The AH!HA Experience
One of the many deterrents to seeking alternative or complementary health care is not knowing what to expect. While acupuncture seems mysterious enough, the experience need not be. We (the practitioners at AH!HA) would like to explain the process of getting treatment in our clinic in a step-by-step fashion.
Step 1: Schedule An Appointment
Our hours of operation are 9 AM to 6 PM Monday through Friday with extended hours on Wednesday until 9PM. Our goal is to help as many people as possible and after hour and Saturday appointments can be arranged. To make an appointment, please call 512-458-2442. If your call goes to voice mail during business hours, we are with patients. Please leave a message and we will get back to you within the hour.
Step 2: Health History
In order for us to provide the best quality of care possible it is important that we have a detailed record about you and your health history. Additionally, taking your time and being thorough gives you a chance to reflect on your complete health picture and goals. There are two options for filling out this paperwork: 1) you may download and print the forms found under Patient Forms or 2) arrive approximately 20 minutes prior to your appointment where we will provide you a copy.
Step 3: The Initial Consultation
At AH!HA it is important for us to get to know you and your health concerns in depth and for that reason your first appointment with us is a consultation only. We spend approximately 1 hour listening to you in order to determine whether we think TCM/acupuncture can help you. We also take the time to talk about TCM/acupuncture in relationship to your concerns in order to help you make an educated decision about whether to pursue care with AH!HA.
Step 4: Initial Treatments
Because acupuncture and other TCM treatments effect each person in a unique way, it is difficult to answer the question "How many treatments will it take?" until we have treated you a few times and can better gauge how you will respond to treatment. For this reason, at the end of the initial consultation, if we think we can help you, we will suggest an initial package of 4 treatments. During these visits we can assess how you are responding and better formulate a plan of care. Please plan on 1 1/2 hours and come comfortably dressed whenever possible.
Step 5: Follow-up Appointments
If your care requires more treatment, you and your practitioner will develop your plan of care based on your health objectives. These appointments include regular reassessment of your progress and goals. The frequency of your visits to our clinic is not only progress and goal oriented, but also driven by your own schedule. We believe receiving acupuncture should not interfere with the rest of your life. Please plan on 1 hour per session and come comfortably dressed whenever possible.
After Your Treatment
Although each person's reaction is different, most people feel very relaxed after receiving acupuncture. Additionally, you might feel like taking a nap or you may feel lighter and more energized. Ninety percent of the time you will experience a degree of symptomatic relief, however you should not be alarmed if there is no immediate change or if there is a temporary increase in discomfort. Usually by the end of the day or the next day, you will notice a change for the better in your body. If you are at all concerned about the results of your treatment, please call us. Our concern for your well being does not end when you walk out the door.
Cancellation Policy
Our cancellation policy was developed in order to ensure that all of our patients in need can be seen in a timely manner. While we appreciate that unforeseen events and emergencies do happen, we ask that you call us within 24 hours of your scheduled appointment time should you need to cancel or reschedule. We are grateful for your understanding.
You can read and print out our Cancellation Policy in our Patient Forms section.