Acupuncturists in Austin
Ashtau Gabriela L.acCHM, Dipl. O.M.
Ashtau Gabriela is a licensed acupuncturist and a natural born healer from Quito, Ecuador, who moved to Florida at a young age. Her diverse cultural upbringing ignited a passion for exploring foreign lands and embracing new cultures. Graduating Magna Cum Laude from the University of South Florida with a degree in French and International Studies, she became fluent in three languages: Spanish, English, and French. Since then, Ashtau has explored many places around the world and within the United States, embodying a deep respect for the sanctity of the earth.
Following her university studies, Ashtau delved into the intricate realms of energy and the origins of illness. Immersing herself in the practice of yoga, she devoted herself to Ashtanga Yoga, eventually becoming a teacher in New Orleans, where she shared her expertise for six years. In the Ashtanga Yoga tradition, a teacher guides his/her students through their own personalized practice through the six series. During this time, Ashtau provided individualized guidance to her students, allowing her to cultivate a profound understanding of both the musculoskeletal system and the energetic dimensions of the body. Ashtau began to discern correlations between mental states and physical practice, observing how a student’s strengths and weaknesses on the mat mirrored their corresponding energetic imbalances.
Driven by a desire to facilitate deeper healing, Ashtau pursued Traditional Chinese Medicine, enrolling in a four-year master’s program at the AOMA Graduate School of Integrative Medicine. Witnessing firsthand the transformative effects of acupuncture and herbal medicine on her own health—improving menstrual cycles, digestion, balancing emotions and reducing stress—she delved into treating a diverse range of conditions during her clinic rotation at AOMA. To enhance her learning while in school, she shadowed Stefanie Dwyer, one of her renowned professors.
With time and practice, Ashtau’s focus gravitated towards neurological issues including neuropathies and paralysis, pain management, stress reduction, balancing emotions, hormone support and cosmetic acupuncture. To enhance her expertise, Ashtau has attended workshops on these topics, she is part of a monthly acupuncture meet up group, and she is constantly learning and finding innovative ways to get the best results for her patients.
All of Ashtau’s life experiences have placed her on the path to help people heal at a deeper level. This means addressing physical, emotional, and mental imbalances to pave the way for extraordinary health that surpasses the realm of disease.
Ashtau’s legal birth name is: Gabriela Fernandez
Dr. Sierra Skye Dee D.acCHM, Dipl. O.M.
Sierra Skye Dee is a non-binary momma who resides in Austin, Texas. Originally from North Carolina, Sierra pursued their education at Portland State University, where they obtained dual bachelor’s degrees in psychology and sociology. During their time at the university, Sierra conducted research as well.
Seeking a more individualized approach to healing, Sierra made the decision to move to Austin, Texas and enrolled in the Masters program at AOMA, specializing in Chinese herbal medicine. This marked a significant shift in Sierra’s career path, as their previous background was in sociology, psychology, and fitness.
Sierra’s interest in acupuncture was sparked when they suffered a tear to their hamstring. They discovered that acupuncture was highly effective in their own healing process. Sierra received their doctorate in acupuncture with a Chinese herbal medicine specialization from Pacific College of Health and Sciences (PCOM) Sierra is dedicated to staying up-to-date with the latest research and advancements in the field, ensuring that their care aligns with the evolving needs of modern society.
Sierra holds a board certification from the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM). They have also received training in yoga and hold a feng shui certification from Feng Shui Designs. They have furthered their studies by training under acupuncturists and herbalists in Japan and pursuing continuing education in fertility-related topics. Sierra has also done training through Acupuncturists Without Boarders for trauma informed care.
While Chinese medicine encompasses a wide range of conditions, Sierra’s focus includes prenatal, postpartum, fertility, autoimmune disorders, emotional stress, and sports injuries. Their personal journey with fertility medicine was influenced by their desire to have a child, leading them to explore the benefits of Chinese herbs and acupuncture for themselves and their partner.
When not immersed in learning, they enjoy spending quality time at home with their partner, child, and dog. They are also a dedicated student of ashtanga yoga and have a passion for outdoor activities.
Sierra eagerly looks forward to welcoming individuals to Ashra and commends them for taking the initial steps towards achieving a more balanced and harmonious self.
