Frequently Asked Questions

Acupuncture is a system of healing that has been practiced for over 2,500 years. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, good health is dependent on qi flowing freely through the body along pathways called meridians; when qi is blocked or imbalanced symptoms of pain, illness or emotional disruption may occur. 

Acupuncture involves the insertion of sterile, single use fine needles at specific points on the meridians to connect with the body’s qi and trigger the natural healing response.

Theoretically, Five Element Acupuncture focuses on addressing the constitutional root cause of illness. In terms of treatment style, needles are typically inserted and removed immediately, often accompanied by the breath and sometimes with the area gently warmed using moxa, rather than being left in place while the practitioner leaves the room. Sessions often weave together conversation and silence as needed, creating a collaborative rhythm between practitioner and patient rather than a purely passive experience.

To learn more about this specific approach, please visit the Five Element Acupuncture page.

For a detailed and extensive list of conditions treated with acupuncture and corresponding research, please refer to the factsheets available to read on the British Acupuncture Council website.

Acupuncture is currently included in the following NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) guidelines for GPs: Headaches in over 12s; Chronic pain in over 16s

I work with individuals to overcome a variety of health challenges including autoimmune conditions, chronic conditions, pain relief, mental health conditions and women’s health.

It is very common to feel a little apprehensive! Acupuncture needles are incredibly fine—roughly the width of a human hair—and bear no resemblance to the hollow needles used for injections or blood tests. Most patients find the sensation to be a very mild "tingle" or a dull ache that passes quickly. My needle technique and style is gentle - if I find you are particularly sensitive or nervous, we may focus more on Moxibustion, Acupressure or Gua Sha in your first session to help you feel at ease.

It is normal to feel a mild tingle or dull ache as the needle is adjusted. Acupuncture needles are so fine (similar to human hair) that many people don’t feel them being inserted.

Treatment can be carried out safely during pregnancy, helping to ease symptoms like morning sickness, nausea, and tiredness, while also supporting the mental, emotional, and physical preparation for childbirth. Studies indicate that starting labour-focused care from 37 weeks may help reduce the duration of delivery. After 40 weeks, acupuncture may be used to encourage labour to begin naturally, and it can also promote overall recovery and well-being after birth.

Please visit the ‘What to expect’ page for more information on this.

Sometimes mild bruising can occur where the needle was inserted, and occasionally you may feel dizzy or tired after treatment. For more information please visit The British Acupuncture Council website.

Please have a light meal a couple of hours before your treatment and ensure you are well-hydrated. Please also avoid wearing heavy make-up or perfumes.

I practice from two locations in North East London and Central London.

• London Fields, Hackney: Located within Netil House E8 3RL, just a 6-minute walk from London Fields Overground Station or 15-minute walk from Hackney Central.

• CALM Multi-bed Acupuncture Clinic : Located at the University of Westminster Polyclinic, New Cavendish Street/Hanson Street, W1W 6EA. The clinic is a 9-minute walk from Warren Street Underground station.

Loose, comfortable clothing is preferable as I will usually need to access points on your back or torso. I will always ensure you are comfortably covered with towels or a treatment couch cover to maintain your privacy and warmth.

Acupuncture is non-invasive and generally safe to use alongside other medical treatments. It can help reduce side effects of therapies, such as cancer treatment, and improve overall well-being. Widely recognised in hospitals and clinics, acupuncture works alongside prescribed medications. If you are unsure, it’s best to check with your doctor before starting treatment, and any questions or concerns can be discussed with me when booking.

Not at all. Traditionally, acupuncture has been used as a form of preventative care. Health is about far more than the absence of illness — it’s how you feel in yourself, your outlook on life, and your overall sense of wellbeing. In today’s fast-paced world, maintaining good health can be challenging, and this ancient system offers timeless insight and support.

Many private health insurance providers (such as Vitality, WPA, and Aviva) cover treatments with British Acupuncture Council members. While I do not bill insurers directly, I can provide you with a detailed receipt after your session which you can then use to claim your costs back. I recommend checking with your specific provider before your first appointment to confirm your level of cover.

I understand that life can be unpredictable; however, to ensure I can offer appointments to those in need, I require 48 hours' notice for any cancellations or rescheduling. Appointments cancelled with less than 48 hours' notice will be subject to the full treatment fee. This allows me to maintain a sustainable practice and offer that space to another patient on the waiting list.