Before becoming a naturopathic doctor and acupuncturist, Dr. Kristin Barnes served as a naval aviator for 23 years. In this episode, she shares her journey with Fascial Counterstrain (FCS), a manual technique that releases inflammation in the fascia to promote healing and pain relief.

Following a near-fatal bike accident, Dr. Barnes used Fascial Counterstrain to accelerate her recovery, impressing herself and her orthopedic surgeon. She also credits FCS as instrumental to her post-accident recovery from PTSD, enabling her to regain a healthy, high-quality life. Inspired by its impact, she now specializes in Fascial Counterstrain to help others heal.

Dr. Barnes is passionate about supporting veterans and survivors of military sexual trauma. She discusses the physical and emotional challenges veterans face after service and the importance of rebuilding community. She believes Fascial Counterstrain is a powerful tool for healing the nervous system, especially for those with trauma and PTSD, and integrates it with other therapies such as acupuncture, nutrition, and botanical medicine.

Dr. Barnes also touches on the potential of psychedelic medicine for treating post-traumatic stress and pain, and envisions a future where these healing techniques are widely accepted and covered by insurance.

Guest Bio: Dr. Kristin Barnes, ND, LAEMP | she/her
Dr. Barnes is a Naturopathic Physician, and Acupuncture and Eastern Medicine Practitioner with 23 years of Navy service. She specializes in working with veterans and patients seeking to address chronic stress and trauma. Certified in Psychedelic Assisted Therapy, she focuses on patient education, journey preparation, and responsible use of traditional medicines. Dr. Barnes holds degrees in Chemistry, Nutrition, Acupuncture, and Naturopathic Medicine and practices in Port Townsend and Poulsbo, WA. She joined the Bridge Back Project Board of Directors in 2024.

Links to Resources and Topics Mentioned:

• Find a Fascial Counterstrain Practitioner Near You: Directory
• No Fallen Heroes Foundation
• Dr. Holly Christy - Co-Founder of the Bridge Back Project and Clinic Director of Element 7 Wellness
• Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies - MAPS

Get in Touch with Dr. Kristin Barnes:

• Element 7 Wellness
• Private Practice: Meridian Passage Wellness
• LinkedIn Profile: Dr. Kristin Barnes

The Bridge Back Project

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Find a Fascial Counterstrain Practitioner Near You:

• 3rd Party Practitioner Directory

Credits:

Host: Theora Moench
Editor: Haley Diaz
Executive Producer: Bridge Back Project
Music: bensound.com “New Frontier” - License code: PUUI20THRCM9CSDQ