Addiction psychotherapy in Astana

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

Key facts

Who provides care

A psychotherapist, a psychologist, an addiction counselor; they do not prescribe medication — that is done by an addiction doctor or psychiatrist

Where

An office at the clinic in Astana, online by video call, group sessions in person and online

Duration

A short course is 8–16 sessions; a full course runs from 3 to 12 months, with sessions of 50–90 minutes

Confidentiality

Confidential sessions, medical confidentiality, no registry

When it’s urgent

Binge drinking, withdrawal, psychosis, suicidal thoughts — call 103 or 112; psychotherapy comes after stabilization

Outcome

Understanding the causes, skills to resist cravings, better family relationships, fewer relapses

What you should know

Relatives often hope for a “magic pill” or a procedure that will rid their loved one of cravings once and for all. But addiction is not just chemistry; it is also habits, thoughts, ways of coping with pain, and family relationships. Psychotherapy works with exactly these things. It helps a person see why they needed the substance or gambling and find other sources of support. For the family, it is a chance to break out of the endless cycle of promises and relapses.

In Astana, many people live under constant pressure: working late, long commutes from the right bank to the left, little daylight and activity in winter, and, for newcomers, the lack of a familiar social circle. Alcohol or betting becomes a quick way to “let off steam.” Psychotherapy offers other tools. We work in person and online — with the patient individually, with the family, and with both together — and an addiction doctor and psychiatrist step in if medical care is needed.

When the family should suggest psychotherapy to a loved one

• after detox or alcohol “coding” (a treatment widely used in Kazakhstan and CIS countries), the person returns to using again
• uses to cope with stress, anxiety, boredom, or loneliness
• sober periods come with irritability, apathy, and “I don’t know what to do with myself”
• constant conflicts, accusations, and mistrust in the family — everyone is exhausted
• there is a traumatic experience, loss, or divorce that the person doesn’t talk about
• admits the problem but “can’t stop” and doesn’t understand why
• relatives want to understand how to behave so as not to do harm

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.

What psychotherapy does for addiction

Addiction forms at the intersection of biology, psychology, and environment. A substance or gambling becomes a way to regulate emotions and to numb anxiety, shame, and loneliness. Psychotherapy helps recognize these connections, develop other ways of coping, and change the thoughts that trigger use. International guidelines (NICE, WHO) recommend psychosocial interventions as an essential part of addiction treatment.

The family system matters too: if chronic conflict, overcontrol, and rescuing persist at home, it is hard for the person to sustain changes. That is why addiction therapy often includes work with relatives. A psychotherapist does not prescribe medication: if depression, bipolar disorder, or severe anxiety is identified, a psychiatrist is brought in, and in cases of physical dependence, an addiction doctor.

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

“Addiction psychotherapy” in Astana is available 24/7, including weekends. Home visits: all city districts and nearby settlements. For appointments, Narcology 24 has two branches: 6 Auezova St., office 37, Astana and 176 Imanova St., Astana. If you live elsewhere in Astana and Akmola Region, call us and we'll advise the fastest way to get help.

Confidential and private

in Astana our doctor can come in ordinary clothes in an unmarked car. Treatment documents are given only to the patient. If you need a certificate or sick note, this is discussed separately and only at your request.

Questions and answers