Yao's Chinese Medicine & Therapy Centre
Authentic Chinese medicine. Over 40 year of clinical expertise. Trusted healing in Melbourne's eastern suburbs.
Meet Dr. Lawrence Yao
Dr. Lawrence Yao is a renowned Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioner with over 40 years of clinical experience in China and Australia (35+ years in Australia), providing evidence-informed Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that treats the root cause, not just the symptoms.
PhD. (China) | AHPRA Registered | Justice of the Peace (Vic, Australia)
- Executive Director of World Federation of Chinese Medicine Societies (WFCMS)
- Vice President & Treasurer of Society of Chinese Medicine & Acupuncture (Australia)
- Visiting Professor of Fu Jian University of T.C.M (China)
- Visiting Professor of Guangzhou Medicine University (China)
- Centenary Medal Recipient (Australia)
Our Services
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Acupuncture & Traditional Therapies
Gentle, effective treatments that restore internal balance and activate your body’s natural healing:
- Acupuncture for pain relief, stress, and immune support
- Remedial massage (TCM-style) to reduce tension and enhance circulation
- Sport injury treatment with targeted needling and movement rehab
- Dietary therapy based on Chinese nutrition principles
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Chinese Herbal Medicine
We prescribe safe, high-quality herbs in the form of:
- Herbal pills
- Concentrated extracts
- Traditional raw herbal formulas (煎药)
Each formula is tailored to your constitution and current health condition.
Whether you're managing pain, fatigue, digestive issues, hormonal imbalance or stress, we’re here to guide you towards long-term wellness.
Conditions We Commonly Treat
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Musculoskeletal & Pain
- Back & neck pain, tension headaches, migraines, TMJ
- Tennis elbow, sports injuries, osteoarthritis, fibromyalgia
- Myofascial pain, trigger points
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Neurological Conditions
- Sciatica, lumbar disc issues
- Post-shingles neuralgia, Bell’s palsy, stroke rehabilitation
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Women’s Health
- Menopausal syndrome, PMS, endometriosis, dysmenorrhoea
- Morning sickness, pregnancy-related back pain, labour induction, postpartum recovery
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Digestive & Gut Health
- Nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhoea, reflux, bloating
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), gastric/duodenal ulcer, chronic ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease
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ENT, Eye & Skin
- Hay fever, sinusitis, rhinitis, tonsillitis, sore throat, mouth ulcers
- Tinnitus, conjunctivitis
- Eczema, atopic dermatitis, rashes and skin itchiness
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Psychological & Sleep
- Anxiety, stress, panic attack, depression, insomnia, chronic fatigue
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Urogenital Health
- Prostatitis, impotence, retained urine, urinary tract stone and infections
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Lung & Immune System
- Asthma, chronic bronchitis, pulmonary emphysema, cold & flu prevention
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Other Conditions
- High blood pressure, hypertension, smoking addiction, drug withdrawal support
With over 35 years of experience, we’re proud to support patients across Doncaster, Box Hill, Balwyn, Templestowe, Blackburn, Mitcham, and nearby suburbs with personalised, holistic care rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)?
TCM is a complete medical system used for over 2,000 years, treating illness by restoring harmony and balance in the body through acupuncture, herbs, massage and diet therapy.
How many sessions do I need?
It varies depending on your condition. Acute issues may resolve within a few sessions; chronic conditions often benefit from a structured treatment plan.
Are your treatments safe?
Yes. All treatments are performed by AHPRA-registered practitioners using sterile, single-use needles and TGA-approved herbal products.
Is acupuncture safe?
Yes. When performed by a qualified practitioner, acupuncture is extremely safe. We use sterile, single-use needles and techniques that are tailored to your comfort level.
Does acupuncture hurt?
Most people are surprised by how gentle acupuncture feels. The needles are ultra-fine — much thinner than those used for injections — and are often barely noticeable. Some feel a mild tingling or warmth, which indicates that energy is moving in the body.
What conditions can Chinese herbal pills help with?
Chinese herbal pills are formulated with natural ingredients to support a wide range of health concerns.
At Yao’s Chinese Medicine and Therapy Centre, we commonly prescribe herbal pills to assist with:
- Sleep issues (e.g. insomnia, restlessness)
- Digestive problems (e.g. bloating, IBS, constipation)
- Stress, anxiety, and mood balance
- Menstrual irregularities and menopause symptoms
- Immune support and frequent colds
- Fatigue and low energy
- Skin conditions like eczema and acne
Each formula is carefully chosen based on your unique body type and diagnosis.
Do I need a referral to book an appointment?
No referral is needed. You can book directly with us online or by phone at 03 9899 6788 or 0411 082 988. We’re happy to work alongside your GP or other health professionals if you’re receiving concurrent care.
Can I claim through private health insurance?
Yes, most health funds offer rebates for TCM. We accept rebates from over 40 private health funds, including BUPA, Medibank Private, HCF, NIB and more.
Do you speak Mandarin or Cantonese?
Yes, consultations can be conducted in English, Mandarin or Cantonese (提供普通话和粤语服务).