Your 2025 FSOMA Board of Directors

The FSOMA Board of Directors are volunteers who are elected by the membership to lead the association. The Executive Committee is elected by the Directors .    

Executive Committee  

Stuart Shipe AP
President 
Contact Stuart

Unity is what is needed in our acupuncture profession.  There is strength in numbers. When, as a profession, we need to protect or enhance our scope of practice, I envision all Florida acupuncturists coming together to get the job done.  I was one of those acupuncturists years ago who thought I didn’t need to be part of FSOMA. The truth is that if we don’t create our future, someone will create it for us.     
I was doing fine I thought, practicing on my island, isolated from other acupuncturists, and doing my own thing.  That was until a chiropractic friend of mine called me and asked for additional understanding on what certain acupuncture points were used for.  He expressed his enthusiasm having just passed his weekend warrior acupuncture certification class in Miami.  How did chiropractors obtain the authorization to practice acupuncture?  The answer is strength in numbers. When the physical therapists in Florida decided to include acupuncture (aka dry needling) in their scope, how did they finally succeed?  The answer is strength in numbers.  As a profession, we almost lost our professional title of “acupuncture physician” this year, 2023.  The only thing that saved our titles was strength in numbers (and a veto by our governor). 
My focus as a FSOMA Board member is to raise money for our agenda, your agenda!  We need you to move our profession forward, your time, your talents, your financial contributions, your participation, or even your thoughts.  FSOMA’s mission is to support Florida acupuncture physicians in their roles caring for those seeking natural medicine.  We would love to see you leave your island and join our team.  I look forward to meeting you.                

Sandra Kahn AP, RN
Vice President
Committee Co-chair Conference
Contact Sandra

Sandra Kahn AP, RN returns to the board and has been elected by the new board of directors to serve as the Vice President. She has been a licensed acupuncturist since 2007 and a member of FSOMA since 2005 as a student and currently as a practitioner. She is also board-certified by NCCAOM with a Diplomate in Acupuncture.  She was granted a Bachelor of Health Science and a Master of Oriental Medicine from Atlantic Institute of Oriental Medicine in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Sandra is the owner of Acupuncture & Oriental Healthcare, Inc. in Davie, Florida. 
Sandra believes that visibility and education about Oriental Medicine in our communities are the milestones of moving our profession forward. She is active in her community by conducting workshops about holistic health & wellness, stress management, and the benefits of acupuncture. She is a member and committee volunteer of the Case Management Society of America, a board member/executive committee member/committee volunteer of the South All Florida Case Management Network, and a volunteer of the Florida Medical Reserve Corps for Broward County.  She will be Co-chairing the Conference Committee, serves on the Advocacy and Membership Committees. 

Galina V. Roofener, AP
Treasurer
Chair- Finance & Insurance Committee
Contact Galina
Galina has over 30 years of experience in health care. She was a major contributor to the development of the Chinese Herbal Therapy program at the Cleveland Clinic in Ohio. As a result, Cleveland Clinic garnered global attention as being one of the first major medical institutions to open a hospital-based herbal clinic in the United States. Currently, Galina focuses on providing traditional Chinese herbal medicine care via Telehealth consults in her private practice.
Before moving back to Florida to be closer to her family she served on the State Medical Board of Ohio’s Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine Advisory Panel concerning the subject of Chinese herbs and other modalities of Oriental Medicine. Also, in the past, she served on the Hospital-Based Practice Task Force Committee advisory panel for the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine.
Currently, Galina is serving on the herbal committee at the American Society of Acupuncturists.
"I am committed to changing lives exponentially through the facilitation of interdisciplinary collaboration between Western and Eastern medical communities through integrative & holistic healthcare and education."

Lynn McPhearson, AP
Secretary
Committees - Conference, Membership 
Contact Lynn
Lynn McPherson completed his Master of Science in Oriental Medicine and a BS Degree in Professional Health Sciences at the East-West College of Natural Medicine in Sarasota, Florida. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Physiology from the University of South Florida. 

