Frequently Asked Questions

Acupuncture

What is acupuncture? What does it treat? What should I expect from my first visit? How many treatments will I need?

You'll find detailed answers to all these questions on my Acupuncture page.

Reiki

What is Reiki? In which lineage were you attuned? What does a Reiki session involve?

Head on over to my Reiki page to learn more.

Spiritual Coaching

What is spiritual coaching? Who can benefit from it? What should I expect from a spiritual coaching session? What is spiritual coaching not? How is it different from therapy? How do I find the right coach for me? How many sessions will I need?

To read the answers to all these questions, visit my Spiritual Coaching page.

Cupping

Do you do cupping in your practice? The answer is a resounding YES! Cupping is one of my favorite modalities to use as part of an acupuncture treatment. I also offer it on its own, coupled with massage, for those who don't prefer needles.

Check out my Cupping page for more information.

Tui Na

What is tui na? 

Tui na is a type of massage based on the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), involving the meridians and acupuncture/acupressure points. Tui means "to push," and na means "to grab or squeeze." I incorporate small amounts of tui na into my treatments when appropriate.

Gua sha

What is gua sha? And what is it used for?

Gua sha, aka scraping, involves the use of a tool (usually jade or porcelain) to rub the skin, producing minor bruising. It helps to release tension in the muscles, break down scar tissue, move lymph, and increase circulation. From a TCM perspective, it also clears Heat and toxins from the body. It's fantastic for stress, muscular injuries, and stiffness.

Moxa

Moxa, or moxibustion, involves the burning of a dried herb (mugwort) above specific acupuncture points. I use only indirect moxa in my practice, meaning the source of heat never touches the skin. Moxa is phenomenal at speeding up the healing of scar tissue (e.g. after surgeries). I use it for digestive issues, menstrual cramps, sprains, strains, Bell's Palsy, neuropathy of the extremities (a frequent side effect of chemotherapy), fatigue, anxiety, depression, low libido, and lethargy—among other things.

Insurance

Will my insurance cover acupuncture?

That depends entirely on your plan. To find out if your treatments at Heart Blossom Healing will be reimbursed, call your insurance company and ask them if your policy covers out-of-network acupuncture. If so, you'll also want to ask how many visits you're allowed per year, whether you have a deductible to meet, and wether your coverage is limited to specific diagnosis codes. (Many plans will only reimburse for pain conditions, such as headache, neck pain, or lower back pain). Different plans will cover either a portion or all of the cost of a visit. Be sure to ask for all of the details, so that you'll know what to expect.

After your visit, I can provide you with a Superbill that will include the necessary diagnosis and procedural codes for you to submit to your insurance carrier. They will then reimburse you directly.

Please let me know ahead of time if you plan on submitting your receipts to your insurance company, so we can make sure your treatment falls within the parameters of what's covered by your policy.

HSA/FSA

Can I use my HSA or FSA card to pay for acupuncture?

Most HSA and FSA accounts will cover acupuncture, since it's considered an IRS-approved medical expense. Please check with your provider to confirm.

What about Reiki?

You may be able to pay for Reiki with your HSA or FSA card if you have a written prescription from your doctor showing medical necessity. Please ensure you understand your plan so as to avoid any tax penalties.

What about herbs & supplements?

Some plans may allow you to use your HSA or FSA card for herbs and supplements. Please verify with your provider.