Licensed Acupuncturist
New to acupuncture? Start here.
Acupuncture can feel unfamiliar if you've never tried it, and that's completely normal. Below are the questions I hear most from new patients, if yours isn’t listed, let’s schedule a complimentary
FAQs
How does acupuncture work?
01
Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine practice that involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body. The human body has a network of energy channels, or meridians, through which vital energy, or qi, flows. Acupuncture works by stimulating these specific points in the body to restore the flow of qi and promote the body's natural healing mechanisms. Modern research suggests that acupuncture may also work by stimulating the release of natural painkillers and anti-inflammatory substances in the body, as well as improving blood circulation and reducing stress. Acupuncture is a safe and effective treatment for a wide range of health conditions and is often used in combination with other therapies to promote overall health and wellness.
As a practitioner of Eastern medicine, it is my job to provide you with personalized treatment (acupuncture, cupping, moxibustion, gua sha, and ear seeds) designed to help your body return to a more balanced state.
What is Five Element Acupuncture?
02
Five Element Acupuncture is a constitutional style of Chinese Medicine — it treats the root cause of illness, not just the symptoms. Health is understood through five elements — Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water — each tied to specific organs, emotions, seasons, and qualities of energy.
Instead of matching a diagnosis to a protocol, this approach starts with a different question: which element is out of balance in this person, and how is that showing up as illness? That question leads to treatment that's deeply individualized — and often brings changes that go well beyond what originally brought the patient in.
How does Cosmetic Acupuncture work?
03
Tiny needles create a gentle, invisible microtrauma in the skin, which signals your body to respond — increasing blood flow and delivering oxygen and nutrients to the area. As part of that healing response, your body also produces collagen and elastin, the proteins responsible for firm, smooth, resilient skin. At the same time, specific techniques gently tone the superficial muscles of the face, offering a subtle lift around the jawline and cheeks. Together, these effects support a natural, refreshed glow from the inside out.
What is Trigger Point therapy?
04
Trigger point therapy (aka dry needling) is a technique we use in acupuncture to directly address hyperirritable spots in skeletal muscle. With gentle needle manipulation, we’re looking to create a specific response from the muscle, often felt as a brief twitch or dull ache. This response indicates that the nerve and muscle fibers are communicating, and the muscle is beginning to release.
When a trigger point forms, the muscle can become stuck in a low-level state of contraction. Over time, this reduces healthy circulation to the area, limiting oxygen and nutrient delivery. This environment can contribute to pain, stiffness, and decreased range of motion.
By releasing these points, we help restore proper blood flow and encourage the muscle fibers to reset. As the tissue softens and lengthens, patients often notice improved mobility and a reduction in pain.
Do you accept Insurance?
05
I am not in-network with any insurance providers. I can, however, give you an itemized superbill for your sessions. You then submit this receipt to your insurance provider for potential reimbursement directly.
It's important to note that reimbursement is subject to your specific insurance plan and coverage.
We recommend understanding your Explanation of Benefits (EOB) and contacting your insurance provider directly to determine what services are covered and the reimbursement process. This way, you can make informed decisions and have a clear understanding of potential out-of-pocket expenses. HSA and FSA funds are accepted.
Is acupuncture safe?
06
Acupuncture is generally considered to be a safe and non-invasive treatment. The needles used in acupuncture are very thin, about the width of a human hair, and are typically inserted just below the skin's surface, making it a relatively painless experience. Most patients report feeling little to no discomfort during an acupuncture treatment, although some may sensations of movement, warmth, dull ache, or heaviness when the needles are first inserted.
Can you receive acupuncture during pregnancy?
07
Acupuncture is safe during pregnancy and can be a wonderful support for common conditions like morning sickness, fatigue, low back pain, and sciatica. In the final weeks of pregnancy, it's also a great way to help prepare the body for labor.
How many treatments will I need?
08
That is a great question! Acupuncture treatments are personalized to each individual. Typically, acute or complex conditions require twice-weekly visits for the first 1-2 weeks, then once a week as long as symptoms continue to improve. Once symptoms are stabilized or reduced, monthly visits for preventative maintenance may be recommended. Basic cases take around 5-6 treatments, while more chronic or challenging cases can take 10 or more treatments. Some patients may choose to continue weekly or biweekly visits as part of their self-care and symptom maintenance.
What happens during my first appointment?
09
Your first visit is longer than follow-up sessions — typically 90 minutes — and it's as much a conversation as it is a treatment. I'll take a thorough intake covering your health history, current concerns, lifestyle, and goals. This is where I start to understand not just your symptoms, but the patterns underneath them.
From there, I'll put together an initial treatment plan and you'll receive your first acupuncture treatment. Some people feel energized after treatments, while others feel relaxed and a little drowsy. I encourage patients to hydrate after treatments and to prioritize rest and nourishing foods so that the effects can be fully assimilated.
How do I prepare for a treatment?
01
Before your visit
Eat a meal or snack within 2 hours of your appointment.
Wear or bring loose-fitting clothing — I'll need easy access to your arms, legs, abdomen, and back.
Come fragrance-free — please skip perfume or strongly scented products.
After your visit
02
Keep the rest of your day easy — rest helps the treatment take full effect.
Avoid alcohol for 24 hours before and after your session.
Pay attention to how you feel — shifts can be subtle at first, and what you notice helps guide your future treatments.
What is your cancellation policy?
03
I have a 24-hour cancellation policy. Patients who no-show or cancel within 24 hours of their appointment will be charged the full session fee.
Running late? It happens! If you're up to 15 minutes late, I'll do my best to accommodate you, though your treatment time will be shortened. If you're more than 15 minutes late, I may not be able to treat you that day. Please email me at lauren@grisantiacupuncture.com to let me know if you're running behind — it helps me plan the rest of my day accordingly.
Visit
Phone
929-376-9584
Studio Location
141 S 5th Street, Office West, #5
Williamsburg, Brooklyn, NY 11211
Hours
Monday - 10 pm - 7 pm
Tuesday - 10 am - 7 pm
Wednesday - 10 am - 7 pm
Thursday - 10 am - 7 pm
Friday - 9:30 am - 5 pm
Saturday - Closed
Sunday 11 am - 4 pm