Frequently Asked Questions
Guidance and answers about our practice, traditional Chinese medicine, and what to expect during your journey to health.
About Treatment
Acupuncture needles are extremely fine, often compared to the thickness of a human hair. While sensations varying from a dull ache to a slight tingle may be felt when the needle connects with the qi (energy), it is generally a relaxing and virtually painless experience. Many of our patients even fall asleep during their session.
This varies depending on the nature, severity, and chronicity of your condition. Some patients notice changes within a few sessions, while chronic or complex issues (like fertility support) typically require a longer, sustained approach over weeks or months. Individual responses vary. Maria will discuss a tailored treatment timeline during your initial consultation.
Yes. When performed by a qualified, registered practitioner, acupuncture is entirely safe throughout all trimesters of pregnancy. We utilize specific point protocols to ensure safety and comfort, frequently treating pregnancy-related nausea, back pain, and assisting with labour preparation.
Appointments & Fees
Yes, we are registered with HICAPS, allowing for swift, on-the-spot claiming from most major Australian health funds, provided your 'Extras' policy covers Acupuncture.
No, a referral is not required to see an acupuncturist or Chinese medicine practitioner. You can book directly with us.
We ask for at least 24 hours' notice if you need to cancel or re-schedule your appointment to accommodate others on our waitlist. Late cancellations may incur a fee.
Visiting the Clinic
Three free council car parks sit within a four to six minute walk. Ellen Street is the pick of them, signed free for four hours between 8am and 8pm, which covers an initial consultation comfortably. Hamilton Street, entered off Merton Street, is the largest and allows two hours between 8am and 6pm, as does Merton Street. There are metered spaces on Darling Street directly outside us, and for a longer visit Rozelle Parklands on Lilyfield Road has no time limit at all. One thing to avoid: Belmore and Red Lion streets are the closest to us but are signed one hour, ticket only, which is less time than an appointment takes.See the full parking guide →
Saturday between 9am and 3pm. The Rozelle Collectors Market runs at Rozelle Public School just up Darling Street and the whole strip fills up, and it is also the day rangers are most active. Worth knowing that almost every sign on the surrounding streets reads 8am to 10pm with no weekday-only wording, so the time limits apply on Saturdays exactly as they do midweek. Allow an extra ten minutes and use one of the car parks rather than gambling on a street space. Evenings are the quietest, and the Darling Street meters switch off after hours.
Yes, and it is often easier than driving. The Darling St at Waterloo St bus stop is essentially at our door, served by routes 500, 501, 502, 504, M50 and M52 among others. Victoria Road stops are about three minutes away on foot, and the L1 light rail at Rozelle Bay or Lilyfield is roughly a fifteen minute walk.
Still have questions?
We are here to help. Reach out to the clinic directly and our team will gladly provide the information you need.