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 without going to rehab?
Often, yes. Many people do well in outpatient care with medication and support while continuing daily life. We’ll recommend the safest level of care for your situation.
What medications help with alcohol cravings?
FDA-approved options like naltrexone (including the monthly Vivitrol injection), acamprosate and others can reduce cravings and support sobriety. We’ll find what fits you.
Do I have to stop drinking completely to start?
No. The first step is simply reaching out. We’ll meet you where you are and build a plan toward your goals at a pace that’s safe.
Ready when you are.
Reaching out takes courage. Your conversation with us is confidential, compassionate, and pressure-free — schedule whenever you’re ready.
