Acupuncture activates the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting a "rest and digest" state that enhances the body’s natural healing processes. By increasing blood flow and stimulating endorphin release, it effectively reduces pain and regulates various bodily functions. Additionally, acupuncture supports the hypothalamus and limbic system, strengthening their role in maintaining homeostasis, regulating hormone production, sexual arousal, and processing emotions, memory, and motivation.

Your first treatment session is a 90-minute appointment that includes a thorough review of your health history, treatment goals, and time for questions. Following this consultation, you will receive an acupuncture treatment and may opt for a customized herbal formula consultation and herbs for purchase.

Acupuncture is the main modality used during treatments. Very thin needles are inserted into strategically selected areas known as “acupuncture points” on the body and either left in place or gently manipulated to elicit a sensation within the muscle. These points are chosen based on traditional Chinese medicine principles, which involve assessing your health, pulse, and tongue to identify imbalances in the body’s energy pathways, called meridians. Acupuncture points are chosen based on traditional Chinese medical theory, which uses a combination of diagnostic techniques such as a detailed health intake, physical assessment, palpation, and examining the pulse and tongue, to determine which of the body’s energetic channels (or “meridians”) are experiencing a disharmony.

You may feel a slight sensation when the needles are inserted, sometimes a mild ache, or a pleasant feeling of “tingling” or “buzzing”. I will ask for feedback and communicate clearing with you throughout the session. Once the needles are placed, you will relax quietly for 20–30 minutes. During this time, you might feel tingling, warmth, heaviness, or no sensation at all—any response is normal and can vary between treatments. 

Additional techniques, such as cupping, Gua Sha, or massage may also be included.

During your first appointment, we’ll create a treatment plan to determine the frequency of follow-up sessions, which may vary per person. Consistent treatments, typically weekly or bi-monthly, are often needed for lasting progress, as one session may not fully resolve the issue.

Returning client sessions are 60 minutes and include a brief check-in, followed by acupuncture and any additional treatments like cupping, Gua Sha, or massage if needed.

The recommended number and frequency of sessions vary based on your diagnosis, health goals, and desired outcomes. An individualized treatment plan will be created during your first visit and may be adjusted as needed.

Wear comfortable clothing. A sheet will be provided for draping as needed during treatment.

Leaves of Healing accepts cash, check, Zelle, and multiple contactless payment options, including all major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover). An invoice and receipt will be sent via the CharmHER portal. We can provide a superbill if you have out-of-network coverage, and discounts are available for educators, service workers, and seniors aged 62+. Please email us for more details.

Currently, we do not accept insurance. However, we accept HSA and FSA cards, and we can provide a superbill for those with out-of-network coverage. For information about discounts for educators, service workers, and seniors aged 62+, please email us.

If you cancel within 24 hours of your appointment or do not show up without prior notice, an 80% treatment session fee will be charged.