Faculty & Leadership

Bridging Two Worlds: Our Unique Teaching Philosophy


Our teaching philosophy centers around the integration of Eastern and Western medical knowledge.

By rigorously exploring the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine alongside modern Western practices, we equip students with a balanced, evidence-based education.

Through hands-on experience and mentorship, our goal is to develop healthcare professionals who can seamlessly integrate both approaches for optimal patient care.

This interdisciplinary model fosters the critical thinking and practical skills needed to address the diverse challenges of today’s healthcare landscape.

Meet Our Faculty

Our faculty brings a wealth of expertise to CITCM, with many holding advanced degrees such as Master’s or PhDs in Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture. Our instructors are highly accomplished professionals, including doctors, naturopaths, chiropractors, massage therapists, and physiotherapists, who bring a diverse range of healthcare perspectives.

Dr. Xia Cheng 

PhD, Dr. Ac.

Dr. Xia Cheng earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western Medicine from Hunan College of TCM, China, in 1983.

She went on to complete her Master’s Degree in Medicine and Acupuncture at Tianjin College of TCM in 1987. In 1990, Xia earned her Ph.D. in Medicine from Chengdu College of TCM, specializing in Acupuncture and Chronomedicine.
With over 20 years of clinical experience as a physician, herbalist, and acupuncturist, Dr. Xia Cheng has held teaching positions at several prestigious institutions and has worked extensively with international students. She is the Director of the BodyMind Synergy Health Centre and plays an active role in the Alberta Association of Traditional Chinese Medicine Doctors as Vice President.
Dr. Xia is passionate about promoting Traditional Chinese Medicine in Alberta and has been an advocate for its regulation in the province. In 2004, she realized her vision of opening CITCM, where she continues to lead as Director. She is also a published author and translator of several TCM works and frequently conducts public education workshops and professional courses for healthcare practitioners.

Dr. Lanre Salami

MBBS, RMT

Dr. Lanre Salami is a highly experienced medical graduate and Registered Massage Therapist with over 25 years of practice.

Since 1994, he has been instrumental in integrating orthopedic applications of massage therapy alongside allopathic medicine, offering a unique, comprehensive approach to soft tissue dysfunction assessment and treatment.

Dr. Lanre has played a key role in developing massage therapy training programs and curricula for various massage schools and associations across the province. His expertise in orthopedic medicine has made him a sought-after guest speaker on topics such as non-invasive techniques for chronic pain management, massage therapy for diabetics, and treatment of TMJ and other fascial disorders.

In addition to his contributions to education, Dr. Lanre was a key participant in the design and implementation of Alberta’s first psychometrically validated evaluation exam for massage therapy. He is currently a senior instructor at the Centre for Complementary Health Education at Mount Royal University, where he continues to teach massage therapy, while also maintaining his own therapeutic massage clinic in Calgary.

Dr. Jiao (Alex) Huang

MSc, Dr. Ac.

Dr. Jiao Huang earned both his Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees in Traditional Chinese Medicine from Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Since 2006, he has worked as an Acupuncturist and instructor for foreign students at Shanghai University and its affiliated hospital. During his time at one of the busiest hospitals in Shanghai, Jiao gained invaluable experience, treating up to 100 patients a day.

For over 11 years, Dr. Jiao has been a dedicated faculty member at CITCM. In addition to teaching, he serves as the Clinical Supervisor Head for the CITCM Intern Clinic and oversees students at The Alex Community Health Centre and Calgary Drop-In Centre, where they provide alternative healthcare to low-income and homeless communities. Dr. Jiao is passionate about using his skills to improve the physical and mental well-being of these underserved populations.

Dr. Juan (Ivy) Wang

MSc, Dr. Ac.

Dr. Ivy Wang is a specialist in gynecology acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine, with a Master’s degree from Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China.

Throughout her studies, Dr. Wang had the opportunity to mentor under renowned TCM practitioners, acquiring advanced acupuncture skills that enhance the effectiveness of her treatments. She spent two years under the mentorship of a leading gynecology professor and a master of ancient acupuncture techniques, particularly for treating chronic and stubborn diseases.

In addition to her academic and clinical work, Dr. Ivy enjoys hiking and studying ancient Chinese philosophy, which further informs her holistic approach to patient care.

Dr. Henry Tarazona

PhD, Dr. Ac.

