Karen practices Japanese acupuncture, which uses especially thin needles and a gentle technique — making it ideal even for sensitive patients or first-timers. Most people feel little to no discomfort during insertion and often describe sessions as deeply relaxing, sometimes even falling asleep on the table.

Karen works with a wide range of concerns, including stress and anxiety, fertility support, allergies, digestive issues (IBS, bloating), hormonal imbalances (PCOS, irregular cycles, thyroid), and chronic pain. She also offers Chinese herbal consultations for conditions that benefit from a more root-cause approach.

Both share the same foundational principles of working with the body's energy pathways, but Japanese acupuncture tends to use finer needles, shallower insertion, and a lighter touch overall. It places a strong emphasis on palpation and pulse diagnosis to guide treatment. Karen trained in both traditions and finds Japanese technique especially effective for patients who are new to acupuncture or have a lower pain threshold.

It varies depending on your health goals and how long you've been experiencing a condition. Acute issues often respond within a few sessions, while chronic or complex conditions typically benefit from a consistent course of care over several weeks. Karen will discuss a personalized plan with you at your first visit so you know what to expect.

Come with a light meal in your stomach — avoid arriving on an empty stomach or right after a heavy meal. Wear or bring loose, comfortable clothing that allows easy access to your arms, legs, and abdomen. Plan to arrive a few minutes early for your first visit, as Karen will take time to understand your health history before beginning treatment.