Your Petaluma Acupuncturists

Aimee Ruiz, L.Ac., FABORM (she/her)

I’ve been honored to support people on their reproductive path as they try to conceive through pregnancy and beyond into the postpartum period since 2009. My training with renowned midwife Raven Lang has inspired my prenatal practice, and acupuncturist Randine Lewis has influenced my fertility work. I've also trained extensively with Claudia Citkovitz, the leading expert on birth acupuncture. All that to say, I love being a part of your team for all things pregnancy and fertility. 

When I can be useful to others, I know I’ve had a good day. Whether someone is coming to me because they are looking for support through chemo treatment, struggling to sleep, or going through menopause, I’m here to help you feel better in your body and in your days. I’m grateful for the opportunity to help people feel more connected and supported with this medicine.

Perhaps most meaningful to me is when clients seek us out for integrative acupuncture care to alleviate emotional and psychological suffering. Acupuncture can help us to feel safe in our bodies by calming and regulating the nervous system. I believe our bodies constantly communicate with us; sometimes, we need a guide to help us understand these messages. I will help you listen and respond with purpose and empathy. 

I chose the name Nido (nest in Spanish) as an homage to my Mexican, Cuban, and Spanish heritage. I am honored to meet you where you are on your wellness path.

Learn more about Aimee

Barbara Frei, L.Ac. (she/her)

Born and raised in Switzerland, I have spent most of my adult life in the Bay Area, where my passion for nutrition, yoga, and whole-body wellness has shaped my professional path.

My journey into Traditional Chinese Medicine began after the birth of my son in 2007, when I experienced sleep challenges and low energy as a new mother. Through acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine, I regained my strength and later found support for hormonal imbalances as well. These experiences inspired me to pursue a career helping others benefit from this medicine at every stage of life.

What I value most about Chinese medicine is its comprehensive and deeply personalized approach to care. By addressing the mind-body-spirit connection and incorporating nutrition, lifestyle, and preventative care, it offers a truly integrative path to health and healing.

I am both a licensed acupuncturist and a registered dietitian with a strong background in integrative medicine. My goal is to provide compassionate, individualized care that supports each patient’s unique health journey.

My professional experience spans many areas of perinatal and women’s health. I have worked as a NICU dietitian, taught prenatal yoga, and supported individuals through the postpartum transition, perimenopause, and menopause using acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine. My clinical training also includes integrative cancer care, as well as digestive, hormonal, and metabolic health.

I believe the body has an incredible capacity to heal when given the right support. It is a privilege to help patients feel more balanced, empowered, and connected to their well-being, whether they are navigating fertility, hormonal health, recovery, or overall wellness.

Colleen Putnam, L.Ac. (she/her)

Being a practitioner of Chinese Medicine brings immense fulfillment to my life. My journey began in the mountains of Colorado, where my connection to the natural world deeply shaped my path. My early love for the outdoors led me to pursue a degree in Outdoor Leadership, guiding me through diverse landscapes from British Columbia to Mongolia. It was in the countryside of Mongolia that I realized my calling—to study medicine and offer healing to others.

For years, I have been passionate about supporting others through life’s transitions, especially birth and death. These are powerful moments where the balance of yin and yang comes into play, and I find great purpose in guiding others to find harmony and peace during these times. My work is deeply influenced by the principles of Chinese Medicine, which teach us that we are a reflection of the natural world. By understanding these patterns, we can connect more deeply with our true selves.

I am honored to hold space for others as they navigate their healing journeys. Whether it's through heart-centered guidance or helping individuals discover their personal medicine, I am here to support you with compassion and care.