Some heavy drinkers can moderate, but individualized, flexible treatment that starts with moderation increases engagement and may lead to voluntary abstinence or harm reduction.
Couples create a range of substance use agreements—from total abstinence to substance-specific limits—with greater specificity in amount, timing, or motivation enhancing behavioral regulation.
Recovery from addiction is a non-linear, person-centered process focused on rebuilding connection, dignity, and hope, with multiple pathways beyond abstinence.