Reviewed byZhanar Tulegenova, MDPsychiatrist and psychotherapist, experience 18 years · updated 8 Nov 2026
Key facts
- Who provides care
- a psychotherapist and a clinical psychologist; medications are handled by an addiction doctor or psychiatrist
- Where
- at the clinic in Semey, online by video call, or in an inpatient unit as part of rehab
- Duration
- a session lasts 50–60 minutes; a course consists of 12 to 24 sessions, or longer if needed
- Anonymity
- confidential sessions, medical confidentiality, and no registry entry
- When it is urgent
- a drinking binge, overdose, psychosis, or suicidal thoughts — call 103 or 112
- Outcome
- motivation for sobriety, skills for managing cravings, and restored relationships
What you should know
Definition. Addiction psychotherapy is a specialist's systematic work with a patient aimed at building motivation for sobriety, changing the thoughts and behaviors associated with use, and developing skills for coping with stress and cravings. It is not a heart-to-heart chat or an attempt to talk someone into quitting: each method has a structure, goals, and measurable results. International guidelines, including NICE and WHO, name psychosocial interventions as the foundation of treatment for any addiction.
The psychotherapist and psychologist on the Narcology 24 team do not prescribe medications; the medication side of treatment is handled by an addiction doctor and a psychiatrist. This division of roles makes it possible to combine methods: detox and relapse prevention medication address the biological component, while psychotherapy helps a person understand why they used and how to live without the substance or gambling. Addiction psychotherapy in Semey is suitable at any stage — from the first doubts to support after rehab.
When Addiction Psychotherapy Is Needed
- after detox or “coding,” the person keeps returning to use
- alcohol, drugs, or gambling have become a way of coping with stress
- there are doubts about whether to quit, and the person wants to sort it out without pressure
- strong feelings of guilt, shame, or resentment make it hard to live sober
- there are constant family conflicts related to use
- there is a traumatic experience, anxiety, or depression alongside the addiction
- support is needed after rehab to maintain the results
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 Psychotherapy Is Essential
Addiction is sustained not only by biological changes but also by learned associations: the substance or gambling regularly brought relief in difficult situations. These associations persist after detox and trigger cravings during stress, boredom, loneliness, and conflicts. Medications can reduce cravings, but they do not teach new ways of coping. That is the task psychotherapy takes on, building skills that last after the course is over.
Many people with addiction have psychological reasons for using: anxiety, depression, traumatic experiences, low self-esteem, and relationship difficulties. If these are not worked through, the risk of relapse remains high. In addition, addiction changes the life of the whole family, and without work on relationships, sobriety is harder to maintain. Psychotherapy covers all these levels, which is why clinical protocols include it as a mandatory component of treatment.
How Psychotherapy Works: Step by Step
Stage 1 — the first session, in person or online: the psychotherapist learns about the history of use, the current condition, goals, and expectations, and assesses the risks. Stage 2 — agreeing on a plan: methods, frequency, format, and family involvement. Stage 3 — the main course: sessions once a week or more often, homework, and self-monitoring diaries. Stage 4 — reviewing the results, a relapse prevention plan, and a transition to maintenance sessions. The online format is equivalent to in-person sessions when the patient's condition is stable.
Limitations. Psychotherapy is not conducted while a person is intoxicated, and it does not replace medical care during a binge, withdrawal, psychosis, or severe depression — a doctor is needed first. If signs requiring medical treatment are identified during the process, the psychotherapist refers the patient to an addiction doctor or psychiatrist. In case of suicidal thoughts, overdose, or seizures, call 103 or 112. Teenagers and young people can get support from the 150 helpline.
How we help
Cognitive behavioral therapy
CBT is one of the most thoroughly studied methods for treating addiction. The patient learns to notice the links between situations, thoughts, emotions, and use, to test distorted beliefs (“I can't relax without alcohol”), and to develop alternative behaviors. Diaries, planning, and skills training are used. A course usually takes 12–20 sessions.
Motivational interviewing
This method is for those who are not yet sure they want to quit. The psychotherapist does not try to persuade or argue but helps the person weigh the pros and cons of use for themselves and find personal reasons for change. Motivational interviewing reduces resistance and increases the likelihood that the person will continue treatment. It usually takes 1–4 sessions.
