Perhaps you’re aware that at times you drink more than you’d like—yet you’re not ready to give up alcohol completely. Moderation-based therapy can help you regain control safely and effectively.

Therapy to Help You Drink Less

If you are reading this, chances are you are looking for a systematic approach in Cambridge or the Boston area that may make it possible for you to effectively manage your drinking without totally removing alcohol from your life. You may have faced some challenging moments when someone you cared about expressed concern, or when alcohol use impacted work performance or led to a DUI. Or perhaps you have not yet faced any consequences but have been watching the amount you drink escalate and are concerned about the long-term effects. You know you need to make some changes and are considering therapy to help you moderate your alcohol use. But you have been having a hard time taking action.

Barriers to Changing the Way You Drink

Many drinkers are in your position—aware that their alcohol use is problematic but unable to change their pattern on their own. For some, it’s because they have not yet sought or found the right help. Others hope that something will change spontaneously or are relying on self-help books or online tools. Others have tried periodic attempts at abstinence that ultimately did not produce the desired results.

Learn to Moderate Your Alcohol Use

Moderation Training may be the answer. This systematic approach, guided by an experienced coach, typically involves several sessions over a period of at least two to three months. It begins with a careful alcohol history and assessment of your drinking habits, accompanied by questionnaires addressing emotional and physiological effects. Along with this, you may be given reading material and a detailed description of what this approach will involve.

Details of Moderation Training

Together, you and your coach, well-trained in moderation and harm reduction approaches, will develop guidelines for acceptable non-problem drinking. This will include clear limits for drinking—not only in terms of quantity and frequency, but also high risk situations in which drinking might be totally ruled out. You will learn new coping strategies for stress or triggers that previously led to over-drinking. There will be ongoing guidance until your goals are achieved, and recommendations for maintaining progress after treatment ends.

Partners may be invited for collateral sessions to hear about the approach and raise any concerns, with the aim of enlisting their support. They may also be coached about specific ways loved ones can help, along with behaviors to be avoided. As an introduction to the moderation approach, you may find this handout helpful to share with family members.

Common Questions About Drinking in Moderation

Can I learn to drink less without giving up alcohol completely?

Yes. For many people, the goal of treatment is not total abstinence but learning to manage drinking so it no longer causes problems. Moderation Training helps you understand your patterns, build new habits, and regain a sense of control. The emphasis is on safety and realistic goals tailored to your specific situation.

How is Moderation Training different from just trying to control my drinking?

Moderation Training is systematic and guided, with clearly articulated goals, ongoing feedback, and support until those goals are reached. It includes specific strategies and skills that go far beyond self-monitoring or counting on willpower.

How will my partner and loved ones view a moderate drinking approach?

Unlike casual attempts at controlled drinking, Moderation Training is structured and transparent, making it easier for loved ones to support. Partners often participate in collateral sessions to learn how to be helpful.

How long does Moderation Training take?

This varies considerably from one person to the next. But many are able to successfully achieve their goals within two to three months. Progress can be enhanced by simultaneous attendance in the self-help program MM (Moderation Management). Ongoing follow-up sessions afterward help maintain success.

How do I know if drinking in moderation is right for me?

Moderation-focused treatment works best for people who are not physically dependent on alcohol, do not have health problems made worse by drinking, and do not behave destructively after drinking. During our initial assessment, we will review your drinking history, medical background, and personal goals to determine whether moderation or abstinence would be the most effective and safest approach for you.

What happens if I find that moderate drinking doesn’t work for me?

If you discover that reducing your drinking is more difficult than expected, therapy can shift toward developing an abstinence plan with additional supports as needed. The goal is to find the approach that promotes long-term health and well-being, in the way that works best for you.

Are you interested in exploring moderation-based therapy in Cambridge or the Boston area?

Moderation Training for Problem Drinkers