NADA sets standards of certification for acupuncture detox specialists that are widely accepted in the field of chemical dependency. I am one of the first NADA certified acupuncturists here in B.C. where acupuncture is a legalized primary health care profession. In the U.S.A., chemical dependency professionals in both the private sector and the criminal justice system have taken a keen interest in the work done at Lincoln Hospital and other NADA affiliated programs. Regardless of the setting, and the substance abused, acupuncture treatment aids in patient detoxification. It does so by supporting the main organs of elimination in the body, speeding the body's ability to rid itself of toxins.
Treatment improves mental clarity and ability to focus.
It also provides the patient with a sense of calmness and serenity. As shown in the epidemic of drug addiction related problems such as increased cases of HIV infections , increased criminal offenses and increased number of mental health dual diagnosis clients, traditional western chemical dependency treatment, unassisted, is a rather bleak landscape. Its proven effectiveness depends most upon clients remaining in treatment for a long time, and yet treatment drop-out is too often the norm. Some long term follow-up studies have found that even lenghty treatment stays ultimately produce low success rates. For acupunctuists who want to know the ethical guidelines of a NADA certified acupuncture detox specialist, please request Ethical Guidelines.