What should I expect at my first appointment with Harvest Seed Acupuncture?
During your first visit, we will review your completed forms (assessment form, privacy and consent for treatment). We will decide a plan and treat your main complaint. Generally, the firt appointment can last up to 90 minutes. Plese allow time for this in your day. Thanks for showing up on-time.
Rhonda will take time getting to know you, where you live and work. To gain insight on your health, will ask questions about general symptoms, sleeping habits, digestion, and emotional state. I will check your pulse and tongue because it will indicate the current state of your health.
Your treatment may include such modalities (options) as Acupuncture, Cupping, Gua Sha, Moxa, Ear (auricular) Therapy, and Herbal Consultation. Many times, your treatment can be a combination of some of the modalities that are most beneficial to balance your body and bring restoration. Most importantly, we want you to be comfortable with your treatment.
I will be responsible for reviewing your health information that I have received 48 hours prior to your visit. Information that you share is always confidential. I look forward to building a practitioner-patient relationship with you.
Please refrain from wearing perfume or heavy cologne on your visit. Book here for appointment
How does acupuncture work?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) focuses on each person as an individual where we look at the root of your health concerns, not just treating the symptoms. This medicine was designed more than 3,000 years ago in China. The Chinese were brilliant at mapping out the body and seeing changes in one’s physical and emotional health. There are about 360 points on the body plus extra special points.
Our bodies have meridians (like little rivers and streams – IE: nervous system) that activate Qi (pronounced “Chee”) which promotes natural healing. My job as a practitioner is to recognize what areas in your body need a “jump start” to restore your body to balance. Each needling sensation (Rhonda is gentle in needling), stimulates the body’s Qi to increase bodily systems functions. Qi may be insufficient, weaken, or blocked by stagnation. By placing the needles in a specific area of the body, we want to disperse the blockage, stimulate activity and bring the body back into balance by moving neurotransmitters in our body. TCM looks at Qi and blood as two functional entities that carry nutrients and protect our body during our life. Our bodies have inflammatory markers to signal when something is wrong. When using Acupuncture, the brain releases endorphins to begin stimulation.
If you have a chronic condition, treatment sessions may take longer and more often to get the body back into balance. Remember, you did not get this way overnight. Harvest Seed Acupuncture may use other treatment options as well – click here to see.
In the last several decades, Acupuncture (and its modalities) have become a way of treatment alongside Western healthcare including hospital and clinics. Studies have shown that patients increase their recovery time, reduce the need for pain medications dependence with the use of CAM (Complimentary Alternative Medicine).
Want to read more? Here is an overview of Acupuncture, remember, this is an all-inclusive term. Here is a complete listing of what Acupuncture treats:
How should I prepare for my first appointment?
Complete all necessary forms at least 12-24 hours prior to your appointment with Harvest Seed Acupuncture. You will find the forms link embedded in the email confirmation for your appointment. ** The forms are NOT located on the website nor in paper copies. Do NOT complete on cell phone. Allow about 90 minutes for your first appointment. Eat a light meal (breakfast, lunch, dinner) a few hours before your appointment. Refrain from using alcohol prior to your treatment. Please wear “Loose” comfortable clothing as often you can remain in your own clothes during treatment. Please refrain from wearing perfume or heavy cologne on your visit.
At times, we may ask you remove some clothing to access points on your body. We will drape you for privacy. In observation and initial interview, we will observe your tongue. Avoid brushing your tongue during teeth cleaning as this may alter the look of your tongue. We look forward to meeting you.
How many treatments will I need?
This depends totally on the severity of your health condition. Typically, your first follow-up appointment is requested one week after your first treatment, so you get the most benefit out of your treatment plan. Additional appointments are scheduled accordingly after the discussion of your treatment plan.
With the required 720 clinical hours while doing my master’s program, I was able to observe patients that responded well to the treatment and others needed follow-up for several weeks. Many patients have received tender care in the decade Rhonda has been in practice.
If you are experiencing a lot of pain or discomfort, we may request that your treatments be more frequent to restore your body back to a good state of balance. A chronic state will take longer to treat.
We are here to help- you have come to the correct place. Harvest Seed Acupuncture will suggest maintenance “tune-ups” to maintain the restorative state for your body; much like you change the tires in your care, getting your teeth cleaned or clearing out your perennial plants after the Fall Harvest season.
Do the needles hurt?
From Leslie Alian on Google Review: Initially the needles were a fear of hers. Rhonda was quick to address this…you don’t need to insert the needles always, “taping the needles” to specific points has done wonders. Rhonda is very gentile in needling her patients. Often, you may feel nothing at all; however sometimes a patient may feel a warm sensation, tingling (like butterflies in your tummy – which was my first experience), or a slight mild pinching (mosquito bite) sensation. All these sensations are normal and expected. There are different needling techniques that I may use to enhance the benefits of your treatment. The needles that our profession uses are about the size of a few hairs which are quickly inserted. We only use sterilized and prepackages for each individual use.
At Harvest Seed Acupuncture, we properly dispose our needles after one-time usage. Typically, on a first visit, we may use fewer needles. Rhonda is licensed by the Minnesota Board of Medical Practice and certified by the National Commission for the Certification of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine with continued training every four years.
