Dr. Ambrose has taught many areas of medicine at NCNM and elsewhere; including oncology, endocrinology, cardiology, pathology, acupuncture points and therapeutics, medical philosophy, immunology, emotional basis of illness, and women's health. She currently teaches NPH510 Introduction to Chinese Medicine. She also teaches at the Oregon College of Oriental Medicine — biochemistry, pediatrics and nutrition.
Dr. Ambrose has been practicing for over 35 years and is the co-founder of the Oregon College of Oriental Medicine. At her private practice, Starfire Family Clinic, Dr. Ambrose utilizes natural therapeutics as well as lifestyle counseling to address patient's symptoms. Patients' pain leads them to discover their physical weakness, which can be countered by changing lifestyle. Illness can lead to a deeper understanding of self and if addressed appropriately prevent potentially fatal illnesses in the future. Illnesses like autoimmune disorders, neurological diseases, infections, chronic pain, can be treated gently and naturally without toxic medications. This takes support, encouragement by the physician, and determination on the patients' part. Overall the most utilized medicine of all in her practice is love and laughter.
In addition to currently writing a book about integrating natural and conventional medicine, Dr. Ambrose is working with several colleagues to found a hospital which uses integrative care. Learn more at www.chitari.org.
Curriculum Vitae
EDUCATION
Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine
1989
National College of Naturopathic Medicine
Master of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine
1979
Master of Acupuncture
1977
New England School of Oriental Medicine
BA, Biochemistry/Psychology
1975
Evergreen State College
EMPLOYMENT – current
Owner and Clinician
Starfire Family Health Clinic, Damascus, OR
1989-present
Adjunct Faculty, CCM Department
National College of Natural Medicine, Portland, OR
2007-present
Teach Oriental medicine courses and CPD
Adjunct Faculty
Oregon College of Oriental Medicine, Portland, OR
1982-present
Teach nutrition, pediatrics and biochemistry
Doctoral Program
Oregon College Of Oriental Medicine, Portland, OR
2000-2011
Immunology and infectious diseases/neurology
Lecturer
Parent University, Puerto Rico
2010 -2012
Healthy lifestyle lectures and Chinese diagnosis
EMPLOYMENT – past
National College of Naturopathic Medicine
1981-1990
Developed the Master of Acupuncture degree program
Oregon College of Oriental Medicine
1981-1990
Founder, administrator, faculty and clinic director
Family Natural Health Center
1985-1988
Co-owner and clinician
Lemual Shattuck Hospital – Jamaica Plain Community Hospital
1980-1981
• Involved in founding Pain and Stress Program
• Organized and ran the nutrition and psychology program of the integrative medical program; did acupuncture
• Supervisor of nutrition program of the Pain and Stress Program
CURRENT VOLUNTEER WORK
Teen Volunteer Program, clinical training at Barlow High School
Chitari Foundation Integrative hospital startup, 20-50 hours/month