Derek began studying Chinese Martial Arts at the age of six. When he grew older he gained an interest in Asian philosophy which led him to begin studying the healing Arts of Taijiquan (Tai Chi Chuan) and Qigong in 2001. He found his way to White Willow School of Tai Chi to study under Master Vince Lasorso, jr in Cincinnati,Ohio. Derek studied there for several years earning an apprenticeship directly with Master  Lasorso and the title of Instructor. His instruction included advanced Qigong and Taiji techniques, as well as advanced meditations that train the mind and body to attain peak awareness and communication. During this time Derek graduated College from Miami University Oxford with a Bachelors of Science in the Spring of 2005, and then entered Graduate School for Acupuncture in the fall.

Derek attended Midwest College of Oriental Medicine Chicago. Midwest College is one of the first Acupuncture schools in the United States and well known for their reputable free clinic. He was trained in Traditional Chinese Acupuncture,Moxibustion, Japanese and Korean Acupuncture techniques, Tui Na (Chinese Massage), ear Acupuncture, cosmetic Acupuncture, Traditional Chinese Herbology, cupping and other accessory techniques, and Electro-Acupuncture.

In 2009 Derek graduated Cum Laude from Midwest College with a Masters of Science in Oriental Medicine. He is nationally certified by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) as a Diplomate of Acupuncture and is a Licensed Acupuncturist in the state of Illinois. Derek also teaches the White Willow System of Qigong and Taiji in the Chicago area and continues to study with Master Lasorso.