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The Pin Cushion
Category: Health and Medical Acupuncture Acupuncture [Edit]
1716 E Olive Way(between E Boylston Ave & E Harvard Ave)
Seattle, WA 98102
Neighborhood: Capitol Hill
(206) 324-3650
- Hours:
Mon, Fri 2 pm - 7 pm
Tue-Thu 11 am - 7 pm
Sat-Sun 9 am - 1 pm
- By Appointment Only:
- No
Kyle B. said: "Dr. Kevin Rindal is a true professional who understands the biomechanics of my particular sport (baseball) more than any other medical professional I've dealt with. I'm suffering from lower back pain due to herniated disks at L4-L5,…" read more »
37 reviews for The Pin Cushion
37 reviews in English
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Review from Daiv B.
Seattle, WA
12/20/2011
I started going to The Pin Cushion about two years ago. I had just started a job, as a Massage Therapist, and for some reason I developed a frozen shoulder on the right side. Within a couple of days, as it got worse, i became unable to move my right arm at all. Needless to say, it made working increasingly difficult, and eventually impossible. So, within a month of starting a new job, I suddenly had to take two days off, on short notice. Not a good start.
I had never tried acupuncture before, but the pain killers I was taking were totally ineffective, and i was ready to do something different.
Short version, it worked. Within a day, my symptoms were vastly reduced. And after just one follow up appointment, my arm was fully functional again, and I was back to work.
I have since gone back, many times. I cannot recommend the Pin Cushion highly enough. -
Review from Ella R.
Seattle, WA
10/18/2011
This place is a gem- as good as it gets. I love that this place specializes in community acupuncture, a program that facilitates affordable healing for everyone- on any budget.
Everyone is super nice. My favorite practitioner is Gabrielle Andersone. She is a very talented and kind professional. She really goes the extra mile in her sessions and makes you feel relaxed.
I have been receiving treatments from Ms. Anderson for months now, and I feel so lucky to have found her! She is extremely intuitive and good at what she does. I definitely feel like my overall health and well being has improved this year - and it has a lot to do with my regular visits to the Pin Cushion clinic to see Gabrielle.
The acupuncture helps me prevent the onset of colds, as it boosts my immune system. In addition to immune support, Gabrielle has treated me for many different ailments : accute injuries, emotional turmoil, stress and digestion to name a few.
Besides being a very talented acupuncturist, Gabrielle is just a super person. She is always smiling and kind. She really puts you at ease, and that alone helps facilitate the healing process. If you have every wanted to try acupuncture, definitely pop into the pin cushion! -
Review from Starr J.
8/31/2011 3 Check-ins Here
I really really love acupuncture and really really love this place! Even though my insurance does cover it, I don't want to deal with referrals and having to see whatever provider they tell me to see....I like that the Pin Cushion is in my neighborhood and LOVE the sliding scale! This makes it totally affordable and therefore more likely that I'll go back.
The only thing is that I feel like I have to be super quiet in the treatment room because there are other people in there and it would be nice to have a discussion in a different room with the acupuncturist before she treated me. That way I could tell her all of my woes...
But that's not even worth subtracting a star, so forget I even said it. -
Review from C C.
King, WA
12/21/2011
I love it here. I see Suzie every appointment, and I've decided she's magical. I've had a good response with my issues, and acupuncture has proven to be an easy maintenance piece of my self-care.
The space is communal, which is odd at first, but I think that it makes the experience better. It's a strange, wonderful sort of community to be napping near strangers, in a safe and healing environment. The space is calm and pleasant, and people are generally quiet and respectful of what is going on. I certainly can't see paying up to 3x more just to have a private room. -
Review from Reese C.
11/13/2011
Last week was my first experience with acupuncture. Susie was my acupuncturist and she was so amazing. The room where everyone sits reminds me of a super warm and cozy baby nursery. It is so quiet in there you could hear a pin drop. It smells yummy and the blankie they give you is soft and snuggley. Susie put the needles in and I slept like a baby for an hour. All for $20! I have had only had one "treatment" so far and I am going back next week for another. I have a great feeling that this place is going to help me on my healing process :)
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Review from Bab D.