Dr. McPhearson currently serves as a medical technician in the United States Air Force Reserve; he attained his Associate of Science in Practical Nursing Technology from the Community College of the Air Force. Dr. McPhearson studied abroad at the original Shaolin Temple in China, studying martial arts in medicine for two months under the Shaolin monks. Dr. McPhearson is one of, if not the only, acupuncture physicians credentialed to do acupuncture in combat deployed settings, Afghanistan, without having to be credentialed as an MD, DO, NP, PA, or PT.

Dr. McPhearson has become an FSOMA board member to “enhance the outreach of the FSOMA, provide technological innovation, and contribute to the evolution of the acupuncture profession within Florida and beyond.”

 Directors

Rebecca Acosta 
Chair- Nominations/Board Development
Contact Rebecca

I've been in practice in Sarasota for 15 years. I'm currently in my 2nd year voluntaring as the vice-chair of your Advocacy Committee, where we are continuously seeking opportunities to get our message out directly to the patient population, as well as collaborate and educate other healthcare providers. I also have a regular radio public affairs program, The Healthy Living Hour, on WSLR 96.5FM in Sarasota/Bradenton, and now on a podcast platform. 

I love and value our medicine. We have had an amazing scope of practice here in Florida, and we need to act (that aspect of fire) and unite (the therapeutic principle of harmonizing) to protect it, as well as build momentum. 

We have the tools and education that our entire patient population needs: quality preventative care along with non-pharmaceutical and non-surgical interventions. Change happens with gentleness and compassion. We can all become changemakers. We all need to do something. I plan to contribute my best effort and skill to be an asset to the profession and to FSOMA.

Kym Caporale, AP
Chair - Conference Committee
Contact Kym

Hi, I am Kym Black- Caporale, DACM.  I have an awesome practice in St. Petersburg, Florida called Beyond the Needle. I also own and operate a made to order face and body product line called I Am KYMA along with PurposefulPulse Life Coaching Services and also BTNEDU Educational Symposiums.

I am a graduate of the University of South Florida, Western Carolina University, East West College in Sarasota, Florida and Pacific College of Health Sciences in San Diego, California.

I started out as an educator followed by obtaining my degree in Speech Language Pathology, owning a rehabilitation company before receiving my degree in Acupuncture. I have been an adjunct professor and Clinic Dean at EWC. I have sponsored many interns in my career of 23 years and continue to teach CEU/ PDA courses throughout the United States.

I am thrilled to express my excitement and enthusiasm for the opportunity to serve on this board for a second time in my professional career as an acupuncturist.  Being a part of this group is a privilege, and I am eager to contribute my skills and passion to make a meaningful impact. My vision is to support and assist the steering of our organization towards achieving its mission and realizing its fullest potential.

I am most passionate about collaboration and community within our profession, in addition to public awareness and practice management.  It is so important to embrace our differences as professionals but also support our colleagues with kindness.  Collectively, we can contribute to each other our experiences and our knowledge. The importance of reigniting our career choice and to use influence and leadership is at the forefront of my service to the FSOMA board and our profession. 

Theresa Gilmore, AP 
Fundraising Comm
Contact Theresa

Theresa Gilmore is a native Miami resident, the third of seven children, and loves south Florida, the ocean, and is an open water swimmer.
She studied acupuncture, herbal medicine, homeopathy, nutrition, and cupping at Acupuncture Massage College and graduated valedictorian in 2002. She is an NCCAOM Diplomate and trained at the Lincoln Medical and Mental Center to be certified to treat substance abuse issues. During her time in New York,  she volunteered to treat stress victims near the site of the Twin Towers disaster and realized how powerful this energy medicine could be. She is  committed to helping people solve their health puzzles and find their healthy place.
Gilmore has a private practice and is also a professor at the Acupuncture and Massage College in Miami..
"I am passionate about this medicine and want to make sure it is available to everyone." 