How long do the needles stay in?
Needles will typically stay in about 20-30 minutes. Your individual treatment starts with lying on a comfortable table, in a quiet atmosphere. I will periodically “check” on you if desired. I ask that you refrain from getting off the table during the treatment. (perhaps use the bathroom prior to treatment). The table is elevated for ease of entry and exit.
Do I have to believe in Acupuncture for the treatment to be effective?
There are many modalities (options for treatment) other than Acupuncture that we may use for your treatment plan. (The term “Acupuncture” is an all-inclusive term). It is important to come with an open mind and heart to promote your healing. Many times, our bodies need just a little “jump start” to bring us back to balance and harmony by allowing the channels in our body to be open for change.
What can I expect after treatment?
Each patient’s results are different depending on what they are being treated for. In general, most patients feel rested and relaxed, more focused and rest better at night. Rarely does one feel sore atter a treatment.
SUGGESTION: Avoid a shower two to three hours after the treatment as well as avoid vigorous exercise and alcohol for six to eight hours. Get a good night’s sleep and keep your stress level at a minimum. Begin to prepare for your next visit with Harves Seed Acupuncture. Take notes about your health concerns, such as pain level, frequency in addressing your main complaint. Write down questions and ask Rhonda on your next visit.
Do you as a practitioner get treated?
Yes, absolutely I do. It is important to take care of my personal health (spiritually through my relationship with Christ), mental with proper nutrition to keep my mind sharp, physically with walking almost every day, getting a good night’s sleep, and emotionally (being watchful that I keep myself balanced) so that I can be the best practitioner for my patients.
May I bring my young child to an appointment?
Absolutely. There are many options to treating your child such as food nutritional therapy, laser light therapy (your child will see a mini flashlight) which we spotlight the “point” for a few seconds, Tui Na (massage) and acupressure which is lightly pressing on a body point for treatment.
Rhonda has treated children at the University of Minnesota Masonic Children’s Hospital during her clinical rotations.
Parents: Rhonda has a few toys for your children to play with while we briefly talk about your child’s concerns for an appointment.
Book here for appointment
During your first visit, we will review your completed forms (assessment form, privacy and consent for treatment). We will decide a plan and treat your main complaint. Generally, the firt appointment can last up to 90 minutes. Plese allow time for this in your day. Thanks for showing up on-time.
Rhonda will take time getting to know you, where you live and work. To gain insight on your health, will ask questions about general symptoms, sleeping habits, digestion, and emotional state. I will check your pulse and tongue because it will indicate the current state of your health.
Your treatment may include such modalities (options) as Acupuncture, Cupping, Gua Sha, Moxa, Ear (auricular) Therapy, and Herbal Consultation. Many times, your treatment can be a combination of some of the modalities that are most beneficial to balance your body and bring restoration. Most importantly, we want you to be comfortable with your treatment.
I will be responsible for reviewing your health information that I have received 48 hours prior to your visit. Information that you share is always confidential. I look forward to building a practitioner-patient relationship with you.
Please refrain from wearing perfume or heavy cologne on your visit. Book here for appointment
How does acupuncture work?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) focuses on each person as an individual where we look at the root of your health concerns, not just treating the symptoms. This medicine was designed more than 3,000 years ago in China. The Chinese were brilliant at mapping out the body and seeing changes in one’s physical and emotional health. There are about 360 points on the body plus extra special points.
Our bodies have meridians (like little rivers and streams – IE: nervous system) that activate Qi (pronounced “Chee”) which promotes natural healing. My job as a practitioner is to recognize what areas in your body need a “jump start” to restore your body to balance. Each needling sensation (Rhonda is gentle in needling), stimulates the body’s Qi to increase bodily systems functions. Qi may be insufficient, weaken, or blocked by stagnation. By placing the needles in a specific area of the body, we want to disperse the blockage, stimulate activity and bring the body back into balance by moving neurotransmitters in our body. TCM looks at Qi and blood as two functional entities that carry nutrients and protect our body during our life. Our bodies have inflammatory markers to signal when something is wrong. When using Acupuncture, the brain releases endorphins to begin stimulation.
If you have a chronic condition, treatment sessions may take longer and more often to get the body back into balance. Remember, you did not get this way overnight. Harvest Seed Acupuncture may use other treatment options as well – click here to see.
In the last several decades, Acupuncture (and its modalities) have become a way of treatment alongside Western healthcare including hospital and clinics. Studies have shown that patients increase their recovery time, reduce the need for pain medications dependence with the use of CAM (Complimentary Alternative Medicine).
Want to read more? Here is an overview of Acupuncture, remember, this is an all-inclusive term. Here is a complete listing of what Acupuncture treats:
- General Health Concerns: Depression, Anxiety, Chronic Fatigue, Digestive issues including indigestion, Chronic constipation, High blood pressure, Skin issues, Headaches/Migraines, Chronic Pain including Musculoskeletal concerns, Back Pain and Sleep Concerns. Pediatrics: Asthma, Cough, Digestive problems, Ear infections, and Sleep concerns
- Preventive Health: Stress management, Wellness, and Seasonal tune-up (May I suggest this before heading into a new season (fall, spring) that affects your respiratory system annually.
