What to Expect at Your First Acupuncture Visit at Elemental Acupuncture
Starting a new healthcare journey can feel unfamiliar, but at Elemental Acupuncture we make your first visit welcoming, thorough, and focused entirely on you. Dr. Bethany Leddy, DACM, MSOM, begins every new patient relationship with a detailed intake process that helps her understand not just your primary concern, but the full picture of your health and lifestyle. Whether you come to us for pain relief, fertility support, or chronic illness management, your first visit sets the foundation for your entire healing journey.
Request an AppointmentYour First Visit: A Comprehensive Assessment
TCM diagnosis is both an art and a science. During your first appointment, Dr. Leddy will conduct a structured intake interview covering the function of all major body systems — digestion, sleep, energy, emotions, reproduction, pain, and more. Your answers help her identify which systems are out of balance and what underlying patterns may be contributing to your health challenges. She will then assess your pulse using classical pulse diagnosis, examine your tongue, and palpate your abdomen to confirm and deepen her diagnostic picture. You can learn more about each of these techniques on our Methods of Diagnosis page.
Based on this comprehensive assessment, Dr. Leddy will form a TCM diagnosis and select the acupuncture points and, where appropriate, herbal medicines that will best restore your body to balance. Most patients receive their first treatment during this same appointment. You will rest comfortably on a massage table as ultra-fine needles are placed, typically remaining for 15–30 minutes in a calm, dimly lit setting. Most patients feel deeply relaxed — many fall asleep.
How Many Treatments Will I Need?
Acupuncture and herbal medicine work through accumulation — each treatment builds on the last. While most patients notice some improvement after their first session, lasting results develop over a course of treatment tailored to your condition. For acute or recent conditions such as a sports injury, cold or flu, or sudden skin disorder, a typical course is 5–7 treatments followed by monthly maintenance. For chronic conditions present for more than six months, 10–20 sessions is more common, again with monthly follow-up care. Dr. Leddy will provide you with a personalized treatment roadmap after your initial assessment so you know what to expect at every stage. Explore our full list of conditions treated and services offered to learn more about what is available to you.
Patient Forms & Insurance
New patients should complete intake paperwork before their appointment, including health history and consent forms. Dr. Leddy also accepts many insurance plans. Complete our insurance verification form here. Our offices are located in Tuckahoe, NY and Bryant Park, NYC. Call (646) 872-1181 to schedule your first appointment today.
Frequently Asked Questions — Your First Visit
What happens during the first acupuncture appointment?
Your first appointment includes a detailed health history interview, pulse diagnosis, tongue examination, and abdominal assessment. Dr. Leddy will then form a TCM diagnosis and administer your first treatment, which typically involves resting with fine needles in place for 15–30 minutes. Plan for approximately 60–90 minutes for your first session.
Will I receive treatment during my first visit?
Yes, in most cases your first treatment is provided during the same appointment as your intake assessment. You will not need to come back for a separate treatment session.
How many acupuncture sessions will I need?
For acute conditions, 5–7 treatments is a typical course. For chronic conditions present longer than six months, 10–20 sessions is more common, followed by monthly maintenance. Dr. Leddy will discuss a personalized plan with you after your initial evaluation.
What should I bring to my first appointment?
Bring any completed intake forms, a list of current medications and supplements, any relevant medical records or lab work, and your insurance card if you plan to use insurance. Wear loose, comfortable clothing for easy access to acupuncture points.
Is the first acupuncture session painful?
Acupuncture needles are extremely fine — about the width of a human hair — and far thinner than hypodermic needles. Most patients feel minimal to no discomfort during needle insertion. Dr. Leddy uses a gentle Japanese technique that is specifically designed for patient comfort. Learn more on our What Does Acupuncture Feel Like page.
Can I return to work after my first acupuncture session?
Yes, most patients can resume normal activities within about 10 minutes of completing treatment. Some patients feel deeply relaxed or slightly drowsy after their first session, so it is advisable to avoid strenuous activity immediately after treatment.
Do I need to complete forms before my first visit?
Yes, completing your intake forms in advance saves time and allows your appointment to focus fully on assessment and treatment. Consent and intake forms are available through our New Patients page. An insurance verification form is also available there.