Reviewed by: Askar Sarsenbayev, MD, addiction medicine physician · updated 6 Nov 2026
Key facts
- ICD-10 code
- F11–F19
- Who provides care
- an addiction medicine physician (narcologist); a psychiatrist joins if there are co-occurring mental health conditions
- Format
- video consultation for the patient or relatives; in-person appointment, home visit or inpatient care when indicated
- Duration
- first consultation 30–50 minutes, follow-ups according to the treatment plan
- Confidentiality
- no registration with the state registry, full name not required; medical confidentiality under the Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan “On Public Health and the Healthcare System”
- When it's an emergency
- suspected overdose, seizures, loss of consciousness, psychosis — call 103 or 112 immediately
- Outcome
- a clear treatment route, a risk assessment and an action plan for the patient and family
What you should know
Most often, the first message comes not from the person with the addiction but from a mother, wife or brother: “We found something in our son's room, he has changed, what do we do?” Here is how it works with us: you message us on WhatsApp, the administrator confirms who will be on the call, and within the same day a narcologist joins a video consultation. The doctor calmly asks which substances are being used, for how long and how often, whether there have been overdoses, and what the person's current physical and mental state is, and then explains which steps are realistic right now.
Fear of exposure is one of the main reasons people in Almaty avoid seeing a doctor for years. An online consultation removes part of that barrier: nobody sees you in a clinic corridor, there is no need to cross the whole city, and you can join from your car or from home in Almaly district or in Talgar. Psychiatry Online does not register patients with the state addiction registry and does not report the fact that someone sought help to law enforcement — medical confidentiality applies within the limits set by the laws of the Republic of Kazakhstan.
Reasons to See a Narcologist About Drug Use
- the person uses substances more and more often and cannot stop, even after promising to
- sleep, appetite, social circle and mood have noticeably changed for no obvious reason
- money or belongings are disappearing from home, and debts and secrecy have appeared
- trying to stop using brings on pain, insomnia or severe anxiety
- there have been episodes of overdose, loss of consciousness or strange, frightening behavior
- drug use is combined with alcohol or medications, which sharply increases the risks
- you yourself feel you are losing control and want to figure out what to do next
If heavy drinking has lasted more than two or three days, or there is shaking, vomiting, blood-pressure spikes or insomnia, you need a doctor rather than stopping alone. An online consultation is free and helps assess the risks before a visit. For seizures, confusion or hallucinations call 103 or 112.
How Addiction to Psychoactive Substances Develops
In ICD-10, disorders caused by the use of psychoactive substances are classified under codes F11–F19 — from opioids and cannabinoids to stimulants and multiple drug use. Dependence syndrome shows up as strong craving, loss of control, rising tolerance, withdrawal symptoms and continued use despite obvious harm. Different substances affect the brain in different ways, but the common mechanism involves changes in the brain's reward and motivation systems.
The risk of addiction is increased by genetic predisposition, starting drug use at a young age, chronic stress, traumatic experiences, anxiety and depressive disorders, and an environment where drug use is seen as normal. That is why treatment is not just about “cleansing the body”: detox relieves the acute state, but stable remission requires psychotherapy, treatment of co-occurring disorders, family support and, quite often, a rehabilitation program.
What an Online Consultation Offers — and Its Limits
The video appointment takes place on WhatsApp, Telegram or Zoom. The narcologist asks about the substances, how long they have been used, the person's health and previous attempts at treatment. If the person is not ready to talk, the consultation is held with relatives only: the doctor explains how to talk without blame, how to reduce risks at home and how to motivate the person toward treatment. It helps to find a quiet place and write your questions down in advance so you don't forget anything because of nerves.
Detox, a physical examination, lab tests and monitoring during severe withdrawal cannot be done online. If the doctor sees signs of overdose, psychosis, breathing problems or seizures on video, they will ask you to call 103 or 112 immediately. Detox most often requires a hospital stay; in some situations an in-person appointment or a doctor's home visit is enough. Medications can be prescribed online only within the requirements of Kazakhstan law.
How we help
Online assessment and treatment route
At the first consultation, the narcologist assesses how severe the addiction is, the risks of overdose and complications, and any co-occurring mental health conditions. As a result, you get a route: what to do today, which tests are needed, and whether outpatient treatment is suitable or inpatient care should be discussed right away. The decision is made together with the patient and the family.
Inpatient detox
With marked physical dependence and withdrawal symptoms, it is safer to go through detox under medical supervision. We help choose a hospital and arrange admission, including transport from outlying districts of Almaty or the suburbs. After discharge, the patient returns to online support so they are not left without help.
