Our Team

Join our acupuncturist Sierra Tarinelli and physician Anne Knott, M.D. this October for a two day training event. This training consists of 15 hours of online self-study and 20 hours of in-person hands-on training. Trainees will need to attend supervised practice clinics in addition to the 2-day training (opportunities for practice are provided by us at no additional cost). Upon completion of all course requirements, trainees will be issued a certificate of completion. Learn more about your instructors at: https://casobu.org/our-team

Mara Hayes - member of the BOD. * Mara is the Seed and Spark of CASoBu. She has an impeccable skill of recognizing an individual’s strength & passion and directing them towards their place in community. Mara knows how to encourage us to strive for our best. As Sierra’s next-door neighbor & beloved friend, she inspired the birth of Community Acupuncture SoBu. She is a Peace Core volunteer, bodywork practitioner, community-building engineer, and all-around impeccable human.

(acupuncturist, clinic manager)

Bio I was born in Marlboro, VT. Eating veggies & berries from mom’s garden, fish & venison from dad’s hunting, feeling the warmth from my Babcia’s (grandmother’s) hands on my upset tummy. All this led to me to becoming a healer. I’ve spent a lifetime healing my own trauma as a result of patriarchy.

Outside of the clinic I enjoy books/film/television (esp horror), gardening, having fun cuddling with & challenging my kitties, and exploring our gorgeous Green Mountain state with my mom.

Philosophy There isn’t a right or correct way to live. Health, wellness, & the good life have no tax nor committee. * As an individual seeking personal change and as a practitioner helping others, I’ve seen that an open mind (and accepting help!) are the key to seeing the results we want.

Experience I began my healing journey as a traveling teen faced with no home, no healthcare & abundant exposure to illness, addiction, & the violence of patriarchy. My first apothecary was an old, heavy, army-green canvas backpack that I found in a dumpster. I stuffed that bag with garlic, goldenseal, distilled water, and isopropyl alcohol. Fast forward, I’ve spent the next 3+ decades in direct patient care; as a, friend, parent, herbalist, massage practitioner, acupuncturist and Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioner.

Education & Credentials Acupuncture and Integrative Medicine College Berkeley, CA (2008-2012).

Vermont acupuncture license - 091.0134060

Sonja is a founding member of CASoBu. She’s been with us through the highs and lows and has generously offered her attention to our mission by being on the board. She is an active member in her community and commits much of her time to helping her neighbors at Decker Towers in tangible ways. We love her unique ‘out of the box’ perspective and her giant heart full of love.

Tereska Buko is the President of the Board for Community Acupuncture SoBu and brings a deep appreciation for community, storytelling, and human connection. She is the author of her parents’ life story and has long been drawn to creating meaningful experiences that bring people together.

Known as “Babcia” to her four beloved grandchildren, Tereska is continually inspired by life’s deeper questions and the many ways healing can unfold. She also supports the clinic in a hands-on way, helping to create and hold a welcoming, grounded space for patients. She is proud to support a clinic rooted in compassion and accessibility.