Seattle, WA
10/6/2011
I find the treatments über relaxing at Pincushion, even prefering the community setting to a private session. The room is very pleasant, including the lights, recliners, music and the practitioneers' whispering as they briefly discuss a patient's needs, then move on to pinning. Best nap ever! I think I've recieved treatments from most of the practitioners and always feel rejuvenated at the end. Much needed part of my health care plan! Thanks PC!
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Review from Chelsea- L.
Seattle, WA
3/8/2011
I love this place! I go once a week and have noticed a significant change in my overall health and mood.
Julie is so wonderful! She is a great source of knowledge, an awesome acupuncturist, and has a way about making every client comfortable and truly listening to their issues.
She has helped me get over a horrible sinus infection, has helped treat my anxiety immensely, and has reduced tummy issues and knee pain!
I love the atmosphere- always cozy, recliners are really the way to go, very dim, quiet, nice music, so relaxing!
The woman at the front desk is also wonderful! Super awesome!
Sliding scale of $20-$40 and they do take credit cards now! -
Review from Lauren H.
Seattle, WA
9/5/2011
I'm not the sort of person who would EVER have considered trying acupuncture, but after a headache that had lasted (literally) months, I was desperate and made an appointment with Susie. She was incredibly patient with me, even though I HATE getting the needles in, and the benefits I've had are absolutely immeasurable. I've seen her for other issues (colds, etc) and have always come away feeling better -- if not instantly, then definitely within the next 24 hours.
I've seen Julie as well while Susie's been on vacation, and she helped me resolve a strained foot issue quickly and easily. The setting is really soothing, and I barely even notice there are others there. I give it my highest possible recommendation. -
Review from Clover A.
6/11/2010 4 Check-ins Here
I've been going to acupuncturists for more than 25 years, and I can say that this place is just as good- if not better- than many of the more traditional office settings.
I've been sick for what seems like months, with some spring cold that just wouldn't quit, with my regular acupuncturist out on maternity leave, it was time to find another option.
I called and made a same day appointment, went in, filled out the paperwork and was in a comfortable room in a cozy recliner with needles in me in no time.
My practitioner was very well skilled, her 'chairside' manner was excellent, her needling was outstanding, and less than an hour later, I'm feeling like I'm seeing the end of what's been a long road of illness.
The office has moved, so note this, it's now just east of the B&O, around the corner from Online Coffee. The cost was a sliding scale - from $20-$40 with an additional $10 fee for the first visit.
They also only accept checks and/or cash so credit cards need not apply.
I'm going back next week just to 'kick out the jams' with this thing to see another practitioner, I'll do an update if there's any news on the different providers. -
Review from Lindi C.
Portland, OR
6/23/2008
Who would've thought being poked with needles would feel amazing?
I had been feeling like crap. I was dealing with stress, a cold, headaches and just over all sore-ness. I decided that it was time to do something about it. I found Julie through Yelp and decided to make an appointment immediately after reading the wonderful reviews. I got on the website and discovered that all appointments were made through the interwebs - and lucky for me, she had a couple openings that very day.
Once I found the place (it's across the street from the liquor store on 12th by the way) - I was buzzed in and found myself walking into a room with a sign that said to have a seat. There was no receptionist. No frills. Just a room with a computer which felt more like a home than an office. I took a seat and after a few minutes Julie came out and greeted me. We sat down and discussed the issues we needed to work on. After I paid at the pay station (you stick cash in an envelope and drop it in a hole - it's totally on the honor system - which is really cool), she led me into a dimly lit room playing relaxing music. I took a seat in one of the recliners. I had read on the website that it was a "community acupuncture" type of place so I wasn't surprised when I walked in and saw a guy laying in the chair with needles in his body!
Julie made me feel at ease - even though I was a bit nervous to be poked all over with needles (especially in the face and ears)! But, Julie is so kind and caring and made sure that I was doing ok the whole time. She even gave me some tea afterwards to help fight off my cold. After the acupuncture session I could immediately tell a difference. I had so much more energy and my cold went away that very night. I've been back once already and plan to keep going as much as I can - and because she offers her treatments on a sliding scale of $20-40, you can probably imagine how often I'll be going. -
Review from Jen K.
Seattle, WA
11/28/2010
I've been going to Susie for acupuncture at The Pin Cushion for a year now, and it has completely improved my quality of life. This place is fabulous - you pay what you can (they accept credit cards now), you can schedule your appointments online, and they're even open late so that you can go after work.
