What to expect at your first visit
Plan on a little over an hour. You’ll leave with a clear idea of what comes next, and how many visits are likely to help.
Your first visit, step by step
Conversation
Your history, what hurts, and what you want to get back to doing.
Pulse and touch
Robert reads the pulse at both wrists and checks the channels by touch to choose where to treat.
Treatment
Fine needles, gentle contact and sometimes moxa. Many people rest deeply on the table.
A plan
How often to come back. A typical course is 5 to 15 weekly sessions.
Common questions
How long does a visit take?
Your first visit takes about 75 minutes. It includes a detailed conversation about your health, pulse and touch diagnosis, and your first treatment. Return visits take about 45 minutes. Robert sees one patient at a time, so he is with you for the whole appointment rather than moving between rooms.
How many sessions will I need?
It depends on your condition and how long you have had it. A typical course is 5 to 15 weekly sessions. Some people notice a change after the first few visits, while long-standing problems usually take longer. Robert will talk through a likely plan at your first visit and adjust it as you go.
Does acupuncture hurt?
Most people find it much gentler than they expect. Robert is a certified Toyohari practitioner, a Japanese style that uses very fine needles and shallow insertion. Some techniques touch the skin without going in at all. You may feel a slight pinprick, tingling or a mild ache that passes quickly. Many people find treatment deeply relaxing.
What should I wear?
Wear loose, comfortable clothing. Sleeves and pant legs that roll up past the elbow and knee make it easy to reach common points on the arms and legs. Depending on where your problem is, Robert may need to reach your back or another area. He will explain what is needed before treatment begins.
What should I bring?
Bring your insurance card if you plan to use insurance, and your claim details if you are coming in after a car accident. A list of your current medications and supplements helps, along with any recent test results or imaging related to your concern. It is also worth writing down your questions beforehand.
Does insurance cover acupuncture?
Many plans do. Robert works with many insurance plans, though not Cigna, and with auto-accident personal injury protection (PIP). Coverage varies a lot from plan to plan, even within the same insurer. The simplest step is to call Robert at (206) 954-0609. He can tell you whether he takes your plan.
How do I book an appointment?
Call Robert at (206) 954-0609, email robert@thesourcepoint.net, or send a message through the contact form on this site. There is no online booking. Robert sees patients on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday, by appointment. His hours vary with his schedule, so he will work out a time with you.
Where is the clinic?
Sourcepoint Acupuncture is at 2366 Eastlake Ave E, Suite 330, Seattle, WA 98102. The clinic is in the Eastlake neighborhood, between South Lake Union and the University District. Robert has practiced in Eastlake since 2003. If you are not sure how to find the office, ask Robert for directions when you book.
Does Robert use anything besides needles?
Sometimes. Along with acupuncture, Robert may use moxibustion, a traditional warming therapy that uses a small amount of the herb mugwort. He also prescribes Chinese herbal formulas and custom flower essences when they fit your needs. He will explain anything he suggests and why, and you are always welcome to ask questions.
Questions? Ask Robert.
He’ll tell you plainly whether acupuncture is likely to help. Sees patients Monday, Wednesday and Thursday, by appointment.