About Dr. Barbara Turunen

I have dedicated my professional life to helping those who are suffering to heal naturally and lead fuller, more vibrant lives.  

Why Did I Become a Chiropractor?

I had a summer job in a restaurant during college and injured my back lifting a heavy container of hot oil.  I suffered for several years with a lot of pain and bouts of my lower back "going out" until, finally, a friend convinced me to see his chiropractor in Berkeley. 

I had heard since childhood that chiropractors were "unscientific cultists practicing quackery," so I was afraid.  I couldn't believe what a difference chiropractic care made in my health.  I was skeptical and it worked anyway.  I didn't understand how it worked, but was grateful that it did.  It made such a huge impact on me that a few years later I was enrolled in chiropractic school. 

Education and Career

I graduated from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor with a bachelor's degree in liberal arts and from Life Chiropractic College West in Hayward, California, where I graduated valedictorian of my class.

I have studied and incorporated several chiropractic techniques into my practice which has evolved into my own unique holistic chiropractic healing method.  This is based on the results of over twenty five years of clinical experience and continual study of natural healing methods.  The work is very gentle with no twisting, forcing or popping of the spine.

I have been practicing chiropractic since 1989.  I practiced in San Francisco and Oakland for 17 years and recently returned to the Bay Area after six years in Santa Fe, New Mexico where I studied and further developed my technique.  My office is located in the El Sobrante Hills, which is northeast of Berkeley and north of Orinda.

Practicing chiropractic has been a rewarding and fulfilling career.  I have had the privilege of meeting many truly nice patients who have enriched my life.

General Background

I grew up in the beautiful Upper Peninsula of Michigan on a dairy farm in a large family in a predominantly Finnish immigrant community.  

I enjoy gardening, hiking, and the pursuit of my spiritual path.

Chiropractic Techniques Incorporated in My Work:

Bioenergetic Synchonization Technique (B.E.S.T.)   -- M.T. Morter, D.C., M.S.

Activator Technique -- Arlan Fuhr, D.C.

Network Spinal Analysis -- Donald Epstein, D.C.

Sacro/Occipital Technique

Direct Non-Force Technique (DNFT)

Neuro Emotional Technique (NET)

Toggle Recoil Upper Cervical Technique

 Additional Therapies:

Organic essential oils
Flower essences
Color therapy