INDIGO
TEAM|
meet our team
Indigo Wellness is a synergy of holistic health services, uniting the best of east and west wellness. We offer cutting edge science and time honored practices, from Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine to Psychotherapy and Holistic Skincare, to Functional Nutrition Testing, to create a comprehensive and individualized wellness approach.
Our team of experts blends professional excellence with deep empathy, dedicated to nurturing your whole well-being.
Discover the compassionate healers behind Indigo, guiding you towards a balanced and healthy life.
ANCIENT PRACTICE
MODERN HEALING
T H E I N D I G O T E A M
COMBINED ELEMENTS. COMPLETE WELLNESS
acupuncture & chinese medicine
Dr. Sarah Swanberg
DOCTOR OF ACUPUNCTURE AND CHINESE MEDICINE/ FOUNDER + CLINIC DIRECTOR
D.A.C.M., L.Ac., Dipl.O.M.
-
Sarah is a board certified diplomate in Acupuncture and Chinese Herbology through the National Certification Commission of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) and is licensed to practice in CT. She holds a Masters of Science and a Doctorate in Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine from Pacific College of Health Sciences in New York City.
In 2018, Sarah graduated from the New Medicine for Women Institute where she studied Functional and Integrative Medicine under Aviva Romm, MD. This training adds another complimentary facet to her services.
Sarah believes that the human body has an amazing innate ability to heal itself, and that Chinese medicine's greatest strength is in its ability to be the catalyst for that healing. She is a strong advocate of an integrative healthcare model where a variety of healthcare providers with different skill sets work together to help patients regain and maintain health and wellness. She particularly loves helping women navigate the complexities of the fertility, pregnancy and postpartum landscape.
Sarah is also the author of two best-selling wellness books: A Patient’s Guide to Acupuncture and Aromatherapy for Self-Care.
Sarah founded Indigo in 2015 with a mission to change the way healthcare feels.
Sarah also mentors acupuncturists and health care providers looking to start or grow their practices. Learn more at sarahswanberg.com
-
Sarah considers herself a generalist, but loves to work with patients looking for support in fertility and hormone health, pregnancy, cancer support and mental health.
-
Sarah currently works in our Stamford office.
Dr. Marcy Julius
-
Marcy Julius is board certified in Acupuncture and Chinese Herbology by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) and licensed to practice in both Connecticut and New York. Graduating among the top of her class from Pacific College of Health and Science, she earned both her Master’s and Doctorate degrees in Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine. After graduation, Marcy completed a year-long fellowship program at Mount Sinai Beth Israel Hospital where she treated the inpatient population in various units throughout the facility.
Marcy provides a supportive environment for patients to share their stories and is committed to getting to know each individual as a whole person. Using various modalities including acupuncture, electric stimulation, herbal medicine, cupping, moxibustion and lifestyle advice, she strives to deliver sincere and effective patient care.
Marcy has extensive training and experience in treating acute and chronic pain conditions, digestive disorders, allergies, anxiety and depression. Having suffered from endometriosis for most of her adult life and subsequently undergoing fertility treatments in order to conceive her daughter, she brings a unique empathy, understanding and passion to women’s health and fertility.
-
Marcy is a general practitioner with a passion for treating women’s health and fertility. Other specialties include acute and chronic pain, mental and emotional health, and cosmetic acupuncture.
-
Marcy sees patients at both our Stamford and Westport locations.
DOCTOR OF ACUPUNCTURE AND CHINESE MEDICINE
D.A.C.M., L.Ac., Dipl.O.M.
Elizabeth Alexandre
MASTER OF SCIENCE, TRADITIONAL ORIENTAL MEDICINE, DOCTORAL CANDIDATE, ACUPUNCTURE AND CHINESE MEDICINE
M.S., L.Ac., Dipl.O.M.
-
Elizabeth Alexandre, L.Ac, MSTOM is a nationally board certified and state licensed Acupuncturist and Herbalist in New York, Connecticut, and California. Elizabeth completed a 4-year Masters in Chinese Medicine and graduated with Honors from Pacific College of Oriental Medicine in New York.