- Men’s Health: Bladder, Prostate, Infertility, Impotence
- Women’s Health: Menstrual concerns, Perimenopause, Menopause, Postpartum depression, Uterine Fibroids, Childbirth (overdue), Lactation concerns, Pregnancy/Morning Sickness. Rhonda is also available for birthing support with your midwife. ** Please share with Rhonda if you are pregnant or think there may be a possibly that you are.
How should I prepare for my first appointment?
Complete all necessary forms at least 12-24 hours prior to your appointment with Harvest Seed Acupuncture. You will find the forms link embedded in the email confirmation for your appointment. ** The forms are NOT located on the website nor in paper copies. Do NOT complete on cell phone. Allow about 90 minutes for your first appointment. Eat a light meal (breakfast, lunch, dinner) a few hours before your appointment. Refrain from using alcohol prior to your treatment. Please wear “Loose” comfortable clothing as often you can remain in your own clothes during treatment. Please refrain from wearing perfume or heavy cologne on your visit.
At times, we may ask you remove some clothing to access points on your body. We will drape you for privacy. In observation and initial interview, we will observe your tongue. Avoid brushing your tongue during teeth cleaning as this may alter the look of your tongue. We look forward to meeting you.
How many treatments will I need?
This depends totally on the severity of your health condition. Typically, your first follow-up appointment is requested one week after your first treatment, so you get the most benefit out of your treatment plan. Additional appointments are scheduled accordingly after the discussion of your treatment plan.
With the required 720 clinical hours while doing my master’s program, I was able to observe patients that responded well to the treatment and others needed follow-up for several weeks. Many patients have received tender care in the decade Rhonda has been in practice.
If you are experiencing a lot of pain or discomfort, we may request that your treatments be more frequent to restore your body back to a good state of balance. A chronic state will take longer to treat.
We are here to help- you have come to the correct place. Harvest Seed Acupuncture will suggest maintenance “tune-ups” to maintain the restorative state for your body; much like you change the tires in your care, getting your teeth cleaned or clearing out your perennial plants after the Fall Harvest season.
Do the needles hurt?
From Leslie Alian on Google Review: Initially the needles were a fear of hers. Rhonda was quick to address this…you don’t need to insert the needles always, “taping the needles” to specific points has done wonders. Rhonda is very gentile in needling her patients. Often, you may feel nothing at all; however sometimes a patient may feel a warm sensation, tingling (like butterflies in your tummy – which was my first experience), or a slight mild pinching (mosquito bite) sensation. All these sensations are normal and expected. There are different needling techniques that I may use to enhance the benefits of your treatment. The needles that our profession uses are about the size of a few hairs which are quickly inserted. We only use sterilized and prepackages for each individual use.
At Harvest Seed Acupuncture, we properly dispose our needles after one-time usage. Typically, on a first visit, we may use fewer needles. Rhonda is licensed by the Minnesota Board of Medical Practice and certified by the National Commission for the Certification of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine with continued training every four years.
How long do the needles stay in?
Needles will typically stay in about 20-30 minutes. Your individual treatment starts with lying on a comfortable table, in a quiet atmosphere. I will periodically “check” on you if desired. I ask that you refrain from getting off the table during the treatment. (perhaps use the bathroom prior to treatment). The table is elevated for ease of entry and exit.
Do I have to believe in Acupuncture for the treatment to be effective?
There are many modalities (options for treatment) other than Acupuncture that we may use for your treatment plan. (The term “Acupuncture” is an all-inclusive term). It is important to come with an open mind and heart to promote your healing. Many times, our bodies need just a little “jump start” to bring us back to balance and harmony by allowing the channels in our body to be open for change.
What can I expect after treatment?
Each patient’s results are different depending on what they are being treated for. In general, most patients feel rested and relaxed, more focused and rest better at night. Rarely does one feel sore atter a treatment.
SUGGESTION: Avoid a shower two to three hours after the treatment as well as avoid vigorous exercise and alcohol for six to eight hours. Get a good night’s sleep and keep your stress level at a minimum. Begin to prepare for your next visit with Harves Seed Acupuncture. Take notes about your health concerns, such as pain level, frequency in addressing your main complaint. Write down questions and ask Rhonda on your next visit.
Do you as a practitioner get treated?
Yes, absolutely I do. It is important to take care of my personal health (spiritually through my relationship with Christ), mental with proper nutrition to keep my mind sharp, physically with walking almost every day, getting a good night’s sleep, and emotionally (being watchful that I keep myself balanced) so that I can be the best practitioner for my patients.
May I bring my young child to an appointment?
Absolutely. There are many options to treating your child such as food nutritional therapy, laser light therapy (your child will see a mini flashlight) which we spotlight the “point” for a few seconds, Tui Na (massage) and acupressure which is lightly pressing on a body point for treatment.
Rhonda has treated children at the University of Minnesota Masonic Children’s Hospital during her clinical rotations.
Parents: Rhonda has a few toys for your children to play with while we briefly talk about your child’s concerns for an appointment.
Book here for appointment