The 4 Steps of Your First Visit

1. Gentle Intake & Mindful Listening ~30–40 Minutes

We begin with a relaxed conversation about your health history, current concerns, what brings you in and what you would like support with.

As part of the TCM assessment, I may also observe your tongue and take your wrist pulses. These are traditional Chinese medicine diagnostic methods that provide additional information within the TCM framework.

2. Co-Creating Your Treatment Plan ~10 Minutes

Together, we discuss what may be most appropriate for you on the day.

Depending on your needs and preferences, this may include acupuncture, tuning fork therapy, cupping, moxibustion or Chinese herbal medicine, alongside other approaches from my toolkit.

I will explain what I recommend and why, and nothing is done without your understanding and consent.

3. Your Deep Rest & Treatment ~30–40 Minutes

You will be comfortably positioned on the treatment table warmed by heat lamp while your chosen treatment is carried out.

If acupuncture is part of your session, you may experience a period of quiet rest while the needles are retained. Some people become deeply relaxed or even fall asleep — affectionately known as an “acu-nap.” If you chose tuning forks instead, you may also enter a very deep state of relaxation.

4. Integration & Home Support ~10 Minutes

Before you leave, we briefly check in about your experience and discuss any recommendations for between sessions.

If Chinese herbal medicine is appropriate, we will discuss your prescription and how you will receive it. I may also share simple Yang Sheng suggestions around food, lifestyle or self-care that you can incorporate into your everyday life.

How to Prepare Before Arriving

There is no need to do anything complicated before your appointment. A few simple things can help you feel comfortable: 

• Eat a Light Meal: Please have a light snack or meal 1 to 2 hours before your appointment. Avoid arriving very hungry, light-headed or overly full. 

• Wear Loose, Comfortable Clothing: Choose relaxed clothing that can easily roll up above your knees and elbows. Pants with stretchy waistbands are ideal. Some clothing may need to be removed to allow access to the back or other areas, particularly when cupping is included. Towels will be provided for draping and warmth, and a heater or heat lamp may be used to help you stay comfortable throughout the session.

• Avoid Tongue Scraping & Staining Foods: On the morning of your visit, please skip scraping your tongue or drinking heavily staining beverages (like strong coffee or bright juices), as the natural coating of your tongue provides valuable diagnostic clues in Chinese Medicine.

• Hydrate Well: Drink plenty of water throughout the day leading up to your visit.

• Bring a List of Medications or Supplements: If you take prescription medicines, supplements or Chinese herbal products, please bring a list or photos of them. This is particularly important if we are considering Chinese herbal medicine.

A Note on Needle Sensitivity & Anxiety

If you are nervous about needles, please share this with me. There is no need to feel embarrassed or push yourself beyond your comfort level. 

Acupuncture needles are very fine and flexible, and nothing like standard medical injections. You may feel a brief prick followed by sensations such as warmth, heaviness, tingling or a dull ache. Some people barely notice the needles at all. 

If needles don't feel right for you on the day, we can explore other approaches from my toolkit, including tuning fork therapy, moxibustion, acupressure or other needle-free options, depending on what is appropriate.

Your comfort and consent always come first.

Location & Arriving at the Clinic

• Punctuality: Please arrive 5 minutes before your scheduled appointment time to settle in and catch your breath.

• Private Health Funds: If your private health fund includes Acupuncture extras cover, eligible rebates can be processed on the spot through HICAPS. Please check with your health fund if you are unsure about your level of cover. 

"Healing should never feel forced or overwhelming. 

Our session will always honor your comfort, boundaries, and voice."