Elizabeth is trained in Traditional Chinese Medicine and practices Applied Channel Theory Palpation developed by Dr. Wang Ju-Yi of Beijing, China. This clinically effective palpation methodology applies classical acupuncture theory to the physical changes in the channels, which leads to more effective and precise point selection, location, and technique. Elizabeth was accepted for post-graduate work to study under Dr. Wang at Hu Guo Chinese Medicine Hospital and at his private clinic in Beijing, China.
Elizabeth has had comprehensive training and clinical experience as an acupuncturist at Lutheran Medical Center; Labor and Delivery, Beth Israel Medical Center; Integrated Oncology, Housing Works Community Acupuncture Clinic, Grand Meridian Acupuncture Clinic, and Illume Fertility Clinic.
Additionally, Elizabeth has participated as a volunteer acupuncturist and herbalist in medical missions to the Barbara Ford Peace Center: Integrative Health Project Community Acupuncture Clinic in Quiche, Guatemala. BFPC, a chapter of the Sisters of Charity, provides medical relief to children in underserved regions worldwide.
-
Elizabeth considers herself a generalist, but areas of specialty include women's health and fertility, musculoskeletal disorders, and psycho-emotional wellbeing.
-
Elizabeth sees patients in our Westport and Stamford locations.
Sharon Sachakov
MASTER OF SCIENCE, ACUPUNCTURE
M.S., L.Ac., Dipl. AC.
-
Sharon Sachakov is board certified in Acupuncture by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) and licensed to practice in Connecticut. She graduated at the top of her class and received the Director’s Award from the University of Bridgeport, the highest recognition in her program. Throughout her clinic internship, she specialized in treating a wide range of conditions, from musculoskeletal pain to stress management and sleep disturbances as well as overall wellness. She combines both classic and modern acupuncture techniques in her treatments. She utilizes a variety of therapeutic modalities including acupuncture, cupping, moxibustion and electric stimulation, to provide effective and comprehensive care.
Sharon believes that every person’s health journey is unique, and that healthcare should be tailored to meet those individual needs. With a passion for integrating different approaches to medicine, Sharon is committed to treating the whole person, ensuring that both the symptoms and root causes are addressed. She strives to create a welcoming and supportive environment, where her patients feel seen and cared for as they work together toward better health and well-being.Elizabeth is trained in Traditional Chinese Medicine and practices Applied Channel Theory Palpation developed by Dr. Wang Ju-Yi of Beijing, China. This clinically effective palpation methodology applies classical acupuncture theory to the physical changes in the channels, which leads to more effective and precise point selection, location, and technique. Elizabeth was accepted for post-graduate work to study under Dr. Wang at Hu Guo Chinese Medicine Hospital and at his private clinic in Beijing, China.
Elizabeth has had comprehensive training and clinical experience as an acupuncturist at Lutheran Medical Center; Labor and Delivery, Beth Israel Medical Center; Integrated Oncology, Housing Works Community Acupuncture Clinic, Grand Meridian Acupuncture Clinic, and Illume Fertility Clinic.
Additionally, Elizabeth has participated as a volunteer acupuncturist and herbalist in medical missions to the Barbara Ford Peace Center: Integrative Health Project Community Acupuncture Clinic in Quiche, Guatemala. BFPC, a chapter of the Sisters of Charity, provides medical relief to children in underserved regions worldwide.
-
Sharon excels at treating acute and chronic pain, stress, anxiety, postpartum care, and general wellness.
-
Sharon currently sees patients in our Stamford location.
-
Despite different degrees, our acupuncturists all received the same clinical training in their 4-year Chinese Medicine masters programs, the highest possible degree available until 2015 when an accredited Doctorate degree became available. At this time, interested Master of Science graduates were able to enroll in a 1-year online, research-based program to transition their degrees into Doctorates. All of our acupuncturists, regardless of degree type, have the highest level of clinical training and experience.
integrative nutrition
Carolyn Brown
-
Carolyn went to Tulane University for undergrad in psychology and to NYU for her Masters in Clinical Nutrition before becoming licensed as a Registered Dietitian. She also studied under Dr. Aviva Romm in 2018-2019 and is certified in Women’s Functional and Integrative Medicine.
