Alcohol Rehab & Treatment Options

When Is It Time for Alcohol Rehab?

Knowing when to seek help can be difficult—especially if you or your loved one has been drinking for a long time. But there are clear signs that alcohol rehab may be the right next step.

You may benefit from alcohol rehab if:

• You’ve tried to stop drinking and couldn’t
• Drinking is affecting your health, work, or relationships
• You experience withdrawal symptoms when you stop
• You need to drink more to feel the same effects
• You feel like alcohol is controlling your life

If any of these sound familiar, alcohol rehab can help—starting with safe detox and continuing with therapy, support, and relapse prevention strategies.

Types of Alcohol Addiction Treatments

When people hear “drug rehab center,” they likely think of a residential facility where a person stays for a prolonged period. However, addiction treatment centers cover a wide range of needs and can include both inpatient and outpatient treatment services.

While all alcohol addiction treatment provides evidence-based care for alcoholism, the treatment plan you receive will be as unique as you are.

Regardless of what kind of rehab facility you choose, your treatment services will likely include a combination of therapies to assist you with quitting drinking and, if necessary, remaining abstinent from alcohol in the future.

First Steps: Alcohol Detox

For many people entering alcohol rehab, the first step is medical detox—a supervised process that helps safely manage withdrawal symptoms when someone stops drinking.

Quitting alcohol after long-term or heavy use can cause serious withdrawal symptoms, including seizures, hallucinations, and a potentially fatal condition called Delirium Tremens (DTs). That’s why medical detox is often recommended before starting formal treatment.

During detox, a team of medical professionals will:

• Monitor your vital signs and mental health
• Provide medications to reduce discomfort or prevent complications
• Ensure a safe, supportive environment throughout the withdrawal process

Medications are often used during detox to ease symptoms, prevent complications, and support the body as it adjusts to life without alcohol.

Common medications used during alcohol detox may include:

• Benzodiazepines (e.g., Valium®, Ativan®, Librium®) to ease anxiety and prevent seizures
• Naltrexone (ReVia®, Vivitrol®) to reduce cravings and block the pleasurable effects of alcohol
• Acamprosate (Campral®) to support long-term abstinence by easing post-acute withdrawal symptoms
• Disulfiram (Antabuse®) to discourage alcohol use by causing unpleasant effects if alcohol is consumed

Most detox programs last a few days to a week and are offered at both inpatient and outpatient rehab centers. After detox is complete, patients transition into the next phase of treatment—often inpatient or outpatient therapy—to address the emotional and behavioral aspects of alcohol use.

Inpatient Rehab

Inpatient care is designed to provide comprehensive care in a residential treatment setting. Inpatient treatment usually occurs at specialized recovery centers where the patient will stay for an extended period (typically 30 days or more).

The patient will often receive medical care during their inpatient stay.

Inpatient programs are typically the most intense rehabilitation program option, so it is often recommended for patients with severe alcohol addiction, dual diagnoses, additional health concerns, or a history of substance abuse/substance use disorder.

Outpatient Rehab

Outpatient rehab treatment offers flexible treatment for people with mild to moderate alcohol use disorder. It provides many of the same services as inpatient rehab—such as counseling, group therapy, and medical support—but without requiring a full-time stay at a treatment facility.

Outpatient care is often a good fit for people who:

• Have a stable home environment
• Need to continue working, going to school, or managing family responsibilities
• Have already completed inpatient treatment and need ongoing support

Depending on the level of care needed, outpatient rehab may include:

• Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP): This is the most intensive form of outpatient care. Patients attend structured treatment sessions for several hours a day, most days of the week, but return home in the evenings. PHPs offer a similar level of care to inpatient rehab without overnight stays.
• Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP): IOPs require fewer hours per week than PHPs, but still provide regular support through therapy, education, and relapse prevention planning. IOPs are ideal for people who need a step down from more intensive care or who are managing a milder form of alcohol use disorder.
• Standard Outpatient Care: This is the least intensive option, typically involving 1–3 sessions per week. It may include individual counseling, group support, or medication management. Standard outpatient care is often used as a step-down service after more structured treatment.

Outpatient rehab can be more affordable than inpatient care, and in many cases, it is covered by health insurance—including Medicaid and Medicare. Treatment schedules are customized to meet each person’s needs, so the exact length and frequency of care can vary.

