Moderation Management
Moderation management refers to therapy that helps problem drinkers learn how to control their drinking without giving it up completely. However, this approach isn’t for everyone—read on to learn more.
What is Moderation Management?
Alcohol has been an important part of human life for thousands of years, influencing art, politics, religion, and of course, how we celebrate across myriad cultures. But of course, as we all know, drinking isn’t all fun and games: most people are aware of the extreme dangers of alcoholism, as well as of cessation programs like Alcoholics Anonymous.
But what about those who face a more moderate drinking problem, who don’t relate to the destruction of alcoholism? While most physicians would agree that abstinence is the necessary goal in treating alcoholics, research shows that this is not the only path. In fact, moderation therapy, to help light to moderate drinkers manage their drinking instead of giving it up entirely, may even be more effective than abstinence for this population.
The goal of a moderation management approach is for drinkers to develop the emotional and cognitive skills necessary to use alcohol (or other substances) in moderation. By developing strategies that help you use less and use more safely, you can eliminate the problems associated with your substance use without having to give it up.
Moderation Therapy from a Licensed Therapist
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with years of experience helping people achieve both substance moderation and abstinence. I provide both in-person and teletherapy moderation management in Los Angeles at my Playa Vista office and around California via telehealth.
My approach to moderation therapy is a customized blend of therapy techniques based on each individual’s unique needs. I choose my therapy modalities based on the evidence of what works to help people overcome the obstacles that keep them from cultivating and living the life they desire.
Customized Treatment
There is no one-size-fits-all treatment plan when it comes to moderation therapy. Each individual or couple seeking support with drinking or using will have their own unique experiences, obstacles, and goals.
Whether you want help with moderation management, are curious about abstinence, or are a parent with questions about adolescent substance abuse, you need support that’s based on your particular story and situation. By discussing things like your moods, any past therapy experiences you’ve had, and your most pressing challenges, we can work together to find the strategies that best work for you.
Additional Resources
Whether you’re interested in moderation management or still deciding if it’s right for you, growing your knowledge will probably be an important first step. Check out my most commonly asked questions about addiction—even if you don’t identify as an addict, knowing more about what addiction is (and isn’t) will help you better articulate your relationship with substances and empower you to get the type of moderation management support that’s best for you.
Moderation Management Services in Los Angeles
Erik Anderson Therapy is located in Playa Vista, California, and provides moderation management in the Los Angeles surrounding neighborhoods of Mar Vista, Venice, and Culver City. I also provide telehealth sessions for anyone in California. Feel free to reach out if you have a general question about moderation therapy, or any other mental health concerns you might be having.