She applied the needles on me and I relaxed for the next 30 minutes. I am optimistic results! read more

I have been going to OAP since they opened. I use both locations. I am soooo grateful that they are here to serve the community. I am a senior, and I'm disabled. I really wouldn't be able to function without their help, especially Jeff. There are many good acupuncturists there; Sarah, Evelyn, Holly & others, but Jeff has really been able to help me with my arthritis and bursitis in my hip and also treats the inflammation in my hands. They have a sliding scale, which is really helpful, and the space is really comfortable. Highly recommend. read more

Great care, efficient and I've found that Jeff consistently does good work. Reasonably priced. Pleasant low-key atmosphere.

Dawn is a wonderful acupuncturist who truly cares about helping her patients feel better emotionally and physically.

Jeff and other provide consistent and high quality services. Been going for years and always feel better with their treatments!

Super amazing, provide actual life treatment to me. Their care is so practical and relaxing and rejunvenation OAP fixes what health care pros ignore and shoves aside as "symptoms." From mild sprains that are nagging to full on pychological revamp OAP helps with everything and on my budget! read more

This place is so awesome! Before coming here, I'd never done acupuncture before, and I'm not the biggest fan of needles. Jeff was very welcoming and I found myself feeling at ease very quickly. Scheduling is intuitive and simple, and there's a lot of availability throughout the week and the weekend, so I never have trouble finding a time. The sliding scale payment is also extremely fair and practical. OAP is the place to be. read more

I hesitate to write this review as I feel like I've found the best kept secret in Oakland. I began seeing the clinic's practitioner Dawn about two months ago and it has greatly improved the quality of my life through tension (TMJ) relief and system regulation that I haven't been able to achieve through other types of holistic practices. What sets this clinic apart is that it's BOTH affordable and effective which lowers the barriers to great care. Went today and know I'll be back again next week :) read more

Excellent continuing care through the pandemic (as of august 2021). Cured my chronic sinusitis. They use needles only, no herbs or cupping. So not the maximum Chinese medicine but easy to schedule and low rates. I'll keep returning. read more

Whenever I need to de-stress or relax, I go to acupuncture. I hadn't gone in awhile so I brought a friend with me who was interested in going. We both felt SO much more relaxed after our session. Sarah is really great and super accommodating. She really listens and focuses on your needs. Booking an appointment is easy - just go online and you're set. I didn't have an issue parking - in fact, I found a spot right in front. Since I don't live nearby, I can't go every week for the full effect but I do plan on going at least once or twice a month. The prices are reasonable and it feels good to give treat yourself. They also offer deals for people who plan on going on a regular basis. If you've never been and you are looking for a different way to treat some issues, you may want to try acupuncture. I was always scared of needles until I tried going. My mom also used to go for some pain issues that have since subsided. It's a good alternative to Western Medicine. read more

I'm in the chair now. Most clients sleep, but I'm in too much pain (back pain, not acupuncture pain) and need a digital distraction. Which nobody judges me for. Lovely! Just try it. It's dead simple to try and I promise you will enjoy yourself. If you don't, I'll pay you back whatever you paid. Seriously! I'm not weird, I imagine I'm like many people amazed by the results they get from acupuncture. You want to tell the world. read more

I have been there for about two months now since I twisted my knee during my yoga practice. I went there almost everyday in the first month and my knee got better each treatment. I was only able to do so because of their affordable price setting. All stuffs are absolutely knowledgable and caring. There is enough space between chairs so I was comfortable having my treatment next strangers. Im so glad that I found this place:) read more

A great resource for the community. I've tried both Laurel and Grand and they're both good. The Grand Ave space is indeed more spacious, though a bit more traffic noise, Laurel is - um - cozy. Not too bad, but if you prefer space to the chair next to you, Grand may be better for you. But then again if you drive, parking at Laurel is generally manageable, Grand, not so much. Nice & knowledgeable practitioners. They're realistic about what they can & cannot treat with the limitations of the set-up. But honestly a lot of issues can be dealt with in this environment. They are very professional, clients tended to be really respectful, and the sliding scale is a nod to their values. Recommend for general acupuncture, even for first timers. read more

