NADA Ear Acupuncture

NADA ear acupuncture is a gentle, simple form of auricular acupuncture that uses five specific points on each ear to support the nervous system, emotional well-being, and recovery.

The protocol was developed by the National Acupuncture Detoxification Association (NADA) and has been used in community settings, addiction and recovery programs, behavioral health programs, and trauma-informed care for decades.

At Balance Acupuncture, we offer NADA ear acupuncture as a private, supportive treatment that can be used on its own or alongside your existing care.

What is NADA ear acupuncture?

NADA stands for the National Acupuncture Detoxification Association, an organization that promotes the use of a standardized five-point auricular acupuncture protocol for behavioral health, addiction, mental health, and emotional trauma.

During a NADA treatment, very small, sterile, disposable needles are gently placed in five specific points on each ear:

• Shen Men – traditionally used to calm the mind and promote a sense of peace

• Sympathetic – traditionally associated with relaxation and nervous-system regulation

• Kidney

• Liver

• Lung

Because the protocol is standardized, NADA treatments are intentionally simple. There is no need to talk through your entire story or explain everything you're experiencing. You can simply settle in, get comfortable, and allow yourself some quiet time.

What can NADA ear acupuncture support?

NADA ear acupuncture is commonly used to support people experiencing:

• Stress and anxiety

• Emotional overwhelm

• Trauma and PTSD support

• Sleep difficulties

• Addiction and recovery

• Cravings and withdrawal support

• Chronic pain

• Nervous-system regulation

• Emotional resilience

• General relaxation and well-being

NADA is not a replacement for medical care, counseling, or other addiction and mental health treatment. It can be a valuable complement to those forms of support.

What is a NADA treatment like?

Your treatment takes place in a quiet, private setting. We'll begin with a brief intake so we can understand what you're looking for and make sure the treatment is appropriate for you.

Five small needles are placed in each ear. Most people find the treatment very gentle, and you can relax comfortably for approximately 30–45 minutes while the needles are retained.

Some people experience a deep sense of relaxation during treatment. Others simply enjoy having a quiet space to pause and reset.

NADA can be especially helpful as part of a consistent routine. Depending on your goals, we may recommend a series of treatments rather than a single visit.

Why ear acupuncture?

The ear has a rich network of nerves and is closely connected with the central and autonomic nervous systems. Auricular acupuncture uses specific points on the ear to influence these systems and create effects throughout the body.

From a Chinese medicine perspective, the ear provides a unique microsystem through which acupuncture can influence the whole person.

One of the things we love about NADA is its simplicity. You don't need to lie on a treatment table for a full acupuncture session, and you don't need to talk throughout your treatment. You simply receive the treatment and have time to rest.

NADA for addiction and recovery

NADA ear acupuncture has been used for decades as a complementary therapy in addiction and recovery settings.

For people working toward recovery, NADA may be incorporated alongside counseling, peer support, medical care, medication when appropriate, and other recovery resources.

It can provide a consistent space to slow down, manage stress, and support your overall well-being while you work toward your goals.

You don't have to navigate recovery alone. Acupuncture can be one piece of a larger, individualized support system.

NADA for stress, trauma & emotional well-being

You don't need to be in addiction recovery to benefit from NADA.

The protocol is also used to support people experiencing periods of significant stress, emotional overwhelm, trauma, anxiety, or difficulty sleeping.

For some people, the greatest benefit is simply having dedicated time to stop, breathe, and let the nervous system settle.

How often should I receive NADA?

There isn't one schedule that works for everyone. Your treatment frequency will depend on your goals, symptoms, and overall care plan.

Some people benefit from regular treatments several times a week, particularly when using NADA as part of an intensive recovery or behavioral health program. Others may use it less frequently as part of ongoing stress management and wellness care.

We'll help you determine an approach that makes sense for you.

A supportive, drug-free complement to your care

NADA ear acupuncture can provide an additional tool for people who are working toward greater balance, recovery, and emotional well-being.

It works best as part of a broader plan when appropriate, alongside the medical, mental health, and community support that you already have in place.

If you're curious about NADA or wondering if it may be a good fit for what you're experiencing, we're happy to talk with you.

Learn More

National Acupuncture Detoxification Association (NADA)
NADA provides education, training, and resources related to the standardized auricular acupuncture protocol.