Skip to content
virtual appointment alcoholism treatment

Alcoholism treatment available online

Our online alcohol addiction treatment combines medication and telehealth resources, providing you with the support needed to reduce alcohol consumption or quit drinking altogether. 

Comprehensive virtual care for alcohol addiction Access to FDA-approved medications Detox and therapy referrals available
*Prescriptions are provided at the doctor’s discretion. Learn more about our controlled substances policy and our prescription discount card. Alcoholism treatment programs for managing withdrawals cannot be managed online but our doctors can help with craving reduction medications and can help refer you to detox programs.

Our approach to alcoholism treatment

 

Drinking too much alcohol can affect many aspects of your health. This includes your liver, heart, and even your dental health. If you have tried to cut back without success, need to drink more to feel the same effects, or experience withdrawal symptoms when you stop drinking, you may be drinking too much.5 While reducing alcohol use has significant health benefits, taking the first step towards treatment can feel overwhelming. 

 

At PlushCare, our board-certified doctors and licensed therapists are here to help support you. Alcohol treatment goals can include cutting back or stopping alcohol use entirely, with options that include medication, therapy, and specialized program referrals. Our doctors will review your health history and help create a plan tailored to you.  

 

Get access to: 

  • Expert guidance

    Access expert medical support and follow up advice from a registered nurse.

  • Medications

    Anti-craving medications help you resist drinking, prevent relapse, and stay on track.

  • Therapy

    Online therapy sessions with licensed professionals who specialize in alcohol use disorder.

  • Referral programs

    Referrals to a detox program or other outpatient programs that provides medical supervision and support. We can also help refer to more intensive treatment programs. including Residential, PHP (partial hospitalization treatment program), or IOP (intensive outpatient treatment program.)

circles-dark.18c7e306

Medications for alcohol use disorder

Medications for alcohol use disorder as designed to decrease cravings and thoughts related to alcohol use and can be used to decrease alcohol consumption and remain sober from alcohol. 

 

  • Naltrexone (Revia) blocks the brain's pleasure response to alcohol, reducing heavy drinking. 

 

Medications that are also used for other conditions like smoking, pain, or seizures might also help. Your doctor will provide an additional recommendation to see if these are suitable for you2. 

What we do not treat

We do not manage alcohol withdrawal symptoms, as they require in-person medical supervision and specific medications. Alcohol withdrawal can be dangerous and may require hospital-based care or a supervised detox program4.  

 

Our doctors can help you determine what medical setting is appropriate for your care. Our online doctors can prescribe craving-reduction medications if appropriate. For more information, refer to our controlled substances policy and our prescription discount card to determine if treatment is appropriate for you. 

Need detox support?

While we are unable to manage alcohol withdrawal directly, our doctors can provide referrals to detox programs and connect you with the appropriate resources for safe, in-person treatment. If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol addiction, schedule an appointment to discuss the best options for care. 

Online alcoholism treatment FAQs

What is the first step toward getting treatment for alcohol addiction?

The first step is acknowledging your concern and seeking professional help. A doctor or mental health professional can assess your situation and recommend the best treatment options.  

 

We offer virtual appointments with online doctors and therapists who can guide you through the treatment process, including therapy and medication recommendations if needed6. 

What is the most successful way to stop drinking alcohol?

The approach to stopping alcohol consumption can differ for everyone, but research shows that a combination of professional support, behavioral therapy, and lifestyle adjustments tends to be the most effective3 

 

We provide virtual consultations with board certified doctors and therapists who offer guidance on how to quit drinking, recommend appropriate therapy, and discuss potential medication options. 

How do you get your doctor to prescribe naltrexone?

To get a prescription for naltrexone (Revia), you need to consult with a doctor who can evaluate your medical history and determine if it's the right option for you. Our doctors can prescribe naltrexone and other craving-reduction medications through a virtual appointment5. 

Which therapy is most suitable for alcoholism?

Licensed therapists are available in all 50 states to support alcohol addiction and related mental health concerns. We can refer you to a therapist based on your needs7. 