Carolyn gets it: the complicated food history, the weight fluctuations, and the body frustrations, the knowing what to do but not doing it, because she has been there too. It’s about food, but it’s also not at all about food.
She has worked one-on-one and in group settings with thousands of clients to reach their health, wellness and weight goals, specializing in helping them “live a healthy life, without losing a social life.”
In 2020, Carolyn landed in Boulder, CO after 12 years in NYC, and is practicing what she preaches, ‘getting her nature on’ on a daily basis. She’s addicted to her cast iron skillet and lives for her morning coffee ritual.
-
Carolyn specializes in connecting you from what you “know” you should be doing, to actually doing it. She has over a decade of experience in weight loss, gut health, binge eating, and general wellness overwhelm. Think of your sessions with Carolyn like going to food therapy.
-
Carolyn works virtually! (But find her under our “Stamford” tab)
REGISTERED DIETITIAN / INTEGRATIVE NUTRITIONIST & CO-FOUNDER
M.S. R.D.
Sarah Becker
-
Sarah’s a career changer. After spending almost a decade in the world of media & advertising followed by consulting, she found herself enriched in the world of health and wellness. Never quite fulfilled, Sarah went back to school to get her Masters in Nutrition from Hunter College in New York City before becoming licensed as a Registered Dietitian.
Cooking is Sarah’s love language. There’s nothing that makes her happier than creating a nourishing and delicious meal for herself and others. She wants others to see the benefit of food as medicine, and to create change from the inside out. Sarah firmly believes that we feel the best when we nurture and nourish our bodies with the right ingredients (pun intended)!
Sarah has a food-first nutrition philosophy that is rooted in evidence-based science, therapeutic strategies and treatments. She takes a personalized integrative and functional approach to nutrition and aims to treat the root cause of symptoms. She hopes to simplify nutrition and help you feel your best, achieve your goals and meet you wherever you may be on your unique health journey.
-
Sarah is a gut health guru. Other areas of functional and integrative expertise include weight management, hormone health, thyroid health, fertility and the "unexplained" issues that no other health providers have been able to figure out.
-
Sarah works out of our Westport office, but also sees clients virtually.
REGISTERED DIETITIAN / INTEGRATIVE NUTRITIONIST
M.S. R.D.
functional medicine
BOARD CERTIFIED INTERNAL MEDICINE PHYSICIAN, CERTIFIED FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE PROVIDER
-
Sumita "Bobbie" Sinha is a board certified physician in Internal Medicine and a Certified Functional Medicine Practitioner through the School of Applied Functional Medicine.
Bobbie completed medical school at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, OH and Internal Medicine Residency at Emory University School of Medicine in Atlanta, GA. She left the traditional healthcare system due to overwhelm, inability to truly help people get healthy and frustration over not feeling fulfilled.
Through her love of cooking and nutrition, she found health coaching and functional medicine. She firmly believes that "food is medicine" and that the body has an amazing resilience and ability to heal.
-
Bobbie has an interest in metabolic health, weight loss, diabetes, hormone imbalance and perimenopause.
-
Bobbie see patients in our Stamford office and virtually.
massage therapy & energy healing
Aly Crouse
LICENSED MASSAGE THERAPIST, YOGA TEACHER, ENERGY HEALER
LMT, CST, RYT-200
-
A lifelong student of holistic healing, Aly has studied many modalities with wise and experienced teachers which she has fused into her own unique style. She graduated from the Connecticut Center for Massage Therapy in 2011, and since then has completed thousands of hours of training in hands-on techniques to help support her clients.
An appointment with Aly addresses the physical, emotional, and spiritual layers of the self. With great compassion, she assists her clients to nourish their bodies, release tension, and cultivate a deeper mind-body connection.
Aly is passionate about the healing power of bodywork and has studied Craniosacral Therapy and SomatoEmotional Release with the Upledger Institute since 2018. She completed both a Reiki Mastership training and 200-hour Yoga Teacher training in 2014 and has been teaching meditation and intuitive movement ever since.
