Non-abstinence treatment programs focus on the belief that having a problem with alcohol is completely different from being an alcoholic. Such programs cater to people who are concerned about their drinking habits, but do not want to give up alcohol altogether.

Programs such as Moderation Management (MM) allow patients a set number of drinks after they complete a 30-day period without drinking. Another type of moderation program is part of the University of Michigan health system. Called DrinkWise, the program counsels people on how to minimize the amount of alcohol they drink.

"People like hearing the pros and cons of drinking," said Katherine Klykylo, coordinator of DrinkWise. "We're not saying not to drink, but you have to be honest and look at the risks and benefits."

But many traditional treatment advocates have a dim view of programs like MM. "People have been pushing this for 40 years, but it just doesn't work," said professor George Vaillant of Harvard Medical School.

An official with Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) said, "If somebody's able to drink moderately, they wouldn't benefit from our program." However, the group stopped short from endorsing or denouncing MM. "The only reason we stop is that we can't drink safely," an AA spokesman said. "If people can drink, our hats are off to them, but we can't do that."

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