Frequently asked questions.

Chinese Medicine is a comprehensive health system developed over thousands of years. It approaches the body as an interconnected whole, where physical symptoms, emotional wellbeing, and lifestyle are seen as deeply interwoven. Rather than isolating individual symptoms, Chinese Medicine looks at patterns — the relationship between various signs and how they reflect deeper imbalances in the body.

One of the main differences between Chinese and Western medicine is the way health is conceptualised. Western medicine is primarily focused on diagnosing disease and treating symptoms, often through pharmaceuticals or surgery. It’s highly effective for acute or emergency situations. Chinese Medicine, on the other hand, is focused on understanding how imbalances in the body’s internal systems may be contributing to how you feel — even if all your test results are “normal.”

This doesn’t mean the systems are incompatible — far from it. Many people benefit from using both approaches together. Western medicine offers diagnostic clarity and fast-acting solutions when needed, while Chinese Medicine provides a broader view, supporting the body’s own regulatory functions and exploring contributing factors to chronic or recurring issues.

It’s not a question of which is better — they’re simply different perspectives, each with their strengths. Together, they can offer a more complete picture of health.

Great question — and honestly, more than you might think!

People seek Chinese Medicine for a wide range of reasons — from supporting general wellbeing to navigating chronic health concerns. While Chinese Medicine does not claim to treat or cure specific conditions, it can offer a holistic perspective and may support the body’s capacity to maintain health and function.

Common presentations seen in clinical practice include:

·        Skin concerns (such as acne, dryness, redness, and dull or uneven skin tone)

·        Stress and emotional wellbeing

·        Fatigue and low energy

·        Digestive discomfort (such as bloating, irregular appetite, or sluggish digestion)

·        Menstrual irregularities and hormonal changes

·        Sleep disturbances

·        Muscle tension and general aches or discomfort

You don’t need to have a diagnosis to benefit. Chinese Medicine is often sought by people who feel “not quite right,” even if their tests show everything is normal. It can also be a helpful option for those looking for non-pharmaceutical, preventative approaches to support their overall vitality.

During your consultation, we explore a wide range of signs and symptoms — including those you may not have thought were connected — to form an understanding of your internal balance. From there, a treatment plan is tailored to support your goals and constitution, whether that’s more energy, clearer skin, or improved sleep.

Your first session is designed to get a clear, comprehensive picture of your health. It’s relaxed and collaborative, with time dedicated to understanding not just your symptoms, but your lifestyle, emotional wellbeing, and personal goals.

Here’s what typically happens:

• Health History & Discussion: We’ll talk about what brings you in, your health background, and how you’ve been feeling across all areas — physically, mentally, and emotionally. This includes sleep, digestion, menstrual cycles (if relevant), skin health, energy levels, and more.

• Chinese Medicine Assessment: I’ll look at your tongue and feel your pulse — key diagnostic tools in Chinese Medicine that offer insight into the body’s internal state. These are non-invasive and help guide the treatment strategy.

• Treatment Plan: Based on what we uncover, I’ll suggest a tailored treatment plan. This might include acupuncture, herbal medicine, dietary therapy, cupping, or lifestyle adjustments — depending on your preferences and needs. Everything is explained clearly so you feel confident and comfortable.

• Initial Treatment: If it’s appropriate and you’re happy to go ahead, we usually begin treatment in the first session. This might include acupuncture or another modality discussed in your plan.

• Aftercare & Follow-up: You’ll receive guidance on what to expect post-treatment, including how you might feel, and how to support your results between sessions. We’ll also talk about the recommended frequency of visits, depending on your health goals and how your body responds.

Your first appointment typically lasts longer than follow-up sessions to allow time for this comprehensive approach. The tone is warm, respectful, and empowering — your body is treated as wise, not broken.

This is one of the most common questions — and a completely understandable one! For many people, the word “needle” brings up memories of vaccinations or blood tests, but acupuncture needles are very different.

The needles used in acupuncture are extremely fine — often about the thickness of a hair — and designed for comfort. Most people are surprised at how gentle they are. You may feel a slight sensation as the needle is inserted, like a soft pinch or tap, but this usually fades quickly. Once in place, the sensation often changes to something dull, heavy, warm, or tingling — a sign that your body is responding to the stimulation.

Some people feel deeply relaxed during treatment, even drifting off to sleep. Others notice a pleasant sense of calm or lightness afterwards. Everyone experiences acupuncture slightly differently, but most describe it as far more comfortable than they expected.

It’s important to note that cosmetic acupuncture uses even finer needles, often with a silicone coating for smoothness, and these are inserted more superficially. This makes facial treatments particularly gentle and accessible, even for those who are new to acupuncture.

Also worth clarifying: acupuncture and dry needling are not the same. Dry needling is a Western technique primarily aimed at muscle release and may cause twitching or soreness. Acupuncture draws from a different framework, working with meridians and organ systems to support whole-body balance and function.

If you’re ever unsure or feeling sensitive, your treatment can be adjusted — comfort is always a top priority.

Absolutely. Acupuncture is just one part of Chinese Medicine, and you don’t need to receive it to benefit from care.

