Bonnie McLean, OMD, AP, MA, BSN, is a distinguished expert in integrative medicine who has dedicated her career to advancing holistic health care practices. As a doctor of oriental medicine and acupuncture physician at Spirit Gate Medicine Inc., she blends traditional and modern medical approaches. Since 1985, she has operated a private practice in oriental medicine across California, Australia, and Florida, treating patients with a compassionate and comprehensive approach.
Before establishing her private practice, Dr. McLean spent nearly two decades as a registered nurse in various cities from 1967 to 1985. Her nursing career provided invaluable clinical experience and a deep understanding of patient care, which later informed her holistic medical practice. During this time, she also served as a consultant in pain management at Woodview Calabasas Hospital in California in 1987 and as an instructor at the Bresler Center in Santa Monica, California, in 1986.
Dr. McLean’s professional journey includes significant roles at the Academy of Natural Therapies and the School of Inner Guidance and Knowledge in Burleigh Heads, Australia, during the 1990s. These roles helped solidify her reputation as a leader in integrative medicine. In 1989, she contributed to Pine Grove Hospital in Canoga Park, California, further expanding her expertise.
Committed to her professional development, Dr. McLean maintains memberships in esteemed organizations such as the International Association of Top Professionals, the Florida State Oriental Medical Association and the National Acupuncture Detoxification Association. These affiliations underscore her dedication to staying at the cutting edge of her field and contributing to the broader medical community.
Dr. McLean laid a strong educational foundation for her professional pursuits, earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Duke University in 1967, a master’s degree in counseling from Pepperdine University in 1977, and a Doctor of Oriental Medicine from California Acupuncture College in 1986. She is a licensed acupuncture physician in Florida and holds certification in orthopedic acupuncture from Emperor’s College of Traditional Oriental Medicine.
In addition to her primary roles, Dr. McLean has had a significant impact on integrative medicine through her literary contributions. Dr. McLean authored “Integrative Medicine: The Return of the Soul to Healthcare” in 2017, a groundbreaking book exploring the transformative potential of holistic health practices. She co-authored “Principles and Practice of Pain Management” in 1993 and “Manual of Chinese Medicine and Massage” in 1985. Additionally, she has written chapters for books such as “Signs,” “Mayhem to Miracles,” “Shamanism,” and “Crappy to Happy.” In light of her impressive undertakings, Dr. McLean received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the International Association of Top Professionals in 2022, highlighting her enduring impact on integrative medicine and her commitment to advancing health care practices.
Reflecting on her professional path, Dr. McLean’s journey into medicine was strongly influenced by her family. Growing up in a household where her father was a respected physician and her mother was a dedicated nurse, she was surrounded by the values of compassion and care. Inspired by their dedication to healing, she chose a career in nursing, dedicating nearly decades to the profession. Throughout this time, Dr. McLean not only honed her clinical skills but also gained a profound understanding of patient care and the complexities of the health care system. After these two decades, she decided to further her education and pursue a doctorate to deepen her expertise and expand her impact in the medical community.
Dr. McLean’s life took an unexpected turn when she fell in love with an acupuncturist, which sparked a new passion for her. Motivated by this relationship and the holistic approach to healing that acupuncture embodies, she enrolled in acupuncture school. Since completing her training, she has been practicing acupuncture with enthusiasm, seamlessly integrating her nursing and counseling skills into her holistic practice. Outside of her professional life, Dr. McLean is deeply passionate about personal growth and well-being. She enjoys Taoist meditation, yoga, shamanic studies, and gardening.
Looking to the future, Dr. McLean hopes that when people hear her name, they think of compassion and empathy. Her dedication to her patients’ well-being is evident through her lifelong commitment to holistic healing practices and her genuine care for those she serves. In advising aspiring medical professionals, Dr. McLean emphasizes the importance of dedication to preparation in their professional journey. She strongly believes in the value of contributing to the well-being of others and encourages future professionals to seek courses or programs that equip them with essential skills for managing their practices efficiently. By gaining a solid understanding of business operations, they can better serve their clients and ensure the success of their practices.