-
Aly helps to bridge the mind-body-spirit connection with Reiki and Craniosacral Therapy. Her specialities are chronic pain, migraines, stress, and anxiety. She also offers support for women through fertility, pregnancy, and postpartum with energy healing, massage, and yoga.
-
Aly works out of our Westport office.
Cathie Grzeczka
LICENSED MASSAGE THERAPIST & CERTIFIED LYMPHADEMA SPECIALIST
LMT, CLT
-
Cathie is a licensed Massage therapist and certified lymphedema therapist licensed in the states of New York and Connecticut, and a graduate of the Finger Lakes school of Massage. She holds specialty certifications in lymphatic drainage and Oncology massage.
Cathie is a Licensed Massage Therapist with a special interest in Lymphatic Drainage. Lymphatic Drainage Massage is an important way to keep our bodies in balance. The lymphatic system is part of our body’s natural detoxification system and is responsible for keeping our fluid levels in balance. When those levels are unbalanced it can lead to disease in the body causing swelling, fatigue, digestion issues, insomnia and more. Lymphatic drainage massage is a light rhythmic massage that helps relax the body and boost immunity. It is a holistic approach to decongest the body and bring relief and balance.
In addition, Cathie offers general therapeutic massage as well as prenatal massage (including fertility and postpartum).
-
Cathie specializes in lymphatic drainage massage, oncology Massage and prenatal & postnatal massage.
-
Cathie works out of both our Stamford and Westport offices.
Kiah Liotta
LICENSED MASSAGE THERAPIST , PROPRIOCEPTIVE- DEEP TENDON REFLEX THERAPIST
LMT, P-DTR®
-
Kiah Liotta is a Licensed Massage Therapist, P-DTR practitioner and Professional Dancer. Being trained from a young age as a dancer in high level programs, she learned a lot about the body. Kiah started seeing Therapists to help with her injuries and body alignment in her teenage years, and was instantly inspired and curious to learn more.
She began a journey of self study and exploration of biomechanics to help her maintain optimal function as a performer and athlete. She then decided to attend Massage school at the Cortiva institute of Massage Therapy in Cromwell CT, so she could help others in their journeys to living with physical ease.
Kiah’s training in P-DTR (Proprioceptive Deep Tendon Reflex Therapy) enables her to have an understanding of root issues in the body from a neurological view point. She uses her training in advanced reflexive muscle testing to help get an accurate assessment of how muscles are functioning to best approach treatment sessions.
Kiah empathizes in how chronic pain, injuries or even small aches can strongly affect how we show up in our daily lives. Whether it’s discomfort in your back standing in line at the grocery store, or an old injury holding you back from doing activities you love.
Kiah passionately infuses her philosophies of holistic health to support her sessions, so massages are more than a “relaxing experience” or a “quick fix”. Instead they are a means to whole body-wellness.
-
As a Massage Therapist, Kiah’s style is often described as focused and systematic, targeting specific muscles that are related to your specific body composition and challenges. While still maintaining a relaxing flow, her approach involves techniques such as; deep friction and glides, trigger point therapy, myofascial release, and myoskeletal alignment. She has advanced specialize training in prenatal and oncology massage.
-
Kiah works out of our Stamford location.
pelvic floor physical therapy
Dr. Kara Fanelli
DOCTOR OF PHYSICAL THERAPY + CLINICAL SPECIALIST IN WOMEN’S HEALTH PHYSICAL THERAPY
PT, DPT, WCS
-
After a brief stint in PR and Marketing for fashion, Kara decided to set out and explore her fascination with the human body and its incredible ability to heal. Following obtaining her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Long Island University in Brooklyn, Kara began her career with a focus in orthopedics in NYC. As an outpatient orthopedic therapist she began to work closely with pre and postnatal patients. And, after giving birth to her own two children, Kara’s interest in pelvic health grew. She continued her education with the Herman & Wallace Pelvic Rehabilitation Institute and moved on to a private clinic that specialized in pelvic floor rehabilitation for women and men.
Kara became a board certified women’s healthcare practitioner after obtaining the prestigious Women’s Health Clinical Specialization in 2016. In 2020, after 350 hours of training, she received her Polestar Pilates teaching certification and loves to integrate Pilates into her treatment plans.
