Acupuncture Frequently Asked Questions

  • By addressing the whole person, acupuncture can help with more health concerns than you can imagine (and we treat most of these at Blossom Acupuncture)

    Here is a link to a list from the National Institute of Health’s review of acupuncture research studies.

    https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/acupuncture-what-you-need-to-know

  • Most conditions require an average of 6-12 treatments, although some will respond well within 4-6 visits or less. Other conditions may require a longer series – this depends on the severity and the chronic nature of the chief complaint. Most conditions require weekly treatments to begin. Acute concerns and severe pain may require 2 treatments a week for a few weeks, then weekly treatments to be most effective. As the condition improves the frequency of treatments is decreased to a maintenance or ‘as needed’ frequency.

  • As a service for our patients, Blossom Acupuncture does accept and bill for some insurance companies. If you are interested in using your insurance, we can check your policy for acupuncture benefits and coverage. We can also provide you with a "superbill" receipt for you to file a claim with your insurance company yourself. Serina can usually accept Personal Injury/Auto related claims.

    I generally do not bill insurance for Cosmetic Acupuncture, but if you have any questions, please ask.

  • I accept cash, personal checks, and credit cards, including HSA and FSA cards.

  • New Patient Consultation & Acupuncture Treatment, $165, 60-85 min

    Established Patient Acupuncture Treatment = $110, 60 min

    Add cupping or gua sha to a treatment = $25

  • Acupuncture is most effective when done frequently, as it has a cumulative effect. To help you get regular treatments, I offer a 10% discount when you prepay for a series of 10 treatments. Because the treatment series is discounted, check or cash is preferred or 3% additional can be added for credit cards.

  • Your appointment time is reserved specifically for you. Please call at least 48 hours ahead of time if need to reschedule your appointment. There is a $50 missed appointment fee if we do not receive a call within 48 hours. Late cancellations and 'no shows' are charged the full appointment fee.

  • Most people feel no pain, and some people will feel a little sensation as the needles are inserted. After the acupuncture needle has been inserted, you may feel a slight heavy, tingly, or dull sensation. This is called the 'Qi' sensation and means that energy is moving effectively. During the treatment you may start to feel very relaxed or even fall asleep, which is common. After a treatment, patients often claim to feel rejuvenated and to have have had a deep sense of relaxation or well-being.

  • Acupuncture needles are very thin, different from the hollow hypodermic needles used to transport fluid. If you have any questions or anxiety about needles, please share them with Serina. Her technique is gentle and she uses very thin, virtually painless needles. If you prefer, she can use fewer needles or do a needle-less treatment instead.

  • Acupuncture is extremely safe. It is an all-natural, drug-free therapy, yielding no side effects except feelings of relaxation and well-being. There is little danger of infection from acupuncture needles because they are sterile, used once, and then discarded.

  • Fill out your new patient forms. We're happy to answer any questions you might have.

    Wear clothes that can be comfortably rolled up at the elbow and knees.

    Eat lightly 1-2 hours before your treatment.

    If possible, schedule yourself to avoid stressful situations and to give yourself plenty of time to relax after your treatment.

    Between visits, take note of any changes that may have occurred such as alleviation of pain or changes in the frequency and type of symptoms your are experiencing.

  • Your initial visit consists of a consultation, assessment and a treatment. During the consultation a full health history will be taken and questions will be asked regarding your symptoms, health, lifestyle, and overall well-being. As part of your assessment, Serina may take your pulses and look at your tongue or she may do abdominal palpation or a physical exam. This information is organized to create a complete, accurate and comprehensive diagnosis of where Qi has become blocked or imbalanced. You will receive an acupuncture treatment and it may include other modalities. Then you rest for about 30-35 minutes. During your visit or follow up appointment Serina may offer dietary, lifestyle, or herbal recommendations and discuss a treatment plan tailored to your needs.