Types of Therapies for Alcoholism

Published by Raffa Bari | Last updated: 19th December 2023

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Clinically Reviewed by Dr. Olalekan Otulana (Advanced Practitioner)

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All information on this page has been reviewed and verified by a certified addiction professional.
Last Reviewed: 19th December 2023

Alcoholism is a physically and mentally testing condition. It can impact life in many ways, for the long-term. Whilst it can be lifechanging for some people, it can however be treated.

An alcohol addiction is treatable through a range of different treatments and therapies, focusing on physical and psychological recovery. It can also be managed through healthy coping strategies, lifestyle changes and preventive plans. Best experienced with professional intervention, support and guidance, an alcohol rehab programme will offer the tools to recover.

Here’s the types of therapies for alcoholism, successfully helping our clients recover at Cassiobury Court.

 

Overview of treating alcohol addiction

An alcohol addiction can be difficult to treat as ongoing abuse can cause drastic changes to the body and brain. Tolerances to alcohol can develop, internal chemicals can become unbalanced, and messaging from the brain to the body can be disrupted.

Alcoholism is a brain condition which is fuelled by a physical action. To treat alcoholism, the action needs to be stopped, whilst also reverting the internal changes that are expected.

Most people with alcohol problems will need to detox from the drug on an initial basis. Withdrawal is something to aim for, in order to get clean and feel focused. Detoxing is also essential to see how sobriety impacts the brain, and whether any additional health problems need to be addressed.

Private rehab is a safe and medically observed setting, best to withdraw from an alcohol dependency. Replacement drugs and therapies are offered to ease the process and promote comfort throughout withdrawal symptoms.

Moving on from physical efforts, treating alcoholism will then involve various therapy and counselling sessions. Offered through residential rehab and outpatient rehab, treatment for alcohol dependency will help to restore the brain. Coping strategies, rational outlooks, preventive tools and improved mental health are all aimed for through rehabilitation.

Offered to a personalised level through our treatment plans, here’s the types of therapies for alcoholism that offer effective results. If you’re visiting Cassiobury Court you can expect to complete some of the below addiction therapies, along with detoxification, relapse prevention planning and aftercare.

 

Different Types of Common Therapies

Various emotional responses, symptoms and outcomes are experienced through alcoholism. A range of therapies are offered to suitably treat personal experiences with alcohol. Below are some of the therapies and treatment options which help to rebuild relationships, motivate recovery, and prepare the mind for sobriety.

Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT): CBT is a talking therapy which helps to work through the negative emotions and responses linked to alcoholism. It helps to replace the negatives with positive outlooks and behaviours. CBT is one of the most successful therapies for alcoholism as it challenges emotional responses, whilst also motivating various healthy coping strategies.

Dialectical behavioural therapy (DBT): DBT is also a type of therapy for alcoholism, which can be completed in a group session or a one-to-one session. It has similarities to CBT, yet it aims to restore psychological balance. Mindfulness is a big part of the therapy session, helping clients be present and understand the repercussions of alcohol exposure.

Psychotherapy: Psychotherapy combines a range of talking therapies. It can be completed on a personal basis, through group therapy and through sessions with family members. It’s a long-term therapy to commit to which helps to restore self-awareness, value, and confidence. It also helps clients see their habits through various perspectives, which not only supports addiction recovery, but also helps to rebuild relationships.

Motivational interviewing (MI): MI is one of many types of therapies for alcoholism which help to empower clients. Self-development, relapse prevention and greater resistance are aimed for through therapy sessions. Being aware, comfortable, and confident with oneself are essential for long-term recovery, which are promoted through MI.

 

Alternative Therapy options

Addiction recovery is a personal process which should be tailored through treatment plans. Some people respond positively to alternative therapy options, such as holistic therapies, helping to heal the body, mind, and soul.

In addition, wellbeing management therapies are essential to sustain sobriety, which work very well alongside established addiction therapies.

Holistic therapies: Recovering holistically helps to promote all-round balance and restore. Helping to strengthen sobriety and long-term recovery, holistic therapies can be used to treat alcoholism. The likes of mindfulness sessions, reflexology, meditation, art therapy, music therapy, relaxation therapy and sleep management are available.

Wellbeing management: Types of therapies for alcoholism which promote greater wellbeing include diet and nutritional supplement, self-help, acu-detox, and mental health support. Therapies help to provide a routine, healthy coping strategies and a starting point for a positive lifestyle, post-rehab.

 

Aftercare therapy and structured support

An alcohol use disorder can be reoccurring if untreated or mistreated. Whilst therapy sessions and addiction treatment services are effective, rehab should be finalised with aftercare therapy.

Leaving rehab is a vulnerable time, especially within the first 12 months. To refrained from relapse and to build sober intentions, aftercare therapy and structured support is available. Designed for yourself and loved ones, aftercare therapy is educational, motivating, and positive.

Aftercare therapy: The types of therapies for alcoholism which are recommended through aftercare include family therapy, counselling sessions and support groups. Each provides a different perspective to addiction recovery. Family sessions are in place to rebuild relationships and to educate support networks. Counselling is offered to personally cope through the emotional vulnerabilities of sobriety. Support groups are recommended to experience peer support, inspiration, and a safe place for empowerment.

12-step programmes: Offered through Alcoholics Anonymous, a 12-step programme can be worked through, offering small yet impactful recovery steps. There’s an element of spirituality to the programme, which helps to promote holistic healing. Sessions help clients reflect, progress, and feel supported through a structured plan and safe environment.

Self-help: Self-help is essential to stop drinking for the future. Being aware of personal triggers, partaking in relapse prevention and promoting self-care are all recommended.

Aftercare therapies are also personally recommended here at Cassiobury Court, to make sure that our clients can recover through their circumstances. Some recommendations will be beneficial, whilst others not so much, aiming to find the right balance for long-term recovery.

 

Getting help for alcoholism

There are various types of therapies for alcoholism. By reaching out for our help, we can help you access and work through the most effective therapies and treatments.

Contact our team at Cassiobury Court to get help for alcoholism through our safe and private rehab centre.

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Raffa Bari

Raffa Bari - Author Last updated: 19th December 2023

CQC Registered Manager

Raffa manages the day to day caring services here at Cassiobury Court. Dedicated to the treatment and well being of our visitors she is an outstanding mental health coach registered with BAAT (British Association of Art Therapists). Raffa has outstanding experience in managing rehabs across the country and is vastly experienced at helping people recover from drug and alcohol addictions.

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Dr. Olalekan Otulana (Advanced Practitioner)

Dr. Olalekan Otulana (Advanced Practitioner) - Medical Reviewer - Last Reviewed: 19th December 2023

Dr. Olalekan Otulana MBChB, DRCOG, MRCGP, DFSRH, FRSPH, MBA (Cantab)

 Dr Otulana is a highly experienced GP and Addiction Physician. He has a specialist interest in Substance Misuse Management and he has a wide range of experience in the assessment, management (including detoxification) and residential rehabilitation of clients with various drug and substance addiction problems.  His main aim is to comprehensively assess patients with addiction problems and determine their treatment needs for medical detoxification treatments and psychological interventions. He is also experienced in managing patients who require dual drug and alcohol detoxification treatments.

A strong healthcare services professional with a Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) degree from Cambridge University Judge Business School.