Yes, combining Massage and Acupuncture treatments is pure bliss. If you'd like to do back-to-back treatments, its doesn't matter which you do first or second. Depending on what you're main concerns are, the treatments will be customized for your specific needs.

Absolutely, I offer a free 15 min consultation. In this consultation you discuss your case in a no-pressure environment and  meet one-on-one with me to discuss your concerns and any questions you may have. This gives you the opportunity to see if Acupuncture is a good fit for you and I get the opportunity to make sure I'm confident I can help you.

*This doesn't include the intake or an Acupuncture treatment. If you choose to move forward with Acupuncture, an Initial New Patient appointment needs to be booked.*

For your Initial New Patient appointment, I ask that you arrive 10-15 minutes early prior to your scheduled appointment time to fill out the necessary paperwork and consent forms. For Follow Up treatments, I recommend arriving 5 minutes before your appointment, so you don't feel stressed and rushed prior to your Acupuncture treatment.

You do not need to bring anything with you, unless you have blood work or test results that are relevant to your case. Also if you have any medications you may need or if you need water/snacks for blood sugar purposes. Before your treatment you'll be asked to fill out some basic information and consent forms. A full Chinese Medicine intake will be done before giving you a treatment

While I don't recommend eating a huge meal before a treatment, I do suggest that you have something light so that you're not getting treatment on an empty stomach. Also making sure you're properly hydrated. Receiving Acupuncture on an empty stomach may lead to lightheadedness, dizziness or even fainting.

The first time you visit you'll receive a comprehensive consultation, a diagnosis and an Acupuncture treatment, as well as Chinese herbs/Nutrition advice, if applicable. I'll go through your medical health history with you and will determine the best course of treatment based on your case. After the intake has been completed the Acupuncture treatment will begin. The Initial First Patient consultation lasts 90 min and most follow up treatments will last approximately 60 min depending on your needs.

You'll be asked to show your tongue and have your pulse taken. These methods help to see what the internal state of your body is. Expect embarrassing questions, with various topics regarding your health and lifestyle. Often, these questions will include asking for detailed descriptions of your bowel movements, urination and menstruation for women. The more details you're able to give, the better understanding it gives me on you and your diagnosis.

I may need to access areas under your clothes, but you'll be properly draped so that only small portions of skin are exposed. However, wearing loose clothing so that sleeves and pant legs can be pulled up without restricting blood flow may also work, depending on the area being treated and what you're coming in for. The level of undressing will be explained to you in a private setting and up to the comfort of the patient.

Acupuncture needles are flexible and are hair thin. 30-40 Acupuncture needles can fit into the opening of a traditional medical syringe. The needles are inserted gently and shallowly. While each person experiences Acupuncture differently, most feel only a minimal amount of sensation as the needles are inserted. Once inserted, the response can range from a heaviness, dull ache, warming, electrical or tingling sensation. A majority of people find Acupuncture extremely relaxing and wellbeing that lasts for many hours after the treatment.

It all depends on the patient. Some people experience dramatic relief in the first treatment, and some feel little to no change. For complex or long-standing chronic conditions, one to two treatments per week for several months are recommended. For acute problems, usually fewer visits are required, usually eight to ten visits in total. Each treatment plan is customized to each individual and will be discussed in the first treatment between the patient and myself.

Acupuncturists in Alberta are fully licensed and regulated under the regulatory body of the College and Association of Acupuncturists of Alberta. We're all required to pass an exam in Clean Needle Technique and pass an extensive list of board exams to acquire licensing. Each year Continuing Education is mandatory to keep our licensing number and to be able to practice in Alberta.

At Metanoia, only sterile, single-use acupuncture needles are used, which are disposed of safely after each treatment. Before needle insertion all points are swabbed with alcohol to disinfect the area. Hands are washed and sanitized before and after each treatment.

The treatment room is kept clean and organized, as you'd expect for any medical procedure. I pride myself on creating a warm, peaceful environment for my patients. Cleanliness is a key component of making this a place where you feel you can relax - but it is also crucial to making it safe.