A: My door is open to all who need my services. Chinese medicine can tackle any health concern. However, I've chosen as one of my specialties to address the health concerns my transgendered clients as they are largely overlooked in mainstream Chinese medical practice and discourse.  

That all being said I have never seen a transgendered client present with any other traditional Chinese diagnosis that a client who is not transgendered hasn't presented with. Of course! 

But people seek me out for the simple fact that I try my best to know the most and help the most, always with kindness and care. 

A: If you are undergoing gender confirmation surgery, two months prior to your surgery date is the best time to begin. Traditional Chinese medicine is natural and needs time to address your body’s imbalances and weaknesses.

Also if you or your medical doctor believe that you are particularly ill-equipped  for the challenges of surgery (blood loss, pain, weakness, nausea, etc.) or if you have a preexisting condition (anxiety, depression, irritable bowel syndrome, insomnia,  hypothyroidism, diabetes, etc.), then you should begin acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine as soon as possible for the most dynamic preparation.

Additionally, acupuncture and herbal support is beneficial even post this two-month window to aid in healing and counteract surgical and hormonal therapy side-effects.

Additionally, acupuncture and herbal support is beneficial even post this two-month window to aid in healing and counteract surgical and hormonal therapy side-effects.

*If you are unsure as to when to begin and how Traditional Chinese Medicine can help you, please call New Mission Acupuncture and I will be happy to answer any of your questions.

A: At your first visit you will fill out a detailed health history form. I will then ask you a series of questions to further distinguish your body's strengths and weaknesses. I'll look at your tongue and evaluate your pulse. Both are methods of diagnosis that are the cornerstone of traditional Chinese medical diagnosis. Then I will formulate a course of treatment based on your constitution and your health goals. This initial evaluation will take about 1 hour. 

You will then lay on an acupuncture treatment table supported by pillows, bolsters, and blankets. 8 to 12 hair-thin needles will then be inserted into various acupuncture points on your body. Most people feel a deep sense of relaxation during this process as the needles correct the subtle imbalances in your body. 

After 25-35 minutes the needles are removed and during that time if necessary you will receive a few minutes of Tui Na massage, moxa heat-therapy, or cupping massage. 

Scar treatment therapy requires that I actively massage and warm your scars with moxabustion. if needed, a longer treatment will be scheduled to accommodate your scar treatment therapy.