Meet Our Team of Fertility Acupuncturists

Marisa Kahlich L.Ac

Owner & Clinical Director

Acupuncturist & Herbalist

Marisa has been treating patients with acupuncture and herbal therapy since 2011. After graduating from AOMA Graduate School of Integrative Medicine, she successfully launched her private practice, treating hundreds of patients—primarily women seeking support for fertility and pain management.

Her passion for acupuncture stemmed from her personal experience with debilitating occipital migraines with aura. After finding relief through acupuncture, she was inspired to shift her focus toward helping others heal.

In 2015, Marisa paused her practice due to her high-risk twin pregnancy. This experience deepened her commitment to supporting women throughout pregnancy and labor. Before joining The Texas Center for Reproductive Acupuncture in 2016, she provided acupuncture for women in active labor at the South Austin Area Birthing Center.

Marisa trained under and worked closely with our founder, Kirsten Karchmer, before taking over as Clinical Director in 2019. She remains deeply dedicated to every patient facing health and fertility challenges, striving to improve reproductive health and overall wellness.

Kara Won L.Ac

Acupuncturist & Herbalist

TCRA Practice Manager

Kara earned her Master’s in Acupuncture with a specialization in Chinese herbal medicine from AOMA Graduate School of Integrative Medicine. She also holds a Bachelor’s in Business Administration from Texas A&M University. After completing her undergraduate studies, Kara worked in the fashion industry in New York City until she was diagnosed with her own health issues, which led her on a personal journey of healing through acupuncture and Chinese medicine.

She is fully dedicated to creating a safe, supportive environment where patients feel heard and empowered throughout their sessions. Her care focuses on providing an integrative healing experience, specializing in reproductive health, pregnancy support, and helping others achieve their fertility goals. Additionally, Kara’s clinical prowess includes treating anxiety, stress, grief, and the interconnectedness of emotional and physical health. She’s also a member of the American Organization for Bodywork Therapies of Asia and holds a certification in Acupuncture Theory and Techniques for Facial Rejuvenation.

Kara joined our team in 2024 and has a passion for introducing new patients to acupuncture. She takes the time to guide them through each step of the process, creating a personalized treatment plan tailored to their needs. Having once experienced a fear of needles herself, she understands how intimidating it can be and is committed to making every patient feel comfortable and at ease.

Aparna Mamidi L.Ac

Acupuncturist & Herbalist

As a compassionate and dedicated practitioner, Aparna's primary aim is to help her patients achieve balance and deeper healing. She specializes in treating a wide range of conditions, including acute and chronic pain, allergies, emotional and mental well-being, neuropathy, women's health issues, fertility concerns, digestive disorders, and recovery post-chemotherapy and post-stroke. Additionally, she offers specialized pre/post-natal acupuncture and pediatric acupuncture, ensuring a gentle and supportive experience for her fertility patients.

Aparna’s holistic approach and healing touch have helped countless individuals navigate life's challenges, fostering resilience and promoting overall wellness. Her commitment to understanding and addressing each patient's unique needs makes her a valued partner in their journey toward health.

Aparna earned her Master’s degree from AOMA in Austin and is a Diplomate of Oriental Medicine, certified by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM). She’s been an integral part of our team since 2023

Emily Kim L.Ac

Acupuncturist & Herbalist

Emily Kim, originally from South Korea, made the move to Austin, TX during high school. She holds a bachelor’s in Biology from the University of Washington and a Master's degree from AOMA, graduate school of Integrative medicine. She is NCCAOM-certified and licensed by the Texas Medical Board.

As a fertility Acupuncturist at TCRA, Emily enjoys helping men & women improve their health and hormone issues. Her skills include helping to regulate irregular menstrual cycles, PCOS, PMS and pain. She also treats couples dealing with infertility, miscarriage, throughout pregnancy and beyond. Most importantly, she is warm, energetic and passionate about helping women & couples grow their families.

Emily is out on Maternity leave March 20th - July 1st 2025