Frequently Asked Questions
Where are you located and what are your hours?
We are located in Willunga, South Australia about 50 minutes South of Adelaide.
We are usually open MON – FRI 8am – 5pm with late nights THURS. You can check our online booking site (top right corner) for options or join our waitlist to let us know what times suit you.
How does acupuncture work?
Acupuncture points are specific sites on a channel where the flow of Qi can be influenced and stimulated. Channels are an invisible network linking vital substances to organs and carrying nourishment and strength. Channels unify all parts of the body which is essential to remaining in a harmonious balance.
By inserting fine needles into the body’s channels, an acupuncturist can stimulate the body’s own healing response which in turn helps to restore its natural balance.
We also have ‘needle-free’ options available like acupressure, ear seeds, and can use moxibustion for stimulation if this is preferred.
What should I expect during my first acupuncture appointment?
We’ll review your health history, perform a tongue and pulse diagnosis, and discuss your treatment plan. You’ll have time to ask any questions about acupuncture or Chinese herbal medicine. Sometimes a herbal formula is provided at the time or discussed and given at the second treatment. After this consultation, we’ll carry out your acupuncture treatment. The whole visit usually takes about 60 minutes.
A follow-up consultation lasts about 50-60 minutes, which includes time for observation, diagnosis, and acupuncture. The acupuncture needles are usually left in place for 25-30 minutes during your session.
How many acupuncture sessions will I need before I see results?
Acupuncture often produces an immediate effect for certain concerns (like neck pain or headache). Some people notice changes right away, while for others it may take longer. This can also be in relation to how long you have had the concern. The benefits of acupuncture build over a series of treatments, with chronic conditions typically requiring more sessions than acute. This will be discussed at your initial appointment and reviewed regularly as you improve. If you’d like to discuss your individual needs, please contact us.
Does acupuncture hurt?
The needles are much finer than those used for injections. Most people feel very little pain and are comfortable enough during their treatment to relax and even fall asleep sometimes. You may notice a mild tingling, warmth, or a dull ache when they are inserted, which usually eases quickly. Always let us know if you are uncomfortable and we can help you.
What is the difference between dry needling and acupuncture?
Many health disciplines now use needling techniques, but wouldn’t you rather be treated by professionals with six years of training and a 4,000-year-old philosophy, rather than just a few days’ instruction? At Deep Water Medicine, we offer acupuncture as part of traditional Chinese medicine and include dry needling when it’s appropriate for your treatment plan. Dry needling targets trigger points—painful, tight spots in muscle—to relieve tension and pain. While some practitioners learn dry needling in short courses, our team integrates it with comprehensive Chinese medicine expertise.
Acupuncture is rooted in balancing the body’s energy (qi) and blood to restore health and may include Chinese herbs, massage (tuina), moxibustion, cupping, exercise, and dietary therapy. We combine thorough assessment, Chinese medicine diagnosis, and personalized treatment, blending traditional wisdom with modern biomedical knowledge for optimal results.
With at least four years of specialist training, we address a wide range of concerns—including musculoskeletal pain, women’s health, digestive issues, and mental health—using both acupuncture and dry needling when it best suits your needs.
Can I take Chinese herbs alongside my regular prescription medication?
For your safety and to help you get the best results, we recommend taking your herbal formula at least two hours apart from your regular medication. If you use Ventolin, please allow a five-hour gap between doses. Be sure to let your clinician know about any prescription medications you take—this way, we can choose the most suitable herbal formula for your needs.ula.
Are you registered to practise Chinese medicine?
Both Lez and Lorielle are registered by the Chinese Medicine Board of Australia supported by AHPRA. Lorielle is also registered to dispense Chinese herbs.
What does registration mean? Since 2012, Chinese medicine has been a registered health profession, helping protect the public from undertrained practitioners. Only those with proper qualifications ( and 4+ years of training) can use the titles “acupuncturist” or “Chinese medicine practitioner.” However, the term “acupuncture” itself isn’t protected by law, so always check that your practitioner is officially registered as an acupuncturist or Chinese medicine practitioner to ensure you’re receiving expert care.
We also belong to both AACMA and ATMS, organisations that support Chinese medicine practitioners and our industry.
How much does an acupuncture consultation cost?
Your initial Chinese medicine consultation is $125 with follow-ups $100. We are eligible for private health claims and have HICAPS onsite. The amount of your rebate depends on your health cover. You can contact your provider to find out what you’re eligible for.
Note: Supplements (herbs, vitamins, etc.) are an additional cost.
How much does Chinese herbal medicine cost?
The cost of Chinese herbs can vary and it depend how much you need and for how long. The cost of individual powdered herbal formulas averages to $0.70 per gram with 100 grams often prescribed. We also provide patent herbal formulas which are $22. The dosage can vary depending on your condition. Always get in touch with us if you aren’t sure how to take your herbs.
Do you have a cancellation policy?
Yes. Your appointment time is reserved just for you. A late cancellation or missed visit leaves a hole in our day that could have been filled by another patient. As such, we require 24 hours notice for any cancellations or changes to your appointment. Patients who provide less than 4 hours notice, or miss their appointment, will be charged a cancellation fee.
How much does a counselling session cost?
Counselling sessions are $130.
Have more questions? Please get in touch, we’d love to hear from you.