Karin C. Nelson, L.Ac.
Acupuncture & Chinese Herbal Medicine

 About Karin Nelson, L.Ac.
 

I received my Bachelor of Science in Natural Health Sciences in 1995 and  Master of Science in Acupuncture in 1997 from Bastyr University in Seattle, Washington. I am licensed in the state of Washington and is Board Certified as a Diplomate of Acupuncture by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine, also a member of the Washington East Asian Medicine Association.

My philosophy of care includes the belief in the body’s ability to heal itself. Acupuncture, herbs and patient education for self care are used to facilitate bringing the individual back into balance physically, emotionally and spiritually.  I define wellness as a sense of wellbeing and vitality which includes the physical, emotional, and spiritual, and is more than a lack of symptoms.  I seek to create a partnership in exploring the underlying causes of imbalance which causes pain and illness. I view the healing process as an opportunity for self-discovery and growth—A process that requires courage, compassion and commitment.

My mission is to provide natural health care that is personalized, preventative, educational, and holistic in a safe, comfortable environment.   I work together with my patients to promote health by facilitating the inherent healing ability unique to each individual.  

Comprehensive services include acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, nutritional counseling based on the principles of Chinese Medicine, cupping, moxibustion, and tuina (Chinese massage).


Your first visit will be about an hour and a half long. We will have time to discuss your particular health concerns as well as your health history, diet and nutrition, exercise, emotional tendencies and current stress levels. It is helpful if you bring a list of current medications and supplements along with dosages. As a diagnostic tool I will take your pulse on each wrist and look at your tongue. I will use this information along with your history to assess any  patterns of disharmony that exist. I will then devise a treatment plan specifically for you. 

You will receive an acupuncture treatment that will last approximately 40 minutes. When it is necessary for you to undress you will be properly draped and the room will be warm.  I will insert the needles and leave you to rest. Most people report feeling deeply relaxed after a session and many fall asleep during treatment. A recommendation will be made on when to schedule a follow up visit.  Follow-up visits typically last an hour and include a check-in time and evaluation.  Your treatment plan may also include diet or lifestyle recommendations and possibly a Chinese herbal formula.

It is my belief that the best results are acheived when patients actively participate in their care so I encourage questions and open dialogue.