Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine

Classical Chinese Medicine is one of the world's oldest healing systems — and one of the most sophisticated. It understands the body not as a collection of isolated symptoms, but as an interconnected whole, shaped by energy, environment, emotion, and history. 

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My approach to acupuncture is rooted in this lineage. Every session begins with a thorough intake using Classical Chinese Medicine differential diagnosis — looking at your tongue, feeling your pulses, and asking the kinds of questions Western medicine rarely has time for. From there, I build a treatment strategy that is entirely specific to you.

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Whether you're coming in for pain, stress, sleep, fertility, trauma, or something you haven't quite found words for yet — this medicine meets you where you are.

 

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I see patients at Garden Health Group in River Forest, IL — conveniently located just a short walk from the Harlem & Lake Green Line and Metra station. I also offer in-home sessions throughout the greater Chicagoland area for those who prefer to receive care in the comfort of their own space.

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​​​ ​FAQ About Acupuncture

1. How does acupuncture work?

2. Does acupuncture hurt?

3. What should I expect on my first visit?

4. How can I prepare myself for acupuncture treatments?

5. How long does the treatment take?

6. How many treatments are required before I see the result?

7. Does insurance cover acupuncture treatments?

8. Do you use any herbal supplements?

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1. How does acupuncture work?
Classical Chinese Medicine understands the body as a network of energy pathways called meridians. When that energy — called Qi — flows freely, the body is able to heal, regulate, and maintain balance. When it becomes blocked or depleted, that's when pain, illness, and emotional distress take hold. Acupuncture uses very fine needles placed at specific points along these meridians to restore flow and signal the body to heal itself. Modern research supports this too — acupuncture has been shown to influence the nervous system, reduce inflammation, and regulate hormones. It works on multiple levels at once.

2. Does acupuncture hurt?
Honestly — most people are surprised by how little they feel. The needles I use are hair-thin, single-use, and sterile. At the moment of insertion, you might notice a brief sensation — a mild ache, warmth, or tingling — which is actually a sign the point has been activated. I use a deep breathing technique during insertion that helps the muscles relax, and most of my patients don't feel the needles at all once they're in. What they do feel is the deep rest that follows.

3. What should I expect during my first session?
Your first visit is longer than follow-ups because we take the time to really get to know each other. There's a health history intake, and then we'll have a thorough conversation — I'll ask about your digestion, sleep, appetite, energy levels, emotional wellbeing, and more. I'll look at your tongue and feel your pulses on both wrists, and I may palpate your abdomen. All of this gives me a complete picture of what's happening in your body from a Chinese Medicine perspective, so I can build a treatment strategy that's truly yours. Then we'll move into the treatment itself — most people fall into a deep rest on the table.

4. How can I prepare myself for acupuncture treatments?
A few simple things make a real difference. Please don't skip meals before your session — receiving acupuncture on an empty stomach can leave you feeling lightheaded. Wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows easy access to your arms and legs (think t-shirt and shorts or leggings). Use the restroom beforehand so you can fully relax on the table. And if you can, avoid caffeine and strenuous exercise right before your appointment — you want to arrive as settled as possible.

5. How long does the treatment take?
Initial intake sessions typically run about 75–90 minutes to allow time for a thorough health history and full treatment. Follow-up sessions are generally 45-60 minutes. Once the needles are in, I encourage my patients to rest on the table for at least 30 minutes — this is where a lot of the real work happens. Your nervous system needs time to shift, and that rest is part of the medicine.

6. How many treatments are required before I see the result?
This depends on what you're working with and how long you've had it. As a general guide, the longer a condition has been present, the more time it takes to treat. Acute issues can sometimes resolve in just a few sessions. Chronic conditions typically benefit from a consistent course of treatment — often once a week to start, then tapering as you improve. I always aim to see progress as quickly as possible and will be honest with you about what to expect for your specific situation. Many patients notice a shift after their very first session.

7. Does insurance cover acupuncture tratments?
It depends on your plan. Many insurance policies now include acupuncture coverage, especially for pain management — it's worth calling your provider to ask. I'm happy to provide a superbill after each session, which you can submit to your insurance company for potential reimbursement. If you have an HSA or FSA, acupuncture is typically an eligible expense as well.
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8. Do you use any herbal supplements?

Yes — and I love this part of the medicine. Herbal formulas are a cornerstone of Classical Chinese Medicine and a powerful complement to acupuncture. I recommend formulas based on your individual pattern and diagnosis, not just your symptoms. Everything I recommend is sourced through my professional dispensary to ensure quality and safety. If you have questions about herbal medicine or whether it might be right for you, I'm always happy to talk it through.

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