5NP Ear Acupuncture as a Tool for Change
What is 5NP?
5NP or the 5-Needle Protocol, also known as the NADA, Acu-detox or Acu-Wellness protocol is an ear acupuncture protocol containing 5 points that has been used for almost 50 years in various health and community settings.
The treatment involves placing very thin acupuncture needles on the outer ear and uses points that help to rebalance the nervous, as well as other body systems. Originally 5NP was developed as a part of a community response to treat opiate addiction, but the protocol has been found to be useful for so much more including helping people to regulate sleep, digestion, tension, feelings of anxiety, depression, and can support people dealing with toxic stress, PTSD, or in recovery.
Who can practice 5NP?
This varies from state to state, but here in RI Licensed social workers, mental health counselors, drug and alcohol counselors, peers, and nurses (LICSW, LMHC, LCDP, peers, nurses) can use 5NP in their work once they have completed an approved training. Ultimately we would like to see more providers able to use 5NP in their work since it has such wide applicability and is something that can enhance other types of behavioral and mental healthcare, and is supportive of bringing people’s nervous systems back to a more neutral state of calm attention.
How do I get trained and learn more about 5NP?
To find an upcoming training (including here in RI) check the webpage for 5NP ear acupuncture on the People’s Organization of Community Acupuncture (POCA).
