auricular acupuncture (acudetox)
What is auricular (ear) acupuncture?
Traditionally known as acudetox, this 5 point ear needling technique helps bring the body out of fight or flight and into a state of balance. The first two points address the nervous system and the emotions, while the other three points support detoxifying the kidney (anxiety), liver (anger/aggression), and lungs (grief/loss/shame).
Who can receive this treatment?
It was originally developed for addiction recovery, and it is now widely used to support any Texan struggling with trauma, addiction, chronic stress, and/or physical, emotional, and psychological distress.
How does it work?
It entails placing five small needles (or ear seeds/beads) at specific points on the ear. These specific points calm the nervous system, reduce stress, and promote emotional resilience. There is nothing in the needles. As with regular acupuncture, it simply stimulates and supports healing the body naturally does.
Does it hurt and is it safe?
People describe it as a pinch that goes away after the needle is placed. It is 100% safe and has minimal contra-indications.
Why is this so effective?
It is a low cost, non-verbal, individual or group intervention. It is a natural, non-medication, barrier-free intervention for healing that can help anyone and everyone restore well-being. It has been used as psychological first aid after incidents of community violence or natural disasters (9/11, Kerville floods, school shootings) to support first responders, victims, and family members. And therapists can do it?
The Texas Legislature passed a bill in 2023 (88(R) HB 1106) that allows any licensed mental health clinician and nurses to provide this in any setting. This allows therapists to reach more people in a bigger way to promote wellness and healing.
Do I have to be a client or become a client of one of your therapists to receive this treatment?
No! Clients can receive this service as a part of their counseling sessions, but you also do not have to be a client in order to receive services. Anyone can come to our office and receive it.
How long are sessions and what is the cost?
Sessions can range from 20 minutes - 45 minutes long. Cost is dependent, and can range from $45-$100 per session
How can I sign up for this?
Reach out to us on our contact page and we can get you connected to one of our Acudetox Specialists (Katie or Kelsey) to get started! Where can I learn more?
The New Era of the Five-Needle Protocol for Mental Health - https://5nptexas.com/2023/01/25/expanding-acudetox-as-a-behavioral-health-solution/ Evidence for the NADA protocol: Summary of Research - https://acudetox.com/resource/evidence-for-the-nada-protocol-summary-of-research/
It's First Aid!: Tracing the Global Transmission of a Five-Point Ear Acupuncture Treatment - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vysSz8K-E9s&list=PLwV-GmHRXVKKqbZZbuoFTmmyVelvYTCHL&index=2