Dr. Henry Tarazona holds a PhD in Acupuncture and Tui Na from Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine in China, with over a decade of experience as both a practitioner and instructor in acupuncture and TCM.

Dr. Tarazona’s expertise lies in internal medicine, specializing in Jin Gu Tui Na Abdominal Massage techniques for treating neurological and gastrointestinal conditions such as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), epilepsy, and Parkinson’s disease. His deep knowledge and skillset make him a key figure in the field of Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Dr. Kathy Traptow

BPHE, BEd, Dr. Ac.

Dr. Kathy Traptow is a skilled acupuncturist and an esteemed graduate of the Canadian Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine (CITCM). She joined the CITCM faculty in the past year, bringing her passion for education and healing to the classroom.

Dr. Kathy’s journey toward both teaching and healing began with her background in physical education and her personal experience with sports injuries. After recognizing the transformative benefits of acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) in her recovery, she pursued formal studies in acupuncture and herbal medicine at CITCM. Since completing her training, Kathy has focused on sports medicine and is now dedicated to sharing her expertise as an instructor at CITCM, where she is a valued member of the team.

Dr. Bairu Wang

Dr. Ac.

Dr. Bairu Wang earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Acupuncture from Guiyang College of Traditional Chinese Medicine in China. She went on to work in a Chinese hospital from 2010 to 2016, gaining extensive hands-on experience.

In 2012, she was awarded the title of Traditional Chinese Medicine Doctor. The high patient volume in China allowed her to treat 40-60 patients daily, significantly enhancing her skills and expertise.

In addition to her acupuncture and TCM practice, Dr. Bairu is also trained in Tui Na massage. She finds great fulfillment in her patients’ recovery and well-being and is eager to share her knowledge and experience with future TCM doctors and acupuncturists at CITCM.

Dr. Min Gao

Dr. Ac.

Dr. Min Gao earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine from Liaoning University of TCM in 2003, followed by a Master’s Degree and Doctorate in Clinical Discipline of Chinese and Western Integrative Medicine from the same university in 2006 and 2013, respectively.

With nearly 10 years of clinical and teaching experience at the prestigious China-Japan Friendship Hospital in Beijing, Dr. Min also taught Chinese Internal Medicine at the Beijing University of Chinese Medicine. Her expertise lies in using TCM to treat digestive system disorders. In addition to her work in China, Dr. Min practiced for five years in Regina, Canada, where she served as a board director for the Provincial TCM and Acupuncture Society of Saskatchewan before relocating to Calgary.

Dr. Cristiane Rodriguez

PhD, Dr. Ac.

Dr. Cristiane De La Hoz began her academic journey with an MSc and PhD in Neuroimmunology in Brazil.

After completing a post-doctorate in Neurobiology at the University of Calgary, her passion for teaching grew, leading her to teach at CITCM following workshops at the Taylor Family Teaching and Learning Center.

Her personal experience with Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and years of Tai Ji Quan practice inspired her to return to the classroom as a student. Dr. Cristiane recently completed a Double Major in Acupuncture and TCM and is now preparing for board exams. Excited for the future, she looks forward to combining her love of teaching with helping patients through acupuncture and TCM.

In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her husband, family, and friends, attending concerts, practicing Tai Ji, and soaking up sunny days.

Dr. Gayle Maguire

BSc, ND

With over a decade of teaching experience, Gayle Maguire has been practicing naturopathic medicine in Calgary since 2006, specializing in women’s health and pediatrics.

Her approach integrates nutrition and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), complemented by advanced training in intravenous therapy, prolotherapy, ozone therapy, and vitamin injections.

When not teaching courses like Western Nutrition and Ethics & Communications at CITCM, Gayle can be found on the soccer pitch, enjoying time with her daughters.

Dr. Jackie St.George-Rennie

BMR(PT), Dr. Ac.

Dr. Jackie St. George-Rennie graduated from the University of Manitoba in 1979 with a Bachelor of Medical Rehabilitation in Physical Therapy.

Passionate about sports medicine, she earned her Diploma in Sports Physiotherapy and has worked with athletes at the highest levels, including the Olympics, Paralympics, Commonwealth, Pan Am, and World University Games as part of the Canadian Medical Team. Seeking further challenges, Jackie pursued studies in Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western Acupuncture, including advanced training in Beijing, and became a Licensed Acupuncturist.

