The clinic is open for face to face treatments:

Tuesday 9:00am - 7:00pm (last appointment at 6pm)

Wednesday 8:00am - 5:30pm (last appointment at 4:30pm)

Thursday 9:00am - 7:00pm (last appointment at 6pm)

Virtual online and telehealth appointments: Friday mornings

I can offer out of hours appointments (outside of the clinic operating times stated above) to cater for those undergoing IVF/ART cycles, subject to availability.

Acupuncture is suitable for all, from babies and children to the elderly. There are only a few exceptions.

Some people turn to acupuncture for help with a specific symptom or condition such as menstrual issues or low back pain, or because they feel generally unwell with no obvious diagnosis. Others choose to have treatment to help optimise and maintain good health, as a preventive measure, or simply to improve their general sense of wellbeing.

Because traditional acupuncture aims to treat the whole person rather than specific symptoms in isolation, it can be effective for a range of conditions and each patient’s treatment plan will be different. However, you can always ask me about other patients’ experiences, to give you an idea of what to expect.

Many people return to acupuncture again and again because they find it so relaxing and a beneficial support with life’s challenges.

If you are looking for the research evidence for the treatment of a condition with acupuncture then the British Acupuncture Council maintain a comprehensive set of summaries on their website READ HERE

I have over 20 years experience in general practice and can work with most conditions that cross my path, or have the experience to know if it isn’t a condition or situation I’m likely to be able to help with.

Yes, you are in safe, experienced and knowledgeable hands.

I offer an integrated and holistic approach using acupuncture, bodywork and coaching for couples facing fertility challenges and have done so for more than 15 years. Supporting your emotional journey will always be at the heart of my approach. I have a well-versed understanding of western protocols and procedures for ART and IVF, with a clear understanding of the NHS gynaecology and referral systems. I am a member of the Association of Acupuncture Clinicians, the British Acupuncture Federation, the Acupuncture Fertility Network and the British Fertility Society. I have completed many hours of additional training in gynaecology, IVF support and obstetrics with some of the best experts in the field.

In 2018 I completed the Advanced Level Diploma in Fertility Support Acupuncture with Naava Carmen. This is a new and pioneering qualification for practitioners that brings together, and bridges Western diagnostic techniques with traditional Chinese treatments. This training, with leading fertility consultants, experts and an embryologist further developed my understanding and success working with patients suffering from complex reproductive immunology issues, endometriosis, PCOS, and patients undergoing IVF and ICSI. I am one of a small and growing group of Fertility Support Company Affiliates. In complex fertility cases I may recommend working in collaboration with my colleagues who practice Chinese Herbal Medicine, Functional Nutrition or Western Medicine.

There is evidence that acupuncture treatment around embryo transfer is beneficial and can improve implantation, ongoing pregnancy and live birth rates so if I have space in my schedule I may be able to help – reach out and get in touch with me.

My experience, advanced level training in Fertility support Acupuncture and the most recent research suggests that regular treatment with acupuncture in the months prior to IUI/IVF/FET are more effective for supporting successful outcomes. In light of this, my preferred clinic protocol is to see my patients weekly for the 12 weeks prior to commencing an assisted cycle in order to positively influence hormone balance, blood flow, uterine lining, follicular recruitment, immune system, and egg quality. I see it as a little bit like preparing the garden before you plant your seeds.

Choose someone that feels right and trust your instinct. There are a few things to be aware of when choosing an acupuncturist:

What is the practitioners level of acupuncture specific training? In the UK anybody can call themselves an acupuncturist or perform acupuncture regardless of their level of training or experience. I completed a four-year degree level training in Acupuncture at the Northern College of Acupuncture and have been in practice since 2000. I continue to invest in my knowledge and skills and am a member of the Association Acupuncture Clinicians, The British Acupuncture Federation. They sets the highest standards of education, safe and ethical practice and continuous professional development.

Do you want an acupuncturist with advanced training and experience in a specific area? All degree-level acupuncture courses equip their successful graduates to be in general practice. You may however wish to work with someone who has additional experience and training in a certain area such as fertility and pregnancy support, or pain management.

Most importantly, do you feel at ease? Speak with an acupuncturist about your specific well-being issues and ask questions. Do you feel they understand you, can put you at ease and that you can work with them.

“Does it hurt?” is often the first question that people ask. Acupuncture involves the insertion of very fine needles into the body and I’ve had years to develop a style that is comfortable to experience. Acupuncture is not painful but it is also not without sensation, I do want you to feel a very subtle, gentle change when the needles are in place. You may experience this as a mild and momentary feeling of tingling, numbness, aching or contraction. Stomach rumbling and a feeling of relaxation, deeper breathing, slower thoughts and a pleasant sensation of expansion are common. I will talk you through it all and put you at ease.

I am registered and licensed with the local council and practice under the robust safe practice and covid guidelines of the Association of Acupuncture Clinicians. All needles are sterile, with packages opened in front of you, and are disposed of at the end of your treatment. Acupuncture has a very low level of adverse responses, about 1 in 10,000.

How quickly you respond can depend on many factors including your age, your general health and lifestyle, how long you have been suffering with your condition and what medication you are taking.

Commonly patients say the first thing is they notice within 1 or 2 treatments is that they "feel better in themselves" from the first treatment with an:

increased sense of wellbeing and relaxation

a better ability to cope with all life throws at them

more energy

more restful sleep

improved mood

a reduction in stressy feelings and tension

Each treatment builds on the previous one as you settle into a new way of being, moving, responding and flowing - the benefits build. Some clients respond almost miraculously. Usually you will feel some benefits within the first couple of treatments and full benefits after a course of treatment. All treatment plans are unique to the individual and I will be able to discuss your recommended treatment plan with you after your initial orientation consultation appointment once I have all the information to make an assessment.

Please make sure you have completed any necessary paperwork, including sending tongue photographs within the requested time before your appointment.

Most clients favour looser fitting, comfortable clothes when dressing for their appointments. I may well be choosing to use points on your tummy, back and limbs so please bear this in mind when choosing your garments.

Avoid rich, heavy meals, alcohol, drugs and high sugar and caffeine intake before treatment. It is best to eat a light meal and drink some water an hour or two before attending the clinic.

I usually have a short list of clients waiting to work with me. I limit the number of clients that I see so that I can provide high quality, well researched treatments at the necessary frequency to appropriately support your needs and keep my training updated.

I am a member of the Association of Acupuncture Clinicians (AAC) (part of the British Acupuncture Federation (BAF)), and as such, you may find that you could claim back some, or all of your treatment costs if you have private health insurance or a health cashback policy. You should check your cover with your provider and some will require GP or consultant referral before commencing treatment.

I cannot claim payments from your health insurance company or cashback scheme on your behalf. You should pay for your treatments in full and then a receipt will be provided on request for you to make your claim.