Alcohol addiction is treated through a combination of medical detox, behavioral therapy, medication, and ongoing recovery support.
Clinically known as alcohol use disorder (AUD), it exists on a spectrum, and treatment is matched to severity through a clinical assessment.
There is no single approach that works for everyone, but the ASAM levels of care¹ were created to standardize evidence-based treatment.
What Alcohol Treatment Includes
Detox and treatment are not the same thing.
Alcohol detox stabilizes the body through supervised withdrawal management.
Treatment addresses the drivers behind the drinking and builds a foundation for lasting recovery.
Most people need both.
- Medical detox: Medication-assisted withdrawal management to reduce discomfort and medical risk.
- Behavioral therapy: CBT, motivational interviewing, and group therapy to identify triggers and build coping skills.
- Medication for AUD: Naltrexone,² acamprosate, or disulfiram may be prescribed to reduce cravings or support abstinence.
- Co-occurring mental health care: integrated treatment for anxiety, depression, trauma, or PTSD alongside addiction.
- Aftercare and peer support: Relapse prevention planning, alumni programs, and community groups like AA or SMART Recovery.
When It’s Not Safe to Quit Alone
Alcohol withdrawal can cause seizures, hallucinations, and a potentially fatal condition called delirium tremens (DTs).³
Anyone with a history of heavy or prolonged drinking should consult a medical professional before stopping.
If someone is experiencing seizures or severe confusion after quitting alcohol, call 911 immediately.
Serenity Moon Support
Serenity Moon Recovery offers medically supervised detox and residential treatment in a private, 12-resident setting in Los Angeles.
Most PPO insurance is accepted, and admissions are straightforward and quick. Call (888) 298-2814 for a confidential conversation.