When I first met Susie I had been sick for three months straight with various sinus infections, ear infections, and bronchitis. After helping me get through a couple more bouts of sore throats and coughing, she started working on strengthening my immune system. It has now been six months since I've been sick in any meaningful way and there are times when my sessions seem downright magical. For example, two weeks ago I went in with the beginnings of a sore throat and by the time I left, my throat felt fine. AMAZING!
Now that I'm not struggling with the infections anymore, I still keep going once a week because Susie can address whatever "issue" I throw her way....knots in my back, seasonal allergies, stress...she really knows her stuff. Plus, she's got a background in Chinese herbal medicine, so she can supplement the acupuncture treatments with herbs when needed.
The only downside to this place is that you'll become a total acupuncture junkie. The Pin Cushion is awesome. -
Review from emily r.
Seattle, WA
5/23/2008
I pulled my neck in yoga. Yes, it is embarrassing thankyouverymuch.
I called Julie at The Pin Cushion at 12:40 on Thursday even though website said she closed at 1pm. She returned my call in like five minutes and STAYED OPEN for me!!!!!! Granted, I sounded pretty desperate on the phone. My head wasn't moving. That's stressful.
I was in severe pain when I arrived, and seriously had next-to-zero mobility. Moderate/dull pain when I left and a bit more functional operation with my neck. It was my first time getting acupuncture but the percentage of people who told me to seek it out when my neck went haywire was too great to ignore.
Now, a day later, I woke up feeling as good as I did when I left the Pin Cushion, so it wasn't a superficial fix. Plus I'm icing and heating all day per Julie's instructions, and sure enough my head moves a lot more in every direction just 24 hours after the initial injury. Yay!
You don't have to be in pain to go get acupuncture. But if you are in pain, you totally should. Plus Julie is drop dead gorgeous and smart and terrific, and the space is funky and relaxing, so it's really a nice way to spend an hour no matter how you slice it.
And, I'm taking a year off from work (well, from hard work, anyway) and I can afford it, which means you can afford it too.
Pin Cushion for pain! For pleasure! For life!Listed in: High Maintenance Outposts.
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Review from Lily S.
2/28/2008 1 Check-in Here
Ahhhh relaxation. Ahhh alternative healing. Ahhh needles. Ahhh acupuncture.
Julie Johnson is an amazing acupuncturist and has finally opened her own clinic up on Cap Hill - which is a perfect location (for me at least) and a far cry from where I used to have to see her...in Bellevue.
For those of you that have been thinking about seeing an acupuncturist, this would be the place to go. It's sliding scale based pay, the atmosphere is serene and tranquil, and the location? Again, couldn't be any better.
Highly recommended - she rocks! -
Review from Melissa T.
Seattle, WA
2/13/2010
Acupuncture is something I've been wanting to try for ages, never got around to it. Always discouraged over prices, lack of health coverage and just being totally lazy.
Last week I slid (this is not unusual for alot of us in Seattle, especially me) on the wet sidewalk in my traction-less and very fashionable boots. On my way down I must have pulled something important in my neck, giving me constant pain while sleeping and just trying to look around or jam out.
Friends and coworkers advised me to go to the chiropractor or get a massage. I'm sorry, but there is just something about the chiropractor that just scares the crap out of me. Like they are going to twist me all around, break my bones and force me into an addiction. So after doing some research and making some phone calls, I came across the reviews for The Pin Cushion. DUH! Always wanted to try acupuncture, what better time?
I was a little worried about the money issue, but alas, they have a sliding pay scale based on income! I thought that was a great idea, giving healing alternative care to anyone who needs it at an affordable price! Being barely insured and tight on money, you usually miss out on these wonderful things.
The facility is great, kept perfectly warm and cozy. The staff is extremely friendly, and you can tell they love and really back what they are doing. It made me comfortable. I was able to book an appointment online the same day, show up, filled out some basic paperwork and was consulted on areas I'd like to focus on. She explained the process, the placement of the needles then took me up to the shared treatment room (I actually like the shared idea). The process itself was quick, then I was left to lounge for about an hour and let the needles do their thing. What a relaxing experience! I was immediately refreshed and feeling light as air. I HIGHLY recommend trying it at least once. I already cannot wait for my next appointment! -
Review from b D.
