What is Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a holistic system of healthcare that has been practiced for thousands of years. It focuses on balancing the body, mind, and spirit to promote overall health and well-being. TCM includes practices such as acupuncture, herbal medicine, cupping, and dietary therapy.
What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a key component of TCM where thin, sterile needles are gently inserted into specific points on the body to help restore balance, relieve pain, and support overall health. Acupuncture can be used for a wide variety of conditions, from stress and digestive issues to chronic pain.
Does acupuncture hurt?
Most patients feel minimal or no discomfort. Some people notice a slight pinch or tingling when the needles are inserted, but many find the experience relaxing and even meditative.
How long are treatments?
Appointments typically last 45–60 minutes, allowing time for a thorough consultation and treatment tailored to your needs.
What can I expect after one treatment versus multiple treatments?
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After one treatment: Some patients experience immediate relief, improved energy, or relaxation.
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Multiple treatments: For chronic or complex issues, consistent sessions may lead to longer-lasting improvements, better symptom management, and overall balance in body and mind.
Are there any adverse effects?
Acupuncture is generally very safe when performed by a licensed practitioner. Mild effects can include temporary soreness at needle sites, slight bruising, or lightheadedness, but these usually resolve quickly. Serious side effects are extremely rare.
What other services do you offer aside from acupuncture?
In addition to acupuncture, I offer cupping, gua sha, cosmetic acupuncture, and Tui Na. These therapies can be used on their own or combined with acupuncture to support pain relief, circulation, stress reduction, and overall balance.
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What are cupping, gua sha, cosmetic acupuncture, and Tui Na?
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Cupping (body & facial):
A therapy that uses suction cups to gently lift the tissues, improve circulation, release muscle tension, and help the body clear stagnation. Facial cupping is lighter and supports lymphatic flow, skin tone, and relaxation.
Good for: muscle tightness, chronic pain, stress, fatigue, headaches, poor circulation, and facial puffiness or tension.
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Gua Sha (body & facial):
A technique using a smooth-edged tool to gently scrape the skin, encouraging circulation and lymphatic drainage. On the body, it helps relieve tightness and pain; on the face, it supports natural glow, reduced puffiness, and facial tension release.
Good for: neck and shoulder tension, chronic pain, inflammation, jaw tension, sinus congestion, puffiness, and dull or tired-looking skin.
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Cosmetic Acupuncture:
A natural facial rejuvenation treatment that uses fine acupuncture needles to support collagen production, improve circulation, soften fine lines, and promote overall skin health—while also addressing internal balance.
Good for: fine lines, dull skin, puffiness, jaw or facial tension, stress-related skin concerns, and those seeking natural facial rejuvenation without injectables.
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Tui Na:
A therapeutic form of Chinese medical massage that uses rhythmic hand techniques to address muscle tension, joint pain, and energetic imbalances. It’s both structural and restorative, working deeply without being forceful.
Good for: musculoskeletal pain, stiffness, limited range of motion, stress, injuries, and people who prefer hands-on bodywork.
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How do I know what service to book?
If you’re unsure which service is right for you, you’re not alone—and you don’t need to figure it out on your own.
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Start with what’s going on for you.
Think about your current symptoms, concerns, or goals. This might include pain, stress, sleep issues, skin concerns, or overall wellness support. -
Consider any guidance you’ve already received.
Have you been referred by another provider or given a recommendation for acupuncture, bodywork, or another therapy? That information is helpful, but not required. -
Let us help you decide.
Our front desk is happy to talk through your needs and help determine what service—or combination of services—would be the best fit for you.
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If you’d prefer to start with guidance from the beginning, booking a 30-minute consultation with Dr. Sarah is a great first step. This allows time to review your concerns, ask questions, and create a personalized plan before beginning treatment.
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How does insurance work?
We are happy to verify your insurance plan’s benefits before your visit if you’d like. We always review your plan during your first appointment, but we can also do this prior to booking - don't hesitate to ask!
We work with all insurance plans that offer acupuncture coverage. However, depending on your plan, we may be in-network or out-of-network, which affects what you pay. You are responsible for any copays, coinsurance, or deductible amounts according to your insurance plan.
We provide superbills and itemized receipts for your records so you can submit claims to your insurance if needed.
Can I book a session if my insurance doesn’t cover acupuncture?
Absolutely! Many patients pay out-of-pocket and still find acupuncture a valuable investment in their health. We offer clear pricing and can provide receipts for reimbursement if your plan allows.
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