PRATA is an East London practice offering Traditional Chinese Medicine, Five Element acupuncture, NADA ear acupuncture and Reiki. Every treatment is unhurried, personal and designed around your constitution.
Iolanda is the founder and sole practitioner at PRATA. She specialises in Traditional Chinese Medicine and Five Element acupuncture, and brings Reiki into her practice as a gentle complement to needlework.
Her approach is rooted in deep listening — taking time to understand not just your symptoms, but your whole constitution and life. Every session begins with a real conversation. No rushed appointments, no generic protocols, just careful, considered care.
Iolanda graduated from the College of Integrated Chinese Medicine, one of the most respected Chinese medicine institutions in England.
Acupuncture is recognised by the British Acupuncture Council as beneficial for a wide range of conditions. If you are unsure whether it can help you, get in touch.
Iolanda practises both Traditional Chinese Medicine and Five Element acupuncture — two classical styles that complement each other. TCM works with the body's organ systems and meridian pathways; Five Element acupuncture treats body, mind and spirit by identifying your elemental constitution.
A gentle Japanese energy healing practice promoting deep relaxation and emotional balance. Offered as a standalone session or woven into an acupuncture treatment.
A standardised five-point ear acupuncture protocol, widely used to support stress relief, emotional balance and recovery from addiction. Simple, calming, individually or in small groups.
A calm, quiet group session pairing the NADA protocol with music. No need to talk or share — simply settle in. Held in small groups of four on the first Saturday of each month.
A natural approach to skin health and facial rejuvenation, using fine needles to stimulate collagen, improve circulation and restore vitality — treating the face and the whole person together.
Traditional adjunct therapies used alongside acupuncture to ease muscular tension, improve circulation and release stagnation — added to a follow-up session where it will help.
Many private health insurers cover acupuncture, particularly for musculoskeletal issues. Receipts provided on request.
Most people feel very little — often just a brief tap or a mild, dull sensation as the needle is inserted, which usually settles within a few seconds. The needles used are hair-fine, nothing like an injection needle, and many patients find the treatment itself deeply relaxing.
Traditional Chinese Medicine views health as the free flow of Qi (energy) through pathways called meridians. Fine needles are inserted at specific points to release blockages and restore balance. From a Western perspective, acupuncture is also understood to stimulate the nervous system, promote blood flow and trigger the release of natural pain-relieving and mood-regulating chemicals.
Acupuncture is very safe when performed by a qualified practitioner using single-use, sterile needles. Some people feel pleasantly sleepy or a little tender at a needle site afterwards, and occasionally a small bruise can appear — these effects are mild and pass quickly. Serious side effects are rare.
Loose, comfortable clothing is best, ideally allowing easy access to your arms, legs and lower back, as these areas are commonly used for treatment. If needed, you're welcome to change or use a gown in the treatment room.
Acupuncture is available on the NHS in some areas, most commonly for a limited number of conditions such as chronic pain, and access can vary depending on your GP or local trust. PRATA is a private practice, which allows for longer, more personalised sessions than most NHS settings can offer.
Many private health insurers do cover acupuncture, particularly when it's recommended for musculoskeletal issues, though policies and excesses vary. It's best to check directly with your provider before booking, and PRATA is happy to provide receipts or documentation to support a claim.
PRATA is a private practice in Hackney Wick, East London. Get in touch with any questions, or fill in the form to enquire about a session.
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Iolanda will be in touch within 48 hours.
