Frequently Asked Questions
Below you'll find answers to common questions about my practice and my approach to healing. If you have a question that isn't answered here, please don't hesitate to reach out.
About Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine
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Acupuncture is a core part of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that uses ultra-fine needles to gently stimulate points along the body’s meridians (energy pathways). This helps restore balance to the flow of Qi (energy) and blood, supporting your body’s natural ability to heal. From a modern perspective, acupuncture can calm the nervous system, improve circulation, and trigger the release of natural chemicals that reduce pain and improve mood.
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Acupuncture can support a wide range of concerns, including:
Chronic pain – back, neck, shoulder, joint, and muscle pain
Hormonal imbalances – menstrual issues, PMS, menopause, fertility support
Headaches and migraines
Digestive issues – bloating, IBS, acid reflux, constipation
Stress, anxiety, and depression
Insomnia and sleep disturbances
Emotional challenges – grief, burnout, trauma recovery
Autoimmune conditions – such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and more
Complicated internal medicine cases – when symptoms are complex, multi-system, or not responding to conventional care
Respiratory concerns – allergies, asthma, lingering coughs or colds
Preventative care and seasonal alignment – staying balanced with the rhythms of nature
General wellness – to feel more grounded, energized, and connected to yourself
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Most patients find acupuncture gentle and relaxing. The needles are thinner than a human hair, and you may feel a quick pinch, gentle tingle, or wave of warmth. Many patients even fall asleep during their sessions
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We’ll begin with a detailed conversation about your health history, lifestyle, and goals. Your first treatment may include acupuncture, cupping, gua sha, bodywork, or other supportive techniques, depending on your needs that day.
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Everybody is different. Some patients notice improvement after one session, while others need a series to see lasting changes. We’ll create a plan together that supports your health goals and works with your schedule.
Herbal & Supplemental Therapy
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Yes. I often recommend Chinese herbal formulas, medicinal teas, and high-quality nutritional supplements to support healing between visits.
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I source herbs from trusted suppliers who test for purity, potency, and safety. Every recommendation is tailored to your health history and current medications.
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Often, yes — but I will always check for potential interactions before recommending anything.
Specialized Services
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Yes. My treatments may also include:
Cupping therapy – to improve circulation and release muscle tension
Gua sha – to promote healing and reduce pain or inflammation
Massage therapy – to relax muscles and improve mobility
Energy work, breathwork, and sound healing – to support emotional and energetic balance
Movement practices – to restore strength and flexibility
Psychedelic preparation and integration coaching – to help you prepare for or integrate insights from a journey.
Retreats and workshops – including the Rise Retreat for those impacted by breast cancer, Sacred Rage workshops, and seasonal events combining movement, ceremony, and community
Logistics & Booking
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You can book online or contact me directly by phone or email.
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I don’t bill insurance directly, but I can provide a superbill for possible reimbursement.
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Please give at least 24 hours’ notice for cancellations or reschedules. Late cancellations or no-shows may be charged the 50% of the session fee.
Preparation & Aftercare
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Eat a light meal beforehand
Wear comfortable clothing
Stay hydrated
Avoid caffeine or alcohol right before your session
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Drink water and rest when possible
Give your body time to integrate the work
Know that feeling relaxed, energized, or tired afterward are all normal responses as your body shifts
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Please give at least 24 hours’ notice for cancellations or reschedules. Late cancellations or no-shows may be charged the 50% of the session fee.
What Sets Me Apart from Other Practitioners
I bring over two decades of experience in the healing arts, holding credentials as a Doctor of Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine (DACM), Licensed Acupuncturist (LAc), Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT), Registered Nurse (RN), and Certified Psychedelic Therapist.
But what truly sets me apart is how I combine these skills with my personal life experience. After facing my own health challenges, loss, and transformation — including my breast cancer journey and choosing to go flat — I know firsthand the courage it takes to seek healing. I also know that true wellness is more than the absence of symptoms — it’s feeling safe, connected, and empowered in your own skin.
My treatments are never just about “fixing” something; they’re about meeting you exactly where you are, holding space for your story, and working together to create the conditions for your body, mind, and spirit to thrive. Patients often tell me they leave not only feeling physically better, but also lighter, clearer, and more connected to themselves.