Seattle, WA
7/8/2008
Granted, I've never been to any other community acupuncture place, but this spot is great. A friend recommended I head to the Pin Cushion Clinic when I mentioned a lot of back pain and not a lot of money. I think that friend may have changed my life.
Julie Johnson is the one-woman show at the Pin Cushion Clinic, and you can't not love her. Seriously. She's welcoming, warm, genuine, knowledgeable. There's just something about her. You can tell she is a healer. The office is great, too. Amazingly tranquil for being tucked right into the hill.
Her prices are SO affordable. And I know that once I do have insurance again, I'll still be headed to her clinic for my needling. -
Review from V L.
Seattle, WA
3/2/2011
Kudos to Julie. She's a cool, even keeled lady who tries her best to soothe and comfort her patients. She gives you the treatment your body needs to get better and only prescribes stuff that she thinks will actually contribute to your well-being (as opposed to up selling you stuff that may not actually work). I find her very professional, helpful and caring.
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Review from Kelsey F.
Bothell, WA
4/28/2008
I've suffered from really bad/nasty seasonal allergies my entire life. I've tried every medication under the sun, including a few experimental ones. I've done shots. I've done some sort of Chinese herbal thing that came in tea form and just tasted funny but did little else.
So when someone told me that acupuncture was the next logical step for me (my primary care physician, to be exact), I said "sure". Bonus: this place costs less than my monthly prescription of Allegra.
As an acupuncture virgin, I wasn't sure what to expect. Julie was wonderful and empathetic and extremely caring. The office is homey and darling - it felt like hanging out at a friend's place. The treatment rooms were beautifully decorated (in a minimalistic, zen sort of way) and the armchairs were incredibly comfortable.
It's a surreal experience, to be stuck with needles. I genuinely didn't feel the majority of them go in (except for one in my left hand, which I felt for a few days after, even) and was surprised by how relaxing the whole situation turned out to be. I pride myself in being a tightly-wound individual, so you can only imagine my surprise when I say that I actually fell asleep.
The charge is based on a sliding scale (what you can afford) and the only thing that doesn't have me going back as often as possible is the hours - my work hours are pretty set-in-stone. I do hope to go back when I can, but I wish I could go back often.
Also, being able to set up appointments online is awesome. I love the convienence of that. -
Review from Stacy E.
Seattle, WA
12/14/2008
I am so happy with my experience here at the Pin Cushion.
First of all, I am cheap, and this place is so affordable. If it was more expensive, I would not go, and then would not feel as good as I do now!
Julie is the best and super nice. She really knows what she is doing and is honest about things without being jerky. She will make suggestions about things you can do to improve your health, but not force them. I love that!
My health has improved so much since coming here for the past six or so months. My energy level is way up and the original issue I came for (severe eczema) is almost completely cleared up.
Whenever I hear anyone complain about a health problem I'm just like "Yeah, go get acupuncture." And I'm serious. It has changed my life. And having a great place to go like the Pin Cushion makes me want to continue going...forever, probably.Listed in: My Neighborhood
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Review from Matrayi S.
Bellevue, WA
7/21/2010
Few things that make a visit or two so worthwhile to The Pin Cushion:
1.The pain goes away.Yes, it does. I've been suffering from some serious shoulder/back pain and I have tried every trick in the book, but nothing worked the way this place worked for me. I'm a fan for life.
2. You pay what you can and nobody will ask you twice ! They have a pay-scale which makes it very economical and you can visit them weekly without hurting your pocket one bit.
3. Julie is more than fabulous. She is super nice ,super sweet and amazing at her job. I'm confident that all of the other acupuncturists are as nice and good at their job as she is, but I like booking all my appointments with her.
Book in advance and book a few. You won't be disappointed. :) -
Review from dee m.
Seattle, WA
9/16/2011
I had heard about this community acupuncture idea and was sold on the sliding scale they offer, so I went to check it out. Susie is amazing and works some crazy magic to cure my ailments (before The Pin Cushion, I'd only been to acupuncture once). A friend of mine tells me Julie is also top notch. If Gabrielle is half as good as them, she is phenomenal. And it all starts with their kind receptionist, Cori. I can't say enough about the positive experiences I've had there. Stop in and get stuck sometime.
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Review from Lily H.
