What Is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a time-tested healing practice rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that has been used for over 2,000 years. It involves the insertion of fine, sterile needles into specific points on the body to promote balance, stimulate healing, and alleviate a wide range of physical and emotional conditions.

The Philosophy Behind Acupuncture

Acupuncture is based on the idea that the body’s vital energy, known as Qi (pronounced "chee"), flows through channels or pathways called meridians. When Qi is balanced and flowing freely, the body is healthy. However, blockages or imbalances in Qi can lead to pain, illness, or dysfunction.

By stimulating acupuncture points along these meridians, acupuncture helps restore the body’s natural balance and encourages its innate healing abilities.

Modern research has shown that acupuncture can have measurable effects on the body, including:

• Stimulating the nervous system to release endorphins and other natural painkillers.

• Improving blood circulation to speed up healing.

• Reducing inflammation in muscles, joints, and tissues.

• Balancing the autonomic nervous system, helping with stress, sleep, and digestion.

Acupuncture serves as a bridge between ancient wisdom and modern medicine, offering a holistic way to address the root causes of health issues, rather than just the symptoms.

Acupuncture is versatile and can address a wide range of health concerns, including:

• Pain relief: Back pain, neck pain, migraines, arthritis, and sciatica.

• Stress and anxiety management: Reducing tension and promoting relaxation.

• Digestive issues: IBS, nausea, and bloating.

• Women’s health: PMS, fertility, menopause, and pregnancy support.

• Chronic conditions: Insomnia, allergies, and fatigue.

If you’re new to acupuncture, you might be curious about what happens during a session. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Consultation: I will begin by discussing your health history, current concerns, and wellness goals. Following visits we will do a brief check-in to find out how things are shifting with treatment.

2. Assessment: I will feel your pulse on both wrists, examine your tongue, inspect you visually, and ask questions to understand your overall health.

3. Treatment: Thin, single-use sterile needles are gently inserted at specific points on your body. Most people feel minimal discomfort with needle insertion and often find the overall experience to be relaxing. Please let me know if you find any particular point uncomfortable and I will adjust it so that it no longer bothers you.

4. Additional Techniques (if needed): Your treatment may also include techniques like cupping, gua sha, moxibustion or Tui Na massage to enhance results. I do not charge an additional fee for these services as I believe in using all of my toolkit to best address your specific health concerns.

5. Relaxation: You’ll rest with the needles in place for 20–30 minutes, allowing your body to fully respond to the treatment. The complete treatment including consultation and additional therapies lasts for a total of an hour.

Yes! When performed by a licensed and trained practitioner, acupuncture is safe and effective. The needles are single-use, sterile, and disposed of immediately after your session. Each acupuncture point is cleaned with alcohol before needle insertion. Side effects are rare and may include mild bruising or soreness at the needle sites, which typically resolve quickly.

It is safe for patients currently on blood thinners to receive acupuncture.

I am certified by CCAHM (Council of Colleges Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine) in their Clean Needle Technique course and received extensive training in point location as well as understanding vulnerable structures to avoid needling during treatment in my training.

Acupuncture offers a holistic, drug-free approach to health and wellness. Whether you’re seeking relief from chronic pain, emotional support, or a way to enhance your overall well-being, acupuncture provides a personalized option tailored to your unique needs.

By working with your body’s natural ability to heal and regulate itself, acupuncture is a safe and effective therapy. It can be used on its own or alongside conventional treatments. For example, it may help reduce the need for pain medications or provide complementary support during cancer treatments, especially when other therapies are limited due to potential drug interactions.

Many of my patients choose acupuncture because they have tried many other therapies including conventional Western Medicine treatments and have not the results they are looking for.

At White Dandelion Chinese Medicine, I provide more than just acupuncture treatments—I aim to create a space where healing, comfort, and connection come together.

Each session is personalized to meet your unique needs, combining acupuncture with techniques like Tui Na (Chinese medical massage) and lifestyle guidance to support your overall well-being. Whether you’re looking for relief from chronic pain, emotional support, or help with a specific condition, I’m here to meet you where you are on your health journey.

In addition to acupuncture, I’m trained as a Traditional Chinese Herbal Medicine practitioner. I hold a Master’s in Oriental Medicine and a Diplomate in Oriental Medicine, which means I’ve successfully passed national Chinese Herbal medicine board exam through NCCAOM.

My clinical training includes integrative care internships at Courage Center, working with patients with brain and spinal cord injuries, and at Abbott Northwestern, where I treated patients recovering from total knee and hip surgeries in a community acupuncture setting. I also trained in herbal medicine under Yongping Jiang and Mei Wang at Northwestern Health Sciences University.

I’ve designed my clinic to be a welcoming sanctuary, with a warm, calming atmosphere to help you feel at ease throughout your visit.

