FAQs
Common questions about acupuncture, dry needling, cost, insurance and what to expect, answered by our Bondi Junction practitioners.
Why Choose Point Therapy?
Does acupuncture hurt?
Most people don’t find it painful. The needles used are hair-fine, much finer than an injection needle, and most patients describe a light tap, a dull ache, or a mild heaviness rather than sharp pain. If anything feels uncomfortable during treatment, tell your practitioner and they’ll adjust.
Are your practitioners registered?
Yes. Our acupuncturists are registered with AHPRA under the Chinese Medicine Board of Australia; registration numbers are listed on their profiles. Remedial massage therapists in Australia are not required to hold AHPRA registration.
How long is an acupuncture session?
Initial consultations typically last 60-75 minutes to allow for a comprehensive assessment. Standard follow-up treatments generally takes around 60 minutes. See Cost and Insurance page for pricing.
Does my session include massage?
Yes. Every session includes hands-on massage as part of your treatment, alongside acupuncture and, where suitable, dry needling or cupping, all within the one session fee. There's no separate charge for massage. See our Cost and Insurance page for full pricing.
What's the difference between dry needling and acupuncture?
Both use fine needles, but they come from different approaches. Traditional acupuncture is based on Chinese medicine principles, while dry needling targets specific trigger points in muscles. We often combine both, tailored to you. Read more on our Dry Needling vs Acupuncture page.
Can I get a health fund rebate?
Yes. Many health funds offer rebates for acupuncture under extras cover. We'll give you a detailed receipt with your practitioner's provider number after each session. Most funds let you claim in minutes by snapping a photo of your receipt in their app, with the rebate usually paid straight to your account. Check with your fund for your exact rebate.
What are your treatment rooms like?
From the moment you arrive, your treatment room is yours alone. Each patient has a private, enclosed room, kept spotlessly clean and filled with natural light. If you'd like a softer, calmer atmosphere, we can dim the lights, so you can settle in, unwind and focus on your treatment in a space that feels safe and comfortable.
Is acupuncture backed by evidence?
Our approach draws on traditional acupuncture principles and current research into how acupuncture interacts with the nervous system. The strength of the evidence varies from condition to condition, and we're happy to talk through it for your specific concern at your consultation.
I have several symptoms at once—stress, poor sleep, headaches, digestive issues. Can you treat all of that together?
These often overlap, and looking at them as connected rather than separate is central to our approach. Your first consultation includes a full assessment of how your symptoms relate to one another, so your treatment plan looks at the underlying pattern rather than one symptom in isolation.
Is acupuncture safe during pregnancy or for children?
Treatment can be adapted for a range of life stages, but this depends on individual circumstances. Please mention if you’re pregnant, trying to conceive, or booking for a child when you make your appointment, so we can discuss whether treatment is appropriate and adjust our approach accordingly.
Are the needles sterile and single-use?
Yes. We use single-use, sterile, individually packaged needles for every patient, disposed of immediately after use.
What if I’m on medication?
Let your practitioner know about any medications or supplements you’re currently taking as part of your intake. It helps inform your treatment plan.
What should I wear for my treatment?
Loose, comfortable clothing is best as it allows easy access to common treatment points. If we need to access an area covered by clothing, we provide professional towels for draping to ensure you feel comfortable and secure throughout the session.
Do I need a GP referral?
No referral is required to book an appointment. If you have one, or relevant scan results, feel free to bring or email them beforehand. It helps us build a fuller picture.
Is there parking available near the clinic?
Yes, Point Therapy is centrally located in Bondi Junction. For the easiest option, we recommend parking at Eastgate Bondi Junction, about a 3-minute walk from the clinic, or Westfield Bondi Junction, about a 5-minute walk. Metered street parking is also available nearby, but it's time-limited, so allow enough time for your full appointment. If you're coming by public transport, buses stop right outside our building on Oxford Street in both directions, and we're a 5-minute walk from Bondi Junction train station.
​
How many sessions will I need?
It depends on what you're being treated for and how you respond. Your practitioner will give you a realistic outlook after your first assessment, not before.
What’s your cancellation policy?
We require 24 hours' notice for cancellations or modifications to your appointment. Failure to provide adequate notice may result in a full cancellation fee.
