About Michael Warren
I'm Michael Warren, a registered acupuncturist and Chinese medicine practitioner at Coburg Chinese Medicine. I've been in clinical practice for around 15 years, working with people from Coburg and Melbourne's northern suburbs.
I've always liked the traditional idea of a Chinese medicine shop or neighbourhood practice, where one practitioner becomes part of the community and gets to know the people who come through the door. That's the kind of clinic that I set out and built.
When you book an appointment, you'll see me. Over time, I get to know my patients, their histories and the circumstances of their lives. Much like the relationship people traditionally had with their family doctor, there's a continuity that means you don't have to start from the beginning every time you visit.
My background
I began studying Chinese medicine in 2000, drawn to its long written history and distinctive diagnostic framework. I was interested in its approach to understanding health and how it could sit alongside Western medicine.
I completed a Bachelor of Health Science – Acupuncture in 2012, followed by a Master of Applied Science – Chinese Herbal Medicine. I've also trained in massage, Chinese remedial massage, Japanese acupuncture and moxibustion, with further acupuncture studies and a clinical internship in Guangxi, China.
What matters to me
I believe good healthcare starts with listening, treating people with respect and recognising that everyone comes with different circumstances and needs.
Running a solo-practitioner clinic allows me to give people individual attention without adopting a high-volume approach. I want you to have time to explain what's happening, ask questions and be involved in decisions about your care.
You can also read more about affordable acupuncture at Coburg Chinese Medicine.
How I approach your care
A consultation begins with understanding your story. I'll ask about what's brought you in, your health history, previous investigations and treatments, and aspects of daily life that may be relevant, such as work, activity, sleep and diet.
I use that information to develop an assessment within the Chinese medicine diagnostic framework and discuss an appropriate treatment approach. Depending on your circumstances, that may involve acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, cupping or other techniques.
Your choices matter throughout that process. I have a structured informed consent process, and you're welcome to ask questions, express preferences or change your mind.
I also pay attention to the little things. Some people prefer quiet during acupuncture, others music or guided meditation. You're welcome to bring your own playlist. I provide a call button — my concierge button — so you can relax privately while knowing you can call me back whenever you need.
Working alongside Western medicine
I have enormous respect for Western medicine and medical science. It's been life-saving in my own life, and I don't see healthcare as a choice between competing systems.
Sometimes the most useful thing I can do is encourage someone to speak with their GP, seek further investigation or consider another treatment option. I see that as part of my responsibility as a practitioner.
My focus is on helping you make informed decisions about your healthcare, whether or not those involve treatment at my clinic.
A little about me
I'm a Coburg local who enjoys cycling, camping, live music and reading. I've also completed a Diploma of Visual Art and enjoy painting. You'll find some of my paintings on the clinic walls, and I hope you'll be kind about them.
Visit Coburg Chinese Medicine
If this sounds like the kind of healthcare you're looking for, I'd welcome the opportunity to work with you.
Coburg Chinese Medicine
197 Sydney Road, Coburg VIC 3058
Telephone: (03) 9041 6569
Find the clinic on Google Maps
The clinic is accessible by Route 19 tram and the Upfield train line, with on-street parking nearby.
For more information, see Fees & Opening Hours or Frequently Asked Questions.