Online scheduling is available 24/7, making it easy to book an appointment at your convenience. I’m committed to making acupuncture accessible and affordable so that more people can benefit from this holistic approach to care.

My patients often tell me they appreciate my attentive listening and personalized care. I value the relationships we build and take pride in being part of your support team, whether you’re seeking short-term relief or ongoing care.

Since 2012, I’ve been honored to serve the Northfield community and surrounding areas, welcoming patients from all walks of life—farmers, musicians, students, healthcare workers, and more. Thank you for considering me as part of your health journey. I look forward to helping you achieve your wellness goals.

Your health and safety are my top priority. I take numerous precautions to create a clean and safe environment for all my patients, especially those in vulnerable populations.

• Certified Expertise: I am CPR/AED certified and trained in Clean Needle Technique, ensuring the highest standards of safety and professionalism. I use only sterile, single-use acupuncture needles for every treatment.

• Hygiene Practices: I wash my hands thoroughly between patient visits and use alcohol to cleanse my hands and acupuncture treatment sites throughout each session. High-touch surfaces are wiped down between appointments, and fresh linens are provided for every patient.

• Air Quality and Ventilation: I run a HEPA air filter during all sessions and open windows when weather permits to maintain clean and fresh air circulation.

• Vaccination and Health Practices: As a practitioner, I stay up to date on my COVID-19, flu, and Tdap vaccinations and I am fully vaccinated against Hepatitis B. I do not work if I suspect I am sick and contagious, ensuring I never knowingly expose patients to any potential infections.

• Masking Policy: I wear a KN95 mask during treatment sessions to minimize the risk of unwittingly exposing patients to any potential infections I might carry. While masking is not required for patients, you are welcome to wear one if you prefer.

• Illness Policy: If you are experiencing active symptoms of an acute illness, such as a cold, flu, or other contagious conditions, please reschedule your acupuncture appointment until you are fully recovered. For patients who have lingering symptoms, such as a persistent cough or frequent sneezing, I kindly ask that you wear a KN95 or N95 mask during treatment or consider rescheduling.

• Virtual Herbal Consultations: If you are sick or recovering from an acute illness and would like support, I offer virtual consultations for herbal treatments to help speed your healing.

• Scheduling Precautions: I space out appointments to allow time for proper cleaning, airing out the treatment room, and preparing the space for the next patient.

I take these measures seriously because I believe that protecting my most vulnerable clients is an essential part of my role as a healthcare practitioner. You can relax and focus on your wellness knowing that I am committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for your care.

With over a decade of experience serving Northfield and the surrounding communities, I bring a deep understanding of holistic health and a strong commitment to personalized care.

I earned my Master’s in Oriental Medicine from Northwestern Health Sciences University, graduating summa cum laude. I am a board-certified Diplomate in Oriental Medicine (Dipl. OM) through the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM), reflecting expertise in both acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine after completing rigorous national board exams. Licensed by the Minnesota Board of Medical Practice, I also hold a current CPR/AED certification to ensure safe and effective care.

My clinical training includes hands-on internships at:

• Courage Center, treating individuals with brain and spinal cord injuries.

• Abbott Northwestern Hospital, where I supported patients recovering from total knee and hip surgeries in a community acupuncture setting, and completed a general hospital rotation with acupuncturists from the Penny George Institute for Health and Healing.

• The Aliveness Project, providing care to individuals living with HIV and AIDS.

• Salvation Army Harbor Lights, assisting patients in recovery from substance use disorders.

• Northwestern Health Sciences University, where I trained in Chinese herbal medicine under the excellent herbal practitioners Yongping Jiang and Mei Wang.

In my years of practice, I’ve worked with clients from many walks of life to address a wide range of health concerns. From managing chronic pain and balancing hormones to supporting recovery from injuries and navigating complex conditions like autoimmune diseases and cancer treatment side effects, I aim to provide care tailored to each individual’s needs.

My Approach to Care

I take a holistic, patient-centered approach to treatment, focusing on the unique needs of each person. My care blends acupuncture with complementary techniques such as Tui Na (Chinese medical massage), cupping, and personalized lifestyle guidance to address both symptoms and the root causes of imbalance.

I strive to create a collaborative care environment where patients feel empowered and supported. Whether you’re seeking relief for a specific issue or aiming to enhance your overall well-being, I tailor treatments to your goals and work in coordination with your other healthcare providers when appropriate.

At the heart of my practice is a commitment to accessibility and inclusion. I believe in making acupuncture affordable so people from diverse backgrounds can experience the benefits of this holistic approach to health.

By combining traditional wisdom with modern insight, I aim to deliver effective, compassionate care that supports you at every step of your wellness journey.

