In 1982, Dr Marc Kern received his Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology. In 1983 He founded Addiction Alternatives, his private practice in Los Angeles, California, to provide clients with non-12-step addiction treatment alternatives, because there are many more people like him who do not find AA and the 12-step approach to be effective. His practical self-help book "Take Control, Now!" is a do-it-yourself blueprint for managing unwanted habits. of the Addictions.