We're an acupuncture and functional medicine clinic in downtown Seattle. We've been around since 2008. Our work blends traditional Chinese medicine with modern functional medicine, and we treat everything from chronic pain and digestive issues to hormonal patterns, fertility, autoimmune conditions, and the long tail of 'something is off and no one can figure out what.' We specialize in the complex, chronic, and 'mystery' cases that other clinics often punt on.

What makes you different from other acupuncture clinics?

Three things. First, we treat the whole person, not just the symptom — every plan is customized, no cookie-cutter protocols. Second, we blend Chinese medicine with functional medicine, lab work, modern technology, and clinical reasoning that most acupuncture clinics don't do. Third, we say what we mean. We'll tell you straight up if we think we can help, if we think you'd be better served somewhere else, or if a particular intervention isn't right for you yet. We're not here to upsell you — we're here to actually fix what's going on.

Where is GoodMedizen located?

We're at 509 Olive Way, Suite 1401, in downtown Seattle, WA 98101. The Medical Dental Building, on the corner of Olive Way and 6th Ave. The primary entrance is on Olive Way next to Go Fitness and Cherry Street Coffee. Take the elevator to the 14th floor.

Yes. Every provider at GoodMedizen is a Licensed Acupuncturist (L.Ac.) with a Master's degree in Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine, plus extensive continuing education. We're nationally board certified and licensed by the State of Washington.

What conditions do you treat?

A lot. Pain (chronic and acute), digestive issues, hormonal imbalances, fertility, anxiety and depression, sleep problems, allergies, autoimmune conditions, fatigue, post-surgical recovery, headaches and migraines, neurological conditions, skin conditions, and the long tail of 'something is off and no one can figure out what.' Acupuncture and TCM are whole systems of medicine — we're always looking at the whole body, working on restoration of function to help your body perform the duties it's supposed to.

Do you take my insurance?

We're in-network with most major Seattle-area carriers including Premera, Regence, Aetna, Cigna, First Choice Health, Kaiser PPO, Molina, and several others. We can verify your specific benefits before your first visit so there are no surprises — text us your insurance info or fill out the form on our website and we'll run a benefits check for you.

What if you don't take my insurance?

We're preferred providers for most insurance plans in Washington State. We can still see you on a self-pay basis at our standard or member rates. If you have an FSA or HSA, you can typically use those. We can also provide a superbill that you can submit to your insurance for potential out-of-network reimbursement, depending on your plan.

How much will it cost me?

It depends on your insurance plan, your deductible status, and what services you receive. We'll always run a benefits check before your first visit and tell you what to expect — copay, deductible, coinsurance, the whole picture. No surprise bills.

How do GoodMedizen memberships work?

Standard ($99/mo) is for fairly straightforward cases — member-rate acupuncture, 10% tier discount, office-visit access to your practitioner, 60-minute appointment times that include a few modalities. Premium ($179/mo) adds weekly group Q&A access for people who want more clinical guidance between visits, with a 15% discount on everything. Functional ($397/mo) is the full toolkit — monthly functional medicine visits, quarterly lab review including specialty labs, dedicated messaging access with 24-hour return, 80-minute appointments for more modality work, and 20% off acupuncture, services, and supplements. Memberships are month-to-month and you can cancel anytime.

What's the difference between a la carte and a membership?

A la carte is pay-as-you-go — you pay full rate for each visit and service. Memberships give you a monthly rate that includes longer visits, member pricing on every service and supplement, modalities included in your appointment time, and varying levels of provider access depending on tier. Memberships are designed for people who plan to use them — if you'll be in regularly, they save you significant money over a la carte.

Does acupuncture hurt?

The needles we use are very small — about the width of a strand of hair — and most people do very well with them. They are still needles, so there might be a spot here or there that's a little sharp. If something feels sharp, it should go away within a moment or two. Some points, especially in the hands, can have a deep, dull, achy quality. That ache is actually a good thing, so long as you can rest comfortably with it. Our number one goal is that you are comfortable with our treatments.

How many acupuncture sessions will I need?

What we're trying to do in the beginning is get the attention of your immune system, so we front-load treatments 2–3 times a week for typically the first 2–3 weeks. If you aren't seeing significant change by visit 3, then we dig deeper. The ultimate goal is quarterly maintenance visits — 4 times a year at season change. The goal is to limit the amount of intervention you'll ever need.

How long until I feel better from acupuncture?

Most patients notice benefit from acupuncture at their very first visit, although the first benefits noticed can be nebulous — feeling more relaxed, sleeping better, having more energy. We want to start seeing explicit change around visit 3, and significant improvement around visits 4–6. We front-load treatments to get the attention of your immune system, then slow down.

Is acupuncture safe during pregnancy?

