Finally, good. effective treatment for alcohol related problems is available. Multiple outcome options, individually developed, cost effective, time limited, and without stigma or life long adherence to rituals and self-deprecation.

Over the past decade the drug rehab field has seen an expansion in programs offering services to those suffering from so-called "dual-diagnosis" or "co-occurring" disorders. There are several problems with this including the obvious fact that every substance abuser displays symptoms of some disorder or another.

Since the late 1970's so-called 12 Step, or Minnesota Model, based treatment has been nearly the only approach available to people seeking help with alcohol and drug abuse problems.  This is startling given their long term success rates of less then ten percent. Only recently have alternatives begun to receive some of the attention they deserve.

Success at modifying or eliminating a behavior is best approached by studying those who have managed it on their own and emulating their accomplishments. That was the reasoning of researchers James Prochaska, John Norcross, and Carlo DiClemente who did just that, not with alcoholism specifically, but with all types of change.

Despite all of the marketing hype to the contrary, those who succumb to alcohol abuse, dependence and addiction aren't equally represented across ages, genders, nationalities, religions, or any other demographic. There are in fact wide variations between different populations and at different times.

It is often difficult, given the acute turmoil individuals and families find themselves in when seeking help, to sort out what makes for an effective program. Nearly all will declare themselves to be uniquely suited for meeting the needs of whoever is calling. It isn't true.

It is difficult to make a decision to seek treatment for alcohol abuse, dependency, or addiction. But having made that choice it becomes even more confusing when seeking an appropriate type of program. Essentially the first decision comes down to opting for either Inpatient or Out-Patient.

It is common for people who have completed alcohol rehab, and remained sober for a year or two, to begin to wonder why they are continuing to attend various groups and meetings. It’s a good question.

Non-traditional alcoholism treatment methods have always recognized that 12 Step models work for some individuals but not for most, at least not for very long. Designing effective treatment for individuals turns out to be a complicated business...

In considering treatment options for alcohol abuse, dependence, or addiction you will have first decided between inpatient and outpatient. Except in very rare cases outpatient is your best choice: it is cost effective, minimally disruptive, has continuity, and can adapt to your changing circumstances and needs.