Frequently Asked Questions
General Clinic Information
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You’ll find us upstairs at Suite 2, Level 1, 190 Bay Street, Port Melbourne. We’re above the shops and cafes — tucked away in a quiet, light-filled space. Look for the A-frame sign out front.
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You can book online through our booking page, or call us directly on (03) 9646 9090. You’re also welcome to email us at info@portmelbournetcm.com.au if you’d prefer to ask a few questions first.
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No, we’re a by-appointment clinic. This allows us to give each client the full time and attention they deserve without rushing or overbooking.
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Our current upstairs clinic does have a staircase, so unfortunately we’re not yet wheelchair accessible. However, we are expanding into a new space in future that will improve accessibility. Please contact us directly to discuss your needs — we’ll do our best to accommodate.
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Yes. Our naturopath, Kylie and Suzette offer online consults for those who are unable to attend in person. Some herbal medicine and care plans can also be managed remotely. Please reach out to check if your needs can be supported via telehealth.
What to Expect at Your Appointment
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First sessions are 60 minutes. We start with a detailed conversation about your health history, lifestyle, current concerns and goals. Depending on your practitioner, your session may include physical assessments, treatment (acupuncture or osteopathy), and a personalised care plan with dietary or herbal recommendations.
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Wear something comfortable. If you're receiving acupuncture or osteopathy, it helps to wear loose-fitting clothing. For acupuncture, areas like your arms, legs or abdomen may need to be accessed, and you’ll always be draped for comfort and privacy.
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This varies depending on your condition and your goals. Some people come weekly during an acute phase, then reduce to fortnightly or monthly. Others come for maintenance care or seasonal check-ins. Your practitioner will talk through a plan that suits your pace, budget and needs.
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Absolutely. Many clients see more than one practitioner over time, depending on what’s going on. Our team refers internally, so if we feel you’d benefit from naturopathy, osteopathy or another approach, we’ll suggest it and coordinate care with your consent.
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We kindly ask for at least 24 hours’ notice if you need to cancel or reschedule. Late cancellations or missed appointments may incur a fee, as it’s difficult for us to fill that time with another client on short notice.
Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine
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Acupuncture involves inserting very fine needles into specific points on the body to support balance, relieve pain, and regulate systems like digestion, hormones and the nervous system. It’s part of Traditional Chinese Medicine and is used both preventatively and for active concerns.
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Most people find acupuncture relaxing. The needles are very thin and inserted gently. You might feel a brief tingling, heaviness or warmth at the site, but it’s rarely painful. Many clients doze off once the needles are in.
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We commonly treat fertility, hormonal imbalances, stress, insomnia, pain, digestion issues, and general wellbeing. Acupuncture is tailored to each person, so even if your concern is complex or ongoing, we’ll take the time to build a plan that makes sense for you.
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Yes. Suzette may prescribe Chinese herbal medicine in raw, powdered, pill or capsule form. These formulas are custom-made based on your presentation and goals. All herbs are sourced from reputable suppliers who meet Australian safety standards.
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Yes. Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine can be very supportive during all stages of pregnancy, from conception to postnatal care. Suzette has many years of experience treating pregnant clients, including for nausea, fatigue, breech position and labour preparation.
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No. You do not need a referral from a GP or any other practitioner to book in for an acupuncture initial consultation. We do encourage you to bring as many blood test or scans that you may have had for your area of concern to that first session so that we can best assess and treat your condition.
Naturopathy
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Naturopathy is a system of healthcare that supports the body’s ability to heal using natural therapies. This includes nutrition, herbal medicine, lifestyle support, and supplement prescriptions when needed. Naturopathy is highly individualised and well-suited for long-term wellness.
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Your naturopath will take a full case history, ask about diet, stress, sleep and other lifestyle factors, and create a personalised treatment plan. This may include herbal tinctures, nutritional support, or recipes and meal ideas to try at home.
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Yes. Kylie regularly supports clients through hormonal imbalances such as PMS, PCOS, perimenopause, fertility concerns and postnatal recovery. Her approach is calm, gentle, and based on long-term support and education.
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No, any products recommended are an additional cost. We’re mindful of budget and only suggest what’s needed. Your practitioner will always explain pricing and alternatives before anything is prescribed.
Cranio-Sacral Therapy
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Cranio-Sacral Therapy is a hands-on therapy that supports the body's structure and movement. It includes soft tissue work, joint mobilisation, stretching and alignment techniques, with a focus on improving circulation, posture, pain and mobility.
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We see clients for back pain, neck stiffness, tension headaches, posture problems, chronic discomfort and more. Maite also works closely with neurodivergent clients and families looking for gentle, sensory-aware support.
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No referral is needed. You can book directly. If you’re under a chronic disease management plan with your GP, you may be eligible for Medicare rebates — check with your doctor for eligibility.
Herbal and Wellness Products
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Yes, we carry a small selection of practical, quality products including heat packs, loose-leaf teas, massage tools, and herbs. We keep our range simple and relevant to what we actually use and recommend in treatment.
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Yes. If you’ve had a consultation and need a refill of your existing formula or product, you can contact us to arrange pickup. We may ask a few questions to confirm the formula is still suitable before refilling.
Getting the Most Out of Your Care
What makes our clinic different?
Clients often say it’s the way we work. We take time. We explain things clearly. We treat each person as an individual and genuinely care about their outcomes. Our space is calm and welcoming, and our team works together closely to offer care that feels grounded and trustworthy. We're local, experienced, and focused on real, lasting results — not quick fixes.