Hi, I’m Melanie Morrill, a licensed acupuncturist in Edmonton, and today I’d like to share how consent is at the heart of my practice. Every step of your acupuncture journey—from the moment you fill out your intake form to the conclusion of your treatment—prioritizes your comfort, autonomy, and well-being.
What Consent Looks Like in My Practice
Consent isn’t just a formality; it’s a continuous and collaborative process that ensures you feel safe and respected at all times.
- Clear Communication: You’ll have time to review consent forms and ask questions. It’s important to me that you fully understand and feel comfortable with what you’re agreeing to.
- Privacy and Readiness: Before entering the treatment room, I always knock and wait for your response to confirm you’re ready.
- Respect for Boundaries: I’ll ask for permission before making any adjustments, such as repositioning sheets or palpating areas like your pulse, neck, shoulders, back, or abdomen.
- Your Right to Stop: Consent is revocable at any time. If you say “stop,” your request will be immediately respected.
Ongoing Consent During Treatment
Consent doesn’t stop once your treatment begins. It’s an ongoing process to ensure your comfort:
- Before Starting: I’ll always ask, “Are you ready?” before beginning your acupuncture treatment.
- During the Session: After placing the acupuncture points, I’ll check in: “Are all the points feeling comfortable?” If not, we’ll adjust or remove them as needed.
- Call Bell for Support: You’ll have a call bell nearby, so you can easily let me know if you’re too warm, too cold, or need assistance for any reason.
Why Consent Matters
Consent is more than a procedural requirement—it’s a cornerstone of ethical and compassionate healthcare. Your comfort, autonomy, and trust are my top priorities, and I believe that respecting your boundaries fosters a safe and healing environment.
Consent isn’t just essential in acupuncture; it’s essential in all aspects of healthcare. At my clinic, your voice is always heard, and your preferences are always respected.
If you’re ready to explore how acupuncture can support your health in a safe, respectful setting, I’d be honored to guide you through the process.