12-step program in Karatau

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

Key facts

Who provides care

a psychotherapist and a chemical dependency counselor, under the supervision of an addiction doctor (narcologist)

Where

at a rehab center, on an outpatient basis in Karatau, and in online groups

Duration

an introduction to the program takes 4–12 weeks; participation in fellowships is long-term

Anonymity

anonymity is one of the core principles; treatment with no registry entry

When it is urgent

a drinking binge, seizures, psychosis, overdose, or suicidal thoughts — call 103 or 112

Outcome

stable motivation, a circle of sober support, and self-examination skills

What you should know

Definition. The 12 steps are a set of principles formulated by the fellowships of Alcoholics Anonymous in the mid-20th century and later adapted for drug, gambling, and other addictions, as well as for relatives. The steps describe a sequence of inner changes: admitting a loss of control, being willing to accept help, honest self-examination, making amends for harm done, maintaining sobriety, and helping others. Participation in the fellowships is free, anonymous, and voluntary.

In medical practice, the Twelve-Step Facilitation (TSF) model is used — a structured psychotherapy that helps the patient understand the principles of the program and start attending groups. International studies have shown that this approach is comparable in effectiveness to other forms of psychotherapy and is associated with higher rates of long-term sobriety. At Narcology 24, elements of the 12-step program in Karatau are part of rehab, alongside CBT and medical supervision.

Who the 12-Step Program Is For

• support from people with a similar experience of recovery matters to the person
• after discharge from inpatient care, a steady circle of sober contacts is needed
• feelings of loneliness and shame make it hard to talk about the addiction
• the person is ready to attend groups regularly and work with a sponsor
• structure and clear guidelines for building a sober life are helpful
• alcohol, drug, or gambling addiction, or codependency in loved ones
• previous attempts to stay sober alone ended in relapse

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.

Why the Program Helps

Twelve-step fellowships create an environment where sobriety is supported every day: meetings are held often, they can be attended in any city and online, and there is always the option of calling a sponsor. The person sees examples of people who have not used for a long time and gains a sense of belonging. This is especially important in the first months after treatment, when the old social circle is connected with use and a new one has not yet formed.

The program offers a structure for inner change: an honest look at the consequences of use, working through guilt and resentment, and rebuilding relationships. These tasks overlap with the goals of psychotherapy. Research shows that regular participation in groups is associated with a greater likelihood of staying sober. At the same time, the program does not replace medical care for withdrawal, psychosis, or co-occurring mental health disorders.

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 Karatau

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

Where to get help

Narcology 24 in Karatau: our duty team makes home visits day and night, usually within an hour (all city districts and nearby settlements). Two branches for appointments and procedures — 96 Tauelsizdik St., Karatau and 155 Satpaeva St., Karatau. When indicated, we arrange admission and transport.

Confidential and private

in Karatau 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