Family and couples therapy
Joint sessions with loved ones help rebuild trust, agree on rules, learn to talk about feelings, and support sobriety. Behavioral couples therapy for alcohol addiction has proven effectiveness. For teenagers, family therapy is the leading format. Sessions take place in person or online, including with relatives from another city.
Trauma-focused therapy
For some patients, substance use is connected with traumatic experiences and symptoms of PTSD. Once sobriety has stabilized, the psychotherapist may use methods aimed at processing the trauma, in line with international guidelines. The work is done gradually and gently, and if necessary together with a psychiatrist who manages medication treatment.
Myths and facts
MythPsychotherapy is just talking
FactAddiction psychotherapy methods have a clear structure, specific tasks, and an evidence base. CBT, motivational interviewing, and family therapy are included in international clinical recommendations on a par with medication treatment.
MythYou have to quit first and then see a psychotherapist
FactPsychotherapy is useful at any stage, including before a person stops using: it helps build motivation. However, the sessions themselves are held only when the person is sober, with no signs of intoxication.
MythOnline psychotherapy is less effective
FactResearch shows that psychotherapy by video call produces results comparable to in-person sessions when the patient's condition is stable. For many people, the online format is more convenient, which makes sessions more regular.
How a home visit works
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Further treatmentCoding, psychotherapy, rehab or psychiatric follow-up — once the acute state has passed and the person is ready.
Prices in Semey
| Rehab programme consultation | 11 000 ₸ |
| Outpatient programme (one month) | 135 000 ₸ |
| Residential rehab (one month) | 360 000 ₸ |
| Phone advice | free |
The final cost is agreed before treatment starts. Prices are in tenge and do not constitute a public offer.
Where to get help
In semey you can get help at home, at one of our two branches (149 Kutuzova St., office 6, Semey, 138 Krasina St., office 4, Semey) 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
How many sessions are needed?
A core course usually includes 12 to 24 weekly sessions. The motivational part may take 1–4 sessions, and relapse prevention 8–16. After the main course, maintenance sessions every 2–4 weeks are recommended. The number of sessions is determined individually.
How is a psychotherapist different from an addiction doctor?
An addiction doctor (narcologist) and a psychiatrist are physicians: they make diagnoses, carry out detox, and prescribe medications. The psychotherapist and psychologist at Narcology 24 work with psychological methods and do not prescribe medications. The best results come from combining medical treatment with psychotherapy.
Can I come if I am not sure I have an addiction?
Yes. The first session is designed precisely to help you understand how much substance use or gambling affects your life. The psychotherapist does not impose a diagnosis or demand that you quit immediately but helps you make a balanced, independent decision about your next steps.
How does an online session work?
The session takes place over a secure video connection and lasts 50–60 minutes. You need a stable internet connection and a place where others cannot overhear you. It is important to be sober. The online format is convenient if you live far away or travel often.
Are sessions confidential?
Yes. The content of sessions is not disclosed, and information about your visit is protected by medical confidentiality under the Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan “On Public Health and the Healthcare System.” Exceptions are possible only in cases expressly provided for by law, for example when there is a threat to life.
Can a relative attend psychotherapy?
Yes. Loved ones can receive individual consultations even if the person with addiction is not yet ready for treatment. Family sessions are held when all participants are ready for them. Our specialists will help you choose the right format.
Where do doctors visit in Semey and where are the branches?
Home visits cover all city districts and nearby settlements, 24/7. Appointments at two branches: 149 Kutuzova St., office 6, Semey and 138 Krasina St., office 4, Semey. Phone in Semey: +7 (700) 309-30-65.
Sources and methodology
This page was prepared by the Narcology 24 medical editorial team based on:
- International Classification of Diseases ICD-10 and ICD-11, World Health Organization
- Clinical diagnosis and treatment protocols of the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Kazakhstan
- Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan “On Public Health and the Healthcare System”
- NICE (UK) guidelines on alcohol and drug misuse and mental health conditions
- WHO recommendations on the treatment of substance use disorders
This information is for reference only and does not replace a consultation with a specialist. Editorial policy
