COME CELEBRATE WITH US on July 3rd 9AM to noon
FINALLY- An Updated Acupuncture Law
A HUGE thanks to everyone who supported the passage of this legislation over the past several years.
H5154/S0047 will be signed into law by the Governor next week.
Where can I learn more about 5NP?
Visit POCA’s Auricular Acu-Tech Training page.
Visit NADA’s website for more info on 5NP
Watch a full length documentary about the history of 5NP, and the community healthcare activism of the Black Panthers and Young Lords that has made it possible for us to continue this work today. https://youtu.be/Ua-m7AANkQ
What is the 5 Needle Protocol aka 5NP?
5NP is a set of points located in the outer ear that have been used together to address physical and emotional symptoms related to toxic stress, drug and alcohol detox, chronic pain, anxiety, PTSD, depression, trauma, shock and more. These points can be treated with tiny acupuncture needles or even with “ear beads” or “ear seeds,” that are small pellets attached to a tiny bit of bandage adhesive. 5NP has been used for over 40 years and around the world to support harm reduction, recovery and emergency response work.
Who can practice it in RI?
As of 2020, acupuncturists and Licensed Chemical Dependency Professionals (LCDP) can practice 5NP. In order to use this ear protocol in their work, LCDPs must first complete a weekend-long training that involves classroom hours and hands-on instructions. There are additional practice sessions required for trainees to complete the course and receive their certificate.
A recent change in RI law that will takes effect upon passage (and was passed into law on 6/25/21!) allows Licensed Social Workers, Licensed Mental Health Counselors, Certified Peer Recovery Specialists, Certified Chemical Dependency Professionals, and nurses to use 5NP as part of their work once they complete the approved training.
How can I get trained?
The People’s Organization of Community Acupuncture (POCA), a national organization of practitioners, patients and supporters, has a training program that qualifies those who complete the training to use 5NP. POCA is collaborating with Providence Community Acupuncture, a local acupuncture clinic, to host trainings in RI. Visit https://stage.pocacoop.com/ears for more specific info on trainings.
Since the 1970s, The National Acupuncture Detoxification Association (NADA) has continuously been providing treatments, trainings, and advocacy for laws like the one just passed in RI . Visit their website to find a NADA sponsored training.https://acudetox.com/training/upcoming-training