frequently asked Questions

Where are you located?

We are located in the heart of the historic Willamette neighborhood of West Linn, Oregon. The address is available on booking. Free street parking is available directly in front of the residence. There is a gravel path on the side of the residence that leads through the side gate and back garden. There is a small step up to get into the acupuncture studio. The serene and peaceful treatment space is surrounded by a garden, flora and fauna, and nearby a duck coop.

What are your office hours?

Winter 2025 - Mon/Thur: 8am-5pm, Friday: 8am-2pm *updated 1/2025 Please call (773) 987-4474 for scheduling.

Please call or email if you don’t find a time that works for you. If you have questions prior to scheduling, we welcome you to schedule a free 15-minute consultation to learn more about the practice and our services provided.

Do you accept insurance?

We do not accept insurance at this time. We accept cash, check, or credit card payments at the time of service. 

While we do not bill insurance, we are happy to provide you with a superbill (itemized receipt) which you can submit to your insurance for reimbursement if you have acupuncture coverage. Please keep in mind that even if your insurance does have acupuncture benefits, the number of treatments, modalities, or symptoms covered may be limited. Please verify this information with your insurance company ahead of time. If a superbill is needed, please request this at the time of your appointment.

What is traditional Chinese medicine (TCM)?

Acupuncture is a part of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), a medical system that has been used for over 3,000 years. It incorporates acupuncture, herbal medicine, Eastern nutrition, and various other non-needle treatments such as cupping, guasha, and moxibustion. This holistic health system utilizes the body's natural ability to heal itself.

What is acupuncture?

Acupuncture is the insertion of very tiny needles at certain points on the body.  In TCM we refer to the term “qi”, vital life force or energy, which flows throughout all living things along meridians or pathways, and connects the entire body. Qi can be disturbed or blocked due to stress, emotions, constitutional factors, trauma, illness, environmental factors, diet, medications, etc. When this occurs, pain, symptoms, and/or illness result. Acupuncture and other TCM modalities rebalance and correct this disruption, restoring the body's natural ability to heal. While modern research supports the use of acupuncture for a variety of symptoms and conditions, there are often additional positive effects more difficult to measure and at times, not what the patient was coming in for. For example, one might start sleeping better, notice improved digestion, or a child might have less emotional meltdowns. While TCM does treat symptoms, it's focus is really much more than that. By treating the root of a problem, the symptoms or branches are more easily resolved.

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What is pediatric acupuncture?

Pediatric acupuncture often involves non-needle techniques such as acupressure, tuina (massage), or shonishin, but may also consist of gentle needling. Shonishin, which translates as 'little children needle', is a type of non-insertive Japanese acupuncture traditionally used on children up to 10 years of age. Many children find this relaxing and enjoy the treatments. Some children may even find it ticklish. Pediatric techniques are used for many of the same conditions that are treated with adult acupuncture. I have extensive experience treating pain and agitation in babies related to chronic illness and medication weaning, chronic and post-surgical pain and related symptoms, and side effects related to treatment and/or illness in pediatric cancer patients.

Is acupuncture safe?

Yes. Acupuncture is a very safe modality when provided by a well-experienced and trained practitioner. Acupuncture needles are all sterilized, disposable, and single-use.

​What conditions does acupuncture treat?

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) recognizes acupuncture in the treatment of a wide variety of health conditions and symptoms. Evidence Based Acupuncture is another great resource for learning more about the research supporting the use of acupuncture. If you have further questions, give us a call or schedule a free 15-minute consultation and we’ll be happy to talk with you further.

What to expect during my 1st visit?

Please plan to arrive no more than 5 minutes prior to your appointment time. You are welcome to park in the "Resident Only" parking spaces in front of the address. Wear loose and comfortable clothing that can easily be rolled up to the elbows and knees or bring a change of clothes if you would prefer to change. A bathroom is available in the studio for patient use. Be sure to have eaten prior to your treatment, a small snack is sufficient. After acupuncture, it is always best to drink a little extra water and allow a bit of time to rest as many patients feel more relaxed after treatments. If you must plan physical activities the day of your treatment, please do so in moderation.

What is the Biomat?

The Biomat is a far-infrared heated amethyst crystal mat. It is an FDA-approved medical device with technology designed in part by NASA. The Biomat mat combines the benefits of a heating pad, far infrared sauna, and gemstone healing all in one! When used during acupuncture treatments, patients often experience deeper relaxation and improved circulation. For those who would prefer, or for those whom the Biomat is not indicated, the mat can be left off and unplugged. 

What are your illness prevention practices?

I value the health and safety of all of my patients. Here are practices we have in place to keep you as safe as possible while in our space: Patients with active cold or flu-like symptoms are asked to reschedule. Cancellation fees do not apply for cancellations due to illness, however we are happy to keep your appointment if you would like to transition to a telemedicine herbal consult. An air filter with Medical Grade HEPA a minimum of 30 minutes at the beginning and the end of the day and periodically between patients. All high touch surfaces are regularly disinfected and linens are changed between each patient. The studio is well ventilated with 2 windows, a skylight, and a door that opens to the back garden; the door and windows are periodically left open to bring in the fresh air.