
Alcohol Addiction Treatment in San Diego
Table of Contents
Alcohol addiction impacts millions of lives each year, causing damage to physical health, mental well-being, relationships, and daily functioning. Many people try to stop drinking on their own, only to find themselves falling back into old habits. Recovery is possible, but it takes more than willpower. It requires support, professional care, and an understanding environment.
At West Side Recovery, we specialize in alcohol addiction treatment in San Diego. Our team provides evidence-based and holistic treatment that addresses the root causes of alcohol dependency. If you or someone you care about is struggling, there is help—and hope—available.
Understanding Alcohol Addiction
Alcohol addiction, or alcohol use disorder (AUD), is a chronic condition wherein a person has no control over stopping or reducing drinking in spite of its negative consequences. It is something that develops over time and can be influenced by environment, genetics, mental illness, trauma, and stress.
Symptoms of alcoholism may include solitary drinking, blackouts, withdrawal, increased tolerance, and failed attempts to stop drinking. Most individuals develop health issues, isolation, or work-related or relationship problems.
At West Side Recovery, we describe to clients how alcohol affects the brain and body, as well as how drug use may be associated with trauma, depression, or anxiety. Our treatment approach works through these associations so recovery can begin.
Alcohol Detox: Safe Withdrawal Management
Alcohol detox is often the first step in recovery. When someone stops drinking after prolonged use, their body reacts to the absence of alcohol. These withdrawal symptoms can be mild or severe and may include nausea, sweating, shaking, anxiety, and in some cases, seizures or delirium tremens.
Because alcohol withdrawal can be dangerous, medical supervision is essential. West Side Recovery offers medical detox with 24/7 clinical support. Clients receive medication-assisted treatment (MAT), monitoring, and emotional care to reduce discomfort and manage symptoms safely.
Our alcohol detox program provides a secure space where clients can stabilize physically before beginning therapy. This phase is critical for laying the foundation for long-term recovery.
Treatment Options for Alcohol Addiction
Recovery from alcohol addiction is not one-size-fits-all. Each individual has unique needs and challenges. That’s why our alcohol treatment programs in San Diego are flexible and built to support healing on every level.
Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)
Our Partial Hospitalization Program is structured for individuals who require intensive treatment during the day but can return to a supportive living environment at night. Clients participate in daily therapy, medical check-ins, psychiatric care, and wellness activities.
PHP is ideal for those who have completed detox and are ready to begin addressing the emotional and psychological aspects of addiction.
Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
For individuals transitioning out of more intensive care, our Intensive Outpatient Program provides continued support. Clients attend group sessions, one-on-one therapy, and specialty tracks for trauma, anxiety, or relapse prevention while building greater independence.
IOP allows clients to maintain work, school, or family commitments while staying engaged in treatment. It bridges the gap between structured care and full autonomy.
Outpatient Alcohol Treatment in San Diego
Our outpatient services are suited for individuals with milder alcohol use disorders or those stepping down from IOP. These sessions provide ongoing support and check-ins, helping individuals maintain sobriety and continue personal growth.
Virtual Services and Telehealth Options
For those unable to attend in-person care or looking for flexible alternatives, West Side Recovery offers telehealth sessions. These virtual services include therapy, support groups, and check-ins to maintain connection and accountability.
Telehealth makes treatment more accessible for people with transportation barriers or who live outside San Diego. It’s also a valuable addition to in-person care for those in long-term recovery.
Evidence-Based Therapies
At West Side Recovery, therapy is a central part of treatment. We use proven approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and trauma-informed care. These therapies help clients identify negative thought patterns, develop coping skills, and build emotional resilience.
Clients also explore topics such as grief, self-esteem, communication, and boundary setting. Therapy is offered in both individual and group settings, providing a balance of privacy and peer support.
Our clinical team works closely with each client to create an individualized treatment plan that evolves throughout the recovery process.
Holistic and Experiential Healing
Healing from alcohol addiction involves more than just addressing symptoms. At West Side Recovery, we believe in treating the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. Our program includes:
- Yoga for stress reduction and physical awareness
- Art therapy for emotional expression and creativity
- Surfing and skateboarding for connection, fun, and self-confidence
Clients also receive nutritional guidance, fitness training, and mindfulness practices. These holistic elements enhance traditional therapy and support lasting lifestyle changes.
Dual Diagnosis and Co-Occurring Disorders
Many individuals with alcohol addiction also struggle with mental health conditions such as depression, PTSD, or anxiety. This is known as a dual diagnosis. Treating both conditions at the same time is essential to prevent relapse and promote real recovery.
Our dual diagnosis program includes psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and therapy to address both mental health and substance use. This integrated care helps clients stabilize emotionally and build the tools needed for sustained sobriety.
Family Support and Involvement
Addictions impact families in totality, not only the individual with the addiction. Therefore, West Side Recovery has incorporated family therapy and family education into our model of treatment. We teach family members that drinking problems exist, develop communication, and establish ways that enable healthier involvement in the individual with the Addiction’s life.
Family involvement creates better outcomes and reduces conflict in the home. The therapists assist families in redistributing trust and developing healthy boundaries that will sustain recovery.
We offer family workshops, family support groups, and education services that allow family members to be a part of recovery. It is our hope that these services establish meaningful connections and insights amongst family members.
Aftercare and Long-Term Recovery Planning
Recovery does not stop when treatment ends. Continuing to have support is an essential part of staying sober and managing high risk triggers, which may lead to relapse. West Side Recovery offers services for aftercare planning, an alumni program, and community referrals as a way to ensure that every client has continued support long after they leave treatment with us.
Our team of professionals goes one step further in helping clients create a relapse prevention plan, establish connections with local resources, and get involved in their local recovery communities. We believe that the best way to ensure long-term recovery is to keep individuals engaged in their recovery, and surrounded by like-minded individuals who also have the goal of sobriety. Whether it is weekly check-ins or peer-led meetings – we just want to see people living out their recovery and achieving their qualitative goals for sobriety.
Our virtual support and phone sessions offer a way to access support locally and conveniently, allowing a person to stay connected to their recovery as long as they feel they may not have time for an in-person meeting. Finally, our alumni network provides different levels of mentoring, shared accountability and engaging community participation with other alumni, to name just a few of the common services often offered for continued recovery support.
Why Choose West Side Recovery for Alcohol Treatment in San Diego
West Side Recovery offers compassionate care backed by clinical expertise. Our alcohol treatment center is a safe and supportive place where individuals can heal and grow.
Clients benefit from small group sizes, experienced staff, personalized treatment plans, and a variety of therapy options. Whether you’re beginning your recovery or returning for support, our programs are designed to meet your needs.
Located in San Diego, we serve individuals from all backgrounds and walks of life. We know recovery is possible—and we’re here to help you get there.
Contact West Side Recovery Today
If you or someone you love is struggling with alcohol addiction, don’t wait. Contact West Side Recovery to learn more about alcohol addiction treatment in San Diego.
Call us today at 619-796-9611 to speak with our admissions team. We’re here to answer your questions, provide support, and help you take the first step toward a healthier future.
FAQs
If you’re unable to stop drinking, experience withdrawal symptoms, or alcohol is interfering with your life, it may be time to seek help.
Yes, we offer outpatient, IOP, and PHP programs to meet varying needs.
For many individuals, especially those with long-term use, detox is a critical first step in recovery.
Yes, we offer dual diagnosis care for co-occurring disorders.
Call West Side Recovery at 619-796-9611 to speak with our team and begin the admissions process.