EQUINOX

YOUTH CLINIC

a seasonal acupuncture reset for teens 12—17

Helping your teen navigate the back-to-school transition with clarity, balance, and support.

gentle, supportive acupuncture for teens + parents

As the days grow shorter and academic demands return, many teens experience heightened anxiety, sleep disruption, and emotional overwhelm.

Equinox Youth Clinic offers a safe, specialized space where adolescents can find their balance during this challenging seasonal transition.

Unlike traditional healthcare settings, Equinox Youth Clinic is designed specifically for teens. We understand that adolescents need a different approach—one that honors their developing independence while providing the support they need to thrive.

Our clinic combines the wisdom of Chinese medicine with a deep understanding of teenage development, creating treatments that address both the physical symptoms and emotional challenges your teen may be experiencing.

clinic details

Session Dates – Fall 2025

Saturdays, 2:00–5:00 PM

  • October 4

  • October 18

  • November 1

  • November 15

  • December 6

  • December 20


Investment:

$65 per session* (pay as you go)
$350 for 6 sessions
(save $40)

*Vital Qi member rate – no membership required


Booking Information:

  • Sessions are by appointment only

  • Space is intentionally limited to ensure personalized attention

  • Advanced booking strongly encouraged – popular times fill quickly

  • Caregivers receive complimentary auricular (ear) acupuncture treatment during session or a 35% discount on their own full treatment when booked with child.

we support teens with:

sleep & energy

  • Trouble falling asleep or staying asleep

  • Unrefreshing rest and morning fatigue

  • Low energy and burnout

  • Difficulty transitioning into routines

mental & emotional

  • Anxiety, overwhelm, and racing thoughts

  • Mood swings and emotional sensitivity

  • Difficulty focusing or feeling mentally scattered

  • General emotional dysregulation

physical concerns

  • Digestive upset or irregularity

  • Hormonal shifts and menstrual regulation

  • Physical pain, tension, or headaches

  • Sports-related strain and recovery

meet your acupuncturist:
ali warters, l.ac.

Ali is an acupuncturist, herbalist, and massage therapist from Newport News, VA. Before studying Eastern medicine, she was a portrait artist and her love for drawing people led her to discover a deeper calling: helping them heal.

She holds a Master’s in Acupuncture with a focus in Chinese herbs, as well as degrees in Health Sciences and Fine Arts. Ali brings creativity, compassion, and intuition into every session. Her treatments are calming, supportive, and tailored to meet each person where they are.

Whether you're new to acupuncture or just need a safe space to reset, Ali creates a welcoming environment where all bodies and all feelings are honored. Teens especially appreciate her gentle, open approach—you’ll feel heard, supported, and at ease.

what to expect:

your teen’s experience:

  • Comfortable, teen-friendly environment designed to feel safe and non-clinical

  • Individual attention with treatments tailored to their specific needs

  • No judgment zone where they can openly discuss their concerns

  • Education about how acupuncture works and what they can expect

  • Empowerment through learning self-regulation techniques

treatment approach:

  • Fine, sterile needles placed at specific points to promote balance

  • Sessions last 30 minutes in a relaxing atmosphere

  • Gentle techniques appropriate for younger, more sensitive patients

  • Integration of lifestyle and wellness guidance

  • Focus on both immediate relief and long-term emotional regulation skills

while your teen receives treatment:

  • Complimentary auricular (ear) acupuncture for parents (completely optional)

  • Quiet relaxation space to decompress from your own daily stress

  • OR book your own full treatment at 35% off regular pricing (contact us for discount code or choose pay-later to apply at checkout)

frequently asked questions

  • Small-group acupuncture means you will be treated the same room 3-4 other individuals. Providing treatments in this setting allows us keep prices low while providing a similar high-quality, restful experience to that of private acupuncture.

    All treatments are offered in recliners with optional heating elements and blankets. Treatments are face-up only, meaning in most cases needles will not be able to access your back.

  • Treatments are customized based on the needs of the individual. Our acupuncturist will review your health history prior to your first appointment, and ask clarifying follow up questions when you arrive for your treatment. In return appointments, you will have a brief check-in with the acupuncturist to track progress and discuss any new issues.

    Once you have arrived and checked in, you will be guided to one of four chairs in the clinic. When the session begins, hair-thin needles are placed in the arms, legs, face, head, and abdomen depending on the condition being treated.

    The needles are then left to rest for 30-35 minutes, during which time many people experience a deep feeling of relaxation or even take a short nap. When the needles are removed, you are encouraged to get up slowly and are then free to go about your day.

  • Yes. We ask that caregivers remain in the clinic during the session. You’re welcome to receive a complimentary auricular (ear) acupuncture treatment while your teen is being treated.

  • We recommend wearing loose-fitting, comfortable clothing to your appointment. The acupuncturist will typically place needles from the knees down and elbows down, so it is preferable that the clothing can be pulled up past the knees and elbows.

  • Yes! We encourage teens to listen to calm music or other content during treatment. The clinic will also have relaxing music playing.

  • Book back-to-back sessions for you and your teen, then choose “pay later” at checkout. We’ll apply the 35% discount to your session at the time of payment.

  • Of course! Each member of your party will need to book a separate appointment and fill out their own intake form. If you would like to schedule appointments for a group larger than three people, please contact us to discuss booking a private event.

  • Our clinic is located in on the first level of an early-20th century style Fan home. There are two stairs to navigate upon entering the building. If you are unable to safely navigate stairs and would still like to receive treatment, please contact us and we will arrange for an accommodation.

  • We use Seirin needles, which are among the thinnest and most gentle available, and use techniques that involve minimal stimulation. We monitor your teen throughout the session to ensure they’re as comfortable and relaxed as possible.

acupuncture for teens richmond va

for questions or to see if the youth clinic is right for your teen, email us at hello@vitalqi.com.