Dennis McGrath Acupuncture

Dennis is an amazing Acupuncturist, and I’ve been to many around the Bay Area. The liver meridian/​channel treatment is nothing like I have ever experienced before. And he incorporated Kama Shilpa history into the treatment which was very unique and compelling to help with my fertility mind/​body/​soul. He has helped me with fertility, thyroid, bladder, stress,. He incorporates history, culture, relationship dynamics, career, health and wellness — all of it into the sessions. He usually spends 1.5−2 hours in a session, and his rates are lower than I’ve experienced anywhere. I give him my highest recommendation.

I’d never been to an acupuncture specialist until I came to Dennis almost two years ago. I was referred to him by another doctor, mainly to treat issues of anxiety and depression, but as the sessions went on, I discovered that he could treat other issues such as sinus, congestion, and insomnia. Dennis is 100% committed to his patients which, in my case, meant in addition to the acupuncture treatments providing guidelines on changing my diet to a profoundly healthier one – which helped the problems I’d come to him with in the beginning. I went weekly and each session became more in depth, moving into helping my balance, treating ear problems. Issues of anxiety and depression were alievated to the extent I was able to reduce medication and function in a more natural way. Personally, he’s approachable, has a great sense of humor, and listens to his patients. Not only do I consider Dennis an extraordinary healer, I consider him a friend. I’ve recommended him to several of my friends.

Dennis is the best. I’ve been seeing him for over three years, and I’m still amazed by his ability to help me with pretty much any health issue. He has helped me with many issues that Western doctors were not able to fix. I’ve seen him for back pain, stress, sleep issues, colds, digestive issues, and, miraculously — he helped me get rid of my anxiety attacks completely. Dennis immediately puts you at ease when you walk into his office — I have no qualms talking to him about any body issues, no matter how personal or embarrassing they may be. He is extremely invested in helping you — he always tries to get to the root of the problem, sometimes speaking with you for 20 minutes before your session to make sure he’s captured all important information. He takes copious notes and remembers everything about you, which is impressive considering the number of patients he sees. I always feel like I’m being given 100% of his attention, and he’s 100% committed to healing my issue, which is refreshing after spending time with Western doctors who give you five minutes if you’re lucky. My body is happiest and healthiest when I’m seeing him on a regular basis, which has made me realize that acupuncture is something I want to be a lifelong habit. Dennis is a true healer and master at what he does, and a very caring and nurturing individual on top of that. I can’t recommend him enough.

Dennis is an outstanding acupuncturist. I started seeing him about five years ago. Mainly for an issue with jaw pain and sinuses. A few treatments later my jaw and sinuses were substantially better. But what I really found was that Dennis’ treatments were extremely helpful for anxiety and stress associated with my job and life in general. He’s become a regular part of my regimen, treating me every few weeks. It’s not only the acupuncture treatment, it’s his thoughtful demeanor, compassion and understanding, and the zen-​like atmosphere of his practice. I am immediately relaxed when I enter his office space. I would highly recommend Dennis to anyone. I’ve seen tremendous benefits from continued practice and know it’s key to helping me navigate through a stressful career and life in general!

I was completely new to acupuncture when I visited Dennis’ office for the first time. I had an open mind about it, but also didn’t have high expectations. My issues were with my neck and shoulders that were constantly knotty and full of tension as this is where I carry all my anxiety when I’m stressed out.
Massages were a temporary relief but the knots would be back only a few days later and I was looking for a more long term solution to my discomfort.
The first visit is an in dept consultation where Dennis asks a lot of questions and really gets to know your history. Then once we started talking about the specific neck and back problems, he pulled out a text book and showed me diagrams about how we would be addressing the problems and how my appendix is related to issues in my right shoulder and upper back. He taught me how to do an «appendix massage» on my own to help alleviate the aches in the future and it really does work!
Since then he has helped me with digestive issues, menstral cramps, and sleeping problems. I try to get to his office at least every 4 – 6 weeks just for a «tune up» even if I don’t have any big problems just because the acupuncture and acupressure massages leave me feeling well aligned and better overall.
I’m not a needles person, so I also deal with a little anxiety when the time comes to start the treatment. Dennis has a wonderful bedside manner and gives me a pep talk about «weird yet wonderful» sensations and how to relax each time I’m in his office. I’m able to really relax and I find some of my best meditation is done when I’m on the table in the dark, listening to music with all the needles in place.
Acupuncture is amazing and has literally changed my life. Dennis has a calm, caring, supportive, professional and extremely knowledgeable demeanor. I sincerely look forward to each visit to his office like it’s a spa treatment. I always leave his office understanding my body and mind a little better than before.

Dennis is an amazing acupuncturist and a very intuitive healer (and just an all-​around lovely person!). Dennis has helped me with a number of health and pain issues over the years; insomnia, back pain, allergies just to name a few. Regular visits with him are a great way to «reset» your mind and body.

Dennis is a true healer — kind, holistic, experienced & informed. I initially went to him because I was having serious problems w/​having a regular menstrual cycle. I had gone to many medical Dr’s who misdiagnosed me and suggested the only way to become regular was to get on the pill. Then someone recommended Dennis McGrath to me, and I have to say, Dennis’ approach (of acupressure and acupuncture) helped me regain a normal period in only two sessions with him! I felt like he was a miracle worker. I’ve learned so much about my body (eg. how and where I hold stress and block off my chi flow & what kinds of foods have been contributing to my physical problems) through our work together and I highly recommend him to anyone that is seeking a caring and experienced practitioner. His office space is very soothing, and I always leave there feeling deeply relaxed, pain-​free, and more in-​touch w/​myself in a positive way. Plus his rates are VERY AFFORDABLE considering he spends practically over an hour with you each time!

I saw Dennis months ago for a locked up back. It’s taken me this long to write this review, but I haven’t stopped thinking about how much he helped me. Due to stress, I woke up one morning barely able to get out of bed. I tried bodywork but it wouldn’t release. I eventually found my way to Dennis and saw him four times over a 2 week period. And although I also saw a chiropractor 2 times while I was getting treated by Dennis (out of desperation and fear that my back would never release), there’s no doubt in my mind that it was Dennis’ work that broke through what was going on with me. He gave me acupressure massage and acupuncture.
His rates are extremely reasonable. He helped me get out of such pain, I remember saying to myself that he did not charge enough. That’s how much skill and care I felt I got from his service.
The office is very professional, clean and nicely decorated and it’s in a medical building right on Van Ness — easy to get to and easy to find.
He’s kind, calming, skilled, caring, gentle but firm, and approaches his work with the right intention… to help heal people. I highly recommend you at least see him once to see if he’s the right fit for you and your health concerns.

so many friends have had good experiences with acupuncture, but i never thought it was something i’d need … until now.
i had been suffering from severe back pain for about a week, and it final peaked to the point where i couldn’t walk or get out of bed. a friend had recommended i see dennis, and he happened to have a cancellation that very evening.
upon arriving in his very clean, calm and relaxing office i immediately felt at ease. he spent about 30 minutes getting to know my health (physical/​mental) history and background before we even began the official treatment. he was so comfortable to speak with, very attentive and interested in what was going on in my life.
we were able to come to a few conclusions about my vigorous work schedule and stress levels before we even began. we even spoke of personal things from my past that could be causing much of my back pain. it almost felt like a mini-​therapy session.
the first treatment is about 2 hours, including an acupressure massage (much like a mini/​less fancy massage) and the traditional practice with the tiny needles. he was very calm and made sure that everything was ok with my body and comfort levels throughout the process. i felt better the minute i walked out of the office, and woke up the next day with only slight pain and discomfort. it worked!
i think dennis could be my new spiritual healer and alternative health consultant. i strongly suggest you give him a try!