So you’ve requested your first visit! I’m excited to partner with you on your health journey. To make the most of your first visit, here’s everything you need to know:

1. Set Up Your PHR Account
   After you schedule your initial appointment, I’ll confirm your appointment and send you an invite to set up your Personal Health Record (PHR) account. Through this portal, you’ll be able to complete the New Patient Health Intake form and review the Consent to Treatment document. Please fill these out before your first appointment so I can review your health history in advance and ensure our time together is as productive as possible. Please don’t leave these until the last moment as there is not time to fill these out at my clinic and if you run into technical difficulties it easier to troubleshoot earlier rather than later.

2. What to Wear
   Wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows easy access to your arms, legs, and abdomen. This makes the acupuncture process smoother and more relaxing for you. Pajamas or sweats are totally OK!

3. Refrain from Wearing Fragrances
   Please avoid wearing perfumes, colognes, or heavily scented products to your appointment. Many patients (and practitioners) are sensitive to fragrances, and a neutral environment ensures everyone’s comfort.

4. Finding My Clinic
   My clinic space is a little tucked away, which can make finding it tricky on your first visit. I’ll include a link with detailed directions in your confirmation email to help you locate it easily. Once you’ve been here, it’ll be a breeze to find!

If you have any questions before your visit, don’t hesitate to reach out you can text my clinic number anytime. I’m looking forward to meeting you and helping you take the next step toward improved health and well-being!

Each acupuncture session lasts approximately one hour and includes:

• Check-In: A brief discussion to review your progress, address any new concerns, and refine the treatment plan.

• Treatment: Needle insertion and a restful period to allow the treatment to take effect.

• Accessory Techniques: If needed, additional techniques such as cupping, Tui Na (Chinese medical massage), or moxibustion may be incorporated to enhance your session.

• Wrap-Up: Needle removal, scheduling your next visit, and processing payment.

This comprehensive approach ensures that your session is both effective and personalized to meet your health needs.

Acupuncture is generally a gentle and relaxing experience, and most people feel little to no pain during treatment. The needles used are extremely thin—much finer than those used for injections or blood draws—and are designed to minimize discomfort.

However, there may occasionally be points that feel momentarily uncomfortable or painful, especially if a small structure like a hair follicle or tiny blood vessel is contacted. If this happens, please let me know I can easily adjust or reposition the needle to relieve any discomfort.

For those who are particularly sensitive or nervous about needles, I offer alternative options such as very fine press needles. These are smaller than traditional acupuncture needles and are designed to provide effective treatment with minimal sensation.

My goal is to make your experience as comfortable as possible while ensuring you receive the full benefits of acupuncture. If you ever feel uneasy during a session or feel discomfort or pain, please let me know, and we’ll work together to ensure you’re at ease and comfortable.

The results of acupuncture vary depending on the individual, the condition being treated, and the body’s response to care. Many patients report feeling more relaxed, balanced, and energized after just one session and often sleep better. For acute issues, noticeable improvement may happen quickly—sometimes within a session or two.

Chronic conditions often require more time and consistency to achieve lasting results and for certain conditions I consider acupuncture more of a support than necessarily a “cure”. As a general guideline, I recommend weekly treatments initially, gradually spacing sessions as your symptoms improve. During our first visit, we’ll discuss a treatment plan tailored to your specific goals and needs and what you can likely expect.

While acupuncture is not a quick fix, it is a powerful tool for promoting the body’s natural healing processes. Many patients find that symptoms improve steadily over time and that regular treatments provide ongoing support for overall well-being as well as help them make their own lifestyle changes that support their health.

It’s important to remember that healing is a journey as is life and that path is not always straight forward. Whether you’re seeking relief from pain, managing stress, or addressing long-term health concerns, acupuncture offers a holistic approach that works with your body to restore balance and vitality.

Acupuncture is generally considered safe when performed by a licensed practitioner, and most people experience few, if any, side effects. However, as with any form of treatment, some individuals may experience the following common, mild side effects:

• Soreness or bruising: Some patients may feel slight tenderness or experience minor bruising around the areas where the needles were inserted. This typically resolves quickly. (This is the most common possible side effect)

• Fatigue or drowsiness: Many people feel deeply relaxed or even a bit tired or groggy after a treatment. This is a sign that your body is responding to the healing process, and it generally fades within a few hours. If you are driving yourself home, be sure to feel alert and clear-headed before doing so.

• Mild lightheadedness: In rare cases, people may feel lightheaded or dizzy immediately after a session, especially if they are nervous, haven’t eaten beforehand, or have overheated. It’s important to stay well-hydrated, have a light snack before your treatment if needed, and let me know if you feel dizzy or woozy.

