Our Team

A Shared Path

Together, Stephen and Mary founded Daoist Arts of Oregon as a place for steady learning, meaningful practice, and renewal.

Their shared path brings together Classical Chinese Medicine, internal cultivation, and thoughtful education within a single framework of clear and consistent training.

The purpose of Daoist Arts of Oregon is to preserve the clarity of traditional Daoist teachings while presenting them in a form that supports the realities of modern life.

Every program — from weekly Neigong practice to seasonal retreats, long-distance treatments, and online study — reflects this commitment: to provide authentic instruction, careful guidance, and space for genuine development.

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Stephen Schleipfer

Stephen is a licensed acupuncturist and international teacher of Classical Chinese Medicine, Medical Qigong, and Neigong. He earned his Master of Science in Oriental Medicine (MSOM) from the National University of Natural Medicine (NUNM) in Portland, Oregon.
Stephen’s approach combines clinical skill with decades of dedicated study in the internal arts.
He has taught in the United States and abroad — including at Shou Zhong Ausbildungszentrum (Berlin), National University of Natural Medicine (NUNM), and George Washington University — sharing both practical methods and the classical philosophy underlying Daoist cultivation.
Stephen’s teaching reflects a direct and methodical understanding of how body, breath, and awareness interact.
He emphasizes structure, stillness, and the refinement of perception as reliable means to restore balance and health.
His work continues to explore how the classical principles of Daoism can be applied clearly and effectively in modern life.
“Health develops through steadiness, attention, and a genuine relationship with the natural order of life.”
Founder and Lead Instructor
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Mary Schleipfer

Mary oversees the educational programs and long-term development of Daoist Arts of Oregon.
She holds an Education Specialist (Ed.S.) degree in School Psychology from Lewis & Clark College and brings a strong background in psychology, curriculum design, and organizational leadership.
Mary ensures that the center’s programs are accessible, clearly structured, and grounded in integrity.
Her work helps bridge classical Daoist education with contemporary models of learning, supporting students in developing both personal insight and practical application.
“Learning is most meaningful when it deepens understanding, strengthens connection, and contributes to the community around us.”

Director of Education and Program Development
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Administrative Assistant

Page De La Cuesta

Page helps keep the day-to-day activities of Daoist Arts of Oregon organized, welcoming, and running smoothly. She holds an Associate Degree from Portland Community College and provides administrative and creative support for the school and its programs.
Page is often a primary point of contact for students, answering phones and questions, sharing information about upcoming classes, retreats, and events, coordinating registrations, and processing payments. She works to make sure students have the information and resources they need before arriving for a class or retreat.
She also contributes to design, advertising, and program promotion, helping communicate the work of Daoist Arts of Oregon to both current students and the broader community.
With a thoughtful and attentive approach, Page helps create a welcoming and well-organized environment where students can focus more fully on their training and experience.

“A welcoming community begins with making sure people feel seen, supported, and included.”

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