You've got questions, we've got answers. Laura is also always happy to address your concerns over the phone, via email, or in person.
WILL ACUPUNCTURE WORK FOR ME?
We hope so! Acupuncture is helpful for many individuals with a variety of needs. Visit our Acupuncture page for more information on conditions treated. Laura is happy to discuss your case with you personally prior to booking an appointment, simply send her an email or give her a call.
WHAT SHOULD I WEAR?
Laura recommends that you wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that can be rolled up to your elbows and knees.
DOES EVERYONE GET THE SAME TREATMENT?
No, each treatment is tailored to your individual needs.
ARE HERBS INCLUDED IN THE COST OF TREATMENT?
No, herbal formulas are prescribed at an additional cost.
HOW MANY VISITS WILL IT TAKE FOR ME TO FEEL BETTER?
Each patient’s needs are unique and different. On your first visit, Laura will work with you to develop a treatment plan tailored for you, including frequency and duration of treatment.
HOW LONG DOES ACUPUNCTURE TAKE?
Initial sessions last for 90 minutes.
Follow up sessions last for 60 minutes.
You will rest with the needles in for 20-25 minutes.
HOW DOES ACUPUNCTURE FEEL?
Sensations experienced vary from patient to patient. Typical sensations include heaviness, tingling, numbness, pressure, fullness, aching, warmth, coolness, and vibration.
HOW WILL I FEEL AFTERWARDS?
Depending on your state before and during treatment, as well as your treatment itself, you may feel differently after different treatments. Sometimes patients feel very energized and ready to take on the rest of the day. Other times, patients feel very relaxed and ready to take a nap. Listen to your body after treatment. Try to refrain from intense exercise for several hours, and avoid hot showers for at least one hour.
DO YOU TAKE MY INSURANCE?
No, our clinic does not accept health insurance. Upon request, we are happy to provide you with a superbill which you can submit directly to your insurance company for reimbursement. Of course, reimbursement is dependent upon your individual coverage, and a superbill is not a guarantee of reimbursement. We recommend you contact your insurance company directly and ask about reimbursement for “out of network acupuncture.”
I’M AFRAID OF NEEDLES, WHAT CAN YOU DO FOR ME?
Acupuncture needles are very thin compared to the hypodermic needles we are familiar with from Western doctors’ offices. Depending on the needle gauge (thickness), between 18-40 acupuncture needles can fit inside of one single hypodermic needle. Acupuncture needles do not have a hollow core, like a hypodermic needle, but are instead solid stainless steel. Laura’s needles are all single-use only and have been sterilized with ethylene-oxide gas prior to packaging. Laura will work with you to ensure that you are comfortable with your treatment. Laura has also been trained in the Japanese art of Contact Needling, a method in which needles rest on the surface of the skin and never penetrate the skin. Laura will assess you individually to see if you are a candidate for this type of treatment.