ALCOHOL MODERATION PROGRAM
An Alternative to Abstinence Only Treatment
We understand that not everyone struggling with alcohol needs or wants abstinence. We offer a clinically grounded alternative to abstinence-only treatment where you can decide when enough is enough.
Only about six percent of the population can be classified as “alcoholic,” yet most treatment programs are designed as if all drinkers were. Nearly ninety percent of facilities still expect complete abstinence from alcohol.
We are not one of them.
Our Alcohol Moderation Program reflects a broader view of recovery. We help clients determine whether moderation is realistic and safe, and provide the clinical tools to implement a structured Alcohol Moderation Plan.
What Is Alcohol Moderation?
Alcohol moderation is an evidence-based approach that reduces harm and restores control without requiring abstinence. Our program was created by Cyndi Turner and Craig James, nationally recognized experts who have trained thousands of clinicians worldwide in moderation strategies. Through counseling, self-assessment, and ongoing accountability, clients learn to:
- Track and evaluate their drinking patterns
- Set safe, personalized boundaries for use
- Improve emotional regulation and decision-making
- Reduce risks tied to health, relationships, and work
Resources for Alcohol Moderation
Insight Recovery Centers offers a collection of evidence-based resources authored by Cyndi Turner, LCSW, LSATP, MAC, co-founder and clinical director. These materials are used by clients and clinicians throughout the world to support safer drinking practices and informed treatment planning. Her publications below provide practical tools, assessments, and structured guidance for individuals exploring moderation or clinicians seeking to integrate harm reduction into their work.
Practicing Alcohol Moderation Workbook: A step-by-step guide with checklists, quizzes, and exercises to support moderation in real life
The Clinician’s Guide to Alcohol Moderation: A professional resource for therapists, integrating research, case studies, and global best practices
Can I Keep Drinking?: A practical book for the 90 million Americans who struggle with alcohol but fear being forced into abstinence-based treatment
Alcohol Moderation Assessment: Questions that help predict the likelihood of success in moderation and supports the creation of an individualized Alcohol Moderation Plan
Who This Program Is For
Moderation may be an option if you:
- Drink more than intended but want to reduce risk without stopping completely
- Avoid treatment because of fear of being labeled an “alcoholic”
- Have tried abstinence-only programs and found they did not fit
- Want professional guidance in setting safe, realistic boundaries around alcohol
Our approach is flexible, not forced. We believe recovery exists on a spectrum, and clients deserve care that is clinically sound, personally meaningful, and respectful of their goals.
Why Choose Insight Recovery Centers
Insight Recovery Centers was founded by pioneers in harm reduction psychotherapy and alcohol moderation. Our founders are internationally recognized for training clinicians in evidence-based moderation strategies, shaping the way providers across the globe approach substance use treatment.
We are family-owned and clinician-led, deeply rooted in Loudoun County and committed to serving our community. Our mission was born here, shaped by the needs of local families, and continues to be guided by them.
Our programs are licensed by the Commonwealth of Virginia and accredited by the Joint Commission, reflecting the highest standards in safety, clinical practice, and accountability. This accreditation affirms to clients, families, and referring professionals that Insight is dedicated to excellence in every aspect of care.
Call 703-214-9499 to join our Alcohol Moderation Program or groups on Thursdays from 5:30 – 7:30 or to learn more about our Alcohol Moderation Program in Virginia.