On this, my landmark 400th review and floating on a freshly-minted 2014 Elite Badge, Childrens, I want to share with you something special about the East Bay and how I do love me some Oakland. *adjusting hat* For those of you who don't know, 2014 is a year that I've been looking forward to with equal parts dread and joy. My Cadet will turn 18 on Valentine's Day; he will be a graduating member of the class of 2014. Take a moment to let the chills run up your spine. To my beloved fans who "get" me (I'm signing 'You complete me!" right now.) Seriously... I am honored to have you follow Me and kindly write off my relative silence because I've been obsessing over SAT dates, college applications, empty-nest syndrome and juggling 4 different job offers. I am a fan of acupuncture, and believe in the restorative and preventative benefits of the treatments. My gal Tiffinie T. of Nest is the gal to see if you plan to reproduce in the near future. It's on my list of things to do: visit her practice for a facial rejuvenation - needles yes, 'Tox, no. I digress. (Officially, my first Yelp digression of 2014 - huzzah!) While I support a fair number of private practices, one of the many things I dig about being an Oaklander is the sense of community and making the benefits of acupuncture accessible to all. The space is serene, community driven, and accepts both online and walk-in appointments. Each month, they run a special promotion, and provide services on a sliding scale. Other perkalicious perks... Perkalicious perks: (aside: I'm wondering why my brain is stuttering Fergie lyrics.) * A fragrance-free environment * Green practices * Filtered water and a selection of hot teas - gratis! * Unlimited "resting time" during and after treatment * Cheery practitioners * Reasonably priced Chinese Herbal Supplements that look like tiny canon balls I am also taking some Chinese herb pills, which were reasonably priced at $10 for a bottle of root extracts (wait, are these #paleo? Because I see lots of root and rhizomes listed on the bottle...) * Possible Paleofaileo, but I do feel less like a hummingbird on crack. * Childrens, I'm not saying I've done crack. * Gentle Yelpers, quite to the contrary: I have NEVER done crack. I have also never been a politician, so perhaps that's why I've stayed away from the drugs. Street drugs, I mean. Or pharmaceutical grade recreational drugs like Ecstasy. I'm not knocking The Marijuana and the thousands of twenty-somethings who need it for their cataracts, anxiety acute pain, anxiety and other ailments associated with youth! In fact, Childrens, I most certainly have inhaled concert air and perhaps even gotten a contact high from it. Beastie Boys, 2007 - I definitely had the hungries, but that is also another one of my default settings, so I couldn't honestly say whether it was a contact high or not, but you know if there is one thing I strive to be, it's honest. I think that having a residence in The Land of Oaks means that by default, you will test positive for The Marijuana, just from walking around and getting some 510 on AND in you by osmosis. Like, how money is filthy, and "they" say that all cash has trace amounts of The Cocaine on it, you know? Have you seen The Wolf of Wall St. yet? Did you notice that in the scene where ah, DiCaprio is using a BOBA sized straw to dip into a vial of The Cocaine that he's *blowing* The Blow INTO her bum? Yes, Childrens - instant uptake, but no tell-tale deviated septum. Some people even take enemas with Alcoholic Beverages, butt anytime you put something in your bum that isn't legal or intended to be there as prescribed by a physician, it's very risky because it bypasses your digestive tract and the uptake into your system is instant. Also, this does not apply to The Homosexuals, the Flaming Heterosexuals or any other parties (especially closeted Republicans) who enjoy putting objects designed to go into bum into said nether-region. I mean, you don't honestly want to end up with your "supposedly" HIPAA protected information or documentation like an x-ray on some Tumblr feed or goodness knows what else, what, with all the things people post on the World Wide Internets these days! "Just Say No [to the hard drugs]! I am such a child of the 80's, and I am so not endorsing any drugs or drug use or movies or anything, because that would be reckless, irresponsible and abuse of my Magical 2014 Eliteness Powers. I digress. (Second official Yelp Digression of 2014) So, in closing this historic review, in summary: two main points: One: Say "no" to The Drugs. Two: Say "yes" to the Oakland Acupuncture Project. ThisisanunpaidendorsementandreviewofTheOaklandAcupunctureProject;drugsarebadforyouunlessprescribedtoyoubyalicensedphysicianandyououghtnotputTheDrugsorTheAlcoholintoyourbum.MynameisKimD;IamtheMadHattrixandIendorsethisreviewandbusiness. Love you Madly, MHX read more

I've been wanting to get to a sliding scale acupuncture clinic for a while now so was ecstatic to walk by the OAP. As a student, the sliding scale part is a life saver. The clinic is an large room with lots of comfy chairs and feels very open but cozy. They have lots of pillows and blankets to use and after the "needle" you, you can snooze as long as you like. Both the practitioners I've seen so far have been very caring and put me at ease. Haven't figured out yet if this will be helpful to deal with my particular issue but the great part is that I think it helps out overall regardless (felt more relaxed and happy after my last visit) and won't cost me hundreds/thousands of dollars before I find out. Thanks so much OAP, love this model of community based healthcare! read more