Kara embraces the mind-body connection when treating pain and is passionate about empowering her patients through their wellness journey. She loves listening and partnering with patients to understand each person’s specific goals. Everyone has a unique path to healing. Through individualized clinical assessments, she is able to tailor education and therapy so patients can return to doing the activities they love.
-
Kara is a pelvic health physical therapist treating men and women across their lifespan with all things related to bowel, bladder, sexual health, pregnancy/postpartum and pelvic pain.
-
Kara works in our Westport location.
Dr. Jodi Lippman
DOCTOR OF PHYSICAL THERAPY
PT, DPT
-
Jodie, a former All American collegiate athlete, first became interested in physical therapy while rehabilitating her first sports injury. After a brief period of travel and living abroad in Thailand, she returned to New York to pursue her Doctorate in Physical Therapy at Long Island University in Brooklyn.
Jodie is a pelvic floor specialist who regularly completes continuing education to expand her knowledge of manual therapy, women's health, and exercise. In 2020, after 350 hours of training, Jodie received her Polestar Pilates teaching certification. She is currently working towards achieving the Pelvic Rehabilitation Practitioner Certification through Herman and Wallace, and her Pregnancy and Postpartum Corrective Exercise Specialist Certification.
She has been a practicing physical therapist for 13 years. She began her career in orthopedic physical therapy working at NY Presbyterian/Columbia University Hospital and at an outpatient practice in Manhattan. During this time, Jodie discovered her passion for women’s health and developed a pelvic floor program at a well-established private practice. Having three children of her own, her interest in and knowledge of pelvic floor therapy continued to grow and she moved to a private clinic that specialized in pelvic floor rehabilitation in downtown Manhattan.
Jodie uses Pilates-based exercises and methods to further help her patients with their body awareness. She believes that Pilates is a safe and effective way to develop and retain strength throughout pregnancy and to return to exercise in a safe and positive way.
Jodie works in partnership with her patients to uncover and correct the root causes of their physical symptoms. She is passionate about using a holistic approach to educate and help her patients achieve optimal health through personalized treatments. She is easy to talk to and has a unique ability to make her patients feel comfortable.
-
Jodie treats both women and men dealing with a variety of pelvic health concerns including bowel, bladder, sexual health, pregnancy/postpartum and pelvic pain.
-
Jodie works out of our Stamford location.
psychotherapy
Julianne Furniss-Green
PSYCHOTHERAPIST & LICENSED CLINICAL SOCIAL WORKER
LCSW
-
Julianne Furniss-Green, LCSW holds a Bachelors in Social Work from Western New England University and a Masters in Social Work from Georgia State University. She previously worked in the non-profit sector supporting veterans, men, women, and children who were unhoused before shifting to support Fairfield County communities and families after the death of a loved one.
Julianne specializes in grief and bereavement but also works with anxiety, depression, and general life challenges. She believes that grief can stem from many life transitions or changes, not just the loss of a loved one. Julianne provides tools and resources to help clients move through difficult times with grace and tap into their strengths for healing and growth.
Originally from the South Shore of Long Island, Julianne has since settled in Fairfield, CT. She loves reading, riding her beach cruiser around town, and being at the beach- no matter the season!
-
Julianne is a licensed clinical social worker who draws from multiple therapeutic modalities including, but not limited to, cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness. Julianne specializes in grief and loss but she is also able to work with any and all clients to companion them through their unique and individual circumstances.
-
Julianne works out of our Stamford office but also sees clients virtually.
Jessica Wisnieski
PSYCHOTHERAPIST & LICENSED CLINICAL SOCIAL WORKER
LCSW
-
Jessica Wisnieski, LCSW is an experienced and compassionate therapist with a strong dedication to helping individuals overcome life’s toughest challenges. As a former clinical supervisor at a non-profit agency, she gained extensive experience working with people of all ages, addressing issues such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, grief, and life transitions. Jessica holds a certification in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), an evidence-based treatment for trauma. She specializes in working with children and adolescents. However, her practice extends to working with clients across the lifespan, supporting them through anxiety, depression, grief, PTSD, and various life changes.