When I found out I was pregnant with twins, I was ecstatic. As time went on, my ObGyn made it clear that my twins were in a suboptimal position for a vaginal birth. The girl was transverse and the boy was «Frank Breach» or bottom-​down. My Dr. informed me that if they did not turn vertex or both head down, that a C-​section was going to have to be performed. I was extremely scared of this procedure for so many reasons. First of all, my husband and I had a 16-​month old. I knew that if I had a C-​section, then I would not be able to take care of her since I would not be allowed to lift her. With my husband working, this was not an option. Additionally, the thought of surgery itself was pretty scary and expensive (I don’t have the best insurance). I had seen Dennis previously for another issue and he was great, so I decided to try him again. I was kind skeptical, but I decided it was worth a try.
I drove over two hours each way to see him in hopes of positive results. He performed a technique called Moxibustion. I had an ultrasound the day before the technique and literally three days after. I COULD NOT BELIEVE IT, at that final ultrasound, both (!) babies had gone head down! My doctor was so surprised. The Ultrasound tech at Stanford as well as thee head physician were not surprised however. They said that Moxibustion works 70% of the time. So why don’t they recommend it??? Stupid politics maybe since it’s Eastern medicine not Western. It’s ridiculous. Whatever happened to taking care of the patient? But anyway, I confirmed that it worked and that Dennis did a great job. So I ended up delivering naturally both babies, avoiding the C-​section. I was so thrilled! I am so grateful to have found him and HIGHLY recommend him for this procedure (as well as anything else) this guy is amazing!

I have been seeing Dennis for about 6 months now and have nothing but praise for him and his acupuncture practice. I have recommended him to all of my friends and recommend him to anyone who is looking for a skilled acupuncturist and knowledgeable health practitioner.
I initially came to see Dennis for a couple of different health complaints I had, both physically and emotionally. He has taught me more than I could have expected about my health and my body, helping me to understand the root cause of my complaints, rather than just treating symptoms and making me feel better for a short period after treatment. Not only does he do a good job helping you understand what he is doing with the acupuncture treatment, but he is also extremely helpful in helping his patients understand what we can do to live healthier lives.

I’ve been seeing Dennis on and off for several years and most consistently for the last year and a half. He has helped me work through a number of challenges — headaches, stress, carpal tunnel — and other ailments. His treatments consist of both acupuncture and acupressure and he really takes the time to learn about you and your body. He is also extremely calm and caring. Every time I leave a treatment with Dennis I feel great and the effects last. I am so grateful that I found him. I tried another acupuncturist at one point but always go back to Dennis as he is simply the best.

Dennis McGrath is the read deal. I had heard great things about Dennis’s acupuncture treatments from several friends and acquaintances but was completely skeptical about acupuncture. It wasn’t until I hit a point in my life where I was under a lot of stress that I decided to give it a try. Dennis is an *extremely* calm person. He spent an hour talking to me, asking questions and taking notes — followed by another hour of acupressure/​acupuncture. Since then I’ve seen him regularly and he’s diligent about taking notes and reviewing them so that he can provide the best possible treatments for your needs. 6 months later, I’m 7 pounds lighter, happier, less stressed, almost never have trouble sleeping, eat much more healthfully, have a lot more energy, and am able to cope with extremely stressful situations much better. Most of Dennis’ clients are women aged 26 – 40 who are under a lot of pressure at home and at work and need help with stress and anxiety related health problems (insomnia, digestion issues, etc). He’s very trusting and caring, I never feel uncomfortable around him. I’ve recommended him to several people who have had nothing but great success with him as well and definitely encourage anyone seeking the benefit of acupuncture to give him at least 3 sessions for improved health, happiness, and well being.

Dennis is awesome! I went in earlier this week for the first time to him after reading the testimonials here on Unilocal.He definitely knows what he’s doing. He’s very in tune with your chi and stimulates your chi for natural self-​healing. He offers both acupressure and acupuncture in one treatment. He also gave me Chinese herbal medicine that works wonderfully! Initially when he tapped the needles into my arms and legs, it was a bit uncomfortable because my chi suddenly woken up in my body (is the only way I can explain it), but it calmed down after a couple minutes. The initial sensation was foreign to me, so I thought the needle hit my nerves… but it quickly calmed down and I started to heal. Within minutes of lying still with the needles, I felt my sinus and my ears pop open and my respiratory system began to clear up. Fascinating indeed!