Bothell, WA
3/19/2009
I'm not sure how reliable a treatment acupuncture is for more serious ailments, aches, and pains, but I went in yesterday for my chronic allergies (and anxiety) and 24 hours later still feel like a new person. (Last night, I slept better than I ever have since I was a little kid, and I just feel fantastic) The poking process took about 30 seconds in total, and I only felt the first needle going in. Even that was nothing like getting a shot at the doctor's office and more like a sudden burst of heat at the place of insertion.
The recliners were so comfortable I considered inquiring where I could obtain one for my own apartment, Julie was fantastic and someone I trusted immediately (which, in general, is a huge deal for me), and the space itself was very zen- I felt comfortable right away, even with my background in biology and emergency medicine. The location of the clinic is convenient if the clinic itself is somewhat hard to find (use the same buzzer as the one for the Pine Street Apartments), and appointment scheduling is done online. There's a sliding scale that makes treatments extremely affordable, and payment is done entirely on the honor system: you tuck the payment into an envelope with your name and date written on it and drop said envelope into the payment slot.
In short: go to Julie. You won't regret it. After an hour, I felt more at peace, and "zen" than after any medication, meditation, or other form of treatment I ever tried before. -
Review from Katie E.
Lynnwood, WA
2/3/2010
I've been to several accupuncturists for various ailments over the years. The practitioners at the Pin Cushion are by far the most skilled and produce the best and fastest results. AND they're the least expensive. Doesn't get much better! They are a part of my health care regime.
Katie E. Hypnotist -
Review from Lauren C.
Seattle, WA
11/13/2009
I tell anyone who will listen about how great The Pin Cushion is, and how affordable. Maybe some people are put off by the idea of sharing a "treatment" room with strangers, but it really is a wonderful atmosphere. It's always perfectly warm and dimly lit and the chairs are comfy and it smells really good in there!
I've been seeing Susie once a week for about a month now and she's really great, always easy to talk to, very considerate, and helpful in making your treatment as comfortable as possible. I always leave feeling relaxed, yet full of quiet energy.
If you ever wanted to try acupuncture, I think this is a really great way to go, and if you've done acupuncture before but find regular treatments financially burdensome, this is The Way to Go. -
Review from jon d.
Manhattan, NY
4/29/2011
It's places like this that make me wish I lived here in the Pacific Northwest. I've been going to acupuncturists for years now in many different cities with amazing results. This place is definitely gold standard. I was feeling under the weather and came in to receive treatment. I was treated by Susie, who is absolutely driven and very compassionate. The concept of community acupuncture is a great one. Everyone being treated simultaneously, and their mission is a noble one. Next time I'm in Seattle and am in the need for a treatment, I will surely come straight here.
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Review from Amber A.
Seattle, WA
4/25/2011
If you've never tried acupuncture or have and are looking for an affordable, amazing treatment check out the Pin Cushion! I was going regularly a year or two ago when they were in their smaller location! They now have a much bigger space. I've seen both Julie and Susie and had awesome results. I've felt so good, I hadn't been going for a while. But, now that allergy season is here, I'm back and looking forward to enjoying the spring/summer Claritin-free! :)
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Review from Nancy S.
Seattle, WA
5/19/2011
suzy is the jam. and she gets me out of them too! appointment setting is done online. awesome and so convenient! there is good juju in this joint and amongst its people. thank you.
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Review from Karen H.
Seattle, WA
11/21/2008
I was recently in a car accident and ended up with some uncomfortable whiplash. I went to the 'regular' doctor and the chiropractor but had not thought of going to the acupuncturist for my pain. Somehow it didn't occur to me. But during my last visit my chiropractor had asked offhand if I had seen an acupuncturist for some other ailments I had in the past - and *ding ding* a lightbulb went off in my head.
Fastforward a couple days I find myself at the Pin Cushion and in the very capable hands of Julie Johnson. While I'm not an acupuncture rookie, I didn't know what to expect from a 'community acupuncture' place. In the past, I've been to the more traditional clinic-type of place, where you are put in a private room and resting on a table.
The overall experience was great - and actually preferable to my previous treatments elsewhere. While it's a bare bones operation, the appointment was equally comprehensive as anything I've experienced. Julie was great at asking questions about my neck/shoulder injury and pinpointing the issue. She was also candid about how long it would take to treat and what to expect afterwards.
