Credentials​

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Dr. Gabriella Rivera, L.Ac, DAOM, CFMP, CCH

Dr. Gabby has spent over 25 years in holistic and integrative medicine and is the founder of Front Porch Acupuncture and Functional Medicine in Savannah, Georgia.

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She earned her Master’s and Doctorate degrees in Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine at Five Branches University (Santa Cruz/San Jose, CA), with advanced training in orthopedics, and she’s nationally certified as a Diplomate in Acupuncture (NCCAOM).

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Along the way, she’s followed her deep curiosity about what helps people feel safe in their bodies again—especially after stress, burnout, and trauma. She’s trained as a Holistic Health Counselor through the Institute for Integrative Nutrition in New York City, holds a Certified Functional Medicine Practitioner (CFMP) credential through Functional Medicine University, and is a Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist (Boulder Hypnotherapy Institute).

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Today, her work is strongly shaped by Polyvagal Theory  and she's certified in Polyvagal Therapy and Applied Polyvagal Theory in Therapeutic Yoga for Trauma Recovery.

Dr. Gabby blends guided hypnosis, nervous system education, and gentle, body-based practices to help clients build real regulation skills.

 

Philosophy

Dr. Gabby offers a whole-person approach that blends acupuncture, functional and integrative medicine, and polyvagal-informed clinical hypnotherapy to support lasting change—focused on root causes, nervous system stability, and sustainable lifestyle shifts.

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As the founder of Front Porch Community Acupuncture and Functional Medicine (est. during the COVID-19 pandemic), she brings clear, compassionate care with a mission to help individuals and families move beyond symptom management and into true thriving.

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Dr. Gabby is especially passionate about expanding access to non-invasive, evidence-informed options for pain, stress, and habit change, and about educating the community on integrative tools that can reduce reliance on opioids. She’s a lifelong learner and guide—here to help you build balance, resilience, and long-term vitality.

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My Personal Story:

My personal health crisis started at the age of 3 when I was diagnosed with severe asthma.  At the age of 5, I was given my last rites with double pneumonia, and my family prepared for my passing.

 

With years of medications and antibiotics at such a young age, I was already showing signs of  a weakened immunity.  I became allergic to most foods and experienced stomach aches on a regular basis.  My moods were erratic and my energy levels were so low that I was rarely inspired to participate in sports for most of my early childhood and teenage years.

 

​At the age of 6 or 7, I overheard a conversation the doctor was having with my parents. He told them that they shouldn't let me cry as this would upset me and make my asthma worse.​  Wow, was that a catalyzing conversation to overhear!

It planted an important seed in my awareness.  ​

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My emotions were tied to my physical health.​ 

 

As a teenager and young adult, I became interested in "big picture" ideas and I played with different food philosophies, as well as meditation and yoga.  I also loved to travel and was fascinated by how different people and cultures related to food and the world around them.  It would be years later until I really began to understand the vital role the energetics of nutrition play on our overall health and vitality.​

 

Today, after over twenty three years of practicing integrative medicine, it seems like I was destined to do what I do. ​  For me, it's not just about looking good on the outside. The role that food and holistic lifestyles play in every aspect of our lives is undeniable and truly transformative.​ 

 

I believe that we are here to evolve in all aspects of our human experience and that we are meant to share that knowledge with others.​

It is my true honor to support you.

 

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​Are you ready?  ​

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with love,

Gabriella,

Toby &

Cherry Pop

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