Acupuncture is part of a system of healing practices developed in China over thousands of years. Its foundation is based on the principles of Yin and Yang, the dynamic balance observed in the body, nature, the seasons and the cycles of life and the flow of Qi, or “life force.” Thin needles are used to stimulate specific points along pathways known as meridians, helping support the free flow of Qi and restore balance within the body.

From a Western perspective, this is known as homeostasis, the body’s natural ability to move toward a balanced, healthy state.

Modern scientific findings show that acupuncture stimulates the nervous system, improves circulation, reduces pain and supports the body’s natural healing processes.

Integrative Healing Arts specializes in women’s health and fertility, pain conditions, stress and anxiety, digestive concerns, immune support, healthy aging and facial rejuvenation. Depending on your health goals, acupuncture treatments can be combined with Chinese herbal medicine, massage therapy and private health coaching.

Visit Common Conditions for a more complete list. If what you are specifically looking for is not listed, we encourage you to schedule a Clarity Call to discuss what treatments may be appropriate for you.

Yes! We adapt and use different approaches based on what will be most effective for you:

Japanese Style: Focuses on Hara diagnosis (palpation of the abdomen) and meridian palpation, a gentle approach and  techniques to determine effective points to needle.

Traditional Chinese Acupuncture: Uses traditional diagnostic methods, including tongue and pulse diagnosis, with muscle and meridian channel palpation.

American Style (Acupuncture Physical Medicine): Blends classical acupuncture with Western physical medicine to focus on the individual’s unique “holding pattern”. It uses manual techniques and trigger point needling to release fascial and myofascial constrictions, making it highly effective for acute and chronic pain.

Acupuncture is an ancient healing practice that has been scientifically proven to be effective at treating many conditions. Its efficacy is not determined by whether you believe in it.

However, the power of a positive mindset and belief that you have the ability to get better play a significant role in your overall health and healing. 

Before inserting a needle, the acupuncture point is carefully located and palpated. Thin, sterile, single-use needles are then gently inserted into selected points on the body. The needles may be stimulated, creating a "Qi" sensation. Acupuncture is not painful; sensations vary and may include warmth, tingling, heaviness, numbness, or a dull ache. Most patients feel little to no discomfort, become deeply relaxed, and can even fall asleep during a treatment.

Yes! Fertility acupuncture has helped many women and couples conceive naturally and in conjunction with IUI and IVF.

The groundbreaking 2002 Paulus study found that women who received acupuncture immediately before and after IVF embryo transfer had a 42.5% clinical pregnancy rate, compared with 26.3% in the control group.

Acupuncture has helped countless women to conceive and give birth to happy, healthy children, including many who have been told by traditional Western medicine that there was no hope. Fertility acupuncture supports more than embryo transfer because becoming a Mom is about more than biology. Treatment focuses on improving your overall health, regulating the menstrual cycle, supporting circulation and addressing stress and health conditions that can affect fertility. I have helped hundreds of women in New York City achieve their goal of becoming pregnant.

Read more about Fertility and Pregnancy or schedule a Clarity Call to discuss where you are in your fertility journey and how acupuncture may support your next steps.

This is a great question, and the answer is, it depends. 

The frequency of your treatments is recommended based on your health history and where you are in relation to the health goals you want to achieve. There is no one-size-fits-all treatment schedule.

The benefits of acupuncture are cumulative, so the timing and consistency of treatment are important. Schedule a Clarity Call to discuss your individual health goals and what approach may be appropriate for you.

Yes, we combine complementary therapies and modalities based on supporting your health outcomes and goals. Your session might include:

• Massage & Manual Soft Tissue Techniques: Customized bodywork, such as Tuina (Chinese medical massage), Anma, or Sotai ho, to release physical holding patterns, re-educate the neuromuscular system, and treat pain.

• Cupping: A therapy that uses glass or suction cups on the skin to bring congested energy (Qi) and blood to the surface, promoting flow and relieving deep tension.

• Gua Sha: A gentle friction or scraping technique used to break up congestion in the tissue that causes pain and stiffness. It leaves a temporary reddish mark but is not painful.

• Moxibustion (Moxa): The warming of an herb (mugwort) near acupuncture points to promote circulation and the flow of Qi. Its effects are deeply warming and soothing.Moxibustion: The use of an herb (mugwort) that is burned directly or indirectly on the acupuncture point, warming the area and promoting circulation and the flow of Qi. Moxa can be used with needles or alone. Its effects are warming and soothing.

Yes. We recommend custom-blended herbal formulas and high-quality nutritional supplements based on your specific health needs and goals.

Because many patients take daily medications, such as birth control or mood stabilizers, as well as other supplements, adding herbal medicine can be complicated. There is a common misconception that because herbs are “natural,” they are safe to combine with anything. In reality, herbs are powerful medicines and may interact with pharmaceutical drugs or create an allergic response.

This is why it is important to work with a licensed and experienced practitioner who carefully reviews your complete health history, medications and supplements before recommending a formula. Schedule a Clarity Call to discuss your current health and goals.

Yes. Acupuncture and Chinese medicine can be used alongside Western medical care. It does not have to be one or the other.

Western medicine offers essential diagnostic testing, medications, surgery, emergency intervention and acute care. Chinese medicine provides another perspective, addressing patterns within the whole person, prevention and supporting the body’s ability to regulate and heal.

We respect the role of Western medicine and collaborate with physicians and other healthcare practitioners when appropriate. This integrative approach gives you a broader understanding of your health and more treatment options from which to make informed decisions.