Throughout her career, Jessica has remained deeply committed to providing her clients with a safe and supportive environment. Her therapeutic approach empowers individuals to reclaim their lives, find balance, and strengthen their emotional well-being. She draws on her expertise to offer both practical tools and emotional support, helping her clients heal and grow.
Jessica grew up on Long Island and has made Stamford, Connecticut, her home for the past 13 years. Outside of her professional life, she enjoys spending quiet weekends with her family, listening to audiobooks, and crocheting. These peaceful activities allow her to recharge and continue offering the high level of care and attention her clients need to move forward in their lives.
-
Jessica has experience working with people of all ages, addressing issues such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, grief, and life transitions. Jessica holds a certification in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), an evidence-based treatment for trauma. She specializes in working with children and adolescents. However, her practice extends to working with clients across the lifespan, supporting them through anxiety, depression, grief, PTSD, and various life changes.
-
Jessica works out of our Stamford office but also sees clients virtually.
virtual personal training
Julie Wandzilak
CERTIFIED PERSONAL TRAINER
NCSF
-
Julie is a NCSF Certified Personal Trainer with 10 years experience in the health and wellness field. Predisposed to a physical therapy background with a Bachelors in Health Sciences. Naturally, my coaching methods have focused on rehabilitation, honing in on technique and prioritizing a strong foundation to build upon. I thoroughly enjoy meeting my clients as they are and developing accountability towards their goals. During my extra time, I enjoying sharpening my coaching conversation skills through cognitive behavioral therapy processes and educating myself on how to guide my clients to their highest and healthiest selves.
-
Injury Prevention and Rehabilitation
Mobility and Posture Focused
Pre/Post Natal Certified
Post-Partum Recovery and Strength Training
Osteoporosis Strength Training Prevention
Activity + Sport-Specific Coaching (ie, tennis, golf, running, cycling)
-
Julie works virtually, though if you are in NYC, please reach out to inquire about in person session.
holistic skincare
Kelly Liberty
LICENSED ESTHETICIAN
CERTIFIED GUA SHA HERBAL FUSION THERAPIST
-
After many years in corporate America, Kelly changed directions and discovered that she could make a living doing what she always loved – helping people and sharing her love of natural skin care, and at Indigo she wears many hats as both office manager and our indiGlow facialist.
As a certified Gua Sha Herbal Fusion Therapist, Kelly’s treatments combine 2 Eastern Facial Massage modalities, Gua Sha and Thai Herbal Poltice, creating a unique cosmetic and healing experience. Some of her favorite things are reading, cooking, the beach, and spending time with her husband and dog.
-
-
Kelly works out of our Stamford and Westport locations.
Dr. Marcy Julius
DOCTOR OF ACUPUNCTURE & CHINESE MEDICINE
D.A.C.M L.AC.
-
Marcy Julius is board certified in Acupuncture and Chinese Herbology by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) and licensed to practice in both Connecticut and New York. Graduating among the top of her class from Pacific College of Health and Science, she earned both her Master’s and Doctorate degrees in Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine. After graduation, Marcy completed a year-long fellowship program at Mount Sinai Beth Israel Hospital where she treated the inpatient population in various units throughout the facility.
In addition to her specialties in acupuncture, Marcy enjoys helping people look their best naturally and offers facial rejuvenation acupuncture and microneedling.
-
Microneedling
Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture
-
Marcy works out of our Westport and Stamford locations.
patient coordinators & administrative support
Kelly Liberty
Office Manager / Stamford & Westport Front Desk
Masha Timoshenko
Front Desk
Dessy Norwood
Front Desk
K I N D W O R D S
This by far was the most incredible experience I have ever,ever had. Kelly Liberty is an incredible Esthetician. The facial was not simply a facial. It was an entire "wellness" experience. This Gua Sha facial actually reduces wrinkles. She did one side of my face and when I looked in the mirror there was a significant difference in the folds/wrinkles of one side of my face compared to the other. She gives the facial muscles a workout and it genuinely works!!! In addition, it is very hard for me to relax, however, I fell sound asleep during the process. For me that is a miracle!! I highly recommend. The office is welcoming and clean and very relaxing.
- INDIGO CLIENT