ACUPUNCTURE
The style of acupuncture we practice involves very few needles and is often imperceptible to the patient. This method can be ideal for those sensitive to needles.
Each treatment balances the energy and structure of the body so that one’s innate healing capacity can flourish. Patients describe treatment as both calming and effective.
HERBAL MEDICINE
Primarily using food grade herbs, different combinations and dosages are prescribed according to a patient’s unique presentation. Taking herbal formulas between acupuncture treatments can further one's healing process.
MOXIBUSTION
Moxibustion therapy pre-dates acupuncture. By warming the artemesia vulgaris plant over the surface of the body, the microcirculation, red and white blood cell counts are improved. In doing so, moxibustion can relieve pain, bolster immune function and enhance vitality.
Patients typically feel a comfortable, warming sensation throughout treatment and feel more energized after.
TESTIMONIALS
I have visited Sara for many years when I am in need of bodily balance or pain relief, most recently for prenatal acupuncture. Sara used gentle needling and moxa treatment to calm my overactive mind and bring me fully into my body to prepare for the birth. During the session, I felt as if I was conversing with my baby, readying both of us for the transition. A few days later I had a smooth and centered birth, and my session with Sara helped make this possible. You can feel the healing energy radiating through Sara's hands and presence - there is no one I trust more to guide my body back into alignment!
Margaret R., Professor
Seeing Dr. Manongi for Maya Abdominal Therapy is the only thing that helped my chronic gut issues. Not only is she a skilled healer and knows the human body so well, she also creates such a peaceful and healing environment. When I got pregnant, Dr. Manongi helped me with Maya and Acupuncture through the whole thing and was an absolute lifesaver for aches and pains. I cannot say how grateful I am to have found her and have her on my care team!!
Rebecca S., Client
I suffer from chronic fatigue and skin irritation and the moment I stepped into Sara's office for the first time I knew I was in good hands. She has an incredibly gentle and healing touch and brings an amazing amount of knowledge and perceptiveness to her practice. Since receiving care from Sara, it is clear that I am on the path to better health and a better quality of life.
Sivan S., Nurse Practitioner
Sara is not only an extraordinary healer during treatments, but she nourishes you with her gentle presence and kindness right when you walk through the door. I saw her for acupuncture during my last trimester in pregnancy and with each appointment she has brought me a sense of balance, encouragement and improvement upon my health. Since having our little one, I have returned for postpartum care and will gratefully continue to see Sara as my acupuncturist. I would highly recommend Sara to anyone, mama or not, who is seeking an acupuncturist who practices gentle needle techniques with a passionate and caring heart.
Megan M., Client
Dr. Susan was one of the best parts of my fertility and pregnancy journey. During my multi-year struggle to get pregnant, I had some traumatizing and unhelpful experiences with other healthcare providers. Finding Dr. Susan changed everything. She is a true healer. I started seeing Dr. Susan when I was struggling to get pregnant. She continued to work with me and provided mayan abdominal massage once I started care with a reproductive endocrinologist. After getting pregnant, she continued to support me. Not only did I feel that her presence healed me from my past experiences, but I also relied on our acupuncture sessions to rejuvenate me physically and emotionally during my difficult pregnancy with twins. I would recommend her to anyone who is seeking support with their fertility or pregnancy journey.
Katharine S., Client
SARA BERGMAN
licensed acupuncturist & herbalist
My study of medicine began many years ago in the San Francisco Bay Area. While an undergraduate at the University of California, Berkeley, I discovered a women’s qigong circle that was the ideal antidote to the stresses of academic rigor. I found that by bringing greater awareness into my body, my mind was clearer and my stress level significantly reduced. This practice and community was a window into the world of East Asian Medicine that would become my lifelong path.
Since that time, I have apprenticed in integrative health modalities both locally and internationally. Two highlights have been an acupuncture training in Japan and working with midwives in the Ecuadorian Andes. I have also worked extensively in the public health sector, focusing on perinatal and reproductive health care. I previously managed the Prenatal Health Care Program with Planned Parenthood Northern California.
My primary influences today are a number of Japanese acupuncture traditions including Toyohari Meridian Therapy and classical Chinese herbalism. The lineage of Chi Nei Tsang abdominal massage continues to influence my practice as well. I enjoy working with all individuals to find a greater sense of ease and comfort in the mind and body. In treatment, I use gentle palpation, deep listening and an open-hearted presence. I am bilingual Spanish-English. I hold the following degrees and credentials:
-MS, Oriental Medicine; National College of Natural Medicine
-BA, International Development Studies; University of California, Berkeley
-Licensed Acupuncturist, Oregon Medical Board
-Diplomat in Acupuncture, NCCAOM
contact: sara@theheartwoodclinic.com
SUSAN MANONGI
acupuncturist & bodyworker
I was introduced to natural medicine at a young age, but it wasn’t until later in life that I realized just how powerful it could be. I was experiencing many health issues and found a team of natural care providers who not only helped me to feel better, but who also helped me to reverse disease. It was then that I discovered just how profound natural medicine is and that our bodies do have the ability to heal when provided with the right support.
As your practitioner, I will strive to be fully present with your care. It would be a privilege and an honor to walk with you along your journey, like so many of my practitioners have with me.
As an acupuncturist and bodyworker, I incorporate many modalities when working with patients. With Japanese acupuncture, I use a gentle style of needling, non-insertive techniques and moxibustion. I often practice Mayan Abdominal Therapy, which is a form of bodywork that focuses on improving blood flow and balance to the abdomen, reproductive areas and pelvis. I also draw from other types of bodywork styles including Shiatsu and Sotai. Because my treatments are gentle in nature, they are calming to the nervous system. I strive to create a safe space and healing environment where you feel seen, heard and supported.
While I am experienced in working with a variety of health concerns, I especially enjoy supporting patients in the areas of women’s health, digestive health, fertility and preconception care, pregnancy and postpartum. My training was at the National University of Natural Medicine, where I had the opportunity to complete a two-year mentorship in Japanese style acupuncture. Upon graduation, I completed a two-year residency and continued on with private practice as an Acupuncturist and Naturopathic Doctor. While I maintain an inactive naturopathic license at this time, my training in naturopathic medicine continues to inform my practice. I hold the following degrees and credentials:
- Licensed Acupuncturist, Master of Acupuncture; NUNM
- Diplomat in Acupuncture, NCCAOM
⁃ Two-year mentorship in Japanese style acupuncture; NUNM
- Two-year Residency with Dr. Stefani Hayes ND, L.Ac. and Dr. Whitney Hayes ND, L.Ac. - focus in Fertility, Women’s health, Gastrointestinal health
- Doctoral in Naturopathic Medicine; NUNM (currently maintaining an inactive license)
- Voted Top Doctor in Portland Monthly, for 2023
- BS, Biology; Roger Williams University
CONTACT US
723 NW 18th Avenue, Portland, OR 97209
p: 503. 791. 4648
f: 844. 833. 5681