Traditionally, substance abuse programs take a zero-tolerance approach to drug or alcohol use. While effective for some, many find the notion of complete abstinence — and the withdrawal symptoms accompanying abstinence — a frightening prospect. Unfortunately, concerns about abstinence often delay much-needed substance abuse treatment. A study by the American Psychological Association indicates counselors share their clients’ concerns regarding total abstinence. Almost 50 percent of counselors surveyed report it is acceptable if some of their clients who abuse alcohol limit, but not completely end, alcohol consumption. However, it’s important to note counselors drew a firm line between abuse and dependence. Less than 25 percent of counselors feel that limited to moderate alcohol consumption is an appropriate goal for clients with alcohol dependence. While people who abuse substances have some control over their consumption, clients with substance dependencies lack this ability. Successful dependency treatment teaches clients how to cope with substance cravings while offering healthy alternatives to substance use. The The Ranch PA Approach The Ranch PA’s alcohol counseling program custom-tailors your treatment based on your individual needs. While the goal for any addiction is abstinence, we never ask you to quit cold turkey. Instead, we help you slowly reduce the amount of alcohol or other substance through gradual detox. Our alcohol and drug counseling programs are based on the understanding that some clients are best served by moderating, rather than eliminating, substance use. We work closely with you to determine if abstinence or moderation is best for you. We then design your treatment plan for your unique challenges, goals, preferences, age and any contributing physical or mental conditions. The nature and safety of the abused substance is also considered. The Ranch PA’s holistic treatment programs take a multidisciplinary approach to counseling, from traditional therapies — such as cognitive behavioral — to effective alternative approaches to recovery — such as art therapy and acupuncture. Our goal is to guide you on your lifelong path to recovery. For some, this means total abstinence. For others, limited to moderate consumption provides the best long-term solution. (Photo via)