Depending on the length and type of your treatment, we will first sit and discuss your medical history, goals, and current health concerns. I always want to establish how you want treatments to proceed, and how you wish to see your health and wellbeing improve. Most treatments involve laying down on a massage table. You will always be properly draped with either your own clothing, a gown, or sheets. Typically after needles are placed, there will be some time for you to rest alone in the room with some relaxing music playing. If you ever need assistance, I will be near the treatment room and am always reachable. If you're in Group Acupuncture, you will be seated in a room with other patients and will remain fully clothed. All efforts are made to keep conversations low to maintain privacy. If at any time you have questions or concerns about your treatment, or just simply want to change something, always feel free to speak up. Expect when you leave your appointments to feel an improvement in your condition. It may be slight, or you may only feel change later that day. Sometimes you won't feel much change until you've had several treatments. Progress will depend on your own unique health, and how long you've experienced a particular symptom or illness. TCM is a natural medicine working with your own body, and healing takes time. We ask that you invest three months in working with us consistently to give your body time to heal.

Wear comfortable clothing that is loose fitting (no tight jeans or leggings!), which can be rolled up past your knees and elbows. If needed during private appointments, we will have you change into a gown or lay draped under sheets. Make sure to eat within two hours of your appointment, a small snack with some protein is fine. Payment is due at time of service. Cash is appreciated, but we also take credit cards and Venmo. Before you arrive, consider what types of changes you'd like to see in your health: what are your goals? what are your concerns? For one-on-one appointments: please finish all intake forms several hours before your appointment as they are reviewed before you arrive . Forms will be emailed to you and are easily completed online.

See the "Services" page on this website for current pricing Ask me about treatment plan discounts!

We only accept cash payments. Insurance coverage for acupuncture is very limited in Illinois, and typically only covers a small number of issues related to physical pain. Medicare Advantage and Veterans Administration health insurance programs cover a wider type of health issues than private insurances, although they are still quite limited in scope. The reimbursements by these insurance plans ultimately place undue time and financial burdens on small practices like ours, making it almost impossible to accept these programs. I work to ensure that all of my treatments are competitively and fairly priced. You will find people who are charging less and people who are charging more. I have over 15 years of clinical experience, and promise to provide you with the most comprehensive and effective treatment possible. If you would like to see a provider and use your health insurance, the Acupuncture & Integrative Wellness Center on 2nd street in Springfield takes many plans.

We accept Cash, Credit Cards, and Flex Spending/ Health Savings Account (FSA, HSA) cards. Payment is due on the day of service without exception. All purchases of retail products and herbal medicines are NON-REFUNDABLE unless they are unopened and sealed. Herbal medicines that have been customized for the patient are non-refundable.

The easy answer is: just about anything! From the common cold, to serious chronic illnesses and everything in between, TCM is incredibly helpful for just about any physical, emotional or spiritual ill. For decades, the World Health Organization has supported the use of TCM for the treatment of many illnesses, especially those related to pain. See the "Meet Dr. Christine" page to learn more about what conditions Dr. Christine specializes in treating. If she believe she cannot effectively help you, she will gladly refer you to a trusted peer practicing in the area.

COVID is now what is called "endemic" in the community. While much less common than a few years ago, it is still a threat to many people, especially the elderly and immunocompromised. In addition, millions of people have Long COVID illness, and an untold number have permanent damage from past COVID infections that has yet to be identified. Other serious illnesses like RSV and influenza have also seen an increase in frequency in many communities. Clearly, COVID and other illnesses continue to be a major public health concern, and Dr. Christine takes it very seriously. She is fully vaccinated against COVID, and will continue to wear a mask when appropriate and per patient request. If you do not feel well, please call our office as soon as possible. You will likely be asked to take an at-home COVID test, and we will likely move your appointment to a later date. Any fees will be waived if that's the case. All treatment rooms and the waiting rooms have air filters that run during business hours. We are working hard to limit close contact time to 15 minutes or less per visit. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to ask Dr. Christine.