Frequently Asked Questions

Welcome to the FAQs

Thank you for considering holistic care at my clinic. Whether you're new to acupuncture, exploring energy work like Reiki or sound healing, or simply looking for more natural ways to support your health, you probably have some questions—and you're not alone! This FAQ section is here to provide clear, honest answers about what to expect, how I work, and how Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) can support your unique healing journey. If you don’t see your question here, feel free to reach out directly—I'm happy to help.

1. Do you accept insurance?

No, I do not accept insurance and am considered out-of-network with all insurance companies. However, I do accept cash, all-major credit cards, HSA (Health Savings Account), FSA (Flexible Spending Account), and CareCredit as forms of payment. If you qualify for insurance reimbursement, I can provide a superbill for you to submit to your provider. Please note that all reimbursement claims must be handled independently by the patient.

2. Where is your clinic located?

I operate a hybrid clinic offering mobile/in-home services as well as care at two office locations. This allows greater flexibility and convenience depending on your preferences and needs. I hold in-clinic offerings at Vital Family Chiropractic on 2nd and 4th Wednesdays in the Heights, and my main office in the Memorial/Energy Corridor area at 1035 Dairy Ashford Rd, Houston, TX every Thursday and Friday.

3. What is Reiki?

Reiki is a Japanese energy healing technique that promotes relaxation, stress reduction, and energetic balance. It involves light or no touch and is based on the idea that a "universal life force energy" flows through us. When this energy is low or blocked, we are more likely to feel unwell. Reiki works to clear and restore this energetic flow, supporting healing on physical, emotional, and spiritual levels.

4. What is sound healing with tuning forks?

Sound healing with tuning forks is a vibrational therapy that uses calibrated forks applied to or near the body to balance and harmonize energy fields. The sound frequencies stimulate specific acupuncture points, meridians, or chakra systems, promoting deep relaxation, reducing pain, and supporting energetic alignment. It’s a non-invasive, deeply restorative modality often used alongside acupuncture or Reiki.

5. What is acupuncture and how does it work?

Acupuncture is a core technique in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that involves the insertion of fine, sterile needles into specific points along the body’s meridians (energy pathways). It works by regulating the flow of Qi (vital energy), balancing Yin and Yang, and promoting the body's natural healing response. Acupuncture is used to treat a wide range of conditions—both physical and emotional.

6. Does acupuncture hurt?

Most people find acupuncture to be relaxing and relatively painless. You may feel a brief sensation as the needle is inserted, followed by tingling, warmth, or a heavy sensation. These are signs that Qi is being activated. Any discomfort is usually minimal and temporary.

7. What conditions can acupuncture and TCM help with?

Acupuncture and TCM can support a wide range of health concerns, including but not limited to:

  • Chronic pain (back, neck, joints)

  • Headaches and migraines

  • Stress, anxiety, depression

  • Women’s health (PMS, fertility, menopause)

  • Digestive issues

  • Sleep disorders

  • Fatigue

  • Immune system support

8. How many sessions will I need?

The number of sessions depends on the condition being treated, how long it has been present, and your general health. Acute issues may resolve in a few sessions, while chronic conditions may require a longer treatment plan. We will develop a customized care plan after your initial intake.

9. What should I expect during my first acupuncture session?

During your first visit, we will conduct a thorough intake covering your health history, lifestyle, and current symptoms. You’ll receive an acupuncture treatment during this session, along with any recommended adjunct therapies (like cupping, gua sha, sound healing, or moxa). Plan to wear loose, comfortable clothing and allow 60–90 minutes for your first appointment.

10. Are there any side effects to acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a safe, holistic therapy with minimal side effects. You may experience temporary soreness, bruising, or lightheadedness after a session. Most people report feeling deeply relaxed and recharged.

11. What is Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a complete medical system that has been practiced for over 2,000 years. It is based on the understanding that health is a state of balance between the body, mind, and environment. TCM uses a variety of therapies—including acupuncture, herbal medicine, cupping, gua sha, moxibustion, dietary therapy, and qi gong—to restore harmony in the body.

The foundation of TCM lies in key concepts such as:

  • Qi (vital energy) that flows through pathways called meridians

  • The dynamic balance of Yin and Yang

  • The influence of the Five Elements (Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, Water)

  • The interconnected function of the Zang-Fu organs (internal organ systems)

Rather than just treating symptoms, TCM aims to address the root cause of illness and support the body’s innate healing ability. It is both preventive and therapeutic, making it an effective option for chronic conditions, stress-related concerns, and overall wellness.

12. Do you provide herbal medicine?

Yes, I offer Traditional Chinese herbal medicine as part of my holistic care approach when appropriate. Chinese herbal medicine uses customized formulas made from natural substances—primarily plant-based (roots, leaves, flowers, seeds), but also some minerals and resins—to support the body’s healing process.

Herbs are selected based on your unique diagnosis according to TCM pattern differentiation, and they work to:

  • Tonify deficiencies (Qi, Blood, Yin, Yang)

  • Clear excesses (Heat, Dampness, Phlegm, Cold)

  • Harmonize internal imbalances

  • Support recovery and prevent recurrence

Formulas may be provided in granule, pill, or tincture form, and are always tailored to your specific needs. I work only with high-quality, professional-grade herbal dispensaries that ensure safety and potency.

13. Do you treat pregnant patients?

Yes, I provide safe and supportive care during pregnancy using acupuncture, herbal medicine (when appropriate), and adjunct therapies. Treatments are tailored to each stage of pregnancy and can help with:

  • Morning sickness

  • Fatigue

  • Back pain or sciatica

  • Digestive issues

  • Anxiety or stress

  • Labor preparation and breech presentation (with moxa) All protocols used are pregnancy-safe, and your treatment plan will always consider the changing needs of your body and your baby throughout each trimester.

    14. I see that you treat women's health—do you treat men?

    Absolutely. While I have specialized training in women’s health, I treat people of all genders for a wide range of conditions. For men, I commonly support issues such as:

    • Stress and anxiety

    • Digestive complaints

    • Insomnia

    • Fatigue and low energy

    • Pain or injury

    • Reproductive and hormonal health (e.g., low libido, prostate support, fertility)
      Everyone receives a personalized treatment plan based on Traditional Chinese Medicine diagnostics, regardless of gender.


      15. Do you treat children?

      Yes, I treat children of all ages, from infants to adolescents. Pediatric treatments are gentle, often using techniques like:

      • Acupressure

      • Tuning forks

      • Using needles suitable for small children

      • Mild acupuncture, if appropriate and comfortable for the child
        Children often respond very quickly to acupuncture and holistic therapies. Common pediatric concerns include digestive issues, sleep disturbances, emotional imbalances, immune support, and developmental concerns.

      • Reiki