Welcome, Mike!
Like Almath and Charmie said, having sober people around who have been where you're at is really important.
So glad you found this forum. Also, AA is not for everybody, but you will find other people in recovery there who you can relate to. There's no lifetime membership required - maybe just check it out for the people connection...
My wreckless life was saved by a counselor who is in recovery himself and also professionally certified for alcoholism and drug abuse (called a LADAC) treatment. I had no job, no insurance and found him through my community rehab center.
Putting the drink down is the first part of recovery - developing a program to enhance your mind, body and spirit is essential in living a full, contented life in recovery. Anyone can stop drinking for a period of time. Doing the second part enables me to live fully without alcohol and I highly recommend it!