We offer various evidence-based therapies: 

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): changes negative thought patterns linked to alcohol use. 
  • Motivational Interviewing (MI): encourages motivation for change through a patient-centered approach. 
  • Harm Reduction: developing practical strategies aimed at reducing negative consequences associated with drug use. 
  • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): focuses on emotional regulation and coping skills. 
  • Trauma Informed Therapy: Alcohol and substance use disorders often coexist with trauma and mental health issues. Our therapy team can address all your treatment goals. 
  • Supportive therapy: provides emotional support and guidance during recovery. 

How long does alcohol withdrawal last for heavy drinkers?

The duration of alcohol withdrawal depends on many factors including drinking frequency, current health conditions, and prior withdrawals. Symptoms typically last 3 to 7 days, with some effects lingering for weeks. 

  • 6 to 12 hours after last drink: mild symptoms start: anxiety, nausea, headache, sweating. 
  • 12 to 24 hours: symptoms worsen: tremors, restlessness, irritability. 
  • 24 to 72 hours (Peak Symptoms): severe symptoms may occur: high blood pressure, confusion, fever, and delirium tremens (DTs)—requiring emergency care. 
  • 3 to 7 days: most symptoms lessen, but fatigue, mood changes, and sleep issues can persist. 
  • Weeks to months (Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome - PAWS): ongoing effects may include anxiety, depression, insomnia, and cravings. 

 

Our doctors cannot manage alcohol withdrawal, as it needs in-person supervision for close monitoring and specific medications. However, our doctors can: 

  • Prescribe craving-reduction medications like naltrexone, acamprosate, or disulfiram. 
  • Refer to detox programs for safe withdrawal. 
  • Provide therapy referrals for treatment support. 

 

If you or a loved one is experiencing alcohol withdrawal, seek immediate medical attention for safe detox.  

3 steps to help you address drinking today

Alcoholism Treatment appointment
Step 1

Book an appointment with one of our top-rated doctors or therapists.

Book a same-day appointment from nearly anywhere.
How It Works Step 2
Step 2

Discuss your drinking habits and treatment goals.

Visit with a doctor and/or therapist on your smartphone or computer.
How It Works Step 3
Step 3

Pick up your prescription for craving-reduction medication or get a referral for a detox program if needed.

We can send prescriptions to any local pharmacy and can help with local referrals. Our doctors can help with referrals to local programs.

Alcoholism treatment pricing details

To get top-quality help with alcoholism treatment, referrals, or medication join our monthly membership and get discounted visits.

30 days of free membership

  • Same-day appointments 7 days a week
  • Unlimited messages with your Care Team
  • Prescription discount card to save up to 80%
  • Exclusive discounts on lab tests
  • Free memberships for your family
  • Cancel anytime

Paying with insurance

Membership

$19.99

First month free

+

Visits

Copay

Visit price with insurance

Often the same as an office visit. Most patients with in-network insurance pay $30 or less!

We accept these insurance plans and many more:


humanaaetnacigna logo background

 

Paying without insurance

Membership

$19.99

First month free

+

Visits

$129

Visit price without insurance

Initial visits are $129.

Sources:

PlushCare is dedicated to providing you with accurate and trustworthy health information.

  1. National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA). Alcohol Use Disorder: A Comparison Between DSM-IV and DSM-5. Accessed on February 26, 2025, at https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/brochures-and-fact-sheets/alcohol-use-disorder-comparison-between-dsm. 
  2. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). Medication for the Treatment of Alcohol Use Disorder: A Brief Guide. Accessed on February 26, 2025, at https://library.samhsa.gov/product/medication-treatment-alcohol-use-disorder-brief-guide/sma15-4907. 
  3. American Psychiatric Association (APA). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5-TR). Accessed on February 26, 2025, at https://www.psychiatry.org/psychiatrists/practice/dsm. 
  4. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Alcohol Use and Your Health. Accessed on February 26, 2025, at https://www.cdc.gov/alcohol/fact-sheets/alcohol-use.htm. 
  5. Alcohol Use Disorder - Causes, Symptoms, Treatment & Help | SAMHSA Accessed on February 27, 2025, at https://www.samhsa.gov/substance-use/learn/alcohol 



PlushCare content is reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, nutritionists, and other healthcare professionals. Learn more about our editorial standards and meet the medical team. The PlushCare site or any linked materials are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice, nor is the information a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment.