Katherine Kim Acupuncture Arts Since 2001 | Mindfulness-Based Acupuncture & Integrative Medicine Specialists | Westport CT USA + Virtual Telehealth

FAQ

Q: Is Acupuncture Safe?

Yes. Millions of people around the world receive acupuncture safely each year. 

Q? Are you needles disposable?

Yes. As required by law, all licensed acupuncturists use pre-sterilized, disposable, single-use needles to ensure your complete safety.  We use the thinnest smallest needles possible. Some are thinner than a human eyelash, so thin that they are flexible. 

Q: Are you fully licensed, credentialed?

Yes. Licensed Acupuncturists are required to undergo extensive education, pass comprehensive national board examinations administered by the NCCAOM and be licensed by the state. 

Q: How does acupuncture work?

Acupuncture may block pain receptors in the brain. Instead of taking medications, acupuncture supports the body's natural pharmacy to heal itself, often with lasting results. 

Acupuncture stimulates the production of endorphins or "happy hormones".

Acupuncture calms the nervous system (the familiar instinct to "fight or flight"). This helps people rest and relax. Reducing stress, anxiety or depression is a major key to healing faster, sleeping better, feeling better, and much more.  

Q: What Does Acupuncture Feel Like? Does it hurt?

Acupuncture is not supposed to hurt for it to be effective. We can adjust all parts of the treatment and walk you through each step so that you're comfortable.

Dr. Kim is a seasoned practitioner and performs acupuncture so that it is pain-free, and relaxing. You may feel a light touch or a gentle pressure. After the needles are in, you may enjoy a warm, cozy, flow of energy all throughout your body. Some people relax so much during the treatment that they take a short nap, which often feels like a longer rejuvenative sleep. 

Q: Do you have to believe in acupuncture for it to work?

No. Acupuncture is often performed on children and animals with minimal to no explanation. You can see the relaxation response and improved range of motion after these treatments. 

Q: How many treatments will I need?

Some people feel relief immediately after just one treatment. Some take a several sessions for the effects to cumulatively build momentum. Everyone responds in their own unique way.  Dr. Kim looks for improvements after every single treatment. After a few consecutive sessions, you may begin to notice bigger, more obvious results. We discuss the treatment plan with you and customize each session. We work quickly so that you feel better sooner. 

Q: Does the Acupuncturist provide counseling without acupuncture? 

Yes, the Acupuncturist provides mind-body counseling, clinical hypnotherapy, executive health coaching, patient navigation for families, workshops, and resources. The beginning of every appointment is the best time to discuss any questions, conditions, etc so that we can make the best use of our time together. 

Questions are welcome.