What is acupuncture?

Acupuncture is one of the oldest, most commonly used systems of healing in the world. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) identifies over 2000 acupuncture points on the human body, which are connected by energetic pathways called meridians. These meridians conduct energy, or qi (pronounced “chee”), between the surface of the body and its internal organs. Qi is believed to help regulate and balance the body’s functions. Acupuncture is the insertion of fine needles at these acupuncture points to bring the qi into balance, improve functioning, and treat disease.

While it is an ancient medicine, modern research shows that acupuncture stimulates the release of endorphins, serotonin, and other neurotransmitters that promote blood circulation and hormonal balance as well as reduce pain and inflammation.

 

Does acupuncture hurt?

No, acupuncture in general is not painful. The needles are extremely thin (about the width of a human hair), solid, disposable and flexible. Sensations that patients normally experience are dull aches or tingling which are associated with enhanced blood flow, nerve conduction, and the movement of energy stimulated by insertion of the needles. These are desired effects and should not feel painful. Rather, we hope you find your treatments relaxing as they promote greater healing. Doug is well known for his gentle touch, and many patients fall asleep during treatments and leave feeling refreshed.

Your First Appointment

NEW PATIENT PAPERWORK (10-15 MINUTES)

Prior to your first appointment please take a few minutes to complete our New Patient paperwork which includes a full health history, and consent and contact forms. Please bring these completed forms to your appointment.

If you are unable to complete these forms prior to your appointment, do not fret; just arrive a bit early to allow time to complete them.

GETTING TO KNOW YOU: NEW PATIENT INTAKE (20 – 30 MINUTES)

Prior to your treatment, we will discuss your present health, your complaints, symptoms, and other concerns. We will discuss your medical history, current medications and, most importantly, your goals for treatment. We will answer any questions you may have (all questions are good questions!) and then discuss with you what a treatment plan may look like for you. A finalized treatment plan will be discussed after the diagnostics, which come next.

DIAGNOSTICS, EVALUATION AND INITIAL TREATMENT (30-40 MINUTES)

We will perform several Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) diagnostic techniques including pulse examination, abdominal palpation, and tongue observation. Based on evaluation of these findings, we will perform an initial treatment consisting of three phases, guided by changes in your pulse, and which may include the use of adjunct therapies (micro-current therapy, cupping, vibrational and sound therapy). 

At the end of your treatment you are encouraged to "go slow," take your time to feel any changes in your body, and gather any questions you may have prior to our closing discussion. We will discuss any findings together and Doug will recommend a full treatment plan.

PAYMENT AND FEES

Our primary goal is to help you achieve health and happiness, and we believe that treatment should be accessible for everyone regardless of cost. Please do not hesitate to discuss financial constraints or challenges prior to your first appointment or at any point during your treatment plan. We are committed to working with you to achieve good health under any financial circumstances.

  • Initial Consultation with Treatment (1.5 to 2 hours): $160 - This appointment includes a full intake and health consultation, diagnostic evaluation, and complete acupuncture treatment.

  • Continuing Acupuncture Treatment Sessions (1 hour): $90

Treatment Packages

We offer a 5-treatment package to help you save money and to encourage your commitment to your treatment and your health. We do not offer appointment packages to lock you in to sessions you don’t need.

Our packages never expire, and if you choose to discontinue treatment mid-package, we are pleased for you to share or transfer unused appointments to a friend or family member who is in need of our services. If you would like to transfer an unused appointment, please contact our office to discuss. There are no refunds on packages. Please note, when transferring appointments to a new patient, their initial consultation will require use of 2 package appointments (2 hours vs 1).

  • 5 appointments $425 ($25 savings)

Payment Terms

We accept all major credit cards, HSA/FSA cards, cash, and checks. MTA does not bill insurance companies directly; however if your carrier reimburses, we are happy to provide you with the paperwork you need.

Payment is required at the time of service. You may pay per appointment or purchase a package of appointments for a cost savings.

Cancellation Policy: If you are unable to make your scheduled appointment, we request that you notify us within 24 hours of the appointed time. Late cancellations and no-shows will be subject to a fee of 50% of the cost of the session.

Gift certificates

Give the gift of good health and balance. Whether your loved one is new to us or already a client, a gift card to MacLaren Transformative Acupuncture offers the gift of intention, better health and balance. Call or visit anytime to purchase one.