As far as I see it Disciples are NOT overpowered. I've maxed disciple, on their own they can't take on a Warrior class with armor unless on a hill. Also they can barely take on a good rogue class, if a rogue spec manages to kick them they are screwed over. The only specs they have a upper hand on is Caster and Healer specs, normally because of chakra, and they can take on other healer classes because this healer class in particular is more of a combat type.
Ironfist is yes a AoE, but I honestly see don't see the big deal about it. It only does 120dmg, takes 5 stamina, 20 mana and 20 cd, if your asking me you are just over reacting. Disciples only damaging skills are really Ironfist/Kick (I don't count Forcepull/Forcepush seeing as they only do 80 dmg.)
On to the "There sticks do way to much". If you read the wiki about Disciples it basically says that they are a Natural class who use natural weapons. Why should it do any less than 60 damage? If you were to lower it anymore disciples wouldn't be able to any damage at all. Your probably thinking that they shouldn't do any damage at all just because they are a healer class, but just because they are a healer spec doesn't mean they shouldn't be able to put up a decent fight.
And now on to the last thing. Disciples have meditate because of how much mana there skills take. ONE pray takes 20-25 mana, Ironfist takes 20, and forcepull/push takes 5. Also Ironfist takes 5 stam, forcepush/pull both takes 3. If you were decent they would run out of mana no problem, that is why they have meditate.
Long story short, if you don't want them to kill you don't stand on a hill and if you are, you best be wearing those FeatherFalling 4 boots! Don't complain about classes you don't know much about.