Before you come
Your first visit
About an hour, most of it spent lying still. Here is how it goes.
Booking
Call (845) 680-6294. Say what is bothering you, how long for, and when you can come in.
Mention if you are pregnant or might be, take blood thinners, have a pacemaker or implanted device, or bruise easily. Any of those changes how treatment is done.
When you arrive
Come a few minutes early. We have a parking lot on site. Bring your medications list, any diagnosis you have, and recent imaging or lab work if it is relevant.
The appointment
It starts with a conversation, not a treatment. Expect questions about sleep, digestion, stress and your cycle as well as the complaint itself — that is normal here and it shapes which points are used.
Then treatment: needles go in, you rest twenty to thirty minutes under a warm lamp. Many people fall asleep. If bodywork is part of the visit, you are draped throughout.
Afterwards
Some people feel loose and a little spacey afterwards; some feel energised. Occasionally a point is tender or bruises for a day. Drink water and go easy on exercise that day.
Before you leave you get an honest read on whether more visits make sense — not a package to sign.
Bring
- A list of medications and supplements
- Any diagnosis you already have
- Your insurance card, if you plan to claim
- Loose clothing, or something you can roll above the elbow and knee
Eat something light
Arriving on an empty stomach can leave you lightheaded. A heavy meal right beforehand is not comfortable either.
Common questions before a first visit
Do I need a referral to come in?
No — call and book directly. Worth telling your physician you are adding acupuncture; we are glad to work alongside your existing care.
Does acupuncture hurt?
Far finer than the needles used for injections — closer to a thick hair. Most people feel a brief prick, then a dull or heavy sensation. Say so if anything genuinely hurts; the needle comes out.
How many visits will I need?
Depends on the problem and how long you have had it. You will get an honest read after the first visit, not a package sold up front.
Do you take my insurance?
We accept out-of-network acupuncture benefits, and patients have used BCBS, Aetna and UnitedHealthcare plans. Coverage varies a lot between plans — check yours, or call and we will tell you what to ask.
Can I walk in, or do I need an appointment?
Appointments are preferred. Walk-ins are welcome when the schedule allows, but calling ahead is safer.
Appointments are made by phone.
Call and tell us what is going on. If we are with a patient, leave a message.