Dr. Jackie enjoys blending Western and Eastern medicine to offer students a comprehensive approach to assessing and treating orthopedic and sports-related conditions. She currently practices at the Calgary Winter Club Sports Physiotherapy Clinic and shares her expertise through teaching. Outside of work, Dr. Jackie loves climbing, hiking, gardening, and embracing nature.

Dr. Janice Patterson

MSc, Dr. Ac.

Dr. Janice Patterson brings a diverse background in both conventional healthcare and Traditional Chinese Medicine to her teaching at CITCM.

Initially trained as a Kinesiologist, she worked extensively in spinal rehabilitation before earning her Master’s degree in Health Sciences. In this capacity, Dr. Janice served as an educator for Alberta Health Services, providing health education in schools, hospitals, and communities.

With her strong foundation in Kinesiology and a lifelong passion for sports, Dr. Janice specializes in musculoskeletal disorders and shares her expertise through the orthopedic courses she teaches. Outside of her practice, Dr. Janice enjoys cross-country and track running, mountain biking, hiking, and skiing with her husband and three children.

Dr. Sicai Teng

BEng, Dr. Ac.

Dr. Sicai Teng is a certified acupuncturist in Alberta, meeting the rigorous standards of the College of Acupuncturists of Alberta (CAA).

Since graduating, she has continued to deepen her education and refine her practice, developing her own distinctive approach to treating various conditions. Dr. Teng’s expertise includes fascia treatment through manual therapy to correct body structure, classic acupuncture techniques to activate the body’s natural healing processes, and prescribing traditional herbal formulas.

Dr. Teng has been a valued faculty member at the Canadian Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine (CITCM) since January 2019. She teaches key courses, including Chinese Medical Terminology and the TCM classics: Jin Gui Yao Lue (Essential Prescriptions from the Golden Cabinet) and Wen Bing (Warm Diseases).

Dr. Punam Chohan

MSc, CHNC, Dr. Ac.

Dr. Punam Chohan began her career in India, earning her medical degree and practicing Psychiatry and Community Medicine.

She later transitioned to academia, teaching medical graduates. In 2001, Dr. Chohan moved to Canada to pursue a Master’s in Cardiac Physiology at St. Boniface Research Centre, University of Manitoba—one of North America’s premier heart research institutions. Her research on heart disease and diabetes has been published in high-impact, peer-reviewed journals and book chapters. Dr. Chohan has presented her work at numerous international conferences and lectures across Canada. She continued her research career as a senior associate in the pharmaceutical sector and at the University of Manitoba.

In 2012, Dr. Chohan relocated to Calgary and, inspired by the connection between lifestyle, nutrition, and health observed during her clinical research, expanded her expertise into alternative and complementary medicine. She now integrates massage therapy, holistic nutrition, and yoga therapy through her clinic, FitBeeba Wellness.

Outside of her clinical practice, Dr. Chohan is a passionate yoga instructor, mindfulness coach, and public speaker. She teaches yoga and mindfulness globally, while actively engaging with local charities and community organizations as a motivational speaker.

Dr. Amber Bridges

RMT, Dr. Ac.

Dr. Amber Bridges is a Registered Massage Therapist with over 20 years of experience in a clinical setting.

A graduate of a 2200-hour massage therapy program, she is also a member of the NHPC and actively participates in massage training and curriculum development. Amber is dedicated to continually expanding her expertise through specialized courses, including equine and animal massage, PTSD techniques, pre- and post-cancer care, Thai massage, nerve mobilization, and whiplash treatment.

Amber currently runs her own practice at the Massage Centre in NE Calgary. Outside of her practice, she stays active by working out, running, and playing ringette, where she also serves as Vice President of the Women’s Ringette Association Board. In her free time, Amber enjoys cooking and spending quality time with family and friends.

Dr. Amanda Gillette

Dr. Ac.

Dr. Amanda Gilette is a Registered Doctor of Acupuncture with a Diploma in Traditional Chinese Medicine.

A graduate of a 2200-hour massage therapy program, she is also a member of the NHPC and actively participates in massage training and curriculum development. Amber is dedicated to continually expanding her expertise through specialized courses, including equine and animal massage, PTSD techniques, pre- and post-cancer care, Thai massage, nerve mobilization, and whiplash treatment.