Types of Therapies Involved in an Alcohol Treatment Program

All rehab programs for alcohol use disorder will provide some form of treatment geared toward behavioral health. Overall, patients struggling with any substance use disorder benefit most from a comprehensive approach that treats their physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

In some cases, patients with co-occurring disorders (such as co-occurring mental health disorders or physical health conditions) will continue their mental health treatment as before but with a specific focus on how their mental illness impacted their alcohol or drug addiction.

There are many types of mental health therapy offered for addiction recovery, and the types of therapy offered will vary between treatment centers. You can call ahead to find out what a specific recovery center offers if there’s something specific you’re interested in.

Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy is an umbrella term for counseling based on talking through issues with a licensed mental health professional. During rehab, patients may take part in individual or group therapy sessions

Psychotherapy is beneficial to people in recovery from substance use disorders, including drug and alcohol addiction.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive-behavioral therapy involves working with a therapist to identify your negative thought patterns. By identifying these negative behaviors, you and your therapist will work together to reframe these thoughts.

CBT allows individuals in treatment for alcohol use disorder to examine any possible triggers that led to their issues with alcohol and learn better coping mechanisms to use in the future.

Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)

Another form of psychotherapy, dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), is especially helpful for at-risk patients or those recovering addicts who may still be in denial about some of their addiction issues.

Through DBT, the therapist will guide the patient to acknowledge and accept the behaviors that may have led to their alcohol addiction to help the patient move forward past this mental block. By accepting the reality of their substance use disorder, patients can be successful in maintaining sobriety in the future.

Motivational Interviewing (MI)

Motivational interviewing (MI) is a therapy technique that is often used in the treatment of addiction. MI is especially helpful for recovering alcoholics who may not recognize the importance of changing their behavior or might feel that there isn’t much of a point in changing.

Through motivational interviewing, the therapist can help patients become more motivated to make a positive, lasting change in their lives.

12-Step Program

Twelve-step programs are especially common in recovery for both substance use disorder and alcohol use disorder. These programs provide recovering addicts with 12 actionable, progressive steps to help guide them through recovering from their addiction.

Twelve-step groups also act as peer support groups, providing individuals with camaraderie, accountability, and encouragement throughout their recovery. Support groups are often a key part of aftercare as well.

These groups can be especially helpful for recovering alcoholics who may not have a solid support system outside of rehab.

In terms of treating alcohol use disorder specifically, one of the most popular 12-step programs is Alcoholics Anonymous (AA).

Online Therapy and Support

Thanks to advances in technology, it’s now easier than ever to access support for alcohol addiction from home. Many licensed therapists offer remote counseling through secure telehealth platforms, allowing people to get professional help without needing to visit an office.

In addition to therapy, many Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) groups and other peer support meetings are now available online through Zoom and similar platforms—providing connection and accountability from anywhere.

All you need is a computer, tablet, or smartphone with internet access to take advantage of these flexible options for care and support.

What to Expect from Alcohol Rehab

Alcohol rehab programs are designed to help people stop drinking, stay sober, and rebuild their lives in a safe, supportive environment. While every person’s recovery journey is unique, most treatment plans follow a similar structure.

Here’s what you can generally expect:

1. Initial Assessment: Most rehab programs begin with an intake assessment, where medical and mental health professionals evaluate your alcohol use, physical health, mental health, and treatment history. This helps create a personalized care plan.
2. Medical Detox (if needed): If you’re physically dependent on alcohol, the first step may be medically supervised detox to manage withdrawal symptoms safely. Detox usually lasts anywhere from a few days to a week.
3. Therapy and Counseling: Rehab includes both individual and group therapy. You’ll work with counselors to explore the roots of your alcohol use, build coping skills, and create strategies to avoid relapse. Common therapies include CBT, DBT, and motivational interviewing.
4. Support Services: Many programs also offer family counseling, life skills training, medication management, and support groups like AA or other 12-step programs.
5. Aftercare Planning: Before you leave rehab, your care team will help you plan next steps, such as outpatient therapy, sober living, or ongoing support groups to help you maintain long-term sobriety.

How Long Does Alcohol Rehab Take?

