KOI Wellbeing

Jeffrey A. Sternberg, CEO, has been deeply engaged in the healthcare industry since 1999, witnessing firsthand how conventional medical practices and business interests frequently clash with optimal patient outcomes and choice. Driven by his vision for a superior healthcare experience, Mr. Sternberg founded KOI Wellbeing to provide patients with highly personalized care in an elegant, spa-like setting—aligning healthcare expenditures with genuine value. He recognized that precise, quantitative diagnostic specialty lab and genetic testing, which form the foundation of naturopathic medicine, yield the best patient outcomes. Thus, KOI was conceived as an integrative practice grounded firmly in scientific evidence and individualized care. With extensive experience in hospital administration and insurance-driven medicine, Mr. Sternberg understands the necessity of removing insurance carriers as gatekeepers. He strongly believes that eliminating middlemen empowers doctors and patients to build direct, unencumbered relationships, significantly enhancing care quality and ensuring patients receive maximum benefit for their healthcare investments.

Dr. Chris Farrelly, ND, LAc, is a dedicated naturopathic doctor and licensed acupuncturist at KOI Wellbeing in La Jolla, California. He is passionate about treating the whole person, blending science, empathy, and a deep respect for the body's innate ability to heal. Dr. Farrelly views health as more than the absence of illness; it's about creating balance between the body, mind, spirit, and environment. His extensive training includes a residency at Bastyr University Clinic, advanced work in gastroenterology and autoimmune care, and specialized training in IV therapy, regenerative joint injections, and homeopathy. Dr. Farrelly's clinical focus encompasses hormone balancing, digestive health, autoimmune disorders, fertility, and the gut-skin connection, aiding patients in healing from within. Beyond his clinical practice, Dr. Farrelly serves as an assistant professor in the Department of Naturopathic Medicine at Bastyr University San Diego, where he supervises at the Bastyr Clinic. His educational background includes a Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine degree from Bastyr University California, a Master of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine from Pacific College of Oriental Medicine, and a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish with a concentration in molecular biology from Quinnipiac University. Dr. Farrelly's approach to patient care is holistic and integrative, emphasizing the importance of addressing the root causes of health issues rather than merely alleviating symptoms. He specializes in treating conditions such as IBS, IBD, SIBO, intestinal hyper-permeability ("leaky gut"), acne, eczema, psoriasis, autoimmune disorders, and endocrine abnormalities. Additionally, he offers services in regenerative joint injections, IV therapy, classical homeopathy, and integrative oncology support. Outside the clinic, Dr. Farrelly enjoys exploring San Diego's scenic coastline and experimenting with Mediterranean-inspired recipes in his kitchen. His curiosity and compassion are evident in every patient interaction, as he strives to help individuals not just live—but thrive.

Dr. Ronald S. Cohen, MD, is more than a physician; he’s a pioneering leader in regenerative medicine dedicated to transforming lives through advanced, nonsurgical solutions to pain and injury. Board-certified in Family and Sports Medicine, Dr. Cohen ranks among the top 1% of doctors nationwide in experience and training in regenerative orthopedic treatments. His distinguished career includes managing the Sports Medicine & Reconditioning program for Marine Corps recruits across the western United States for over a decade, as well as serving as a special consultant to Navy SEALs. Through these roles, he developed unparalleled expertise in addressing complex injuries and chronic conditions under demanding, high-stakes environments. Dr. Cohen stands at the forefront as the region’s premier Regenexx® provider, employing cutting-edge regenerative procedures to improve mobility, alleviate pain, and restore quality of life. His dedication to clinical excellence has earned him prestigious recognitions, including the esteemed Master Clinician Award, and he currently serves as a voluntary Assistant Clinical Professor at the UCSD School of Medicine. Outside of his groundbreaking medical practice, Dr. Cohen is an avid outdoorsman, passionate golfer, and triathlete who deeply values time spent with his family. His personal and professional life exemplifies his philosophy of embracing an active, fulfilling lifestyle.

Connie Joffre-Monaco, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, is an experienced nurse practitioner dedicated to guiding patients toward balanced and energized lives through personalized, holistic care. With over a decade of comprehensive experience in cardiac nursing, gastroenterology, weight management, physiatry, and home health, Connie emphasizes treating the whole person rather than isolated symptoms. Her specialized expertise in bioidentical pellet hormone replacement therapy enables her to design precise treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs. From meticulous pellet insertions to thorough patient education, Connie optimizes hormonal balance, enhancing vitality, mood, and overall well-being. Drawing upon her extensive background as a cardiac nurse and case manager, Connie integrates evidence-based practices and fosters collaborative, trusting relationships with her patients. She is deeply committed to providing a supportive environment where patients feel heard, respected, and empowered. Whether seeking advanced hormone therapy or holistic lifestyle guidance, Connie’s compassionate approach and proven expertise make her a trusted partner in helping patients live their healthiest, fullest lives.

Dr. Joanne C. Imperial, MD, FAASLD, is a distinguished physician with more than two decades of expertise spanning clinical development, medical affairs, and academic medicine. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to empowering patients to achieve optimal health through evidence-based treatments in weight loss, gut health, and liver disease. A graduate of Harvard Medical School, Dr. Imperial is board certified in Gastroenterology and Transplant Hepatology. She further expanded her knowledge through a Fellowship in Nutrition and Metabolism at New York Medical College, gaining a profound understanding of the vital role nutrition and metabolism play in overall wellness. Dr. Imperial specializes in crafting individualized weight loss programs designed around each patient’s unique needs, effectively addressing the critical link between metabolic health and lifelong vitality. Additionally, she offers expert care in gut health, emphasizing strategies to restore digestive balance and significantly enhance quality of life. Beyond weight management and digestive health, Dr. Imperial possesses extensive expertise in managing complex liver conditions, including chronic liver disease, Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH), and liver transplantation. Her compassionate, patient-centered approach has earned Dr. Imperial the trust and respect of both her patients and peers, making her an invaluable addition to our medical team.

Dr. Michael Burstein, ND, is a dedicated naturopathic physician committed to empowering his patients through proactive, personalized care. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a minor in Linguistics from the University of Arizona, followed by a rigorous four-year doctorate in Naturopathic Medicine at Bastyr University in San Diego. Dr. Burstein’s passion for naturopathic medicine was sparked by his own health challenges and dissatisfaction with conventional medical treatments, leading him to advocate for preventive care as a foundational approach. Emphasizing total body optimization, he creates tailored treatment plans designed to enhance memory, improve sleep quality, and effectively manage stress. Guided by his belief in the power of prevention over reaction, Dr. Burstein inspires his patients to take an active role in their health, supporting their journey toward lasting wellness and vitality.