ALCOHOL ADDICTION TREATMENT AT PSYCHE CLINIC ON HARLEY STREET
Problematic use of alcohol remains one of the most common—and commonly misunderstood—forms of addiction.
Problems with alcohol consumption include ‘harmful use’ where someone may binge drink to a point which places themselves and their physical health at risk. Some people who are not alcohol dependent find that they do not have an ‘off switch’ and so if they start drinking they struggle to stop and may continue drinking sometimes for many days.
Alcohol dependence is when someone is physically dependent on alcohol so when they stop drinking they may experience some form of physical withdrawal symptoms such as shakes, sweats, and if severe then hallucinations, delirium and even seizures which are life threatening.
For some alcohol may have started as a means of self medicating an underlying mental health issue such as anxiety, depression or trauma but over time the person became more tolerant and high quantities were needed to achieve the desired effect. Many people with alcohol dependence may hide this well from family, friends and colleagues and seem to be functioning for a period of time.
The biggest step for someone is recognising and admitting to themselves that they have a problem. Once that is achieved and you come to us for assistance we can help you overcome the problematic relationship with alcohol.
Many individuals who were once seen as unreliable, irresponsible, or destructive are now more accurately understood as people using alcohol to cope with overwhelming internal distress. With the right clinical support, a compassionate environment, and tailored treatment, it is absolutely possible to break free from harmful use of alcohol or alcohol dependence and rebuild a healthier, more fulfilling life.
OUR APPROACH TO ALCOHOL ADDICTION ASSESSMENT AND TREATMENT
At Psyche Clinic, we take a comprehensive and non-judgemental approach to assessing and treating alcohol use disorder. Every client begins with a thorough psychiatric and psychological assessment to understand the full picture—not just the drinking behaviour itself, but also the emotional, cognitive, and relational factors contributing to it.
We recognise that problematic alcohol use rarely exists in isolation. Our assessments explore the presence of co-occurring conditions such as trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, or difficulties with emotional regulation, which often play a significant role in the development and persistence of alcohol dependence.
Treatment is highly individualised and may include psychiatric input, structured psychological therapy, and guidance around harm reduction, relapse prevention, and lifestyle stabilisation. Where appropriate, we also work in collaboration with GPs, other healthcare providers, or support services to ensure integrated, ongoing care.
Our aim is not simply to stop the drinking—but to help individuals understand the role alcohol has played in their lives, address the underlying distress, and develop healthier, more sustainable ways of coping, connecting, and living.
EVIDENCE-BASED TREATMENT TAILORED TO YOU
Our treatment plans for alcohol use disorder are tailored to each individual, drawing on a range of evidence-based approaches designed to support long-term recovery and emotional wellbeing. Depending on your needs, therapy may focus on understanding the role alcohol has played in your life, developing healthier coping strategies, and addressing any co-occurring psychological conditions.
Typical examples of interventions we offer include:
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Outpatient consultations with a psychiatrist or therapist to discuss harm minimisation, reduced alcohol consumption
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Outpatient or inpatient detoxes. Either at home which may involve home nursing or as an inpatient for 7-10 days where you will receive a medical detox with a substitute medication tapering over the duration so that at the end of it you are no longer physically dependent on alcohol and as such will not experience alcohol withdrawal which can be life threatening.
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Residential Rehabilitation either in London or one of our carefully selected centres overseas which have been inspected in person by Psyche staff and the therapeutic staff met with and are felt to be of excellent treatment provision. Please note not all residential rehab facilities are the same and we know what standards we want for our patients.
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All treatment is delivered in a discreet, supportive environment by experienced clinicians who understand the complexities of alcohol dependency. Whether you're beginning your recovery journey or returning after a setback, our goal is to meet you where you are—with compassion, clarity, and clinically grounded care.