Acupuncture uses a sterile, stainless steel needle to access points on the meridians, or channels, of our bodies. These points communicate to the body and nudge it in the direction towards healing. Channel theory has thousands of years of practice and evidence supporting its efficacy at relieving symptoms of disease and disharmony. 

Modernly, most people think of acupuncture treating pain, and it does this very well! Pain is a signal from the body telling us there is something stuck in the channels, like an obstruction in a river flow. Acupuncture activates the channels, getting things to flow again. When a needle is inserted into the body, the body reacts by bringing blood and energy (which we call “qi”) to the source of the needle. This initiates a chemical response and a healing process is initiated. 

Beyond treating pain, acupuncture was an original form of preventative and internal medicine and is still used today all over the world to treat disease. This is my personal passion within the medicine. Acupuncture speaks to the body through hundreds of points, all of which have their own functions. Through these points, I create a “point prescription” and structure the treatment with the intention of finding balance within your individual internal environment.

I understand and relate. Needles are usually a scary thing that we like to avoid. Chinese Medicine needles are a unique tool, unlike other needles. They are as thin as a strand of hair, are flexible, and have a smooth insertion as to not disrupt your experience on the table, which is above all meant to be soothing to your nervous system. We will work together within your comfort level. If, after all, it’s a clear boundary of not being needled, it is possible to still work together with the many other modalities that Chinese Medicine offers us.

It’s important that you’ve eaten in order for your body to feel regulated and energized enough for the treatment. It takes energy to move energy. Following treatment, it’s best to avoid anything too strenuous to allow your body to rest. Take it easy as best you can, and enjoy a warm, nourishing meal, plenty of water and a good night’s sleep.

This varies, and we will work out a treatment plan that supports your healing within your particular schedule and lifestyle. Generally, the more chronic or long-standing your condition is, the longer it takes to start seeing significant changes. The ultimate goal is that acupuncture becomes a consistent supportive routine for you preventatively and to maintain your good health; whether that be weekly, bi-weekly, monthly or seasonally.

First appointments are an hour and a half, to allow for a longer intake. Follow-up appointments are one hour.

If you need to cancel, please do so 24 hours in advance. If canceling within the 24 hour period, the full fee will be charged.

If you’re running late (because, New York), there is a 15 minute grace period, but your treatment may be shortened to keep others on time. However, if you are later than 15 minutes, I may not be able to treat you. Please email hi@kylawalker.com if running behind.

For the safety of all patients and practitioners at Nest Wellness, I do not treat acute viruses like colds, Covid-19, or the flu in person. We can reschedule, or shift your session to a virtual visit (at a lower rate), where I’ll provide an herbal consultation to support your recovery and help you get the rest you need.

Yes! Acupuncture is safe and effective at supporting conditions that may arise during your pregnancy, such as morning sickness, pain, anxiety, fatigue and discomfort. Acupuncture is also an incredible tool for labor preparation. 

Short answer, yes. Long answer, Chinese medicine practitioners have been extensively trained in herb-drug interactions. Most formulas are not used long term and adapt as you adapt and get better! This is an open dialogue throughout our time together, and if need be, I will work with other members of your healthcare team to ensure you are getting the best care possible medicinally.

Herbs come in a few different ways. Sometimes I will prescribe them to you in capsules, similar to a supplement. Most times I will prescribe in tinctures, an alcohol based liquid. I will give them to you in person, or I may have them sent to your home. In some more specific cases, we might decide you want to take a “raw” herbal formula, which you cook at home like a soup (it’s fun!). In this case, I use the incredible and historic Kamwo Herbal Pharmacy in New York, who will either send the herbs directly to your home or you can pick them up from their local pharmacy in Chinatown. 

No, they are not, as not every patient gets herbs with every treatment. All herb prices will be approved by you before being charged and we will work with what you can manage financially. The cost of herbs can range anywhere between $30-$120 monthly.

My approach to nutrition is a unique blend of Eastern and Western nutrition and is centered around prioritizing nutrient density and joy around food. In Chinese Medicine, what we eat becomes our qi and blood; it’s the source of our make up. Therefore, speaking about how you nourish yourself will always be included in our sessions. However, if you are looking for more devoted, focused time for nutritional support - I do offer virtual appointments dedicated to this.

I do not bill insurance directly. However, I’m happy to provide a superbill (an itemized receipt) that you can submit to your insurance company for possible full or partial reimbursement, depending on your plan. Please let me know at our first session if you’d like a superbill. I also recommend confirming your coverage with your provider in advance. HSA and FSA cards are also accepted for payment.