De-addiction Therapy

Addiction is a medical condition, not a moral failing — and it responds to treatment. Whether the struggle is with alcohol, nicotine, opioids, cannabis, or other substances, effective, non-judgemental help is available. Dr. Anindo Mitra (MBBS, MD Psychiatry, JIPMER), formally trained in Motivational Interviewing under its pioneer Dr. William Miller, provides de-addiction care in-person in Gurugram and online across India.

Who this is for

This page is for anyone whose use of alcohol, tobacco, or other substances has begun to affect their health, relationships, work, or peace of mind — and for families worried about a loved one. It is also for people who have tried to stop before and found it difficult; that is common, and it does not mean recovery is impossible.

A non-judgemental, evidence-based approach

Shame and blame keep people stuck; understanding and structure help them move forward. Dr. Mitra's approach combines Motivational Interviewing — a proven, collaborative method for building genuine, lasting motivation to change — with medical treatment tailored to the substance and the person.

Treatment options

  • Assessment. Understanding the pattern of use, physical dependence, any withdrawal risks, and coexisting conditions such as depression or anxiety, which often accompany addiction.
  • Medically supported withdrawal. Where physical dependence exists (for example, alcohol), stopping safely may require medical support to manage withdrawal, which can be dangerous if unmanaged.
  • Medication to support recovery. Evidence-based medications can reduce cravings or support abstinence for several substances, alongside therapy.
  • Motivational and relapse-prevention therapy. Building motivation, identifying triggers, and developing strategies to sustain change.
  • Treating what drives use. Addressing underlying mental health conditions is often essential to lasting recovery.

Where someone is dependent on prescribed sedatives such as benzodiazepines, structured tapering is offered as part of care.

What to expect

Recovery is a process, and setbacks can be part of it — they are treated as learning, not failure. With the right combination of medical treatment, therapy, and support, many people achieve and maintain meaningful change.

In-person in Gurugram and online across India

Available in-person at Athena Behavioural Health, Sector 47, Gurugram, and online across India via Zoom or Google Meet, in English, Hindi, Bengali, and Tamil. Note that withdrawal from some substances requires close in-person or inpatient medical supervision, which will be arranged where needed.

Safety and urgent help

Withdrawal from alcohol and some other substances can be medically dangerous — do not stop abruptly without medical advice. If you or someone else is in immediate danger or having thoughts of self-harm, contact emergency services, your nearest hospital, or Tele-MANAS on 14416. This page is educational and does not replace an individual consultation.

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Frequently asked questions

Is addiction a disease or a lack of willpower? Addiction is a recognised medical condition affecting the brain's reward and control systems. It is not simply a lack of willpower, and it responds to treatment. Care here is non-judgemental.

Can I be treated without being admitted to a facility? Many people are treated as outpatients. However, withdrawal from certain substances (such as alcohol) can be dangerous and may need closer medical or inpatient supervision, which is arranged when necessary.

What is Motivational Interviewing? An evidence-based, collaborative counselling approach that helps you build your own genuine motivation to change, rather than being lectured or pressured. Dr. Mitra trained in it under its founder, Dr. William Miller.

Does medication help with addiction? Yes. For several substances, medications can reduce cravings, ease withdrawal, or support abstinence, and they work best alongside therapy.

What if I've relapsed before? Relapse is common and does not mean recovery is impossible. It is used to understand triggers and strengthen the plan, without judgement.

Can families be involved? Yes. Family understanding and support can be an important part of recovery, and structured family sessions are available.