The Science and Clinical Application of DNRS
The Dynamic Neural Retraining System is a structured neuroplasticity-based program designed to help people retrain neural patterns associated with nervous system sensitization, persistent physiological reactivity, and disruptive functional changes.
Healthcare provider referrals account for more than 30% of DNRS participants, highlighting the significant role clinicians play in helping patients access neuroplasticity-based interventions.
The DNRS clinical resources listed below are designed to help clinicians recognize patterns that may indicate nervous system sensitization and consider whether the program may be an appropriate intervention.
Clinical Referral Checklist
DNRS has been used by individuals experiencing a range of complex chronic conditions, particularly when central sensitization, persistent physiological reactivity, increasing sensitivity to triggers, and functional limitations are present.
The checklist below is intended as a clinical conversation aid to support consideration of DNRS as an appropriate neuroplasticity-based approach for a patient.
Interpreting the Checklist
DNRS may warrant further consideration when indicators are present across several areas, including sensitization patterns, multisystem symptoms, and functional impairments that reduce a person's ability to perform daily activities, and when appropriate medical assessment and treatment are already in place.
The presence of an individual symptom or diagnosis does not, by itself, establish suitability. Patient interest, expectations, readiness, and ability to participate consistently should also inform the clinical conversation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What clients can expect?
A structured, self-directed program: DNRS includes approximately 13 hours of instructional video across seven modules. Clients work through the program sequentially and can review the material at their own pace.
Practical neuroplasticity exercises: Throughout the program, clients are shown a variety of brain-training exercises that may incorporate focused attention, verbal exercises, visualization, positive emotion, gentle movement, and the gradual application of DNRS tools to everyday situations. Exercises can be modified to meet the client’s current level and capacity, allowing them to begin where they are and build gradually over time.
A recommended daily practice: The overall recommendation is approximately one hour of retraining practice per day for at least six months, while also applying DNRS principles throughout daily life. The hour can be divided into shorter, more manageable practice periods throughout the day, such as three or four sessions of 15 to 20 minutes. Clients can start where they are and gradually build toward the recommended practice time.
Support when they need it: Clients receive access to the Global Community Forum, a moderated, members-only community where they can connect with others practicing DNRS, share experiences, ask questions, celebrate progress, and receive encouragement. Additional support options, including Individual Coaching and 12-Week Group Coaching, are available at any stage for clients who would benefit from more personalized guidance, structure, or accountability. Clients do not need to complete the instructional program before reaching out for support, although completing as much of the foundational training as possible beforehand is recommended.
Designed to complement existing care: DNRS is intended to work alongside appropriate medical and professional care. Decisions regarding medical treatment, medication, or other clinical care remain between the client and their healthcare professional.
How can I review the program before referring?
The 21-Day Free Trial provides access to the Introduction and Pillar One of the course. It offers a practical view of the client experience, including registration, platform navigation, introductory neuroplasticity concepts, and information about limbic system impairment.
Clinicians are invited to explore DNRS through complimentary professional review access so they can gain a first-hand understanding of the program and the experience their patients may have. This access is designed for review and referral consideration. DNRS course materials remain proprietary and are separate from any practitioner training or authorization to teach or deliver the program in clinical practice.
What support is available to clients?
Client Services: Available to everyone, whether or not they have purchased the program. The Client Services team can assist with general questions about DNRS, as well as account, access, order, and scheduling support.
Global Community Forum: A moderated, members-only community where DNRS participants can connect with others, share experiences, ask questions, celebrate progress, and receive encouragement as they practice the program. Basic access is included with program membership.
Enhanced Community Support: Optional access to additional community-based resources, including Share-a-Laugh classes, Annie’s Coffee Talks, and a library of guided visualizations. An additional fee applies.
Individual Coaching: Optional one-to-one support from a Certified DNRS Coach for personalized guidance during program implementation. An additional fee applies.
12-Week Group Coaching: Optional weekly Zoom sessions offering structure, guidance, accountability, and peer connection. An additional fee applies.
What is my role as a referring professional?