Psychotherapy and motivational work
Motivational counseling and cognitive behavioral therapy help a person understand what the substance gives them and what they pay for it. The patient learns to cope with cravings, recognize triggers and build a life without drug use. Regular video sessions are convenient for those who work or study and cannot travel to appointments.
Family consultations
Relatives often need support themselves and don't know how to act. A narcologist or psychologist helps set boundaries, stop “rescuing” the person with money and cover stories, and learn to talk about treatment in a way the person can actually hear. This increases the chance that the person with the addiction will agree to help voluntarily. Family sessions also take place online.
Myths and facts
MythIf you see a narcologist, they will report you to the police
FactWhen you seek help anonymously, information about the patient is protected by medical confidentiality. The Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan “On Public Health and the Healthcare System” allows it to be disclosed only in cases explicitly specified by law. The doctor's goal is treatment, not punishment.
MythDrug addiction can be cured with a single IV drip in a few days
FactDetox relieves the acute state but does not eliminate the addiction. Remission requires psychotherapy, work on the reasons for drug use, family support and often rehabilitation. It is a process that takes months.
MythNothing can be done until the person wants it themselves
FactMotivation changes, and it can be influenced. Family consultations and the right conversations increase readiness for treatment. Involuntary care is possible only within the limits explicitly defined by the laws of the Republic of Kazakhstan.
How an online appointment works
- Message or callWrite on WhatsApp or call — our coordinator replies within minutes, day or night. You don't have to give your surname.
- Doctor and timeWe match you with a psychiatrist, addiction specialist or psychotherapist and agree on a time — often the same day.
- Video consultationA secure 50–60 minute video call: the doctor takes a detailed history and uses standardised scales if needed.
- Treatment planYou receive a clear summary, recommendations and a plan: what we do online and what needs an in-person visit or home call.
- Follow-upOnline follow-up sessions, messenger contact with your doctor, and treatment adjustments until you get a stable result.
Prices in Almaty
| Online addiction specialist consultation | 12 000 ₸ |
| Online addiction therapy session | 15 000 ₸ |
| Online support program (one month) | 80 000 ₸ |
The final cost is agreed before treatment starts. Prices are in tenge and do not constitute a public offer.
Where to get help
An online consultation for “Drug addiction treatment: online consultation” is available to people across Almaty and Almaty Region 24/7 — from home, work or while travelling. For an in-person visit, Psychiatry Online in Almaty has two branches: 129 Kurmangazy St., office 8, Almaty and 110 Bogenbay batyra St., office 15, Almaty. Doctor home visits: all city districts and nearby settlements.
Confidential and private
An online appointment in Almaty is first of all about privacy: no clinic visit, no waiting room. A private room and headphones are enough. Data is stored in a secure system with restricted access and does not enter any state registry without legal grounds.
Questions and answers
Can I get a consultation if my loved one refuses treatment?
Yes. A consultation for relatives is a common and important first step. The doctor will help you understand how dangerous the situation is right now, how to reduce risks, how to talk to your loved one and which treatment options to offer when they are ready.
How quickly can I get a consultation in Almaty?
Usually on the day you reach out, often within a couple of hours. Video calls don't depend on traffic, so you can connect just as quickly from Medeu district as from Konaev. If the situation is life-threatening, don't wait for a consultation — call 103 or 112.
Do I have to give my name and the substance?
You don't have to give your name. It is important to talk about the substance and the pattern of use, because the risk assessment and choice of treatment depend on it. Everything you say stays between you and the doctor and is protected by medical confidentiality. No registration takes place, and the conversation is not recorded.
What should I do if I suspect an overdose?
Call 103 or 112 immediately and don't try to handle it on your own. Stay with the person, watch their breathing and don't give them alcohol or any other substances. In this situation, an online consultation is no substitute for an ambulance.
Do you help choose a hospital or rehab program?
Yes. The narcologist takes into account how severe the condition is, the substance, other illnesses, the budget and the family's wishes, and suggests suitable options. We help arrange admission and continue supporting the patient online after discharge.
Is it possible to get outpatient treatment while continuing to work?
In some cases, yes — if there is no severe withdrawal and no dangerous complications. Outpatient treatment is built on regular video appointments and psychotherapy. The doctor will determine at the first consultation whether this format is right for you. Sessions can be scheduled in the evening.
Where can I be seen in Almaty?
Online — from anywhere in the city or region. In person — at two branches: 129 Kurmangazy St., office 8, Almaty and 110 Bogenbay batyra St., office 15, Almaty. Both are open 24/7; home visits cover all city districts and nearby settlements.
Sources and methodology
This page was prepared by the Psychiatry Online 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) and APA (US) guidelines on the treatment of mental disorders
- WHO recommendations on telemedicine and digital health
This information is for reference only and does not replace a consultation with a specialist. Editorial policy
