Objective: The participants of this course will learn about new findings on the development, maintenance and treatment of alcohol dependence. A brief review on prevalence rates and diagnostic criteria distinguishing between dependence, harmful use and at risk consumption will be followed by a review of the neurobiology of alcoholism. Neurobiology research indicates dispositional factors including neuroadaptation and sensitisation in the development and maintenance of addiction. The treatment part includes a discussion of the pharmacotherapy of alcohol withdrawal as well as the rational for treating alcoholics with anti-craving substances. Furthermore new approaches in the psychotherapy of people with alcohol problems will be outlined. Hereby we focus on technique and evidence based efficacy of Brief Interventions. The participants will be invited to an interactive style of learning and discussing. Examples of case vignettes can be presented to illustrate early diagnosis and intervention including modem techniques such as motivational enhancement therapy (MET), cognitive behavioural therapy and dialectic behavioural treatment according to M. Linehan.