12-step program in Astana

Reviewed byZhanar Tulegenova, MDPsychiatrist and psychotherapist, experience 18 years · updated 8 Nov 2026

Key facts

Who provides care

Addiction counselors and a psychotherapist within rehab; mutual support groups are run by the participants themselves

Where

The clinic’s rehab program, groups in the city and online, separate groups for relatives

Duration

Introduction during a 1–3 month course; group participation for as long as needed, often for years

Confidentiality

Anonymity is the foundation of the fellowships; at the clinic, medical confidentiality and no registry

When it’s urgent

Binge drinking, withdrawal, overdose, psychosis, suicidal thoughts — call 103 or 112 first, then the group

Outcome

Community support, an honest view of the addiction, and a foundation for sober life for the patient and the family

What you should know

Many relatives have heard of the “12 steps” but have only a vague idea of what they are: some kind of sect, or perhaps a religious gathering. In reality, it is a mutual support program in which people with addiction support each other, admit the problem, take responsibility for their actions, and learn to live without the substance or gambling. The program does not replace treatment by a doctor, but for many people it becomes an important source of support for years after discharge.

In Astana, as in other large cities, there are mutual support groups for people with addiction and separate groups for relatives, including online ones. For those who have moved from other regions and haven’t yet found their own circle, the group often becomes the first place where they can speak honestly. We explain to the family how the program works, how it can help, and where medical and psychotherapeutic care is needed.

Which loved ones the 12-step program may suit

• the person has completed detox and is looking for support to avoid relapse
• feels lonely after treatment and has no one to talk to about cravings
• their old social circle is tied to substance use, and they need a new community
• being able to attend meetings for free and often, at any time, matters to them
• they are willing to speak honestly about their addiction among peers
• relatives are exhausted and looking for a place where they’ll be understood without explanations
• long-term support is needed after the rehab course ends

If two or three points apply, it is worth seeing a doctor. Phone advice is free and confidential. If life is at risk, call 103 or 112.

How the program works and why it helps

The steps are sequential stages: admitting powerlessness over the addiction, being willing to accept help, an honest review of one’s life, admitting mistakes, making amends to loved ones, daily self-reflection, and helping others. The program is spiritual but not religious: each person understands the “higher power” in their own way, including as the support of the group. A mentor (sponsor) and regular meetings where participants share their experiences are important.

Research shows that active participation in mutual support groups is linked to longer-lasting sobriety, especially when combined with professional treatment. International guidelines recommend that doctors inform patients about such groups. For families, there are separate fellowships of relatives in which loved ones work on the same principles: they stop taking responsibility for someone else’s substance use and take care of themselves.

How we help

Myths and facts

How a home visit works

1. Call or message usThe dispatcher answers 24/7 and in 3–5 minutes checks the person's condition, age, how long the drinking or use has lasted, chronic conditions and the address. No surname needed.
2. The doctor sets offAn addiction doctor or psychiatrist comes with equipment and medication. Travel time depends on the district — usually within an hour. If inpatient care or an ambulance is needed, we'll say so straight away.
3. Examination and treatmentBlood pressure, pulse, oxygen saturation, blood sugar if needed and a neurological check. Then an IV drip or other treatment as indicated, 1–3 hours.
4. A plan for the next daysAdvice for the family on what to do overnight and tomorrow, phone follow-up and a repeat visit if needed.
5. Further treatmentCoding, psychotherapy, rehab or psychiatric follow-up — once the acute state has passed and the person is ready.

Prices in Astana

The final cost is agreed before treatment starts. Prices are in tenge and do not constitute a public offer.

Where to get help

In astana you can get help at home, at one of our two branches (6 Auezova St., office 37, Astana, 176 Imanova St., Astana) or online if you need a consultation rather than a procedure. The dispatcher answers 24/7 and will tell you straight away which option is safest.

Confidential and private

Information about your request, diagnosis and treatment is protected by medical confidentiality under the Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan “On Public Health and the Healthcare System”. We do not share it with employers, schools, the police or neighbours; the only exceptions are those expressly set by law. A first name is enough to call us, and paid confidential treatment does not mean a registry entry.

Questions and answers