Please note that the Grand Avenue location is NOT accessible for people with mobility issues. There are stairs that must be navigated to get down to the treatment area. Neither my partner nor I can handle stairs, so we made the trip for nothing. I'm very sad and disappointed because I have been looking forward to getting acupuncture for a long time. I finally managed to get myself together and out of the house (which takes a lot of effort most days) only to find I couldn't get treatment. I highly encourage the manager(s) to make it clear on the website that there are stairs at the Grand location. read more

**Note: This was my first time getting acupuncture at ANY facility. This was my first (and certainly not last) acupuncture experience. A friend of mine recommended this place because of it's community focus and sliding scale payments. As someone on a budget, acupuncture never sounded accessible for me. This place is certainly great! I'm all for the community focus and was a little anxious about needles being stuck into my body. The folks here are great (I've seen Sarah and Jeff)- they definitely help to ease your mind about acupuncture. I do have to admit that I still feel uneasy about being in such an open room that my body sometimes wakes me up during the process. It's definitely awkward falling asleep and waking up to see different people around the room.. then again, I'm so out of it that I notice and zonk out almost immediately. If you have a time limit, be sure to tell them so that they can wake you up. I typically like to go after my work day so that I don't have a time limit- I tend to stay 1-1.5 hours. A great experience! read more

Jeff is the best. Saw him today and was blown away by his bedside manner and knowledge. Felt totally taken care of and nourished. Highly recommend! read more

I've had a business card for Oakland Acupuncture Project in my wallet for years now, but never made an appointment until recently. I got sinus surgery on April 15, 2016, and was experiencing a lot of pain and headaches in the week following surgery, so I decided to make an appointment to get acupuncture. My initial appointment was with JEFF. Jeff greeted me and was super calm, helpful, friendly and has a great, open vibe/energy. He explained how their center works, and then I came into the group therapy space and settled down into a chair. The way this place is set up is, you receive treatment in a group room with other clients. The group room is warm and there is soft, meditative music playing. You may choose pillows or a blanket, and you remove your shoes and settle down into a chair of your choice. Then the acupuncturist comes by and puts the acupuncture needles in and lets you be to relax for however long you choose. JEFF is amazing. He is just so, so amazing. I can't even stress this enough. He is gentle with the needle insertion (super important!) and so nice and kind! I just love him. After my initial appointment (on Tue, April 19) I came back every day for the rest of the week. I also made an appointment on Saturday, but Jeff doesn't work on Saturday, and a woman acupuncturist was there. She was nice, but a little heavy handed with the needle insertion (it really hurt when she put in the needles), and not nearly as warm, kind and nice as Jeff. . I only want to see Jeff! I would highly recommend Oakland Acupuncture Project. It's a great place to receive affordable acupuncture! Make sure you book your appointment with Jeff! read more

15 STARS...A fantastic ensemble of great Acupuncture experts in a great setting and atmosphere. Can't say enough about the quality of the care received. P. Fernandez read more

Extremely rude, I came here as a walk in after I was told it wasn't a problem .... alas turns out it was. The acupuncturist decided she wanted to check the database (3) times for my information, and didn't do this process with anyone else. I don't want to assume it was because I'm a POC, but I'm just confused why everyone else was just able to give their name and continue with their service. After I was sitting bundled up waiting for 7 mins, I was told I needed to leave because of whatever discrepancy they had in their database. Rude AF, wouldn't recommend the tatted up, white brown haired chick. read more

I was a newby to acupuncture when I walked into Oakland Acupuncture Project and Sarah's friendly demeanor and knowledge of treatment immediately put me at ease. She walked me through her steps and truly seemed like she knew what she was doing. The community feel of the treatment room is a nice change. It's not awkward at all sitting amongst other people and for the most part, everyone's sleeping. After she pricked me for about 1 minute total she told me to relax. I thought for sure I wasn't going to fall asleep, I wasn't tired at all. But within about 5 minutes I was out. I woke up after thirty minutes feeling seriously amazing. The sensation afterwards was calm, at ease, and my back actually hurt way less instantly (one of my chief complaints). I will definitely be back. Thank you so much Sarah! I'm SO happy I can finally get acupuncture done even with my budget. read more

Acupuncture has helped me on and off throughout the years, particularly with recovering from physical injury. But when I'm already paying for physical therapy and doctor's visits, private acupuncture sessions at $80 an hour are out of my reach. OAP's community setting and sliding scale allows me to get the treatments I need, at a price I can afford, but also allows the practitioners to make a living. The Grand Avenue location is cozy and restful. I've had treatments from Jeff and Whitney, who were both skilled and soothing. OAP is a real gem, and there is nothing to fear from group acupuncture - just affordable, plentiful treatment to be gained. read more