These side effects are usually temporary and resolve on their own within a few hours or days. In very rare cases, patients may experience more significant reactions, such as fainting, infection (which is extremely rare with sterile needles; I have never encountered this in my 12 years of practice), or an allergic reaction to topical substances used in moxibustion or cupping (I have not experienced this in my clinic and use unscented products whenever possible).

If you experience anything that concerns you during or after treatment, please don’t hesitate to let me know. Your comfort and well-being are my top priority, and I am here to ensure that your acupuncture experience is both safe and beneficial.

Yes, acupuncture can safely complement other medical treatments and can be safely used as part of an integrative approach to healthcare. Acupuncture works by stimulating the body's natural healing processes, helping to improve circulation, reduce inflammation, and balance homeostatic processes. It can be beneficial when used alongside conventional Western medical treatments, holistic therapies, or alternative modalities.

Many of my patients find acupuncture particularly helpful when managing chronic conditions, recovering from surgery, or alleviating the side effects of treatments like chemotherapy as well as a support for fertility treatments such as IUI and IVF. Acupuncture can enhance the effectiveness of other treatments by promoting overall well-being, supporting immune function, and helping to manage symptoms like pain, fatigue, and stress.

I am happy to work alongside your other healthcare providers to ensure that acupuncture is used in a way that complements your ongoing care. Whether you're receiving traditional medical care, undergoing physical therapy, or following a naturopathic or herbal regimen, acupuncture can be a supportive and non-invasive option to help you achieve your health and wellness goals.

If you have any questions about how acupuncture might fit into your current treatment plan, feel free to reach out and we can set up a consultation.

No, you do not need a doctor's referral to receive acupuncture at my clinic. Since my practice operates as a self-pay clinic and does not work with insurance companies, a referral is not required.

That said, some patients choose to consult their healthcare provider before starting acupuncture to ensure it complements their treatment plan. If you'd like, I'm happy to collaborate with your healthcare team to support your overall well-being.

If you have any questions or concerns about getting started, feel free to reach out—I’m here to help!

The number of acupuncture treatments you may need depends on your individual health goals, the condition you are seeking help with, and how your body responds to treatment. Some people experience relief after just one or two sessions, while others may benefit from a series of treatments over a longer period of time.

For acute issues, such as recent injuries or flare-ups, you may see faster improvement with more frequent visits in the beginning—typically 2-3 times per week. For chronic conditions or ongoing wellness support, treatments are usually spaced out over time, such as once a week or bi-weekly.

As your body responds to acupuncture and starts to heal, the frequency of treatments can be adjusted. The goal is to support your healing process while also empowering you to manage your health on your own, with fewer treatments over time.

During our first session, we will discuss a treatment plan tailored to your needs, and we will re-evaluate this plan as your condition improves.

Remember, each person’s experience is unique, and I will work with you to create the most effective treatment plan based on your specific goals and progress.

I do not accept insurance at White Dandelion Chinese Medicine because I prefer to keep the relationship between me and my patients direct and simple. By avoiding insurance involvement, I can focus on what truly matters—your health and well-being—without the constraints of third-party decisions about your treatment. This approach allows you to be in control of your care, and I trust that you can make the best decision about what is working for you. It also helps avoid potential complications or surprise costs when treatments aren't covered by insurance or when you have a high deductible plan.

By being upfront with my pricing, I strive to keep acupuncture accessible and affordable. I do accept payment via Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and can provide superbills for patients who would like to submit claims to their own insurance for out-of-network reimbursement.

For patients who are only able to afford acupuncture through insurance the Allina Northfield Medical Clinic does have an acupuncturist on staff who accepts insurance.

I also understand that finances can be a concern, and I work to make self-pay options as accessible as possible by offering affordable rates for treatments. If my rates our outside of your budget please reach out to me through email and I will see if we can work something out. My goal is to ensure that cost is not a barrier to your health and healing journey.

Why I Don’t Offer Package Deals

I don’t offer package deals because I believe in giving you the flexibility to make decisions about your care as we progress. Your well-being is the priority, and I want you to feel free to adjust your treatment plan, or even discontinue treatment, if it’s not meeting your needs or if I’m not the right fit for you.

Treatment plans can evolve, and life circumstances may change. What works well initially might not be the best option later on. By avoiding pre-paid packages, I ensure you’re not obligated to commit to treatments you may no longer need, afford, or find beneficial. Instead, I want you to feel empowered to decide on your care based on how you’re feeling, without any financial pressure from prepayment.

That said, I strive to make acupuncture accessible and affordable while maintaining high-quality care. I offer a range of pricing options to accommodate different budgets. Please see my Pricing section for clear details about the available tiers.

My goal is to ensure acupuncture is as accessible as possible while supporting the sustainability of my practice. If cost is a concern, please don’t hesitate to reach out—I’m happy to discuss options that may work for you.