The acupuncture I practice is traditional. Concretely, this means I do not work with standardised protocols: every session starts from your story, your feelings and an energy assessment carried out on the day itself.
Many people write to me to ask what an acupuncture session looks like. That is understandable: you do not always know what to expect, especially when you have never had one.
In this article, I will explain how I work, how long a session lasts, what it costs and how to prepare.
How does an acupuncture session work?
The first session lasts about 1h15. It is longer than the following ones because it includes a complete energy assessment.
- The welcome and the listening: I start by welcoming you and listening to you. You tell me what brings you here, your story, your symptoms, your daily life. This step is essential: it allows me to understand your situation as a whole.
- The energy assessment: I take your Chinese pulse (pulse reading at both wrists), I observe your face, your complexion, your tongue, your gaze. Every detail is a sign. The energy assessment is not a medical diagnosis: it is a different reading, specific to traditional Chinese medicine.
- The placement of the needles: Based on the assessment, I choose the acupuncture points to stimulate. The needles are very fine, much finer than a blood-drawing needle. The sensation is light, sometimes a slight tingling or a feeling of warmth. Nothing painful. You remain lying down for 20 to 30 minutes, in the calm, while the needles do their work.
- The follow-up and the advice: After the session, I share my observations with you and give you personalised advice (diet, breathing, lifestyle).
What are the prices?
The price of a traditional acupuncture session is €65.
- First session (assessment + treatment): €65
- Follow-up sessions: €65
Payment is made by cheque or cash at the end of the session.
Is it reimbursed?
Acupuncture is not covered by the French National Health Insurance (Sécurité sociale). However, many health insurance plans cover all or part of acupuncture sessions. Check with your health insurance plan to find out about your coverage.
Why choose traditional acupuncture?
The acupuncture I practice has nothing to do with a standard quick office-based acupuncture session. Each person is unique, each imbalance has its own origin. My work is not about mechanically placing needles on predefined areas.
I carry out an energy assessment at every session, based on your state on the day. The pulse, the face, the tongue: all of this tells me your body's story. And it is from that story that I choose the points to treat.
Where do the sessions take place?
I see you at the practice located at 51 rue de Belfort, 92400 Courbevoie, a stone's throw from La Défense. The practice is accessible by metro (line 1, Esplanade de la Défense station, or line L, Courbevoie station).
I am available on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays, from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm.
Conclusion
Traditional acupuncture is a gentle approach, deeply respectful of your body. It does not replace medical treatment, but it can wonderfully accompany it.
If you have questions, doubts or simply feel like talking about it, you can contact me with no obligation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does it hurt? ▼
No, in general. The needles used are very fine, much finer than a blood-drawing needle. Most people describe a light sensation, sometimes a slight tingling when the needle is placed, then nothing more. Some points can give a feeling of heaviness or warmth, which is normal and temporary.
How many sessions are needed? ▼
It depends entirely on your situation and your history. Some people feel better after the first session, others need follow-up over several weeks. We discuss this together at the first appointment, with no commitment.
Can I come if I am on medical treatment? ▼
Yes. Traditional acupuncture is complementary to your medical follow-up, it never replaces it. Continue your ongoing treatments and simply mention them during the discussion at the start of the session, so that I have a complete picture of your situation.
Are there any contraindications? ▼
Yes, some situations require adapting or postponing the session, particularly during the first two days of your period and the first three months of pregnancy. Don't hesitate to let me know before your appointment if you are affected.
Is it reimbursed by the Sécurité sociale or my health insurance plan? ▼
Acupuncture is not covered by the French National Health Insurance (Sécurité sociale). Some health insurance plans do reimburse part or all of the session: check directly with yours. I do not have an ADELI number, so it is important to verify the reimbursement conditions specific to your contract.
What should I plan before a session? ▼
Nothing special. Simply avoid coming on an empty stomach or right after a very heavy meal, and if possible wear comfortable clothing allowing easy access to the arms, legs and feet.
What is the difference from a medical diagnosis? ▼
The energy assessment I carry out (observation of the tongue, pulse reading) is not a medical diagnosis and in no way replaces the opinion of your doctor. It is a different reading, specific to traditional Chinese medicine, which sheds light on your situation from another angle.
Ready to try traditional acupuncture?
Book your first session at the practice in Courbevoie. Complete energy assessment, attentive listening, personalised treatment. €65.