Changing your relationship with alcohol is easier with the right support. Blackburn Clinical Services offers one-on-one alcohol use disorder treatment in West Los Angeles, from outpatient detox through ongoing psychiatry, therapy and family support.
Signs of an alcohol problem
- Drinking more or longer than you intended
- Trying to cut back and not being able to
- Cravings or strong urges to drink
- Drinking that affects work, school, health or relationships
- Needing more alcohol to feel the same effect
- Withdrawal symptoms such as shakiness, sweating, anxiety or trouble sleeping when you stop
Important: stopping alcohol suddenly after heavy, regular drinking can be dangerous. Talk with a medical professional before you stop.
How we treat alcohol use disorder at Blackburn
- Outpatient detox. For people who qualify medically, detox begins with an assessment by a board certified addiction psychiatrist, followed by daily check-ins with a licensed nurse and medications as needed, while you stay at home. Learn more about outpatient detox.
- Addiction psychiatry and medication-assisted treatment. Medication can reduce cravings and support recovery when appropriate. Learn more about addiction psychiatry.
- Individual therapy. CBT, DBT and other approaches address the reasons behind drinking and build tools for relapse prevention. Learn more about therapy.
- Treatment for co-occurring conditions. Anxiety, depression and trauma often travel with alcohol use, and we treat them together.
- More structure when needed. Our Concierge Outpatient Program offers 3 to 5 hours a week of one-on-one care with no groups.
- Family support. Family services help loved ones set boundaries and support recovery.
All of our services are available individually or can be combined into a customized package to meet each person’s needs. Learn about fees and insurance.
Medications for alcohol use disorder
The FDA has approved three medications for alcohol use disorder: naltrexone, acamprosate and disulfiram. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, none of them is addictive. NIAAA
- Naltrexone. Can reduce cravings and heavy drinking.
- Acamprosate. Used to help people maintain abstinence after they stop drinking.
- Disulfiram. Causes an unpleasant reaction if you drink, which some people use as a deterrent.
A psychiatrist reviews your health, other medications and goals before recommending one.
Alcohol withdrawal and why detox starts with an assessment
Alcohol withdrawal can be medically serious. Seizures are most common in the first 12 to 48 hours after the last drink, and delirium tremens, a severe form of withdrawal, usually begins 48 to 96 hours after drinking stops. Both are medical emergencies. MedlinePlus This is why alcohol detox at Blackburn always begins with a medical assessment, and why some people are referred to a higher level of care instead.
Slips and relapse
A return to drinking does not erase progress. When it happens, the most useful step is to tell your care team quickly so the plan can be adjusted, whether that means more support, a medication change or a different level of care.
Our clinicians
Our team includes addiction medicine physicians, psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, licensed nurses and therapists who coordinate every part of care. Meet our psychiatrists and therapists.
Frequently asked questions
Can I detox from alcohol at home?
For people who qualify medically, yes. Because alcohol withdrawal can cause seizures, our outpatient detox starts with an assessment by an addiction psychiatrist, followed by daily check-ins with a licensed nurse and medications as needed.
Are there medications for alcohol use disorder?
Yes. The FDA has approved naltrexone, acamprosate and disulfiram for alcohol use disorder, and none of them is addictive. A psychiatrist can help decide whether one is right for you.
Do I have to stop drinking completely?
Your goals are part of the conversation. Our clinicians will talk with you honestly about what is safest and most likely to work.
What if I need more care than outpatient?
We make collaborative referrals to residential or higher levels of care when that is the safer choice.
Get started
Call (888) 870 7405, email info@blackburnclinical.com or contact us to schedule an assessment. Blackburn Clinical Services serves Venice, Mar Vista, Santa Monica, Culver City and West Los Angeles.
If you or someone you love is in crisis, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, or call 911 in an emergency.