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Acupuncture Detoxification for

Addiction Treatment

Copyright 1996-98 © Dale Carnegie & Associates, Inc.

DSAMH

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# 1209 Acupuncture; An Ancient Art Becomes a

Counseling PracticeObjectives: Learn about it’s history and application

in behavioral healthUnderstand the acudetox protocol, it’s

characteristics and benefitsObserve and/or experience the

treatment

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What is it

Acupuncture is the use of very fine sterile, stainless steel, disposable needles about the size of two hairs inserted through the skin into specific points along the channels where the body’s energy can be contacted. Each point has its own function and effect on the body’s Qi. It is an art that is practiced by more than half of the world’s population.

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What is QI?The intangible part of the person that

empowers the being and makes each individual unique.

There are different types of Qi and they travel within or along pathways known as meridians.

It allows us to grow and mature.

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Yin and Yang

In Oriental

medicine, this is the inhibiting and activating forces which is literally the dark and light sides of a mountain.

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“Empty Fire” in Addictions/Behavioral

HealthExternal activities like intense stimulation and

use of drugs are yin-fueled, yang-like activities.

The person’s behaviors/symptoms appear to be from too much yang but the person is most likely to be deficient in both yin and yang. The yin is more depleted and the yang appears to be in excess.

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NADA

It’s the Spanish word for nothing.

It’s also the National Acupuncture Detoxification Association.

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History

Acupuncture for treatment of addiction disorders is a recent development in the history of this ancient art.

In 1972, a Hong Kong neurosurgeon, H.L. Wen, discovered that acupuncture could ease the symptoms of withdrawal and since then, this method been used for detoxification and relapse prevention.

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Research: A few cited work

In 1973, Dr. Wen conducted several basic clinical pilot studies that formed the basis of subsequent research.

In 1987, Bullock, Culliton and Olander published research on the effectiveness of acupuncture in treating chronic addiction.

The Hooper Foundation in Portland, Oregon reported decrease in recidivism from 25% to 6% and Kent-Sussex Detox in DE reported a decrease in recidivism from 87% to 18 %.

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The NADA Protocol

ADS clinicians use 3-5 ear acupuncture points including sympathetic, shen men, lungs, kidney, liver.

Treatment is provided in a group setting for 40-45 min.

Treatment is integrated with conventional elements of psycho-social rehabilitation.

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Characteristics of the Protocol

It is a non-verbal process.The patient is engaged in treatment

even before they are able to tolerate intense or personalized one-to-one interactions comfortably.

Acupuncture helps in developing a meditation-like state.

There is balancing process that occurs so that the patient is more receptive to the message of treatment.

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Characteristics of the Protocol

It helps create an environment that is reassuring and validating.

The value of the acupuncture session is not judged by the level of sedation during or after the session, but rather how well prepared the patient is for counseling, groups, and other challenges.

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Unique BenefitsEffective across addictive substancesEffective throughout the

treatment/recovery processEffective along a continuum of careMulticulturally accessibleNon-verbal and non-performanceElicits immediate and long term effectsNon-addictive

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Unique Benefits

It is simple, flexible and inexpensive.It can be easily integrated into treatment

settings.It improves treatment relationships and

environment.It improves treatment engagement, retention,

and outcomes.

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Unique Benefits

It is consistent and relatively safe.It is effective with clients who are

hardest to treat.It is balancing and not symptom or

syndrome-dependent.

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LANDSCAPE

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NADA EAR PROTOCOL

Points were chosen based upon Oriental medical theory and clinical indication as well as lower electrical resistance and pain sensitivity

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NADA Points

Sympathetic - Acudetox balances the autonomic nervous system. It has strong analgesic and relaxant effect upon internal organs and it dilates blood vessels.

Shen men - This is the spirit gate. It helps ease anxiety and nervousness. It helps the process of going within, supporting the internal journey of recovery.

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NADA Points

Kidney - It is believed to store the source energy and the essence or “Jing”. It is associated with fear, resolve/will power and rebirth.

Liver - In Chinese medicine, the liver helps with resolving anger and aggression and with keeping both the emotions and the body systems moving smoothly.

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NADA Points

Lungs - The lung is involved in immunity and protecting the body from disease. The lung is associated with the grieving process and with letting go.

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Serenity PrayerGod grant me

the serenity to accept the things that I cannot change, courage to change the things I can & wisdom to know the difference.

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Other applications

Acudetox was the primary modality used in the Integrative Stress Management Program at St Vincent Medical Center In New York after 9/11. The treatment is simple and has immediate calming effects. The atmosphere is informal and non-threatening.

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Other applications

AIDS related TxMiami Drug Court ProgramInternationally Utilized - Africa, India,

Philippines, Nepal, Germany, Poland to name a few.

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And now we invite you to try this ancient art------

follow the Spirit, follow the Qi.

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Meditation Candle

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Thank you!Tita Gontang, LCSW, CADC, ADSVicki Esham, CADC, ADS