Acupuncture FAQ
Everything you need to know before your first visit. If you don't see your question here, call or text me at (785) 260-0034.
Before Your Visit
How much does a treatment cost?
Acupuncture treatments are $65, and cosmetic (facial) acupuncture is $95. Nutrition coaching, in person or online, is $120 per session. I keep my prices as affordable as I can, so more people can come often enough to really see a difference in their condition.
How can I pay?
I accept cash, checks, credit cards, and HSA/FSA cards.
Do you take insurance?
I don't bill insurance directly, but I'm happy to give you a superbill. You can send it to your insurance company and ask about out-of-network reimbursement.
How long is an appointment?
Plan on about an hour and 15 minutes for your first visit, since we start with a full conversation about your health. Follow-up visits take about 45 minutes from the time you walk in until you leave.
What are your office hours?
Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sunday, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
How do I book?
Call me at (785) 260-0034, or send a request through the form on this site. If I don't pick up, please text me at the same number instead of leaving a voicemail, and I'll get back to you.
What if I need to cancel?
Life happens. I just ask that you call me at least 24 hours before your appointment if you need to cancel or reschedule. And if you wake up feeling sick, please let me know.
Where are you, and where do I park?
I'm at 1017 Kentucky St., Lawrence, KS 66044, and there's free parking behind the building. It's easy to miss the first time, so here's how to find it: if you're driving on Kentucky Street toward 10th Street, turn left onto 10th Street. Then turn left again right away into the alley. You'll see the EsTherapy Acupuncture sign on your left. Park there and come in through the back door.
What should I wear?
Loose, comfortable clothes that roll up easily above your elbows and knees. The points I use most often are on the hands, around the forearms, and on the legs.
Should I eat before I come?
Yes, please eat something light beforehand. Even a banana or a small snack is fine, and there's no need for a big meal. Coming in on an empty stomach can leave you feeling lightheaded.
During Your Treatment
Does acupuncture hurt?
Most people feel a tiny pinch that goes away right away. After that it usually feels warm, heavy, or very relaxing. Acupuncture needles are much thinner than the needles used for shots or blood draws, and a lot of my patients fall asleep on the table.
Are the needles safe?
Yes. I'm licensed by the Kansas State Board of Healing Arts and the California Acupuncture Board, and I follow Clean Needle Technique (CNT), the safety standards acupuncturists are trained and tested on. Every needle is sterile, used only once, and thrown away right after your treatment.
How long do the needles stay in?
Usually 25 to 40 minutes, while you rest.
After Your Treatment
How will I feel afterward?
Most people feel calm and relaxed, and some feel a burst of energy. It's normal to feel hungry or a little sleepy. Once in a while you may see a small bruise where a needle was. It fades on its own.
How many treatments will I need?
It depends on what we're working on and how long you've had it. When a problem is long-standing or severe, I usually suggest starting with two visits a week. As you improve, we slowly space them out to once a week, then every two weeks. Most people with pain see a significant improvement within about 2 weeks of coming twice a week, though it varies from person to person. If twice a week doesn't fit your life right now, that's completely okay. We'll work around your schedule. Fertility support takes longer than 2 weeks, and depending on your situation, I may suggest twice a week or once a week. Facial acupuncture is usually a series of 10 to 12 treatments, twice a week. After your first visit, I'll create a plan tailored to you.
Is Acupuncture Right for Me?
What can acupuncture help with?
I mostly see women's health and hormones, fertility support, menopause, pain, headaches and migraines, digestion, stress, and sleep. You can find the full list on my Specialties pages. If you're not sure, just call and ask.
Can I get acupuncture while I'm pregnant?
Yes, and many women find it helpful for morning sickness, back pain, and getting ready for labor. Just tell me you're pregnant so I can choose the right points. I don't do facial acupuncture during pregnancy.
Is there anything I should tell you first?
Yes. Please tell me if you take blood thinners, have a bleeding disorder, have a pacemaker, have any metal in your body, or are pregnant, so I can adjust your treatment.
What's the difference between acupuncture and dry needling?
Dry needling is usually done by physical therapists and focuses on tight spots in a muscle. Acupuncture is a complete medical system. As a Doctor of Acupuncture, I look at your whole health, not just the sore spot.
Do I have to believe in it for it to work?
No. You just need to come with an open mind. Many of my patients were skeptical at first.
Do you offer nutrition coaching online?
Yes. You can meet with me in person in Lawrence or online from anywhere. Nutrition coaching is $120 per session.
Do you sell gift cards?
Yes. You can buy one right here on the website.