Carrie Graves AP
Chair-CEU Committee
Contact Carrie

Dr. Carrie Graves is a dedicated acupuncture and integrative medicine practitioner, deeply committed to advancing the field of holistic health in the Tampa Bay area. With her recent achievement of a doctoral degree in Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine from The Pacific College of Health and Sciences, graduating summa cum laude, Dr. Graves now holds the highest professional distinction in her field. She brings over a decade of experience as the CEO and primary acupuncture physician of The Wellness Tree, a thriving clinic based in Dunedin, Florida. With a foundation in Kinesiology from Louisiana State University and a Master’s degree from the AOMA Graduate School of Integrative Medicine, she integrates traditional Chinese medicine, modern diagnostic techniques, and personalized care to help patients achieve optimal wellness. Dr. Graves also serves as an Advisory Board Member for the Palm Harbor University High School Medical Magnet program, contributing to the education of future healthcare practitioners.

 A native of the Tampa Bay area, Dr. Graves actively supports the local health and wellness community, particularly through her involvement with running communities. She specializes in treating athletes at all levels, combining her expertise in integrative sports medicine with a personalized approach that addresses root causes of discomfort and illness. Dr. Graves takes pride in guiding her patients toward their wellness goals by incorporating Traditional Chinese Medicine, a thorough review of medical history, integrative diagnostics, and lifestyle modifications. She is excited to continue her commitment to patient-centered care in Clearwater and the greater Tampa Bay area, fostering an environment where health is seen not just as the absence of illness, but as a state of vibrant, balanced well-being

Cynthiaann Hayes-Hurst AP
Chair of Advocacy Committee
Contact Cynthiaann

I have been involved in healthcare since 1989 and have seen many health models come and go over the years.  I have been trained in Western and Eastern medicine and value the complexity of patients individual needs and options in regard to creating and maintaining their wellbeing.  I have a long history of seeking better health options which has led me to several degrees and a broad range of clinical experience communicating with both the general public and healthcare providers to achieve a better healthcare experience for all.  I am currently practicing in Fort Pierce, FL.  I am Nationally Board certified in Respiratory (1993), Massage (1995) and Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (2017). I graduated from Atlantic Institute of Oriental Medicine in 2017 with my Masters in Oriental Medicine and in 2022 I received my Doctorate in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine.  My experience in both Emergency Medicine and Cardiopulmonary Physical Rehabilitation for 30+ years is a supportive adjunct to my current practice in Traditional Chinese Medicine and Herbology. I also continue training with the Shaolin Temple focusing on longevity practices.

I am passionate about Acupuncture and Eastern Medicine as a whole person-centered healthcare practice available to any individual.  I love the diversity of our medicine and the long history of practical health knowledge that is currently being explored through science due to its long-standing success as a healing art.  Whether your practice focuses on energetic and physical movement modalities, nutritional and dietary, herbology, acupuncture, moxibustion, meditation, etc. this is a healthcare model that embraces all aspects of our personal health!  I am proud to represent FSOMA and look forward to the opportunity to share this powerful medicine with our local communities, medical providers and general public.  It is my personal belief that all people deserve high-quality, cost-effective healthcare that is tailored to their needs and abilities.  

Harvey Kaltsas
Chair - Fundraising
Contact Harvey

've been practicing in FL since March 8, 1982 and watched acupuncture's progress over the decades. In the 1980's I was President of FSAA (later renamed FSOMA) and Chair of the BOA, was President of AAAOM from 1992-94, on the BOA again 1998-2000, and organizer of the National Association of Women Legislators (NAWL) health education and treatment events at NAWL's national conferences from 2008-2011. I learned how to get things done in the FL Legislature, on the BOA, and nationally, and I would like to assist in that process once again. We are at a critical juncture with our beloved profession, and Chapter 457 needs an upgrade. I have insights that could be valuable during this transition.

Mary Riggin AP
Chair of Bylaws Committee
Contact Mary
My passion for TCM was born in 1992 when I stumbled across The Florida Institute for Traditional Chinese Medicine.  After an interview with the director, Dr. Ku, my mind was blown, and I enrolled.  What I saw was an ancient proven practice of medicine with no negative side effects - this is what I had been looking for! 

