Personalized Care | Dedicated Support
At Stratford Acupuncture & Nutritional Wellness Center, we take a comprehensive, patient-centered approach to healing.
Led by Joseph Downer, MSAC, L.Ac., our practice is committed to providing expert acupuncture, nutritional wellness, and holistic care tailored to each individual. With extensive training in multiple acupuncture modalities and clinical nutrition, Joseph works to uncover the root causes of imbalance and help patients achieve lasting wellness.
Behind the scenes, Elizabeth ensures a seamless experience, providing support as the office administrator and patient care contact. From scheduling appointments to answering your questions, she is here to make your journey with us as smooth and welcoming as possible.
We are dedicated to helping you feel your best—inside and out. Get to know more about our team and how we can support your health and wellness goals.
Certifications
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Doctorate of Acupuncture Candidate, Pacific College of Health Science, Expected graduation Spring 2025
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Dry Needling Certification, ASE Seminars, 2025
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Sports Acupuncture Certification, ASE Seminars, 2024
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EXSTORE Acupuncture System Certification, 2024
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Pelvic Floor Certification, ASE Seminars, 2023
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FACE Certification (Facial Applications for Cosmetic Enhancement), Pacific College of Health Sciences (PCHS), 2022
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AFMCP Certification (Applying Functional Medicine in Clinical Practice), The Institute for Functional Medicine, 2024
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NADA Certification (North American Detoxification Association), Addiction Acupuncture Specialist, 2006
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300-hour Post-graduate Certification Advanced Japanese Acupuncture, Tri-State College of Acupuncture, 2016
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Advanced Clinical Nutrition and Nutrition Response Testing Certification,Ulan Nutrition Systems, 2017
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Acupuncture Micro System 48 Certification for Degenerative Eye Diseases, 2016 Tri-State College of Acupuncture, Graduated MSAC 2009
About Elizabeth
As the Office Administrator and Patient Care Contact at Stratford Acupuncture & Wellness Center, Elizabeth LaBarca has been dedicated to supporting both Joseph Downer and our patients for over 10 years. Her role extends beyond administration—she is the heart of our practice, ensuring every patient feels welcomed, informed, and cared for.
Elizabeth’s passion for preventative healthcare stems from her own personal health journey, giving her a deep understanding of the challenges many patients face. She believes in the power of holistic healing and is committed to helping patients navigate their care by providing education, guidance, and personalized support.
From scheduling appointments to discussing treatment options, Elizabeth takes the time to ensure every patient feels heard and empowered in their wellness journey. Whether you’re new to acupuncture or looking to expand your holistic care, she is here to answer your questions and help you feel at home.
Discover More Ways to Support Your Wellness
Meet Chris Barbieri, LMT
We are excited to welcome Chris Barbieri, LMT, to our office as a valued collaborator in supporting our patients’ wellness journeys. Chris is a Licensed Massage Therapist with a strong focus on mobility, range of motion, and muscle recovery. His results-driven approach to bodywork emphasizes muscular balance and movement quality, helping clients stay active and pain-free.
With expertise in a variety of techniques—including Eastern philosophy, trigger point therapy, shiatsu, Russian sports massage, and hydrotherapy—Chris customizes each session to address individual needs. Whether the goal is to release chronic tension, restore flexibility, or support muscle maintenance, his targeted approach is designed to enhance overall well-being.
Chris is passionate about helping people move better, feel stronger, and maintain a pain-free, active lifestyle. We’re thrilled to have him offering customized and therapeutic massage sessions to complement our holistic care approach.
