”There is a freedom that comes from maintaining a healthy way of life. It is my intention to help others to get to that place. The place where you can enjoy your health and feel what its like to thrive.

Sarah Searles, L.Ac. – Owner/Clinical Director

Sarah discovered holistic medicine at the age of 21. Faced with health conditions including asthma, digestive issues, hormonal imbalances and injuries from a car accident, she began a journey into natural healing utilizing massage, acupuncture and naturopathic medicine. After experiencing positive changes and relief, Sarah set out to study and pursue a career in holistic health.

While living in Los Angeles, Sarah completed her massage therapy certification. Her first massage position was at the Beverly Hills Acupuncture Clinic. It was there that she observed the wide array of conditions that acupuncture and traditional chinese medicine could successfully treat. She also gained experience working in other health settings such as a chiropractic office, a fitness gym, and a med spa. All the while Sarah continued to independently study bodywork, nutrition, herbs and supplements often experimenting with dietary cleanses and fasting. Eventually, after relocating to Chicago, she made the choice to take on a dual degree program studying nutrition and Traditional Chinese Medicine. This allowed Sarah to obtain her dream of becoming a holistic minded, medical practitioner.

Sarah’s History & Credentials

Sarah's acupuncture practice has a strong focus on chronic complex conditions, pain management, psycho-emotional wellness and sports medicine. She obtained extensive clinical experience in each of these areas during her 3 year clinical internship, 2008-2011, at the MCOM free health clinic in downtown Chicago.

While completing her Masters degree of Oriental Medicine in Chicago, Sarah spent weekends in Boulder, Colorado for specialized training in sports injuries and musculoskeletal disorders. She completed her 6 month apprenticeship certification with Whitfield Reaves, LAc, founder of the Boulder Acupuncture Sports Medicine Clinic in 2011.

Sarah continues to learn via annual continuing education and will forever be evolving her practice to serve the needs of her clientele.

Licensed Michigan Acupuncturist/Nationally Certified Acupuncturist

  • Doctorate of Integrative Medicine –  (currently enrolled)

  • Masters of Science in Eastern Medicine, Chicago IL (2011)

  • Bachelors of Science in Nutrition, Chicago IL (2011)

  • Bachelors of Arts in Radio Journalism, Chicago IL (2008)

  • Sports Medicine Acupuncture Apprenticeship, Boulder CO

  • Continued Annual Advanced Training

Vice President – Board of the Michigan Society of Acupuncturists (2019-2021)

Licensed Massage Therapist

  • Masters of Massage Certification, Los Angeles CA (2003)

Stott Certified Pilates Instructor

  • Stott Pilates Certification, West Bloomfield Hills, MI (2014)

Morgan Banktson
Patient Care Coordinator

Morgan was born and raised in Northern Michigan but recently relocated to Traverse City to attend Northwestern Michigan College. She is attending NMC’s University Center to earn a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Human Resource Management from Ferris State University. She currently has her associate’s degree from Northwestern Michigan College in Applied Science.

Morgan has a passion for helping others, whether through something as simple as lending a helping hand or as rewarding as facilitating their health care. She always strives to put a smile on the face of clients that come into the office. She is honored to be a part of each and every patient’s health journey.

With two older sisters growing up, her childhood was never boring. Morgan was raised in Frankfort, MI with her parents and extended family. She enjoys reading, baking, cooking, spending time with her family and friends, and traveling whenever possible.

Carly Lawless
Patient Care Coordinator

Hello! I’m Carly Lawless, and I am so excited to be a part of the Live Well Acupuncture team. I grew up in Northern Michigan and after living out of state for several years and am so happy to be back in this beautiful area!

I am a wife and mother to two daughters and a sweet dog. I have a passion for exploring different types of holistic healthcare and have had great success with feeling better both physically and mentally from the care I’ve received.

I’m excited to greet you at the front desk and help you along on your journey to feeling like your best self!