After taking my information and discussing my various bodily problems, she explained the payment system (all honor system - no questions asked) and how her operation works. She then opened a door to a room with 3 reclining chairs in a very peaceful setup. The room is toasty warm and extremely relaxing - even with the whizzing cars outside on 12th Ave. It was easy to get comfortable. Julie applied the needles and left me to rest for about 45 minutes. Another patient entered the room half way through my treatment and while I thought it would be awkward to have someone next to me, she was in her own state of relaxation and added to the overall vibe.
As for the treatment itself, it was fantastic. I could feel the difference immediately and into the next day after the treatment. I went back in 2 days - and felt even better afterwards. It was the most normal I've felt in 2+ weeks. It's easy to forget what your neck is supposedly to feel like! I will definitely be back again. Julie even offered to make some time on a Saturday even though she was fully booked already.
A couple tips - if you're always running late, fill out your forms in advance for your first visit. It will save you 5-10 minutes. You can get them on their website. She also has some FAQs on her site. Parking was easy for me because I went at odd hours, but since it is in CH definitely allow time for parking in the evenings. -
Review from Karen E.
Menlo Park, CA
4/14/2009
I've had a lot of acupuncture over the years and Julie is truly the best. She's kind, understanding and an amazing practitioner. My problems with energy, sports injuries and various other maladies (that are so far gone now I can't remember what they are) really quieted down and in most cases went away all together.
Top that with the whole concept of community acupuncture AND her skill with needles and I'm truly sorry that I had to move out of Seattle. -
Review from Rory R.
Seattle, WA
2/22/2010
This place rocks! I love acupuncture but let's face it, it's not cheap. And it shouldn't be, but when your paying out of pocket for your health care needs money is always an issue. I love the sliding scale and the group treatment room, I think it's a great concept that makes acupuncture affordable to everyone. I've only been to Julie so I can't speak about the other practitioners but she is great!
I recommend this place to everyone I know. -
Review from Calyn M.
Seattle, WA
11/14/2010
I was skeptical about acupuncture before coming here. I came here after I hurt my back during a move, then shot out my stomach on too much ibuprofen. I made an appointment with Julie; during my first session she asked me about my medical history, etc. One thing I appreciate about the Pin Cushion is that it's not their way or the highway; in fact, they recommend that you see your doctor and pursue western medicine as well. Four sessions later, my back pain was gone. Gone! I'm now going for help with my allergies and recover post-gallbladder surgery. I couldn't be more pleased with the service, the layout, and the mission of the Pin Cushion to make acupuncture more accessible to everyone. Oh, and the recliners totally rock!
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Review from Kish U.
Seattle, WA
12/27/2010
This review is about how Susie Fanslow of the Pincushion Clinic in Seattle gave me back my life.
I used to be a massage therapist specializing in chronic pain conditions. I've worked for or shared office space with acupuncturists, chiropractors, and D.O.'s. I had an auto-immune condition that for 10 years was diagnosed as Systemic Lupus but which a few years ago (due to Traditional Chinese Medicine?) was downgraded to a diagnois of, basically, well-controlled rheumatoid arthritis with additional inflammatory tendencies throught the body. For 11 years, before coming to the Pincushion Clinic and being treated by Susie Fanslow, I traded or paid for treatments from some of the best acupuncturists and herbalists in the Traditional Chinese Medicine Community. I have also been treated by a neurobiologist/acupuncturist and by a different sliding scale clinic. Those practitioners helped me a lot. A lot. I want to be clear about that. But none of them could ever get me to the pint where I didn't need acupuncture treatments 2-3 times per week.
Now here's the amazing thing: I've been a patient of Susie Fanslow's at the Pincushion for about two years, but for the last year I've only needed to go in for treatments every couple of months and I'm feeling better than I have since I was a teenager. I'm really enjoying life.
One of the subtle annoying things about having to spend so much time getting treatments (the way I used to have to do) is that I spent a lot of time being told how to feel, what to think, how and when to breath, not to watch the news, etc.--you name it. With a short-term illness that kind of input from someone who considers themselves to be an authority isn't bothersome and can even be useful, but if you have to hear it long-term (and when you're feeling lousy)...
