Dr. Leah A. Capra, DAc, LAc
I approach healing by addressing the emotional body first, supported by therapy, and then integrating acupuncture to treat the whole person. I was drawn to Chinese medicine because it recognizes emotional health as foundational to physical health. When emotions remain unresolved, they become lodged in the body, creating the conditions in which illness can take root.
For this reason, I do not separate acupuncture from emotional work. I use a therapeutic approach called Neuro Emotional Technique to help identify and release emotional patterns before acupuncture is applied. Therapy serves as the first line of defense, while acupuncture works eloquently to anchor those changes into the body, allowing the healing to become part of your constitution rather than a temporary shift.
I grew up in California, and I now call the North Carolina my home. I love reading, writing, running, yoga, cooking, my cat Scarlett, and teaching. An Adjunct English professor at San Joaquin Delta College since 2013, I bring an educator’s approach to my work as an acupuncturist. My goal as a clinician is to inform, empower, and guide patients toward lasting health.
May you be strong and well.
Frequently Asked Questions
NET stands for Neuro Emotional Technique. It is a complementary mind-body approach intended to address stress-related responses. Sessions may include discussing a concern, recalling an experience, and muscle testing.
Your practitioner guides you through a focused discussion and may apply gentle pressure to your arm while you think about a particular concern. This muscle testing is part of the NET process; it is not a validated way to diagnose illness or confirm past events.
No. NET involves discussion, but it also uses muscle testing and physical techniques.
Acupuncture involves placing very thin needles at selected points on the body. Research suggests it may help with certain pain conditions, including back or neck pain, knee osteoarthritis pain, and some headaches.
You may notice a brief pinch when a needle is inserted, followed by sensations such as tingling or a dull ache. Tell your practitioner if anything feels sharp or uncomfortable so the needle can be adjusted or removed.
Acupuncture is generally considered safe when performed by a qualified practitioner using sterile, single-use needles. Minor effects can include soreness or bruising; serious complications are rare.
Let your practitioner know before treatment begins. You can discuss what to expect and decide whether you feel comfortable proceeding. You do not need to push through sharp pain or significant discomfort.
There is no single number that works for everyone. Your treatment plan will depend on your concerns and how you respond. We’ll discuss next steps rather than promise a fixed timeline.
I offer acupuncture and NET as complementary care for people navigating physical discomfort, emotional stress, and changes in their health. Common reasons people seek care include:
Emotional concerns: Stress, overwhelm, anxious feelings, grief, burnout, and tension associated with difficult experiences.
Pain and tension: Back pain, neck pain, shoulder tension, knee pain, headaches, and migraines.
Menstrual and hormonal concerns: Menstrual discomfort, PMS symptoms, and symptoms associated with perimenopause or menopause.
Fertility-related support: Support during fertility planning or treatment, including the emotional stress that can accompany the process.
General well-being: Difficulty relaxing, disrupted sleep, and stress-related physical tension.