I’ve been seeing Dennis for about a year now and he has helped my condition in ways no other doctor has been able to. Because of him I no longer need medication and feel so much better! He truly understands my body and it’s needs. He’s helped tremendously with my stress, nervousness, etc… I would recommend him to anyone!

upon recommendation from a friend, i went to see dennis twice last month to address stress in my neck, shoulders & upper back as well as pain in my knees.
upon entering dennis’ office, your mind & body senses the change in pace. the busy, frenzied city of sf stops outside the door as you walk into a nice, calm & serene atmoshphere.
i agree with everyone’s review! dennis does have great bedside manners — he’s extremely patient, calm, easy to talk to, a great listener. he takes his time & focuses on you once you’re there. great person to go to for your first acupuncture. to help ease my fear with needles, he breaks down what the actual needle looks like, its function & the basic purpose of acupuncture. moreover, he has great hands for accupressure massage. the massage portion is such a nice bonus that greatly compliments the acupuncture treatment.
unfortunately, the reality is i can’t afford to see him as he is not covered by my insurance. if money wasn’t an issue, i would definitely continue to see him as my acupuncturist.

I have been seeing Dennis for a little over a year now and can’t emphasize how much he has helped me. When I moved out here I had some stress to deal with. Everyone’s reviews capture him exactly. He is caring, supportive, easy to talk to and someone who has made my life better.

Who knew so many things could go wrong with the human body? As a woman in her thirties, I am definitely learning about all of the mysterious ailments that one can suffer, one at a time (okay, sometimes TWO at a time). Many of these illnesses cannot be identified or even diagnosed by Western medicine, and I am NOT a fan of taking drugs that only mask the true underlying problem.
Seven years ago, I was suffering from very bad stomach issues (stomach flip/​flopping all day, pain, belching, etc). Despite my dietary changes (giving up soda. all caffeine, beans. as an example!), these issues plagued me for several months. After numerous invasive and disgusting procedures (Upper G.I., Endoscopy, Colonoscopy!), the western docs told me that there was nothing wrong with me. (!!!). That’s when someone referred me to Dennis. Amazingly, after just one treatment with him, I felt 90% better. A few treatments later, and I was back to healthy, happy me.
Since then, Dennis has successfully treated me for insomnia (both the inability to fall asleep at night as well the inability to STAY asleep), lower back pain, stress, urinary tract issues, a swollen painful ankle (that the western docs said was perfectly fine despite it’s seriously enlarged and puffy appearance), and myriad other little traumas. I don’t know what I would do without him. I walk into his office a broken, sad little person and leave refreshed, renewed, and happy.
Dennis’ office is a tranquil oasis in the city… the fountain in the waiting room… the calming music in each room. the selection of the optimal room temperature. the soothing wall color… and Dennis himself. Dennis is serenity personified. When you meet him, you will immediately understand why he chose a healing profession. He is very gentle, caring, nurturing, and extremely skilled at his trade. He listens to what you tell him as well as what your body tells him.
He offers acupressure massage, acupuncture, and Chinese herbs, and often uses a combination of these treatments based on your ailment.
Dennis was my first experience with Eastern medicine. I took a big leap of faith when I went to see him the first time, and I am so grateful that I did. I can’t fathom the thought of what I would do without him.
Now, if I could just convince my HMO of the benefits of acupuncture, I’d be all set!

I went to Dennis on the advice of my primary care doctor and wasn’t really sure if I would have tried acupuncture without this recommendation. I am continually amazed and grateful that acupuncture worked when doctors and pills did nothing.
Dennis is very attentive and puts a lot of thought and effort into helping you. He is very knowledgeable, has a great bedside manner, and has a great office.