Yes! At my locations in Pacific Beach and North Park, I take insurance. I’m in-network with several major insurance plans, including Cigna, UnitedHealthcare, and California Schools VEBA.

Contact me before booking so I can verify your benefits. Also, even if you don’t see your plan mentioned above, you may still have acupuncture coverage.

Please note that I do not take insurance at Everwell Acupuncture, where I work as part of a collective.

There are many alternatives to needles in this medicine:

For one, we can use herbal formulas, either to be taken internally like a tea or tincture, or to be applied externally like a spray or poultice.

Other ways to activate the same energy pathways include acupressure, cupping, guasha, and reiki.

There’s even Korean hand therapy using magnets! Another microsystem we can access is the ear, with ear seeds instead of needles.

And, for your consideration, there are two other options: extra fine needles that can minimize sensation or Japanese style acupuncture which uses contact needling.

No! Acupuncture does not need to hurt. There can be different sensations - like tingling, warmth or pressure - but it shouldn’t be painful.

Sometimes, there can be a temporary “spicy” or “pinchy” sensation, which lasts a few seconds before going away.

I’ve been told I have a gentle yet effective needling style.

Traditional East Asian Medicine (TEAM) treats the whole body, mind, and spirit. It can address a wide range of health concerns and medical conditions.

Please contact me for a complimentary 15-minute discovery call if you would like to discuss your specific reason for seeking acupuncture and/or herbal medicine.

As a whole body medicine, my view is that I specialize in finding the most effective way to treat your concern :)

That said, here are the areas I do commonly mention as “what I can help you with”:

• pain relief

• mental health

• digestive support

• post-op recovery

• women’s health

• better sleep + energy

• autoimmune disorders

• detox + addiction management

• graceful aging

In terms of formal education, I studied at the Pacific College of Health and Science in San Diego, California, graduating with a doctorate degree in acupuncture with a specialization in Chinese herbal medicine (DAcCHM).

When practicing as a senior intern, I worked in medical settings such as the Rady Children’s Hospital and the Jacobs Medical Center at UC San Diego Health.

One of my favorite parts about this profession and path is that I learn something every day! Whether it’s a new treatment method, “aha” moment, or deeper integration, I continue to learn, especially through human connection and while immersed in nature.