My Philosophy:

Since I began practicing acupuncture nearly 11 years ago, the field has become increasingly embraced by the medical community and the general population as an exceptional therapeutic modality in the treatment of many common ailments. However, there continue to be many who are not proponents of acupuncture or other forms of integrative care for various reasons. They may never have been exposed to anything other than conventional medicine, or perhaps they have had some experience with it but were unsuccessfully treated. It is my job to educate my patients and make sure they are comfortable and have a base level of knowledge on the treatments I am administering.

Over the years many of my colleagues have developed an "anti conventional medicine" attitude. They have become completely averse to the use of medication (even if a patient needs it), and may even discourage their patients from consulting a physician for most ailments. Let’s face it, if you are hit by a car or suffer a heart attack, you are not immediately running to your acupuncturist. Many in my field feel that integrative medicine is a "cure all." Not only is this a dangerous and irresponsible attitude, it is just as tenacious as conventional medicine dismissing anything outside of its scope as a "sham" or a waste of time. I have not and would not EVER encourage anyone from discontinuing one’s therapy/ medication regimen without first consulting with his/her physician.

It is my belief that the best pathway to healing is often achieved through a combination of an Eastern and a Western approach. Just because you are taking medication, receiving physical therapy, etc., does not mean you cannot receive acupuncture simultaneously. In fact, acupuncture often works as an exceptional adjunct to these types of treatments. In many cases a patient has exhausted all forms of traditional therapy and chooses to use acupuncture as a last resort before surgery, epidural injections, etc. Others may use acupuncture for expediting post operative healing.

Ultimately, my first priority is you, the patient. If I do not feel that I am able to treat your condition from the start, or you are not responding favorably to acupuncture, I will do my absolute best to guide you to someone who may be able to help you.