Alcohol Addiction Treatment Programs

Alcohol dependency can develop quietly because alcohol is legal and common at celebrations, sports events, and work gatherings. If your drinking habits have changed over time (for example, if you once had 1 or 2 drinks at happy hour and now routinely have 6 or more) that shift is a warning sign. An alcohol addiction treatment program can help you regain control, stop drinking safely, and build relapse prevention skills.

Lifelong recovery is possible with commitment and the right support. Speak with Promises Behavioral Health at 888.483.7451 to discuss our alcohol rehab centers and substance abuse treatment options in Massachusetts, Tennessee, Georgia, Texas, and Pennsylvania.

Signs of Alcohol Addiction

If you wonder whether you have an alcohol problem, the following signs may indicate alcohol use disorder:

• Drinking more than you intended, or for longer than planned
• Being unable to keep to limits on drinking
• Strong cravings or urges to drink alcohol
• Spending a lot of time drinking or recovering from drinking
• Neglecting responsibilities at home, work, or school due to alcohol use
• Continuing to drink alcohol despite relationship problems
• Drinking alcohol in risky situations, such as before driving
• Giving up hobbies or activities to drink instead
• Legal or school problems related to drinking
• Needing more alcohol to feel the same effects

Alcohol abuse can progress through stages. Alcohol dependence can make it hard to limit alcohol use, which may lead to severe alcohol use disorder if left unaddressed. Quality alcohol treatment and a personalized treatment plan can help you change course.

Alcohol Use Disorder, Risks, and When to Seek Help

Alcohol use disorder ranges from mild to severe and affects physical health, mental health, relationships, and work. Heavy drinking raises the risk of liver disease, certain cancers, heart problems, and injuries. Evidence from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows that excessive alcohol use is linked with serious health problems and about 178,000 early deaths each year in the United States.

If alcohol use is causing health problems, financial strain, or conflict with family members, it is time to seek treatment. Receiving treatment sooner can make your recovery journey safer and more effective.

Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms

Deciding to stop drinking is a positive step; doing so safely matters. Alcohol withdrawal symptoms can begin within hours after your last drink and may peak within 24 to 72 hours. Symptoms can include anxiety, depression, fatigue, headache, insomnia, irritability, mood swings, nausea, vomiting, rapid heartbeat, sweating, and tremors. Severe withdrawal can involve seizures or delirium tremens, which can be life threatening without medical care.

Because alcohol detox can be both uncomfortable and dangerous, medical supervision is recommended. After withdrawal symptoms stabilize, you can begin comprehensive care for alcohol use disorder.

Steps to Stop Drinking Safely

• Talk with a healthcare professional before you quit drinking, especially if you have been drinking heavily or have a medical condition.
• Consider a medically supervised alcohol detox program to manage withdrawal symptoms and reduce risks.
• Create a treatment plan that includes behavioral treatment and support groups to support recovery after detox.
• Arrange safe transportation and time off from work or school during early recovery.
• Seek support from trusted friends and family members who can help you follow your plan and manage stress.

If you are unsure where to begin, call Promises at 888.483.7451 to discuss treatment options.

What to Expect from Our Alcohol Addiction Treatment Centers

At Promises Behavioral Health, programming is designed to address alcohol use disorder and co-occurring mental health issues. Based on your needs and location, you can choose the setting that fits best. Services may include:

• Cognitive-behavioral therapy
• Dialectical behavior therapy
• Trauma-informed therapy
• Yoga and meditation to help manage stress
• Medical drug detox with clinical monitoring
• Residential treatment and outpatient treatment
• Gender-specific rehab centers (see our men’s rehab and women’s rehab)
• 12-step-inspired group therapy and alternative approaches

Promises Behavioral Health provides alcohol rehab options in Texas, Georgia, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, and Massachusetts. Availability of services varies by location.

Levels of Care and Alcohol Rehab Options

There are several main treatment settings for alcohol rehab:

• Outpatient and intensive outpatient care: therapy and medications while you live at home
• Partial hospitalization: full-day programming with clinical services
• Residential treatment: 24-hour support with structured days
• Medical detox: 24-hour medical supervision to manage withdrawal symptoms safely

The right level depends on your alcohol use, health conditions, and support system. A professional assessment helps match you with the safest and most effective level of care.

Medications Used in Addiction Treatment for Alcohol

Medications approved for alcohol use disorder can help people stop drinking or reduce heavy drinking:

• Naltrexone to reduce cravings
• Acamprosate to support abstinence
• Disulfiram to discourage alcohol use

These medications are often combined with behavioral therapy for stronger results. Decisions about medications are individualized, and not everyone needs them.

How Therapy Helps with Alcohol Use Disorder

Therapy addresses thinking patterns, triggers, and drinking behavior:

• Cognitive-behavioral therapy: teaches strategies to manage cravings and change drinking habits
• Motivational interviewing: strengthens motivation and confidence to make lasting change
• Family therapy: involves loved ones to rebuild trust and support recovery at home
• Group therapy: offers peer support, shared experiences, and accountability
• Dual diagnosis care: addresses underlying mental health concerns that often accompany alcohol use disorder

A Day in Rehab

Each day typically blends individual counseling, skills groups, psychoeducation, and recovery activities. You will learn stress management techniques, practice relapse prevention, and build a plan to support recovery after discharge.

Aftercare and Relapse Prevention

Recovery continues after formal treatment. A strong aftercare plan may include:

• Ongoing therapy or coaching
• Medication management if prescribed
• Regular attendance at support groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or SMART recovery
• A plan to manage stress, identify triggers, and handle slips without shame
• Healthy routines that support long term recovery

How Families Can Support a Loved One

Alcohol use affects the whole family. Family members often benefit from education, boundaries, and their own support. Ways families can seek support and help a loved one:

• Learn about alcohol use disorder and the recovery process.
• Participate in family therapy when appropriate.
• Encourage healthy routines, sleep, nutrition, and exercise to protect physical health.
• Avoid enabling behaviors: for example, do not cover for missed work or legal issues.
• Practice compassion and patience; sustained recovery takes time.

If you are concerned about your loved one’s drinking alcohol, consider a compassionate conversation and invite them to speak with a professional together.

Choosing Quality Alcohol Addiction Treatment

If you or a loved one are struggling with alcohol problems, seeking professional care is the safest way to stop drinking and start your recovery journey. High quality substance use disorder treatment includes assessment, a personalized treatment plan, access to medications when appropriate, therapy for co-occurring mental health disorders, and coordinated aftercare. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism offers practical guidance on choosing care and what questions to ask.

If you are comparing providers in Texas, Georgia, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, or Massachusetts, Promises Behavioral Health can explain program details and help you understand next steps. Call 888.483.7451 to speak with our team.