Amber currently runs her own practice at the Massage Centre in NE Calgary. Outside of her practice, she stays active by working out, running, and playing ringette, where she also serves as Vice President of the Women’s Ringette Association Board. In her free time, Amber enjoys cooking and spending quality time with family and friends.

David Genert

RMT

David Genert graduated as valedictorian from the WE Integrated Orthopedic Massage Program in 2019.

Specializing in working with clients recovering from motor vehicle accidents, David combines an orthopedic approach with Eastern massage modalities to provide comprehensive care.

In addition to his work as a massage therapist, David enjoys spending time outdoors, playing music, and skateboarding.

Canadian Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine (CITCM)

Chad Friel

RMT, YT

Chad Friel brings over 15 years of experience as a Remedial Massage Therapist, specializing in orthopedic assessment, musculoskeletal injury, shoulder rehabilitation, and therapeutic exercise.

He also has expertise as a Yoga Therapist and Personal Trainer. With seven years of teaching experience, Chad emphasizes a balance between science and creativity in massage therapy, believing that “we must learn the science of massage, and make it our art.”
Canadian Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine (CITCM)

Dr. Ruirui Sun

PhD, L.Ac.

Dr. Ruirui Sun is an associate professor at Chengdu University of TCM (CDUTCM) and an instructor at the Canadian Institute of TCM (CITCM).

A licensed acupuncturist in New York, she completed a combined Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in TCM/Acupuncture at CDUTCM, followed by a Ph.D. in Acupuncture & Tuina. During her doctoral studies, she spent 20 months as a joint Ph.D. student at Harvard Medical School/Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston.

Dr. Sun brings extensive teaching and clinical experience from both China and North America. She has taught TCM foundation, Acupuncture Research & Methodology, and Neurology at CITCM, along with a variety of courses at CDUTCM. She has a rich clinical background from her work in Chinese hospitals and has published 48 SCI papers, contributed to four academic monographs, and participated in award-winning scientific research at the ministerial/provincial level.

Fraser Dobson

BA, RMT

Fraser Dobson holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Philosophy and Political Science and has completed a 2200-hour diploma in Massage Therapy.

Currently, he is in the fourth year of a Bachelor of Health Science degree program, continuously advancing his knowledge in the healthcare field.

A lifelong student of martial arts, Fraser brings a holistic approach to his practice.
He specializes in Orthopaedic Massage and provides care in Calgary, where his passion for both physical therapy and martial arts informs his unique treatment style.

Ricky Man - CITCM

Ricky Man

Qi Gong Master

Ricky is a seasoned Tai Chi and Qigong instructor with over 20 years of experience.

A multi-gold medalist in international competitions, he holds advanced Duan certifications in Wushu and Health Qigong. Ricky has taught at Hung Mon Athletic Club since 2001 and CITCM since 2011, guiding students in physical and mental well-being. In 2024, he earned the title of Qi Studio Grand Master.

Key Highlights:

  • Gold & Silver Medalist – 4th International Wushu Competition (2002)
  • 1st Place – Korea TAFISA Health Qigong (2008)
  • Duan 6 – International Health Qigong (2017)

Alejandro Chirinos

B.A.

Alejandro Chirinos is a dynamic, results-oriented marketing leader with over seven years of experience in the B2B technology and SaaS space.

As the current Director of Marketing at Userful Corporation, he brings deep expertise in digital strategy, data analytics, and performance marketing. Alejandro is not only driven by results, but also by a passion for mentorship and making complex ideas easier to understand. He’s committed to empowering others through clear, practical learning. A lifelong learner himself, Alejandro holds certifications in digital transformation, marketing analytics, and project management.

Our Advisory Board

CITCM is guided by a dedicated Advisory Board composed of faculty, staff, and community professionals who share a commitment to the college’s goals and philosophies. The board provides valuable oversight and helps shape the direction of CITCM’s operations. Serving voluntarily, these members play a crucial role in ensuring that the college maintains its high standards of education and community impact.

Advisory Board Members

Dr. Lanre Salami
Dr. Lanre Salami
MBBS, RMT
Dr. Craig Young
Dr. Craig Young
BSc, DDS, CMAc, Dentist
Dr. Neetash Patel
Dr. Neetash Patel
BSc, DC, Chiropractor
Dr. Gayle Maguire
Dr. Gayle Maguire
BSc, ND

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