Aricular Acupuncture

The 5 Needle Protocol (5NP), also known as “auricular acupuncture”, “Acudetox” or the “NADA protocol”, is a standardized ear acupuncture protocol used for behavioral health that is a known best practice in the acute and chronic management of substance use disorders. auricular acupuncture has proved to be a useful adjunctive treatment in any clinical situation where reducing sympathetic nervous system arousal is associated with positive therapeutic outcomes such as during mental health acute crisis, trauma treatment, natural disasters, and chronic pain syndrome.

The 5 needle protocol is a simple yet powerful treatment that involves the placement of 3 to 5 sterile needles in specific points on each ear. The treatment lasts about 30 to 45 minutes, is non-verbal, and often brings an immediate calming effect. The treatment can be done individually or in a group setting. 

Several staff at the Center for Wellness and Change, are trained in the 5 needle protocol. 

This protocol is helpful as an adjunct to addiction treatment. It is helpful in reduction of anxiety associated with opioid and other drug withdrawal as well as with the behavioral change necessary in early recovery. 

For some clients, ketamine-assisted-psychotherapy may be accompanied by anxiety, fear, and worry. This anxiety maybe present for several reasons, including fear of the unknown with participants who have never used psychoactive substances. There may also be fear and anxiety when faced with the prospect of addressing painful and deeply held psychological issues or trauma. The 5 needle protocol can address the fear and anxiety associated with the induction phase of ketamine as well as in the initial post treatment phase where it can help with grounding and integration of the ketamine experience.