The length of treatment depends on your needs, the severity of your alcohol use, and the level of care

• Detox: Typically lasts 3–10 days
• Inpatient rehab: Commonly lasts 30, 60, or 90 days
• Outpatient rehab: May continue for 1–6 months, with flexible weekly time commitments

Many people benefit from stepping down gradually—starting with inpatient or PHP care and transitioning into less intensive outpatient treatment as they progress.

How to Support a Recovering Alcoholic

If you have a family member or loved one who is working through alcohol addiction recovery, providing them with a solid support system will go a long way in helping them.

Here are some ways you can support a recovering alcoholic:

• Show a sincere interest: Check in with them and ask about their recovery process. Oftentimes, people appreciate being able to talk about their progress and the strides they have made (or struggles they have faced). It helps them to know that someone cares about the work they are putting in. Make sure to practice active listening!
• Reduce friction and unnecessary arguments: Addiction recovery is a lot of work. Adding additional stress through nagging, picking fights, or causing other unneeded stress can work against them. While your loved one is working through recovery, it’s not necessary to walk on eggshells, but giving them a bit of extra grace in the form of patience can go a long way.
• Encourage healthy habits: Do you enjoy fitness? Maybe invite them to join you in your routine. Do you like to cook? Offer to have them over for a healthy meal—even verbal praise and encouragement when the recovering addict is making healthy strides.
• Don’t judge: Remember, the person is in RECOVERY. They knew that their alcohol use was a problem, and they sought treatment to get help for their problem. One of the worst things you can do is judge them while they continue working on improving themselves and making better life choices.
• Educate yourself on addiction and recovery: Understanding addiction can make a big difference in how you view the recovering addict and all the hard work they’re putting in. For instance, were you aware that addiction is a disease and not simply a personal failing? You can start learning more about addiction right here on this site.
• Set healthy boundaries: While it’s great that you’re encouraging your friend, relative, or loved one through their addiction recovery process, you may have mixed feelings. During this time, it’s also important for you to set healthy boundaries for yourself as well. Remember, the recovery process is their responsibility, not yours. Encouragement is great, but you can’t do the work for them.

Is Recovery From Alcoholism Possible?

Yes, recovery from alcohol use disorder is possible. Many people go on to lead healthy lives with moderate drinking, and others choose to remain sober with great success.

One of the most important steps in the journey to an addiction-free life is to stay on track once you’ve started.

Aftercare programs such as 12-step support groups and even sober living can make a huge impact on your decision to remain sober after rehab,

Having a proper plan with direction from a medical professional and a solid support system (friends, family, or a support group) will keep you from turning back to alcohol when life becomes difficult.

Find Alcohol Addiction Treatment Near You

If you or a loved one is struggling with alcohol use, help is available. You don’t have to face recovery alone—there are trusted, confidential resources that can guide you to the right treatment options.

Helpful resources include:

SAMHSA National Helpline: Call 1-800-662-HELP (4357) for free, 24/7, confidential support and treatment referrals.

SAMHSA Treatment Locator: Find local rehab and detox programs near you.

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA): Search for AA meetings in your area or join an online support group.

Need more guidance? Explore our page on how to choose an alcohol rehab program for tips on selecting the right level of care.

Recovery is possible—and the first step is reaching out.

Written by

Jessica Miller

Editorial Director

Jessica Miller is the Editorial Director of Addiction Help. Jessica graduated from the University of South Florida (USF) with an English degree and combines her writing expertise and passion for helping others to deliver reliable information to those impacted by addiction. Informed by her personal journey to recovery and support of loved ones in sobriety, Jessica's empathetic and authentic approach resonates deeply with the Addiction Help community.

Reviewed by

• Fact-Checked
• Editor

Kent S. Hoffman, D.O.

Co-Founder & Chief Medical Officer

Kent S. Hoffman, D.O. has been an expert in addiction medicine for more than 15 years. In addition to managing a successful family medical practice, Dr. Hoffman is board certified in addiction medicine by the American Osteopathic Academy of Addiction Medicine (AOAAM). Dr. Hoffman has successfully treated hundreds of patients battling addiction. Dr. Hoffman is the Co-Founder and Chief Medical Officer of AddictionHelp.com and ensures the website’s medical content and messaging quality.