Susie didn't do any of that stuff. She trusts in her skill, and in your will to be healthy. She has a great sense of humor and is a good communicator. You can talk to her and she'll use what you tell her to provide an even better treatment. If you want advice, she'll give it to you, but if you give something a shot and it doesn't work for you, she doesn't act like you're lacking There are a lot of great acupuncturists out there, and Susie is clearly one of them, but I honestly believe that one of the reasons that Susie helped me get so much healthier when other great practitioners didn't is because she empowered me to get well. Susie is highly skilled, energetically intuitive, down to earth, and all about being of service. -
Review from Marissa P.
Seattle, WA
1/30/2008
In a world where acupuncture has become boutique medicine, it is nice to see someone take a novel approach to this ancient technique. Julie Johnson L.Ac. has opened a clinic on Capitol Hill that addresses a number of the problems people face when they want to attempt acupuncture - namely access and affordability. In her conveniently located, intimate studio she works with multiple clients simultaneously; each patient relaxes in a cozy recliner while Julie works her magic. This community-oriented process keeps the treatments affordable. What is more, sharing the experience can ease the minds of nervous first-timers and be a welcome change for seasoned veterans. Whereas other acupuncture centers charge $75-$100 per treatment, The Pin Cushion offers sessions on a sliding scale from $20-$40. This makes a full, effective series of treatments affordable for anyone. The setting is warm and embrasive, and Miss Johnson has an easy manner (not to mention a lovely visage) that can put even the needle-wary at ease. This is a place for everyone, and a fresh alternative to McMedicine. It is nice to see such an energetic new approach to an ancient practice!
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Review from Jeanna W.
Seattle, WA
10/27/2010
The treatment I received was effective, the environment was very relaxing, and the price was low. I also really like being able to schedule appts online.
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Review from angela b.
Seattle, WA
4/11/2008
I have been in to see Julie twice now and I must say I look forward to my weekly visits. I was an acupuncture virgin prior to my first visit and had a lot of questions about it as well as what a community office would be like. I can report that her adorable office and care are relaxing and incredibly personalized. Julie is the only acupuncturist and she is so welcoming and nurturing and knowledgeable. She immediately put me at ease and showered me with genuine concern and kindness. I didn't think I'd completely conk out in the recliner with the needles in on my first visit, but I am pretty sure I was so out that I drooled on my cheek. I am not a natural napper, or even a "rest"er so the extra bonus of being put into a calm state for an hour is in itself wonderful therapy for my being. Only time will tell if acupuncture is the right medicine for what ails me. Until then, I am grateful to Julie for making it accessible to others with her sliding scale fee and for offering such quality care. I highly recommend The Pin Cushion to all.
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Review from Aurora R.
Los Angeles, CA
7/26/2009
Thanks to Yelp, I was able to discover this awesome place! I go to The Pin Cushion once a week and it's done wonders for my health. I have severe allergy and weak immune system that makes me sick every time there's anything going around. I've worked with Julie and Suzie both and they are fantastic! Being in this community setting really isn't uncomfortable. Usually people are so relaxed they don't even flinch when I come in. While my friends have caught a bug this summer, I have still stayed strong. The fees are more than reasonable and the team really get to know your health history. Best investment I've made!
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Review from Amanda G.
Seattle, WA
11/17/2008
Julie is awesome and her desire to be a true community healer is so inspiring. The environment is tranquil and relaxing and the acupuncture rocks! I had never received treatment before and she was wonderful at explaining what I would be experiencing and what to expect later. I will definitely go again and would totally recommend that anyone looking for high quality, community based alternative healing visit Julie asap!
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Review from Genevieve J.
Seattle, WA
7/5/2009
I have been going to The Pin Cushion for over a year for a variety of issues and I can't say enough nice things about this place. Julie is an empathetic person who has a genuine talent for what she does.
From my first visit she has done a lot to help me relax. The place and the treatment just forces a person to let go of all of the stress and anxiety they might be feeling.
I truly became a believer in the power of acupuncture when Julie did some work on my sciatica. It took about two treatments to end an incredibly painful attack that had made it so difficult to walk.
I am currently pregnant and acupuncture has helped to ease the lower back pain and insomnia that comes in the last trimester.
It isn't awkward to be receive treatment while other people are about. You really don't notice them and the way the chairs are angled you don't really see too much of the other person. It is just a quiet blissful room and you might see someone else's feet.
I encourage and point people to this place all of the time. The Pin Cushion's approach to creating affordable quality care is deeply appreciated.