The clinician’s role is to continue providing care within their professional scope while helping patients access accurate information about DNRS. Clinicians may:
Continue appropriate medical evaluation, treatment, monitoring, and referrals within their scope of practice.
Introduce DNRS as an optional, complementary skills-based program when appropriate.
Encourage patients to review the DNRS Success Stories on our website to learn about the experiences of others who have completed the program.
Invite patients to complete the DNRS Self-Assessment and contact DNRS Client Services with questions about the program.
Use DNRS clinician resources to support clear, accurate, and informed referral conversations.
Healthcare professionals who have experience referring patients to DNRS may also contact the DNRS team to inquire about physician endorsement or podcast opportunities. Participation is considered on an individual basis.
How can I identify patterns associated with limbic system impairment?
Limbic system impairment is a term used to describe learned, maladaptive patterns involving brain and nervous system regulation. Patterns that may be relevant include persistent symptoms after an initiating event, expanding sensitivities or triggers, symptoms that fluctuate by context, multi-system involvement, heightened threat-response processing, and increasing functional restriction.
The DNRS Self-Assessment for patients and Referral Checklist for providers are educational screening resources only. They do not establish eligibility, diagnose a condition, or predict whether an individual will benefit.
Does DNRS have an affiliate program?
Yes. Affiliate participation is optional. Approved affiliates may earn a 15% commission on eligible sales of the DNRS 2.0 Online Instructional Video Program.
Some products and support services are not commission-eligible.
Healthcare professionals are responsible for ensuring that participation aligns with the ethical, regulatory, disclosure, and conflict-of-interest requirements of their profession and jurisdiction.
What resources can I share with clients?
DNRS Website: Provides an overview of the program, supporting research, client resources, and purchasing options.
Success Stories: Share real-life experiences from people who have used DNRS and offer insight into the types of progress participants have reported.
21-Day Free Trial: Provides access to the Introduction and Pillar One, allowing clients to explore the program before making a purchase.
Self-Assessment: An educational self-check designed to help clients recognize common patterns that may be relevant to DNRS.
Frequently Asked Questions: Answers common questions about the program, how it works, and what clients can expect.
Ongoing Support Services: Outlines additional support options, including the Global Community Forum, Individual Coaching, 12-Week Group Coaching, and Share-a-Laugh.
Wired for Healing: Annie Hopper’s book exploring the development of DNRS and the science and personal journey behind the program.
I have reviewed the course and would like to refer. What is the next step?
Clinicians can begin by directing clients to the DNRS website, Self-Assessment, and 21-Day Free Trial to learn more about the program and determine whether they would like to explore it further.
Clients can also contact DNRS Client Services directly with questions about the program, purchasing, or available support options.
Who can clients contact with questions?
DNRS Client Services is available Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time to assist with general questions regarding DNRS products and services.
Phone: 1-800-947-9389
Email: info@retrainingthebrain.com
Does DNRS offer a money-back guarantee?
Yes. DNRS offers a money-back guarantee for clients who complete six consecutive months of daily neuroplasticity training and feel they did not experience meaningful benefit from the instructional program.
Clients can contact DNRS Client Services for full details about the guarantee.
Can I purchase the program for a client?
Yes. A clinician may contact Client Services to arrange payment by phone. To create access for the correct client, DNRS will require:
The client’s full name
The client’s email address, which will be used for the DNRS account
The client’s shipping address if printed materials are included
Clinicians should confirm that they have the client’s permission to provide the required information. Course access and program communications are sent to the client’s email address.
Research Supporting DNRS
Research conducted at McMaster University followed DNRS participants over a 12-month period and evaluated changes across multiple health and quality-of-life measures.
Participants reported significant improvements across multiple health and quality-of-life measures, providing encouraging evidence for the potential benefits of DNRS in people with complex chronic conditions.
White Paper on Nociplasticity
DNRS founder Annie Hopper explores how nervous system sensitization and maladaptive neuroplasticity may contribute to persistent symptoms, heightened physiological reactivity, and functional changes following an infection, injury, exposure or period of significant stress. Sign up below to receive your copy,
