The National Acupuncture Detoxification Association (NADA) provides training in “acudetox,” a standardized auricular acupuncture protocol integrated with biopsychosocial models of care to support behavioral health, including emotional response to trauma and disaster. NADA has a corps of Registered Trainers, defined competencies and a Training Resource Manual, last revised significantly in 2008. The training manual and methods have fallen behind the times and are past due for revision.

This project conducted an assessment of the NADA training needs towards improving the manual materials and methods available to trainers. The study garnered information and expertise from the NADA leadership and training community, and by the process of inclusion, sought buy-in for new developments. A mixed methods study was undertaken to identify the curriculum and methods renewal needs, including brief interviews with thought leaders; a needs assessment survey of trainers; a World Café™ model work group of trainers; and a focus group of trainees. Collectively these processes yielded rich recommendations for change.

Every year, NADA trains hundreds of Acupuncture Detoxification Specialists (ADS), the designation for someone who has successfully attained competency in the protocol. International NADA affiliates use the NADA models of training to train thousands per year. This study identified training and curriculum needs to guide the next manual iteration. This study results could facilitate the creation of better materials and methods and an ongoing renewal system. The study process was consistent with what the organization calls the “Spirit of NADA,” in terms of respect, inclusion and consensus.

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