Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) is a complex condition that affects millions across the U.S. If you or a loved one is struggling with alcohol abuse, you’re likely wondering: What’s the best treatment option?
The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. The most effective treatment combines medical care, therapy, and ongoing support tailored to each individual’s needs. Here’s what research and clinical experience tell us about the best approach:
Detox
For many people, recovery from alcohol use disorder begins with a medically supervised alcohol detox. This process safely manages withdrawal symptoms and helps prepare the body for the recovery process. Detox should be done under professional supervision.
Evidence-Based Behavioral Therapies
Counseling is critical to the effective treatment of alcohol use disorder. Several approaches have proven benefits, including:
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Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Identifies and changes unhealthy thought patterns.
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Motivational Interviewing (MI)
Helps clients find the will to change.
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Group Therapy
Builds community and accountability.
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Individual Counseling
Provides personalized guidance and healing.
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Trauma-Informed Care
Supports those affected by past emotional or physical trauma.
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)
Several FDA-approved medications can help reduce alcohol cravings, ease withdrawal symptoms, and support long-term sobriety:
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Naltrexone
Decreases the rewarding effects of alcohol.
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Acamprosate
Helps stabilize brain chemistry after detox.
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Disulfiram
Creates unpleasant physical reactions if alcohol is consumed, serving as a deterrent.
When combined with therapy, medications can significantly improve recovery outcomes.
Integrated Treatment for Co-Occurring Disorders
Many individuals with alcohol use disorder (AUD) also face mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, or trauma. Effective treatment should generally include the care we provide at Empower Health Group—dual diagnosis care that treats both the mental health and substance use disorder simultaneously, providing for a more comprehensive and sustainable recovery.
Level of Care: Inpatient, Partial Hospitalization, and Outpatient
Treatment settings vary based on severity and personal circumstances:
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Inpatient/Residential Treatment
Provides 24/7 care, ideal for severe addiction.
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Level I Day Treatment (Partial Hospitalization Program — PHP)
- Structured care 5 days per week
- Ideal for individuals needing extra support post-detox
- Daily group sessions, individual therapy, and medication management
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Level II Day Treatment (Intensive Outpatient Program — IOP)
- Flexible daytime or evening sessions
- Designed for clients ready to integrate recovery into daily life
- Continued clinical support while maintaining work, school, or family responsibilities
Choosing the right level of care depends on individual needs and readiness. Empower Health Group in Northampton offers Day Treatment Levels I & II as well as outpatient counseling. Our staff, comprised of licensed professionals with extensive experience in addiction treatment, is dedicated to providing the highest quality, whole-person care available. Programs recognized by The Joint Commission as achieving the highest standards of healthcare quality and patient safety are often your best option.
Long-Term Aftercare and Support
Recovery is a lifelong process. Continuing care—through ongoing therapy, peer support groups (like Alcoholics Anonymous), sober living environments, and relapse prevention planning—is critical to sustained sobriety.
The best treatment for alcohol use disorder is a comprehensive, whole-person approach. It’s one that offers the greatest chance for lasting recovery.
If you or a loved one is seeking help for alcohol use disorder in Central or Western Massachusetts or Northern Connecticut, Empower Health Group in Northampton, Massachusetts, provides the kind of whole-person support recognized by The Joint Commission as achieving the highest standards of healthcare quality and patient safety. If we can help you or a loved one, please reach out. If you just have a question about alcohol use disorder, we are here to help.
