Alcohol use disorder is common, and treatment works.
If drinking has become something you can’t easily control — or stopping feels impossible — you’re not alone, and you’re not without options. Alcohol use disorder is treatable.
What is Alcohol Use Disorder?
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a medical condition marked by an impaired ability to stop or control alcohol use despite negative consequences. It ranges from mild to severe, and it’s far more common than most people realize.
Wave offers physician-led outpatient treatment — including safe withdrawal management and anti-craving medications — built around your life and any underlying mental health concerns.
You may have alcohol use disorder if you’ve noticed:
Emotional / Cognitive
- Strong cravings or urges to drink
- Drinking to relax, cope or sleep
- Anxiety or irritability when not drinking
Behavioral
- Drinking more or longer than intended
- Unsuccessful efforts to cut down
- Drinking despite problems at work or home
Physical
- Needing more alcohol for the same effect
- Withdrawal — shakiness, sweating, nausea
- Sleep problems and low energy
In crisis? Alcohol withdrawal can be dangerous and occasionally life-threatening. If you drink heavily, don’t stop abruptly on your own — we can manage a safe, medically supervised taper.
How it’s diagnosed at Wave
We begin with a confidential evaluation of your drinking patterns, health and any co-occurring conditions like anxiety or depression. There’s no judgment — only a plan to help you regain control.
Where appropriate, we assess your withdrawal risk to determine whether medication is needed to keep the process safe and comfortable.
Alcohol use disorder responds well to medical treatment. Wave offers:
Every plan is individualized — you’ll feel seen, not processed.
Outpatient Detox
Physician-supervised outpatient withdrawal management, with medication support and close daily follow-up.
Medication Management
Careful prescribing, ongoing monitoring and genetic testing to match you with the right medication at the right dose.
Long-Acting Injectables
Extended-release injectable medications that replace a daily pill and support consistent, long-term stability.
Supportive Psychotherapy
Talk-based support integrated with your medical care, focused on coping skills and steady, measurable progress.
Care led by a triple board-certified physician
Wave Treatment Centers is led by Dr. Jonathan Beatty, a triple board-certified physician in psychiatry & neurology, addiction medicine and pain medicine, and a Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. With more than 18 years of experience, he treats the cases other practices send onward — including complex and treatment-resistant presentations.
Because Wave combines everyday psychiatric care with advanced, interventional options under one roof, your plan can evolve as you do — from medication management to TMS, Spravato or ketamine — without starting over with a new provider.
Meet Dr. BeattyYour first appointment
Your first visit is a thorough evaluation. You’ll find a welcoming environment where our highly trained staff work to understand your history, your symptoms, and what you’re hoping to change.
While an evaluation is not a guarantee of a prescription, if medication is deemed appropriate, we’ll work closely with you to ensure you understand the risks and benefits. Together we’ll outline a personalized plan and the next steps that fit your life.
Most new patients are seen within one to two weeks — and care is available both in person and through secure, HIPAA-compliant telemedicine across Pennsylvania, Florida and New Jersey.
Alcohol Use Disorder FAQ
Can I be treated for alcohol use disorder without going to rehab?
In many cases, yes. Alcohol use disorder can often be treated in an outpatient setting without inpatient rehabilitation, depending on severity and safety considerations.
Outpatient treatment may include medication, clinical monitoring, and ongoing psychiatric support while you continue with daily responsibilities. We will recommend the appropriate level of care based on your individual situation.
What medications help with alcohol cravings?
Several FDA-approved medications can help reduce alcohol cravings and support recovery. These may include naltrexone (including the monthly Vivitrol® injection) and acamprosate, among others.
Medication selection is based on your medical history, drinking patterns, and treatment goals. We use a personalized approach to determine the most appropriate option for each patient.
Do I have to stop drinking completely before starting treatment?
No. You do not need to be fully abstinent to begin treatment.
The first step is a clinical evaluation where we assess your current use, safety considerations, and goals. From there, we develop a structured plan that prioritizes safety and moves toward reduced use or abstinence when appropriate.
Can alcohol withdrawal be treated safely in an outpatient setting?
For many patients, mild to moderate alcohol withdrawal can be managed safely on an outpatient basis with medical supervision.
More severe withdrawal symptoms may require a higher level of care. We evaluate each patient carefully to determine the safest and most appropriate treatment setting.
What is medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for alcohol use disorder?
Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) combines FDA-approved medications with clinical support to reduce cravings, stabilize symptoms, and support recovery.
MAT is most effective when paired with ongoing psychiatric care and behavioral support.
How do I know if I need treatment for alcohol use disorder?
Common signs include difficulty controlling drinking, cravings, withdrawal symptoms, or continued use despite negative effects on health, relationships, or functioning.
A comprehensive psychiatric evaluation can help determine whether treatment is appropriate and what level of care is needed.
Ready when you are.
Reaching out takes courage. Your conversation with us is confidential, compassionate, and pressure-free — schedule whenever you’re ready.
