Understanding Alcohol Use Disorder
Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) is a medical condition — not a moral failing, not a lack of willpower, not a character flaw. It involves changes in brain chemistry that make it difficult to control alcohol consumption despite negative consequences. Like diabetes or hypertension, AUD responds to evidence-based medical treatment.
AUD exists on a spectrum from mild to severe. You don't need to have "hit rock bottom" to benefit from treatment. In fact, earlier intervention leads to better outcomes.
Nearly 29 million Americans meet the criteria for AUD, yet fewer than 10% receive treatment. The gap between needing help and getting it is often caused by stigma, shame, and lack of access. Telehealth removes many of these barriers — private, convenient, and available from home.
Signs of Alcohol Use Disorder
AUD may be present if you've experienced two or more of the following in the past 12 months:
- Drinking more or for longer than intended
- Wanting to cut down or stop but being unable to
- Spending significant time drinking or recovering from drinking
- Craving or strong urges to drink
- Drinking interfering with work, school, or family responsibilities
- Continuing to drink despite relationship problems it causes
- Giving up activities you used to enjoy in favor of drinking
- Drinking in situations where it's physically dangerous
- Continuing to drink despite physical or mental health consequences
- Needing more alcohol to achieve the same effect (tolerance)
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not drinking
Mild AUD: 2-3 symptoms. Moderate: 4-5 symptoms. Severe: 6+ symptoms.
Evidence-Based Treatment Options
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)
FDA-approved medications significantly improve recovery outcomes. They are not "replacing one substance with another" — they are medical treatments that address the neurological changes caused by AUD.
Naltrexone
Naltrexone blocks the brain's opioid receptors, reducing the pleasurable effects of alcohol and decreasing cravings. Available as a daily oral tablet or monthly injection (Vivitrol). Key benefit: Can be started while still drinking — you don't need to be sober first.
Acamprosate (Campral)
Helps restore the balance of brain chemicals disrupted by chronic alcohol use. Reduces the discomfort and anxiety that often trigger relapse. Works best for patients who have already achieved initial abstinence.
Disulfiram (Antabuse)
Creates an unpleasant physical reaction (nausea, flushing, headache) if you drink alcohol, serving as a deterrent. Works best for highly motivated patients who want an extra accountability measure.
Topiramate (off-label)
Originally an anti-seizure medication, topiramate has shown effectiveness in reducing heavy drinking days and cravings. Your provider may consider this if other medications aren't suitable.
A common misconception is that you need to stop drinking before starting treatment. That's not true. Several of our treatment approaches, including naltrexone, can be started while you're still drinking. The goal is to meet you where you are and help you move forward — not to set impossible prerequisites.
Therapy for AUD
Medication addresses the neurochemistry; therapy addresses the patterns, triggers, and underlying issues:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Identifies and changes thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to drinking
- Motivational Interviewing: A collaborative approach that strengthens your own motivation for change
- Relapse Prevention: Develops strategies for managing triggers, cravings, and high-risk situations
- Dual Diagnosis Treatment: Addresses co-occurring conditions (depression, anxiety, PTSD) that often drive alcohol use
How Treatment Works at EnnHealth
- Confidential evaluation: A thorough assessment of your alcohol use, medical history, mental health, and goals — all via secure telehealth
- Personalized treatment plan: Based on your evaluation, your provider recommends a combination of medication, therapy, and support tailored to your situation
- Medication management: If medication is appropriate, your provider prescribes and monitors it with regular follow-ups
- Ongoing support: Regular check-ins, unlimited secure messaging (for DPC members), and adjustments as needed
Why Telehealth for AUD Treatment?
- Privacy: No sitting in a waiting room. No one needs to know you're seeking treatment.
- No stigma: Treatment from the privacy of your home eliminates the discomfort of walking into a clinic
- Accessibility: Available in 30+ states — especially valuable in areas with limited addiction treatment resources
- Easier follow-up: Regular check-ins are simpler when they don't require travel, time off work, or childcare
- Confidentiality: All AUD treatment records are protected by HIPAA and 42 CFR Part 2, providing the highest level of privacy protection
"Recovery isn't about perfection. It's about making progress, having support, and knowing that setbacks don't erase your gains. Every step forward counts." — Dr. Nageley Michel
Insurance & Pricing
AUD treatment is covered by most insurance plans under mental health parity laws. We verify your benefits before your first visit.
With insurance: Standard mental health copay. We handle all claims.
Without insurance: DPC plans from $99/month include visits, medication management, and unlimited messaging. Compare insurance vs. DPC →
Take the First Step
Schedule a confidential evaluation with a board-certified provider. Judgment-free, evidence-based care via telehealth.
Book a Confidential Evaluation →