Meet Our Acupuncture Team
Tangela Barr, Dipl. Ac(NCCAOM), L.Ac, B.S.
Tangela Bar brings a unique blend of scientific knowledge and holistic healing to her acupuncture practice. With a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Winthrop University and a Master’s degree in Acupuncture from the Maryland University of Integrative Health, Tangela bridges the gap between traditional medicine and evidence-based alternative therapies.
Her advanced certifications include Battlefield Acupuncture, Yamamoto New Scalp Acupuncture, and Facial Rejuvenation, allowing her to tailor treatments to a wide range of patient needs—from chronic pain and neurological conditions to cosmetic wellness.
Tangela is passionate about helping patients restore balance, relieve stress, and experience whole-body healing through integrative care.
Mary Hughes, MD, MBA
Dr. Hughes has been practicing for over 25 years in academic and health care system settings and leads the Premier Neurology team.
In 2021, Dr. Hughes, fractured the arch of her left foot. While the bones healed well, she developed a chronic pain condition known as Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS). Through this experience, she came to understand firsthand the disconnect between hearing “Your X-rays look great” and living with the daily reality of debilitating pain.
As she sought relief, Dr. Hughes discovered acupuncture—and found it life-changing. “With acupuncture, I was able to function again,” she recalls.
Today, her comprehensive pain management plan includes medications, a spinal cord stimulator, regular work with a trainer, and continued acupuncture treatments. Techniques ranging from traditional needling to modern Battlefield acupuncture have all played a vital role in her recovery.
“I was so impressed by the impact acupuncture had on my life,” says Dr. Hughes, “that I felt compelled to offer these services to my patients.” In 2023, she trained to become a physician acupuncturist.
Dr. Hughes believes that studying Eastern medicine and its synergy with Western approaches has made her a stronger, more holistic neurologist.
In 2024, she approached her own acupuncturist, Tangela, to explore ways to bring acupuncture into Premier Neurology. For Dr. Hughes, there’s no greater compliment than partnering with the practitioner who helped transform her own care—now working together to enhance the healing journeys of others.