Dr. Victoria Arico is a licensed acupuncturist and founder of Desert Shen, where she offers personalized, integrative care rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine. She earned her Doctorate in Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine from the Phoenix Institute of Herbal Medicine & Acupuncture (PIHMA) and is nationally board-certified through the NCCAOM.

Before becoming an acupuncturist, Dr. Victoria spent nearly two decades as a Registered Dental Hygienist, giving her an extensive clinical background and a unique understanding of the connections between oral health, systemic health, and whole-body wellness. Her experience in healthcare has also contributed to the gentle, precise approach she brings to acupuncture treatment.

Her philosophy centers on treating the whole person—mind, body, and spirit—rather than simply addressing isolated symptoms. Depending on each patient's needs, treatment may incorporate acupuncture, therapeutic cupping, gua sha, moxibustion, red light therapy, nutritional and supplemental guidance, and medicinal mushrooms.

Dr. Victoria has a particular interest in medicinal mushrooms and integrates evidence-informed mushroom education into her clinical work when appropriate. She is also the founder of The House of Mogu, a medicinal mushroom wellness company created to help make high-quality mushroom products and education more accessible.

Dr. Victoria is currently welcoming Desert Shen patients at NW Medical Massage in Northwest Tucson, where she provides individualized care in a supportive and comfortable clinical setting.

A lifelong student of healing

Dr. Victoria's approach to medicine is shaped by curiosity, continued study, and a deep respect for the traditions from which acupuncture and Chinese medicine emerged. Her travels have included time in India, where she further explored the relationship between traditional healing practices, spirituality, and whole-person wellness.

Her goal at Desert Shen is simple: to create a space where patients feel heard, respected, and actively involved in their own healing.