Yes — and incredibly helpful. Acupuncture is safe throughout pregnancy when performed by a trained practitioner, and it can help with morning sickness, back pain, sleep, anxiety, breech presentation, labor preparation, and postpartum recovery. It's often one of the only things a pregnant person can do for stubborn aches and pains, as many standard treatments and medications are contraindicated.

Can children get acupuncture?

Yes. We treat kids of all ages, including infants for things like reflux and sleep disturbances. For younger children we often use non-needle techniques (shonishin, gentle bodywork, magnets, ear seeds) that get the same effect without the needles. By age 8–10, most kids are curious about the needles and actually lead us to start using them.

Is dry needling the same as acupuncture?

Dry needling is a form of acupuncture — so all dry needling is acupuncture, but not all acupuncture is dry needling. Acupuncture is a complete medical system with upwards of 5,000 years of clinical refinement. Acupuncturists train for 3–4 years at master's or doctorate level and complete national board exams. An acupuncturist needs 2,000–4,000 hours of training to insert needles. A physical therapist can be certified to do dry needling after 50–100 hours. That's the practical difference.

What is functional medicine and how is it different from going to my regular doctor?

Conventional medicine is excellent at acute care, surgery, and managing established disease. It's less designed for the chronic, complex, multi-system stuff — the gut/hormone/inflammation/fatigue tangles where every specialist sends you to a different specialist. Functional medicine zooms out, looks at how your systems interact, and uses targeted labs and interventions to address the upstream causes. We work alongside your conventional providers, not in place of them.

How long does functional medicine take to work?

Most people start feeling shifts within 4–6 weeks of starting a personalized protocol. Bigger structural changes — restoring gut function, rebalancing hormones, healing chronic inflammation — usually take 3–6 months of consistent work. Functional medicine is iterative: we run labs, build a protocol, retest, refine. It's not a quick fix; it's a rebuild.

How do I know if I need detox?

Common signs include chronic fatigue, brain fog, unexplained inflammation, hormonal disruption, chemical sensitivity, mold exposure history, dental amalgam history, occupational exposures, autoimmune patterns that aren't responding to other care, and a long history of 'doing everything right' without feeling right. We start with a thorough intake and (when indicated) testing to figure out whether toxic burden is actually the issue.

Why doesn't GoodMedizen sell a 30-day detox kit?

Because they don't work, and some of them are dangerous. Pre-packaged detox kits don't account for your specific exposure history, your drainage capacity, your genetic detox pathways, your medication situation, or your nutrient status. They mobilize toxins without first making sure your exits are open — which is exactly how detox protocols cause harm. Real detox is individual. We don't shortcut it because we've seen what happens when people do.

How much does microneedling cost at GoodMedizen?

Microneedling at GoodMedizen is a flat $619 per session and is never discounted. Exosomes are expensive — really expensive — and they're the difference between 'okay' results and exceptional ones. Cheap microneedling without quality exosomes is a fundamentally different treatment. We don't compromise on the materials.

How many microneedling sessions will I need?

Most people see significant results from a series of 3 sessions spaced 4–6 weeks apart, with maintenance every 6–12 months after. Severe scarring or significant sun damage may benefit from a series of 4–6 sessions.

What should I expect at my first acupuncture visit?

Your first visit is longer than a typical follow-up — usually 75–90 minutes — because we're doing a thorough intake. We'll go through your health history, current medications and supplements, lifestyle, and what brought you in. Then we'll do a TCM diagnostic exam (pulse, tongue, palpation) and build your initial treatment plan. The treatment itself is included in this first visit.

How do I book an appointment at GoodMedizen?

Online at goodmedizen.com/schedule-now — it's the fastest way and shows real-time availability. You can also text 206-402-3813 if you'd rather book that way or have a specific timing question.

What's the fastest way to reach GoodMedizen?

Text 206-402-3813. We're a busy clinic and during clinic hours we're with patients, hands-on, often literally holding needles. We can't pick up the phone in real time — but we can absolutely respond to a text between patients. Texting is by far the fastest way to get a response from us.

Natural Liver Detox Methods: Your Guide to a Healthier Liver

Courtney Zeller
4 hours ago
4 min read

We all know the liver is a powerhouse organ, tirelessly working behind the scenes to keep us healthy. But with the constant barrage of toxins from pollution, processed foods, and stress, it’s no wonder our liver sometimes needs a little extra love. So, how do we give it that boost without resorting to harsh cleanses or gimmicks? Let’s dive into some natural liver detox methods that are both effective and easy to incorporate into your daily routine.

Why Focus on Natural Liver Detox Methods?

