The Consultation
An initial consultation session is a comprehensive, patient-centered encounter designed to understand an individual’s health concerns, identify underlying patterns of imbalance, and establish a safe, effective treatment plan. The session typically integrates detailed discussion, observation, hands-on assessment, and therapeutic intervention, all grounded in both traditional East Asian medicine principles and modern clinical standards.
Your complaint and medical history
Whether you are looking for acupuncture or another treatment modality offered at East-West Integrative Medicine, your consultation begins with an in-depth intake and health history. Dr. Yelverton will ask about the primary reason for your visit, including the onset, duration, frequency, and intensity of symptoms. Questions often extend beyond the chief complaint to include sleep quality, energy levels, digestion, appetite, stress, emotional wellbeing, reproductive health, pain patterns, and lifestyle habits. Your past medical history, current medical diagnoses, medications, supplements, and previous treatments are reviewed to ensure safety and coordination of care. This thorough dialogue helps Dr. Yelverton clarify not only what symptoms are present, but how they affect your daily life. It will also clarify which type of treatment would best serve you regardless of your initial assumption.
The TCM physical examination
Observation is another essential component of the session. Your posture, movement, facial expression, skin tone, and overall demeanor all carry diagnostic significance. Traditional evaluation methods often include tongue observation, noting its color, shape, coating, and moisture, as well as pulse assessment at the wrists. These findings provide insight into internal organ systems, circulation, and functional balance. While subtle, these observations contribute to a holistic clinical picture rather than serving as isolated indicators.
Physical assessment may also be included, particularly when pain or musculoskeletal issues are involved. This can involve gentle palpation of affected areas, checking for tenderness, temperature differences, or tension along muscles and meridians. Range of motion or simple orthopedic tests may be used to clarify the nature of discomfort. Throughout this process, your comfort and consent are prioritized, and all assessments are clearly explained.
Diagnosis and treatment discussion
Once the assessment is complete, Dr. Yelverton will discuss her clinical impression and treatment approach. This includes explaining how acupuncture may address the identified patterns, what points or techniques may be used, and how treatment supports the body’s natural regulatory processes. Expectations around frequency and duration of care will be reviewed, such as whether weekly sessions are recommended initially or if progress will be reassessed after a set number of visits. This collaborative discussion allows you to ask questions and participate actively in your care decisions.
Your first treatment
If you receive an acupuncture treatment, this portion of the session typically involves the insertion of fine, sterile, single-use needles at selected acupuncture points. You should wear loose fitting, comfortable clothing to facilitate needle placement. A gown will be provided should disrobing of specific treatment areas be required. You will generally lie comfortably on a treatment table, either face up or face down, depending on the plan. Alternative postures can be negotiated if you are unable to lie down for your treatment. Needle insertion is usually brief and well tolerated, with sensations ranging from minimal awareness to a dull ache, warmth, or gentle heaviness. Additional modalities such as heat therapy, electrical stimulation, cupping, or gentle manual techniques may be incorporated if appropriate. Once needles are in place, you will rest quietly for 20 to 30 minutes to allow full activation of the stimulated acupuncture points. Reiki sessions last a similar amount of time and do not require disrobing.
What to expect afterwards
Patient expectations during and after treatment are discussed as well. Many individuals experience deep relaxation, improved clarity, or reduced pain following a session, while others may notice subtle changes that unfold over several days. Mild soreness, temporary fatigue, or emotional release can occur. These manifestations are perfectly normal and are generally short-lived. Dr. Yelverton may provide self-care recommendations, such as hydration, light movement, rest, or dietary and lifestyle suggestions to support treatment effects.
Overall, the consultation is designed to be informative, therapeutic, and supportive. It emphasizes individualized care, open communication, and realistic expectations, creating a foundation for effective treatment and ongoing wellness.
Book an appointment with Dr. Yelverton online now with Square.