Frequently Asked Questions





How does acupuncture work?

 Sterile hair-thin needles are used at specific acupuncture points to allow circulation of energy (Qi) along pathways that parallel the nervous system and support the coordination between the functions of the body. The acupuncture points are places where the rivers of energy that flow through our bodies comes to the surface. The needles are made of stainless steel, silver or gold, and create an electrical charge because of the differences in temperature of the needle above and below the skin.

Blocks in the flow of Qi are dispersed and support is brought to areas of functioning that need nourishment. Western science finds that acupuncture causes the release of the bodies' natural painkillers- endorphins, and also effects hormone levels. This further explains why acupuncture is so useful for treating pain and for regulating the hormonal systems, balancing menstrual cycles, and addressing menopausal, fertility, and other male and female issues.

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Does acupuncture hurt?

 No, acupuncture should not hurt. A momentary prick is sometimes felt around the needle as it is inserted, eventually creating interesting spreading sensations of energy moving through the meridians, or simply a feeling of relaxation.

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Is acupuncture safe?

 As long as it is performed by a comptetent practitioner, acupuncture is extremely safe. Acupuncturists are required to use disposable needles that are discarded after one use.

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What conditions are treated with acupuncture?
  • Digestive disoders
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Fatigue
  • Chronic pain
  • Insomnia
  • Weak immunity
  • Infertility
  • PMS
  • Menstrual cramps
  • Menopausal symptoms
  • Allergies
  • Addictions
  • Stress management

Does insurance cover acupuncture?

 Sydney is a Blue Shield provider. We can bill Blue Shield directly and you would just be responsible for your copay. For other companies, Sonoma Mountain Healing Arts will gladly give you a superbill to submit for insurance reimbursement. There are a few plans that cover acupuncture. The best companies for acupuncture coverage are Anthem Blue Cross, Blue Shield and United Healthcare. Be sure to call your insurance provider to verify benefits, or you can our clinic at 707-217-5777 and we'll be happy to call for you. Sonoma Mountain Healing Arts has worked with many workers compensation and automobile accident insurance patients.

What forms of payment are accepted?

 Cash, check, visa and mastercard are the accepted forms of payment.

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How many treatments will I need?

 This is unique to the individual. For most chronic conditions, 5-7 treatments on a weekly basis with follow up if needed, tends to offer the best outcome. Some people notice an immediate improvement in their health while for others acupuncture tends to have a cumulative effect over several visits.

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Does the clinic offer Chinese herbs? If so, what kind?

 Yes, we have an extensive Chinese herbal pharmacy that consists primarily of patent herbal formulas that comes as granulated capsules or tablets. The clinic also offers customized herbal powdered blends.

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What else has our clinic had success in treating?

 Our practice has helped people with a variety of acute and chronic conditions including:

  • fibromyalgia
  • seasonal allergies
  • food allergies
  • injury and chronic pain
  • insomnia
  • digestive disorders
  • premenstrual, menstrual and menopausal symptoms
  • low energy
  • colds/flu/asthma
  • anxiety
  • depression
  • smoking cessation
  • weight issues
  • low libido or sexual enjoyment
  • nighttime or frequent urination
  • and more...

We have helped people lessen or eliminate the need for prescription drugs, including addictive pain and sleep medications. We have special training and experience using the National Acupuncture Detoxification Association (NADA) Treatment Protocol for treating addictions and trauma, and work with the Drug Abuse Alternatives Center in Sonoma County, (DAAC).

We especially have a calling to work with teenagers and young adults. We also have a calling to work with people who have experienced more than usual trauma in their lives. Because we focus on spiritual transformation, we draw people who are consciously interested in connecting with their spiritual source or path in this lifetime. Others are simply interested in overcoming chronic health issues or want to maintain health by healing at the deepest, root level so that their quality of life improves over time rather than worsens as is common in western society.

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Can I pay online?

 Yes, you can pay by credit card or with paypal on this page.

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