If you’re hesitant about needles, we can explore a range of non-needle therapies tailored to your comfort. These may include:

• Cupping: Uses suction to encourage circulation, release muscular tension, and support the body’s natural recovery processes. It feels similar to a reverse massage — deeply grounding and often very relaxing.

• Gua Sha: A smooth-edged tool is used to gently scrape the skin in long strokes, promoting circulation, releasing tension, and supporting lymphatic flow. It can be used on the body or face and is generally well-tolerated and soothing.

• Herbal Medicine: Customised formulas using plant-based ingredients to support your constitution and health goals. Herbs can be used on their own or alongside other therapies and come in easy-to-use forms like powders or teas.

• Dietary & Lifestyle Therapy: This focuses on small, sustainable changes to daily habits — including food, rest, movement, and self-care — to restore balance and support long-term wellness.

Even cosmetic acupuncture, though technically involving needles, can feel more approachable for those who are hesitant. The needles are finer and inserted more superficially, and the experience is often described as relaxing and enjoyable.

If you’re unsure, we can begin with non-needle therapies and revisit acupuncture if or when you feel ready. Your comfort, agency, and preferences are central to every treatment plan — there’s no pressure, only options.

This depends on a few factors — including what you’re seeking support for, how long the issue has been present, and how your body responds to treatment.

For acute conditions (like a recent injury, stress spike, or cold), results may be noticeable within a few treatments. In these cases, treatment is often more concentrated over a short period — for example, 1–2 sessions per week over a couple of weeks.

For chronic or long-standing conditions (such as fatigue, skin conditions, hormonal imbalances, or digestive concerns), we usually recommend a longer course of care. This might involve weekly treatments for a period of time to build momentum, followed by less frequent sessions as your condition stabilises and improves.

Cosmetic acupuncture, for example, is typically done as a course of 6–10 sessions to achieve lasting results. These can be weekly or fortnightly depending on your schedule, and followed by maintenance treatments once the desired improvements are achieved.

The focus of Chinese Medicine is not just symptom relief — it’s about supporting your body’s internal balance and preventing future imbalances. This means treatment is often layered: working on short-term relief, medium-term resolution of underlying patterns, and long-term wellbeing.

At your initial consultation, we’ll map out a suggested treatment plan based on your health goals, symptoms, and preferences — and adjust as we go. You’ll always know what to expect, and your plan can evolve as your needs change.

For example, if you're dealing with a recent or acute issue, like a sudden injury, cold, or flare-up, you might only need a handful of treatments close together to get things back on track.

However, if you're coming in for support with a chronic or long-standing condition, like hormonal imbalances, digestive issues, skin conditions, or fatigue, we’ll usually be looking at a longer course of care. In these cases, we focus on resolving the root causes, not just managing the symptoms—so expect to come in weekly at first, with sessions gradually becoming less frequent as things improve and stabilize.

For cosmetic acupuncture and skin health support, I typically recommend a series of weekly treatments to build momentum and create visible, lasting change. If you can’t make weekly, no problem – fortnightly or monthly will work just as well, and you won’t lose any progress between treatments, it will just take longer for the improvements to show (you know, because the total time to do the requisite number of treatments is increased). Once we’ve got that glow going, we move into maintenance treatments to keep you looking and feeling your best.

My goal is always to help you feel better and stay better—so your treatment plan will be completely tailored to you, your lifestyle, and your goals. At your first session, we’ll map out a clear plan together, and adjust along the way as your body responds.

Think of it as a journey—I’ll be your guide, your cheerleader, and your check-in point along the path to feeling like your most radiant self.

This is a great question — and one we’re always happy to explore with you.

Chinese Medicine may be suitable if you’re looking for a gentle, whole-person approach that takes into account not just your symptoms, but the broader context of your health. People often seek this kind of care when:

• They’ve tried conventional treatments and want a complementary approach

• They prefer natural, non-invasive options

• They’re looking to improve overall wellness, not just address a specific complaint

• They’re dealing with long-standing, complex, or “invisible” concerns that don’t always show up on test results

Conditions commonly discussed with Chinese Medicine practitioners include fatigue, sleep issues, menstrual irregularities, skin concerns, digestion, emotional stress, and more. While Chinese Medicine does not claim to “treat” or “cure” medical conditions, many people find it a supportive part of their broader health strategy.

Importantly, your first consultation is a chance to see if this approach feels right for you. You’re welcome to come in with questions, goals, or even a vague sense that something’s “off.” Together, we’ll assess whether Chinese Medicine fits into your vision for health and wellbeing.

So, how do you know if it’s right for you? Let’s break it down a bit:

1. If you’ve tried everything else and are looking for a natural approach: If conventional treatments haven’t worked or have only provided temporary relief, Chinese Medicine might be the gentle yet powerful alternative you’re looking for. Many people come to us after exploring mainstream options that haven’t quite hit the mark. Chinese Medicine focuses on understanding and treating the root cause of your concerns — not just managing symptoms.

