--- title: "AcuDetox" entity: "page" canonical_url: "https://www.draleks.ca/acudetox" markdown_url: "https://www.draleks.ca/llms/page/acudetox" lastmod: "2026-10-03T23:11:41.453Z" --- Group auricular acupuncture in Bracebridge & Gravenhurst # Auricular Acupuncture (AcuDetox) in Muskoka ###### One simple protocol. More than one reason to use it. AcuDetox is a standardized five-point ear acupuncture protocol designed to support regulation across a range of physical and emotional concerns. People seek it for many reasons, including stress, anxiety, sleep, mood, cravings, emotional regulation and physical tension or discomfort. The protocol has a long history of use in addiction and behavioural-health settings, but you do not need to have a substance-use concern to benefit from this approach. View Group Sessions At a glance - Five fine needles in each ear - About 35 to 40 minutes, seated - Small group format - Provided by a registered naturopathic doctor What is AcuDetox? ## Five points. One standard protocol. Five very fine acupuncture needles are placed at specific points in each outer ear. Together, these points are traditionally associated with calming and regulation, focus and concentration, physical relaxation, and supporting the body through a range of emotional states. AcuDetox is a standardized protocol rather than an individualized acupuncture prescription. Everyone receives the same five points, and we don't try to predict exactly how each person will respond. The protocol provides the same input while allowing each person's response to unfold. Why people come ## More than one reason to use it. People seek AcuDetox for a range of reasons. You do not need to have a substance-use concern to receive it. #### Stress #### Anxiety #### Sleep #### Mood #### Cravings #### Emotional regulation #### Physical tension or discomfort #### Focus and concentration Background ## A protocol with a long history. AcuDetox, also known as the NADA protocol, has a long history of use in addiction and behavioural-health settings. It has been incorporated into programs supporting people at different stages of recovery, from early stabilization through ongoing maintenance, and has been used both alongside other forms of care and when someone may not yet be ready or able to engage in more intensive treatment. Part of what makes the protocol distinctive is its simplicity. It does not require someone to tell their story, identify a specific goal, or participate in a conversation during treatment. That low-barrier, nonverbal approach has helped make it an accessible supportive intervention in a wide range of settings. Today, its use extends well beyond addiction treatment, with people seeking AcuDetox for concerns including stress, sleep, mood, emotional regulation, cravings and physical tension or discomfort. The group session ## What happens in a group session? You arrive, settle into a comfortable chair, and receive five small acupuncture needles in each ear. Then you sit quietly for approximately 35 to 40 minutes. You do not have to explain what is going on in your life or interact with the group. You can simply come in, settle in and receive the treatment. ### No sharing. ### No group therapy. ### No homework. Current group sessions ## Join a group session. Currently offered weekly through October. Bracebridge ### Tuesdays at 6:00 pm Haven Spa Social Club Gravenhurst ### Thursdays at 6:00 pm Second Story Cost ### $45 per session Intake: $25, 15 minutes, virtual Before registering for and attending your first group, you complete a 15-minute virtual intake (by telephone or video) ($25) and the required intake and consent forms. Treatments are provided by a registered naturopathic doctor and may be eligible for reimbursement through extended health benefits. Please check your individual insurance coverage. ### New to AcuDetox? Before attending your first group, you'll complete a brief virtual intake. Book Your Intake ### Already completed your intake? Choose your location and book an upcoming group session. Book Bracebridge Session Book Gravenhurst Session Questions ## Frequently asked questions How many sessions do I need? There is no set number of sessions. AcuDetox can have both immediate and cumulative effects. Some people notice a shift after a single treatment—for example, feeling calmer, sleeping better, or experiencing less physical tension—while other benefits may become more noticeable with repeated sessions. How often you attend can also depend on what you're going through. During periods of greater stress, emotional distress, cravings, sleep disruption, or other acute challenges, you may benefit from more frequent treatments initially, and then attend less often as things become more stable. There is no required treatment series. We can consider how you're responding over time and adjust the frequency accordingly. Do I need to have an addiction or substance-use concern? No. Although AcuDetox has a long history of use in addiction and behavioural-health settings, you do not need to have a substance-use concern to receive and benefit from it. People also seek AcuDetox for support with stress, anxiety, sleep, mood, emotional regulation, cravings, and physical tension or discomfort. Do I have to talk or share with the group? No. There is no expectation that you share anything about yourself or why you are attending. You do not need to explain anything about your life or interact with the group. Once the needles are placed, the group simply sits quietly together for the treatment. What does the treatment feel like? The needles used in the ear are very fine. You may feel a brief pinch or sensation as a needle is inserted, although some points may barely be felt at all. Once the needles are in place, most people are able to sit comfortably and relax during the treatment. Do I need an intake before attending? Yes. Before attending your first group, you'll complete an intake and consent form and a brief 15-minute virtual appointment by telephone or video. This gives Dr. Aleks, ND an opportunity to review relevant health information, identify any considerations for treatment, and answer any questions you may have. The intake is $25 and is completed before your first group session. Can I attend just one session? Yes. There is no requirement to commit to a series of treatments. You can attend a single session and see how you respond. Some people choose to come regularly, while others attend periodically or when they feel they could use additional support. Can AcuDetox be provided individually? Yes. AcuDetox can also be provided individually if a group setting isn't right for you. Individual auricular acupuncture appointments are available in Muskoka. If you're looking for a comprehensive, individualized acupuncture treatment rather than the standardized AcuDetox protocol, you can also explore Comprehensive Naturopathic Acupuncture. Can I submit the treatment to my extended health benefits? Treatments are provided by a registered naturopathic doctor and may be eligible for reimbursement through extended health benefits that include naturopathic medicine. Coverage varies by plan, so please check with your insurance provider to confirm your individual coverage. Next step ## Ready to try AcuDetox? Before your first group session, you'll complete a brief 15-minute virtual intake so that Dr. Aleks, ND can review your health history, answer any remaining questions and make sure the treatment can be provided safely. Book Your Intake