Acupuncture FAQ
Acupuncture is part of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), a healthcare system that has been used for thousands of years. TCM looks at the person as a whole, taking into account lifestyle, stress, emotions, sleep and overall wellbeing.
Body and mind are closely connected. When this balance is disturbed, symptoms may arise. Acupuncture uses very fine, sterile, single-use needles placed at specific points on the body to support balance — by improving flow, releasing tension or supporting areas where energy is low.
Each treatment is based on an individual assessment, including a conversation and pulse and tongue observation. When helpful, lifestyle or nutritional advice may be added.
Acupuncture can be used for a wide range of complaints and generally has few to no side effects. It is often chosen as a complementary treatment alongside Western medical care, not as a replacement.
People commonly seek acupuncture for:
- Stress, burn-out and tension
- Sleep problems
- Headaches
- Allergies (such as hay fever)
- Joint pain or limited mobility
- Recurrent or chronic colds
- Complaints related to menstruation, pregnancy and (peri)menopause
The World Health Organization (WHO) has compiled a list of conditions for which acupuncture may be beneficial (indicatielijst acupunctuur).
No. You can make an appointment without a referral. If you are receiving medical care elsewhere, this will be taken into account.
Yes. Acupuncture is safe when performed by a qualified practitioner. I use sterile, single-use needles and always take your medical history into account.
Yes. Acupuncture is often used alongside Western medicine. It can be supportive, but it does not replace medical care.
The first appointment starts with an in-depth conversation about your symptoms, medical history and general wellbeing. Pulse and tongue assessment are part of the intake. You will then rest with the needles for about 20–30 minutes.
This varies per person and complaint. For many people, 3 to 8 sessions are sufficient. Treatments usually start once a week and are spaced further apart as symptoms improve.
First consultation: approx. 90 minutes
Follow-up sessions: approx. 45 minutes
Some supplementary insurance packages reimburse acupuncture. Coverage depends on your policy, so please check with your insurer.
Yes. Treatments are available in English. I regularly work with expats and understand the challenges of navigating healthcare in a new country.
With over 30 years of experience in healthcare and my current work in a hospital setting, I am used to working with complex conditions and in collaboration with other healthcare professionals. This careful, medically informed approach is central to my acupuncture practice.