ABOUT our PRACTICE
Nature’s Gift Acupuncture is a private Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine clinic dedicated to delivering high-quality, individualized and authentic Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) care. We offer acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, moxibustion, cupping, Gua Sha, and Chinese medicine dietary guidance.
Founder of Nature’s Gift Acupuncture, Qianlei Li, is a renowned acupuncturist and Chinese medicine women’s health specialist. Excelled in practicing authentic TCM to its full potential, Qianlei knows by heart the power of this path leading to true health, gifted by nature.
ELEVATED, PERSONALIZED AND PREMIUM CARE
Born from two renowned Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) doctors in Shanghai, China. I witnessed the power of acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine growing up. I started learning about acupuncture and TCM at a young age and knew that I would be a TCM practitioner growing up. While studying at Georgetown University for my Master’s degree in Biochemistry, I conducted research with the NIH on the effects of herbal extracts on the prevention of Alzheimer’s disease. This inspired me to return to my roots and follow in my parents’ footsteps.
Hi! I’m Qianlei (pronounced Chianlay).
After graduating from the Virginia University of Integrative Medicine with a Master's Degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine and a Master's Degree in Acupuncture, I returned to China and worked in an integrative hospital. Upon returning to US, I worked for a few acupuncture clinics and integrative doctor’s offices. Patients who have worked with me were all amazed at the rapid results, what acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine can do, and commented that they have never seen it worked like this with previous acupuncture experience. I was shocked at how people perceive acupuncture and TCM in the US. TCM has so much potential, and unfortunately it wasn't quite seen or known in the western world. In order to go about TCM the way it should be done, I opened her own practice in 2023. My goal is to do acupuncture the way it is done in Chinese hospitals, using Chinese herbal medicine the way it is done by Chinese herbal masters, and educating the public of the full benefits and power of TCM. Allowing for more people can live a life free of nagging health issues, and free of medications.
EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND PUBLICATIONS
Dipl.O.M. (NCCAOM)
Yueyang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai TCM University, Residency
Virginia University of Integrative Medicine, MSOM, MSA
Georgetown University, MS in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Georgetown University, Master of Public Policy
TCM Isn’t Just My Career—It is a part of me
My grandma was diagnosed with uremic acidosis in 1978 when dialysis wasn’t available in China. She was unable to take any western medicine drugs due to nephrotoxicity. Her only option was Chinese herbal medicine. After years of constant TCM treatment, she recovered with only one working kidney. She is turning 84 in two months—and is in great health.
Since TCM saved my grandma’s life, she encouraged my mom to study it. I grew up in a TCM family where both of my parents are top TCM doctors in Shanghai, China. I’ve witnessed first-hand the magic of TCM for as far as I can remember.
I was rejected to attend school due to a fever during SARS in 2003, but one bowl of bitter Chinese herbs made my fever go away. I saw women suffering for years from infertility get pregnant after taking herbs prescribed by my mom. Blood tests of hepatitis patients improved to normal levels after taking herbs prescribed by my dad for three months. I remember seeing my uncle’s high blood pressure dropped right after one acupuncture treatment. TCM has always been my go-to treatment plan whenever I am sick!
STORY TIME
Acupuncture is a holistic therapy that addresses the overall health of an individual. To achieve the full therapeutic effect, a comprehensive Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) strategy is essential. Beyond acupuncture, we employ a detailed TCM pattern diagnosis, Chinese herbal medicine, moxibustion, and TCM dietary guidance, and after-visit acupressure recommendations for at-home care – many of these are typically overlooked by insurance.
We not only address your immediate health concern but also identify and treat any potential issues before they become problematic. I also possess a deep understanding of how to harmoniously blend Traditional Chinese Medicine with conventional medicine. When needed, I guide you on appropriate lab work or specialist consultations. Collaborating closely with other medical providers ensures you receive a comprehensive overview of your health, guaranteeing seamless and consistent care. These aspects are not covered by insurance but are critical to your health in the long run.
WHY we CHOOSE to be OUT-OF-NETWORK
INSURANCE
Why Insurance Doesn’t Align With Our Care Model
Modern insurance often misses the depth and breadth of holistic treatments. True health isn't just symptom relief; it's about overall well-being. Insurance may provide coverage, but it doesn't always value the detailed care that real healing demands. Genuine wellness arises from comprehensive consultations, not quick fixes or a stream of medications. To truly thrive, patients must prioritize their health beyond the limits of insurance.
Direct, Uninterrupted Access:
During your private acupuncture treatments, you have our undivided attention. In between your treatments, you have the option to your provider directly. It also means less waiting time and more flexibility getting the appointment time you need to fit your busy schedule.
Holistic Approach To Treatment:
Even if insurance covers certain aspects of treatment, it seldom encompasses my complete approach. If you visit me for knee pain, I look at your overall health, diving deeper into your sleep, diet, and other health concerns.
Dedicated Time and Focus:
In my practice, you receive the time you need. Unlike insurance-based practices where you might get a mere 10-minute slot, I ensure each session is as long as it needs to be for comprehensive care.
Enhanced Preventative Care
I pride myself on being proactive. I know when certain lab work is necessary and which specialist might be the best fit for your concerns. Additionally, when it's time for you to consult your doctor, I work closely with them, ensuring they grasp the full picture of your health.
Ease of Experience:
Dealing with insurance can be both frustrating and time-consuming, not just for me but also for my patients. My goal is to enhance your life quality, and wrestling with insurance paperwork detracts from that mission.
Five Reasons we Don’t Accept Insurance
While we don't bill insurance directly, you're not left without options. After each appointment, we'll give you a Superbill. You can submit this to your insurance provider, and they might cover a part of the service cost. The reimbursement rate varies based on your insurance plan. For instance, with specific Carefirst policies that cover acupuncture, you can expect a substantial reimbursement. Additionally, you can use your FSA or HSA cards for payment.
Advantages of choosing our private clinic
Unlike insurance-based practices that allocate a brief 10-minute interaction time with an acupuncturist, we ensure treatments last as long as necessary to provide thorough care. We prioritize giving our patients the undivided care and attention they deserve during their appointments.
Cancellation policy
Your appointment time is reserved just for you. A late cancellation or missed visit leaves a hole in the acupuncturist’s day that could have been filled by another patient. As such, we respectfully require 24 hours notice for any cancellations or changes to your appointment. Patients who provide less than 24 hours notice, or miss their appointment, will be charged 100% of the appointment cost to the card on file.
