Options for Treatment

When asked how alcohol problems are treated, people commonly think of 12-step programs or 28-day inpatient rehab but may have difficulty naming other options. In fact, there are a variety of treatment methods currently available, thanks to significant advances in the field over the past 60 years.

Ultimately, there is no one-size-fits-all solution, and what may work for one person may not be a good fit for someone else. Simply understanding the different options can be an important first step.

Types of Treatment

Behavioral Treatments

Behavioral treatments are aimed at changing drinking behavior through counseling. They are led by health professionals and supported by studies showing they can be beneficial.

Medications

Three medications are currently approved in the United States to help people stop or reduce their drinking and prevent relapse. They are prescribed by a primary care physician or other health professional and may be used alone or in combination with counseling.

Mutual-Support Groups

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and other 12-step programs provide peer support for people quitting or cutting back on their drinking. Combined with treatment led by health professionals, mutual-support groups can offer a valuable added layer of support.

Due to the anonymous nature of mutual-support groups, it is difficult for researchers to determine their success rates compared with those led by health professionals.

Starting With a Primary Care Doctor

For anyone thinking about treatment, talking to a primary care physician is an
important first step—he or she can be a good source for treatment referrals and
medications. A primary care physician can also:

Evaluate a patient's drinking pattern

Help craft a treatment plan

Evaluate overall health

Assess if medications for alcohol may be appropriate

Types of Professionals Involved in Care

Many health professionals can play a role in treatment. Below is a list of providers and the type of care they may offer.

Provider Type	Degrees & Credentials	Treatment Type
Primary Care Provider	M.D., D.O. (Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine); additionally you may see a Nurse Practitioner or Physician's Assistant	Medications, Brief Behavioral Treatment, Referral to Specialist
Psychiatrist	M.D., D.O.	Medications, Behavioral Treatment
Psychologist	Ph.D., Psy.D., M.A.	Behavioral Treatment
Social Worker	M.S.W. (Master of Social Work), L.C.S.W. (Licensed Clinical Social Worker)	Behavioral Treatment
Alcohol Counselor	Varies - most States require some form of certification	Behavioral Treatment

Individuals are advised to talk to their doctors about the best form of primary treatment.