New Patients
What to Know
Beginning acupuncture can feel unfamiliar, especially if you’re sensitive, overwhelmed, or already carrying a lot. This page is here to help you know what to expect, so you can arrive feeling more at ease.
Before Your First Visit
Please complete your intake forms ahead of time so we can use our time together well. The questions may feel detailed, but they help me understand the bigger picture of your health.
Chinese medicine looks at patterns—how sleep, digestion, stress, pain, and past experiences all interrelate—so even small details can be meaningful.
A few simple ways to prepare:
— wear comfortable clothing
— arrive a few minutes early to settle in
— come hydrated and having eaten
Acupuncture works best when your body has the energy to respond, and this helps prevent lightheadedness.
The Space
Terra Acupuncture is located in a quiet, private treatment room with a separate entrance, set within a home that has been in my family for five generations.
The space is designed to feel grounding and uplifting, like earth and air—supportive of rest and renewal.
Parking is free and is easily found on the street in front of the home.
Detailed arrival instructions will be provided after booking.
Accessibility
Please note that the treatment space is not currently wheelchair accessible, as it is located up a short set of steps and does not have a ramp.
If you have questions about accessibility or would like help determining whether the space will work for you, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
The Initial Visit
Your first session is 60 minutes.
We’ll begin with a conversation about your health history, current concerns, and what you’re hoping to shift. This helps me understand what’s been happening in your body and life.
I’ll also assess your pulse and tongue—two traditional diagnostic tools that offer insight into internal patterns.
From there, we’ll move into treatment. Most sessions involve the gentle placement of approximately 15–25 very fine needles. Once they’re in place, you’ll rest comfortably for about 20–30 minutes.
Many people drift into a light sleep or a deeply relaxed state.
Before you leave, we’ll discuss what I’m seeing, your treatment plan, and any supportive recommendations that align with your goals.
Follow-Up Visits
Follow-up sessions are 60 minutes and build on prior treatments.
Acupuncture works best as a process—each session builds on the last to support regulation, reduce pain and inflammation, and improve resilience over time.
Care evolves based on how your body responds. Some people come weekly or biweekly during more intense phases of life, while others transition to monthly care for ongoing support and prevention.
After Your Session
It’s common to feel relaxed, clear-headed, or pleasantly tired after treatment.
Occasionally, you may notice temporary shifts as your body integrates the work. If we do trigger point therapy, mild soreness (similar to a workout) can occur for 24–48 hours before relief sets in.
Staying hydrated and allowing yourself a slower pace afterward can be helpful.
If you ever have questions, please do not hesitate to call, text, or email me.
FAQs
Do you accept insurance?
1
Services are self-pay. You may be able to use HSA/FSA funds, and I can provide a superbill for possible reimbursement.
Is acupuncture painful?
2
Most people experience little to no pain. You may feel a brief sensation as the needles are placed, or nothing at all. Subtle sensations—like warmth, heaviness, or a dull ache—are normal and part of the body’s response. Overall, treatments are deeply calming.
What can acupuncture help with?
3
Acupuncture supports the body as a whole and can help with a wide range of concerns, including stress, hormonal health, digestion, and pain. If you’re unsure whether it’s a fit for you, you’re always welcome to ask.
Do I need to believe in acupuncture for it to work?
4
No. Acupuncture works through physiological mechanisms related to the nervous system, circulation, and tissue response. You don’t need to believe anything — just show up.
How often should I come in?
5
Frequency depends on your needs and how your body responds. Some people notice changes quickly, while others benefit from a series of treatments over time. We’ll discuss a plan together and adjust as needed. Common starting points:
Stress, emotional support: weekly for ~8 weeks
Fertility support: weekly for 3 menstrual cycles
Acute injuries: 2x/week for 2 weeks, then weekly for 4 weeks
Chronic conditions: bi-weekly or monthly care is common
Can acupuncture work alongside other treatments?
6
Yes. It often complements therapy, massage, chiropractic care, physical therapy, and other medical care.
Referrals & Collaborative Care
Many patients work with me alongside therapists, primary care providers, midwives, chiropractors, or other specialists.
With your consent, I’m happy to coordinate care when helpful.
I believe that people heal best when they feel respected, understood, and are held with unconditional positive regard, and I am committed to collaborative relationships that keep your well-being at the forefront.