Your first visit
A first visit, step by step
A first visit takes about 75 minutes. Later visits take about 50. You will know what is going to happen before it does, and you can say no to any part of it.
Before you come, there is a short forms page on the practice's own system. It asks for your name and contact details and who is in your care. You can also fill in the paper forms when you arrive.
About 75 minutes in all
Paper or online forms, your choice
Your support person is welcome
In order
What happens
- 01
Step 1: We talk, about 25 minutes
Your care team, everything you take, how you sleep and eat, and how you feel today.
- 02
Step 2: I check in with you
I take your pulse and look at your tongue, and I explain what I find and what I plan to do.
- 03
Step 3: Needles, then rest, about 30 minutes
A few fine needles, left in while you rest under a blanket. I stay close and check on you.
- 04
Step 4: Tea and a plan, about 10 minutes
A cup of tea, what to watch for at home, and a time for your next visit if you want one. If you would like me to write to your clinic or midwife, this is when you sign a permission.
Getting ready
What to wear and bring
Wear
Comfortable clothes with sleeves you can push up and pants that roll to the knee.
Eat
Have a light meal beforehand. Please don't come hungry.
Bring
A list of everything you take, and any notes from your clinic or midwife.
Bring someone
A partner, a friend or a doula is welcome in the room, if you would like them there.
Tell me first
Please tell me if any of these apply
Pregnancy, or a chance you might be pregnant. Blood thinners, or a bleeding disorder. A pacemaker, if electro-stimulation is suggested. Lymph node removal on either side. Fear of needles: say so and we go slowly.
Tell me about everything you take, including supplements. You don't need to stop any medicine, and I will never ask you to.
Ready to book?
Tell me who is in your care and when you are free.