Originally Posted by
dvm2015 
I know people deal with their alcoholism in different ways, and thought the fact the RA in my life went to an intensive long term inpatient program for 10 months may have a better chance for success than just going to AA meetings out of the blue.
Yes, people do deal with their alcoholism in different ways. Friends and family deal with the alcoholism of their loved ones in different ways, too. 12 step programs (AA, NA, Al-Anon, Nar-Anon, etc.) are well known and help many, but they are not the only option nor are they necessarily the best option. From an empirical standpoint, interventions based on cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) have been shown to be at least as effective as 12 step, which is faith-based. If you're interested in learning more about how that might help you, SMART Recovery (which is based on CBT principles) has a family and friends support group you can join online. For more information, look here:
Family & Friends - An Alternative to Al-Anon and Intervention