I have gone to the OAP on two separate occasions. Both were phenomenally relaxing and restorative. The owner, Jeff, was patient and listened to what issues I had, which for me was work anxiety, and he made me feel at ease with some clever humor before explaining how he would use the needles to tailor a treatment specifically for my needed. Some of the bad reviews on here reference noise from surrounding businesses and accessibility needs for those with difficulty getting up and down stairs. But that was at their old location on Grand. They have since recently moved to Santa Clara and the new location is much better. I implore those with a bad experience to try the new digs. This is hands down the best acupuncture practice for those who have never had acupuncture and are afraid of needles. They take their time to explain everything and put you in a relaxed state. My favorite part of the session was when the owner, Jeff, said that he was going to place a needle in a spot which would make me feel nicely inebriated. That almost made me laugh, but truthfully when medicine like this can relax you in such a way as to feel euphoric it is very peaceful indeed. read more

Scarcity mentality. That's the vibe at this place, so I've moved on. They strongly discourage walk-ins and will turn you away most of the time. You can book online, but not pay online. You will have 12 hours to change your appointment, but can't do it online - you have to switch gears, pick up the telephone and leave a message on their answering machine (no one has ever picked up when I call because obviously, they have no receptionist). Worst of all, if you miss appointments you will get a stern talking to BY THE PROVIDER right before your session. Like mentioned above, they can't afford a receptionist so your "caregiver" will be the one giving the lecture. The last encounter with Sarah at the Laurel location left me so shaken I didn't stay for the session I'd paid for (along with payment for the missed session). She took the missed appointment personally, as though it were money out of her pocket. Maybe it was, but having that conversation before attempting healing is completely counter-productive in my opinion. Besides, isn't paying for missed appointments enough penance? Doesn't seem fair to be lectured, reminded of past digressions you've already paid for, and then have to pull cash out of your wallet too. After that unpleasant exchange with Sarah, I went back to the Santa Clara Ave location and got the same talking to/questioning before and after my session with Jenn. I applaud her solidarity with co-workers in their stance against people like me, but she gave the same tired excuse "we wan't to keep costs down". That's also why they don't take credit cards (I've asked several times). The year is now 2018. Consumers want/need more convenient payment options. At any rate, if patients were able to pay in advance via credit card, paypal, venmo or bitcoin, OAC would be sure to get their money. But, I don't think that's the real issue - they just take umbrage at someone missing an appointment for any reason. So, bottom line I paid for 3 appointments in one day, got one treatment that did nothing for me since my emotional state was so down at that point. Not sure why I'm surprised at all this. OAC was never really into the comfort or convenience of their clients, in my opinion. They are obviously saving money by not providing coat racks or hooks in the bathrooms, so be prepared to set all your personal belongings on the floor (the dirtiest place in any home or business). Same goes for the treatment rooms. Your stuff goes on the floor there too, so don't bother bringing a nice coat or you'll be sorry too. In fact if you have memory problems or cognitive issues too, I really wouldn't bother with OAC. They are pretty unforgiving. read more

Great experience. Calm, perfect temperature. The practitioners are very kind and put you at ease. This has been one of my best experiences I've had in a long time read more

I am not sure why I have not reviewed OAP before. I have been going weekly for years, initially for symptoms related to a concussion and then ongoing for stress and anxiety. The practitioners are all lovely and the community setting has a very healing appeal to the experience. My favorite practitioner at this location is Lori. read more

I feel very blessed to be able to go to OAP for regular acupuncture treatments. The folk who work there are consistently welcoming and have skillz! I also appreciate that it's a well maintained, clean, peaceful space. Thanks for the gift of high quality affordable health care OAP! read more

The fee is a sliding scale from $15-$30. Atmosphere is very relaxing, inviting, comforting. You can let them know how long you want to be there, when you want to be woken up. The staff are amazing and we're very gentle especially for a first timer like me. I highly recommend them! Cash or check only. read more