Before we jump into the how-to, it’s important to understand why natural methods are the way to go. The liver is incredibly resilient and capable of regenerating itself, but it thrives best when supported gently. Harsh detoxes or extreme diets can sometimes do more harm than good, stripping away essential nutrients and stressing the body.

Natural liver detox methods focus on nourishing the liver with the right foods, lifestyle habits, and supplements that encourage its natural detoxification processes. Think of it as giving your liver a spa day rather than a boot camp. Plus, these methods are sustainable, meaning you can keep your liver happy long-term without feeling deprived or overwhelmed.

The Power of Food: What to Eat for a Healthy Liver

You’ve probably heard the saying, “You are what you eat.” Well, your liver definitely feels the impact of your diet. Certain foods can supercharge your liver’s ability to filter toxins and regenerate cells. Here are some top picks:

Cruciferous Vegetables: Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and cauliflower contain compounds that increase the production of detoxifying enzymes in the liver.
Leafy Greens: Spinach, kale, and arugula are rich in chlorophyll, which helps neutralize heavy metals and chemicals.
Garlic: This pungent bulb activates liver enzymes that flush out toxins and contains selenium, a mineral that supports liver health.
Beets and Carrots: Both are high in plant-flavonoids and beta-carotene, which can stimulate and improve overall liver function.
Green Tea: Packed with antioxidants called catechins, green tea supports liver enzyme function and reduces fat accumulation in the liver.

Incorporating these foods into your meals is easier than you think. How about a kale and beet salad with a garlic-lemon dressing? Or a warm bowl of broccoli and carrot soup? Yum!

Close-up view of fresh cruciferous vegetables on a wooden table

How Can I Repair My Liver Naturally?

Great question! Repairing your liver naturally is all about creating an environment where it can heal and regenerate. Here’s what we can do:

Stay Hydrated: Water is essential for flushing toxins out of your system. Aim for at least 8 glasses a day.
Limit Alcohol and Processed Foods: These put extra strain on your liver. Cutting back gives your liver a chance to recover.
Exercise Regularly: Physical activity improves circulation and helps reduce liver fat.
Get Enough Sleep: Your liver does a lot of its repair work while you’re catching Z’s.
Try Milk Thistle: This herbal supplement has been used for centuries to protect and regenerate liver cells. Studies suggest it may help reduce liver inflammation and promote healing (Saller et al., 2007).
Manage Stress: Chronic stress can negatively impact liver function. Practices like meditation, yoga, or even a simple walk in nature can make a big difference.

By combining these habits, you’re giving your liver the best chance to bounce back naturally.

Lifestyle Tweaks That Support Your Liver

Sometimes, it’s the little things that add up to big changes. Here are some lifestyle tweaks that can support your liver’s health:

Avoid Toxins: This means cutting down on exposure to chemicals found in cleaning products, pesticides, and even some personal care items. Opt for natural or organic alternatives when possible.
Practice Mindful Eating: Eating slowly and chewing thoroughly helps your digestive system and reduces the burden on your liver.
Incorporate Intermittent Fasting: Giving your liver a break from constant digestion can improve its efficiency. Even a 12-hour overnight fast can be beneficial.
Regular Check-ups: Keep an eye on your liver health with routine blood tests, especially if you have risk factors like obesity or a family history of liver disease.

These small changes can make a huge difference over time, helping your liver stay in tip-top shape.

Eye-level view of a glass of green tea on a wooden table with fresh herbs

Why We Should Care About Liver Health Today

Living in a bustling city means we’re constantly exposed to environmental toxins, stress, and less-than-ideal food choices. Our liver works overtime to keep us healthy, but it can only do so much without our help. By embracing natural liver detox methods, we’re not just improving one organ’s function—we’re enhancing our overall well-being.

Imagine having more energy, clearer skin, better digestion, and a stronger immune system. That’s the kind of ripple effect a healthy liver can create. Plus, supporting your liver naturally aligns perfectly with a holistic approach to health—one that respects the body’s wisdom and works with it, not against it.

If you want to learn more about how to support your liver and overall health, check out this liver detox resource for additional tips and guidance.

Taking the First Step Toward a Healthier Liver

Ready to give your liver some love? Start small. Add a few liver-friendly foods to your grocery list this week. Swap out one processed snack for a handful of nuts or a piece of fruit. Try a relaxing evening walk or a few minutes of deep breathing.

Remember, natural liver detox methods aren’t about quick fixes—they’re about creating lasting habits that support your body’s incredible ability to heal and thrive. So let’s raise a glass of water (or green tea) to our liver’s health and take that first step together.

Here’s to a vibrant, energized you!

References:

Saller, R., Meier, R., & Brignoli, R. (2007). The use of silymarin in the treatment of liver diseases. Drugs, 61(14), 2035-2063.