2. If you're looking to improve your skin naturally: Cosmetic acupuncture and facial Gua Sha are great options for people wanting glowing, youthful skin without relying on invasive procedures or chemicals. If you're concerned about fine lines, acne, scarring, puffiness, or overall skin tone, we’ve got you covered with treatments that enhance your skin’s natural beauty.

3. If you're experiencing chronic conditions or stress: From chronic pain and fatigue to digestive issues and sleep disturbances, Chinese Medicine has been used for centuries to help people find relief from both physical and emotional discomforts. It’s ideal for long-term conditions that may not be easily addressed by Western medicine alone.

4. If you’re open to trying something holistic: We believe in treating the whole person — body, mind, and spirit. Chinese Medicine isn’t just about relieving symptoms; it’s about nurturing your body’s natural ability to heal and thrive. If you’re looking for a treatment plan that feels nurturing and comprehensive, you’re in the right place.

If any of this resonates with you, we’d love to chat more about how we can support your journey. You're always welcome to book a session or reach out for more information – and remember, if you’re not sure, the first consultation is a great opportunity to see if Chinese Medicine feels like the right fit for your goals and needs.

Yes — Chinese Medicine is often used alongside conventional medical care. It doesn’t aim to replace your current treatment plan but can be used to complement and support it.

Many clients incorporate acupuncture, herbal formulas, or lifestyle therapy while also seeing a GP, specialist, or allied health practitioner. We always encourage you to let us know what medications or treatments you’re currently using so we can design a safe, appropriate plan.

Some important points:

• Acupuncture is a drug-free therapy and generally considered safe when performed by a qualified practitioner.

• Herbal medicine can often be taken alongside pharmaceuticals, but we’ll always review your prescriptions to avoid interactions.

• If you’re undergoing treatments such as physiotherapy, psychology, dermatology, or fertility care, Chinese Medicine may be used to help support your body through the process.

With your permission, we’re happy to communicate with your other healthcare providers to ensure your care is integrated and aligned.

Safety, transparency, and collaboration are priorities in everything we do.

Here’s how it typically works:

1. I’m all about collaboration: I’ll work with you and your healthcare team to ensure that your treatment plan is tailored to your unique needs. Whether you’re seeing your GP, a specialist, or undergoing other therapies, Chinese Medicine can complement your existing plan, providing a natural boost and helping to address any gaps in your care.

2. If you're taking medications: Chinese Medicine is generally safe to combine with medications, but it’s always important to let your practitioner know about anything you’re currently taking, so we can create a treatment strategy that supports your overall health, so please inform your practitioner about any medications or treatments you’re currently using, so we can ensure everything works together safely. For example, if you're on medication for a chronic condition like hypertension or diabetes, Chinese Medicine can help support your body's balance and possibly reduce reliance on medications over time — but only under the guidance of both your doctor and your Chinese Medicine practitioner.

3. If you're undergoing other therapies: Whether you're seeing a physiotherapist for pain, a dermatologist for your skin, or a counsellor for emotional support, Chinese Medicine can be a great complement. I often see clients who pair acupuncture with physical therapy for faster recovery or combine it with cosmetic treatments for more radiant results.

4. Let’s work together: It's important to remember that Chinese Medicine is holistic and individualized. My aim is to treat the root cause of imbalances in your body, so even if you're managing a condition with other treatments, acupuncture and herbal remedies can support you in feeling better all around.

If you're ever unsure or have concerns about how Chinese Medicine might fit with your current treatment plan, I’m always happy to discuss it with you in detail. The goal is always to enhance your health and well-being, no matter where you’re starting from.

You’re welcome to book appointments as needed — whether you’re seeking immediate relief, a seasonal check-in, or ongoing support.

That said, Chinese Medicine often works best when used proactively and consistently. Regular treatment can help maintain your health, address imbalances early, and prevent flare-ups — especially if you're managing long-term or recurring symptoms.

A typical treatment plan might look like:

• Weekly sessions during the initial phase to build momentum and support deeper change

• Fortnightly or monthly sessions as things improve

• Seasonal or occasional visits for ongoing wellbeing and prevention

If you’re coming in for cosmetic acupuncture or skin support, consistency in the early stages is especially important to achieve and maintain visible results.

Ultimately, the rhythm of your care is something we decide together. We’ll always make recommendations based on your goals and preferences, but you’ll never be pressured to come more often than feels right for you.

Possibly — but any suggestions will be tailored to you, and always discussed collaboratively.

In Chinese Medicine, lifestyle and diet are key aspects of health. Things like sleep quality, emotional stress, eating habits, and daily rhythms can all influence how you feel. Depending on your needs, we may explore ways to adjust these areas in small, sustainable ways that support your healing.

Examples of this might include:

• Introducing more warming foods if you tend to feel cold or tired

• Modifying how or when you eat to improve digestion

• Recommending calming routines to help with sleep or anxiety

• Encouraging movement or rest based on your energy patterns

This is not about restriction, guilt, or perfection. We’ll work with your real life — your preferences, schedule, and capacity — to make sure any changes feel achievable and supportive. If something doesn’t work for you, we’ll find another way.

Our goal is always to support your health in a way that feels empowering, not overwhelming.