I freaking LOVE this place. It's close to where I live, the acupuncturists are very nice, and it's donation based, which makes it very nice on my bank account yet I still get all the help I need. I don't mind that this is community based because you are going to drift off into La La Land anyways and again, it's donation based. I highly recommend coming here if you want to give acupuncture a try or if you just need to get some done. read more

i have really loved this place & thought i'd already written a review since first joining last summer but i guess not. too bad i am no longer satisfied....and have found a quieter spot with direct, personal attention on sliding scale. my most recent experience monday 4/27 was almost terrible. place was full of people not so mindful of their noise levels. all the chairs still squeak louder than i've ever heard a squeak SQUEAK- i swear! what gives??? it SHOULD BE quiet, peaceful, meditative with a stillness to ease pains & discomfort in the room. a place to heal, not a place to be constantly disturbed by squeaks, doors slamming or a jungle gym upstairs (physical rehab therapy going on FULL FORCE). i was extremely sensitive to all these environmental distractions & to top it off, my acupuncturist for the day didn't seem particularly helpful. there must be a better system for people entering the room discreetly, not slamming doors & writing their checks, depositing payments without it being announced in such an obvious way. i may not be returning unless the chairs are oiled or replaced. HOW HARD CAN THAT BE? read more

Amazing! So caring and relaxing. I tried acupuncture to help with low back pain. I walked in with stiffness and pain and literally walked out with 0 pain for the first time in many months! Thank you! read more

RUBEN's treatment worked miracles. For the past few months I had a clogged ear and was not feeling great, anxious then sad. After the treatment I had less anxiety and rest of the day my ear kept feeling better. I woke up the next morning with not only my ear feeling clear, but my whole head felt clear. I felt like myself again. Thank you Ruben! I will definitely come in for a follow up. read more

This place is exceptional. I absolutely love how organized they are and how kind everyone that works here is. Love these guys. Please come here and support this business and get amazing affordable treatment. Oh and I only had to go for one visit before my knee pain disappeared so the treatment is clearly very effective too. read more

Some months ago I started a new job that was hella-stressful. I was on my feet a lot, dealing with a kind of latent hostility that was not new to me but something that I hadn't experienced in quite a while. It was taking a toll on my mood, my sleep and my relationship. By some kind of ancient wisdom intervention, I came across this issue of Oakland Magazine that featured a slew of Alternative Therapies available to us here in Oaktown. One of them was The Oakland Acupuncture Project. I had been living a pretty consistent, non-Westernized-medicine-type of life up until this point that had been keeping me fairly healthy and about the only thing I had never experienced was acupuncture. I'd done massage therapy, herbs, chiropractic, yoga and probably a bunch of stuff that I do not even remember. This experience was very different. Jeff met me at the door with a wide smile and an air of relaxation and centeredness. He must have sensed my tension because offered me tea and said it would be no problem that I got my treatment earlier than my scheduled appointment. I was at ease almost immediately. The process, as explained to me, is not like traditional acupuncture treatments where you have a room to yourself. This was "community" acupuncture and you are sat in a chair with about 12 other people in the room and given your treatment: a bunch of tiny needles stuck in specific "chi meridians" throughout your body. The ancient Chinese practice is over 1600 years old but even die hard practitioners are hard pressed to explain why it works. It just does. And it certainly did on me. I went into this very deep (but somewhat conscious) sleep after he inserted the needles, for about an hour. I was surprised that time had passed because I kept hearing voices and sounds but i definitely wasn't awake. I left feeling like I was tired but extremely conscious and present. I slept so well that night and I have continued my treatments fairly regularly since then. I highly recommend The OAP on Grand for your health and well being. read more

I have worked in the Healing Arts for over 13 years and have seen and worked closely with many talented body workers and healers. My first visit to Oakland Acupuncture Project on Grand avenue was almost exactly 1 year ago and it was stellar. I went during my last trimester to help ease my pregnancy aches and pains and eventually to assist in induction. At one point I was going a couple times a week. I was finally able to arrange some time for my husband to watch our son so I could take care of myself. Well, unfortunately I was ignored. After arriving on time to my appointment, the Acupuncturist on staff walked into the room and removed the needles of 3 clients, acknowledged that I was making too much noise in my chair then proceeded to assist another client that came in about 5 minutes after me. After waiting 15 minutes, she finally came over and I asked why she chose to assist all others before me. Her response was, I thought you came in after. She lacked compassion and awareness. It's disheartening that a place that is for the community that is led by healers that are supposed to be in tune with assisting others , somehow couldn't notice that another person had entered the room. It's a big decision to find a place to relax and heal, I thought I found it at Oakland Acupuncture Project, but proved that I must keep searching for another establishment. read more

The Grand Ave OAP is just as cozy, if not more, than the Laurel one. It's especially nice for someone who prefers to rest and get treated with dimmer lighting. The simplicity of the decor and style lends itself to seep into relaxation without any distractions. Very conveniently located! read more