Massage & Acupuncture FAQ

Book by goal, not label. Choose deep, focused pressure for chronic tension and knots, or fluid, relaxing bodywork to unwind. Unsure? Julie tailors technique — deep tissue, Swedish, prenatal, sports, lymphatic, tui na — to how your body feels that day, so any session adapts to you. Call or text if you would like help deciding before you book.

It should feel like a productive, tolerable pressure — never sharp pain. Julie works within your comfort and checks in throughout, easing off or going deeper as you prefer. Some people notice mild soreness for a day afterward, much like after exercise. Staying hydrated and moving gently usually helps it settle quickly.

It depends on your goals. For an acute issue, many people find a series of closer visits helps most, then space sessions out as they improve. For general stress and maintenance, every two to four weeks is common. Julie will suggest a rhythm based on your body and budget — there is never any pressure to commit to a package.

Most people are surprised how gentle it is. The needles are hair-fine and single-use — far thinner than the ones used for shots. You may feel a brief, dull sensation as a point activates, then nothing. Many clients find the experience deeply relaxing and drift off during treatment. If a point feels uncomfortable, Julie adjusts it right away.

When performed by a licensed acupuncturist, acupuncture has a strong safety record. Julie is licensed in Texas and uses sterile, single-use needles. Care is supportive and personalized and may help many concerns, but it is not a substitute for medical diagnosis or treatment. Tell Julie if you are pregnant, take blood thinners, or have a bleeding disorder so care can be adapted.

That varies by person and condition. Many people notice a shift after the first few visits, and Julie reassesses as you go rather than selling a fixed plan. Chronic issues often respond to a short series followed by occasional maintenance. You will always know the reasoning behind any suggested schedule, and the choice to continue is entirely yours.

It is Palomino’s flagship: both licensed modalities woven into one 90-minute visit for $175. Julie begins with acupuncture to calm the nervous system, then transitions into hands-on bodywork to deepen the release — care that usually requires two providers and two appointments. She is the only Highland Lakes practitioner licensed to deliver both, every visit.

Payment is collected at the time of service and we do not bill insurance carriers directly. Many clients submit our itemized receipt to their plan for possible reimbursement. Keeping billing simple lets us hold prices transparent and predictable — you always know your exact cost up front, with no surprise balances arriving weeks later.

Often, yes. Many clients pay for acupuncture and therapeutic massage with HSA or FSA cards, and we can provide an itemized, coded receipt for reimbursement on request. Because plan rules vary, confirm eligibility with your administrator first. If your plan needs a Letter of Medical Necessity for condition-based care, let Julie know before your visit.

We accept all major credit and debit cards, HSA and FSA cards, and Palomino gift cards, all processed securely through Square. When you book online, a card holds your appointment; you are charged at your visit. Have a billing question beforehand? Call or text and we will sort it out before you arrive.

Keep it simple. Wear comfortable clothing, eat a light meal beforehand rather than arriving hungry or overly full, and skip heavy caffeine or alcohol. Arrive a few minutes early to settle in. Bring any relevant health history and a short list of what you would like help with — it makes your consultation more useful.

Plan for a little extra time on your first visit. Julie begins with a thorough consultation about your history, goals, and how you feel that day, then tailors the session — so the first appointment runs somewhat longer than follow-ups. The consultation is included at no extra charge; you only pay the published rate for your service.

Come in whatever is comfortable. For massage, you will be professionally draped throughout and undress only to your comfort level. For acupuncture, loose clothing that can be rolled above the elbows and knees works well. If you have questions about a specific session, just ask when you book and Julie will let you know.

Please give at least 24 hours’ notice to change or cancel, so your time can be offered to someone on the waitlist. Late cancellations and no-shows may be subject to a fee. We understand life happens — if something urgent comes up, call or text as soon as you can and we will do our best to work with you.

Call or text as soon as you know. We will fit in as much of your session as the remaining time allows, but out of respect for the next client the appointment still ends at its scheduled time, and the full rate applies. Arriving a few minutes early is the surest way to enjoy your whole session.

Yes. Palomino gift cards are available for any amount, delivered digitally by email within minutes or as a physical card you pick up at the studio. They never expire and apply to any service or add-on. Visit our gift cards page to purchase one securely through Square for any occasion.