After becoming licensed in 1996, I jumped into FSOMA, first as an alt board member and Acu Ed Day committee chair, then as President, and then was appointed by Gov Lawton Chiles, and Gov Jeb Bush, to serve on Florida’s State Board of Acupuncture.  At that time we were modifying acupuncture laws and rules.  History was in the making!  (I’m a kid from Queens NYC with zero connections, so I never dreamed I’d be doing such things- what a privilege!) I’ve continued to advocate on a State and local level for decades, while also running my practice, Healing Touch Oriental Medicine in Clearwater, FL.  

Decades later, my health and the health of the 1000’s of people I’ve had the privilege to teach, treat and guide in my clinic, has proven the effectiveness and safety of this complete system of medicine.  I am forever grateful to be a trailblazer for our profession. Our culture is slowly realizing it's much more than just needles to relieve pain. Community education is the key to push forward.

My vision for FSOMA is to encourage members to participate in local community events and help spread our message.

On a personal level, I’m obsessed with my 9 grandchildren; Jerry, my husband, and I volunteer together; I play keys with my church’s praise team; I’m a real estate investor with an Airbnb and became a Licensed Realtor in 2020.  My German Shepard Sarge and cat Binks live with us in Safety Harbor, FL.   

Rachel Siditsky A:
Editor of Publications Comm
Contact Rachel
Rachel Siditsky holds four degrees, a MS in Oriental Medicine and a BS in Professional Health Sciences from East West College of Natural Medicine, a BA in History from Binghamton University, and a MS in Higher Education Administration from Florida State University.  
Rachel was born and raised in Western NY.  Her passion for Traditional Chinese Medicine stemmed from personal experience.  She found relief and was able to stop medication that she was told she would need to be on for the rest of her life.  
During her time at East West, Rachel was instrumental in starting an externship at Turning Points Bill Galvano One Stop Clinic, a homeless assistance agency in Bradenton, Florida.  This program offers acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine modalities to hundreds of local homeless and low-income people in the Bradenton area.  Rachel currently owns and practices at an integrative wellness clinic located in Bradenton, FL, named Bradenton Acupuncture & Wellness.  
Rachel Siditsky has become a FSOMA board member to continue to help the acupuncture profession grow both in Florida and throughout the entire country.  The only way that the acupuncture profession can grow and evolve is through involvement of acupuncturists and she is excited to get more involved and help play a part in the future of our profession.  She looks forward to continuing to chair the editorial committee, getting more acupuncturists throughout Florida involved with FSOMA, and supporting the legal causes that are on the agenda for the next year for our profession and organization.

Gretchen Thevenau 
Chair - Vice Chair Continuing Education
Contact Gretchen

Serving on the FSOMA board gives me the opportunity to become more involved with our profession. I am particularly interested in continuing education and legislative development”. 
Gretchen M. Thévenau is a Doctor of Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine (PCOM) and a licensed and board-certified acupuncturist, a certified homeopath and registered practitioner of the Bach Flower Remedies. She teaches all levels of the practitioner training for the Bach International Education Program. She has a full practice in Suwannee County, FL where she has lived since 2014. Her focus is empowering patients to learn self-help systems in tandem with their acupuncture treatments. 
She lives on the Suwannee River with her two Malinois and two cats.

Dickie Walls, AP
Chair Membership
Contact Dickie

Dickie Walls DAOM is owner and practitioner at Inner Space Acupuncture in Delray Beach, Fl since 2002.  He holds a Master of Oriental Medicine and DAOM from Atlantic Institute of Oriental Medicine (ATOM). He served as outreach director and clinical supervisor at ATOM since 2002. He did post graduate studies at Shanghai University of TCM in 2002, and Tian Jin University of TCM in 2005.  He established a Veteran’s program at ATOM and supervised a free clinic for Vets. He established and supervised an ATOM student clinic at Light of the World clinic, offering free acupuncture for the underserved.  

Dickie began volunteering as event photographer for FSOMA as a student member in 2000, and has continued that function since. He has attended FSOMA acupuncture education events in Tallahassee and acted as liaison with FSOMA and ATOM.  

Service to FSOMA and ATOM are a big part of that life. Dickie loves to dive and takes photos above and below the sea.