Credentials​

Dr. Gabriella Rivera, L.Ac, DAOM, CFMP, CCH brings over 25 years of experience in integrative medicine. She is the founder of Front Porch Acupuncture and Front Porch Functional Medicine in Savannah, GA.

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Dr. Gabby earned her Master's and Doctorate degrees in Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine, specializing in Orthopedics, from Five Branches University in Santa Cruz/ San Jose, California and nationally certified as a Diplomate in Acupuncture by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine  (NCCAOM). 

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She is also a certified Holistic Health Counselor from the Institute for Integrative Nutrition in New York City and holds a Certified Functional Medicine Practitioner credential from Functional Medicine University (CFMP) 

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In addition, Dr. Gabby holds a Certification in Clinical Hypnotherapy from the Boulder Institute of Hypnotherapy and is passionate about pioneering the powerful healing potential of Hypnotherapy with Acupuncture to facilitate  positive shifts in mindset and addictions, as well as in stress, pain management and digestive disorders, just to name a few.

 

What I do

I am a dedicated Functional Medicine Practitioner, Acupuncturist and Clinical Hypnotherapist, that specializes in uncovering and addressing the root causes of health issues. My holistic approach integrates evidence-based medicine with personalized nutrition, lifestyle modifications, and cutting edge acupuncture techniques and hypnotherapy to help you achieve optimal wellness. Whether you're dealing with chronic conditions, stress, unwanted weight or hormonal imbalances or just looking to improve your overall health, my goal is to empower you  towards vibrant health and vitality through real mind, body and spirit modalities.

 

Philosophy

Dr. Gabby is deeply committed to integrative and holistic modalities that treat the whole person—addressing root causes rather than simply masking symptoms. She is pioneering the innovative merging of acupuncture and clinical hypnotherapy with functional and integrative medicine practices, creating a comprehensive approach that nurtures mind, body, and spirit.

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As the founder of Front Porch Community Acupuncture and Functional Medicine, established at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Gabby brings clarity and compassion to healthcare. Her vision is to empower individuals and families not just to manage illness, but to truly thrive by restoring health through treatments that go beyond symptom relief. 

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A core mission for Dr. Gabby is educating and raising awareness about  functional medicine, and acupuncture combined with hypnotherapy as powerful tools to reduce opioid dependence to promote sustainable wellness. As a dedicated lifelong learner, she continuously advances her knowledge to stay at the forefront of her field.

Her passion lies in inspiring people to take an active role in their health, embracing personalized, natural, and non-invasive therapies that foster balance, longevity, and holistic well-being.

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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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