Nova Recovery Center is licensed by the Center for Heart-Mind Coherence in the application of the Core Emotional Addiction (CEA) Model. We use this clinical treatment method alongside other complementary evidence-based therapies to help our clients sustain their recovery and prevent relapse as they adjust to a new lifestyle of sobriety.

What is the CEA Model?

The Core Emotional Addiction (CEA) Model is a clinical method that supports long-term emotional sobriety and recovery success.

This model helps clients identify both positive and negative imprints tied to their Core Emotional Addiction patterns.

In CEA, clients explore emotional addictions to Power Control, Security, Suffering, and Sensation—often linked to substance addiction.

The model shows how beliefs form neural pathways based on experience and emotional intensity.

Thanks to neuroplasticity, the brain can form new pathways and change harmful thought patterns over time.

CEA Model for Addiction Treatment

The Core Emotional Addiction Model works well in addiction treatment by revealing the emotional roots behind substance use.

It gives clients tools to manage harmful emotions and avoid relapse.

In treatment, the model helps clients build awareness, use personal strengths, and stay emotionally grounded.

Clients learn to live with intention and emotional maturity.

They also gain clarity, confidence, and a deeper understanding of their emotional imprints.

By focusing on emotional growth, the Core Emotional Addiction Model strengthens the foundation for lasting recovery.

How We Use the CEA Model at Nova Recovery Center

Throughout the addiction treatment process, certified Nova clinicians use the CEA Model to guide clients through the following steps, which promote personal healing and growth in recovery:

1. Identify the negative and positive personal beliefs that have been inherited from family, society, or social institutions/organizations
2. Acknowledge the core emotional addictions that have formed as a result of the negative personal beliefs
3. Integrate daily mindful tools to overcome core emotional addictions and rely upon positive personal beliefs and strengths to cultivate healthy behaviors and thoughts

Throughout this process, certified clinicians may also lead clients in breathing techniques that will help them become more aware of their present emotional state, accept those emotions, and practice emotional regulation.

Our CEA-Certified Staff

Nova is licensed by the Center for Heart-Mind Coherence in the application of the Core Emotional Addiction (CEA) Model. All clinicians at Nova undergo certification in the CEA model.