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Are you seeking alternatives to a 12-step program?
Could other approaches be more beneficial for your child?
A 12-step program may be effective for some individuals, but it isn’t suitable for everyone.
Different recovery approaches can cater to various needs. A single recovery method rarely works for all.
Although many have found success with 12-step programs, there isn’t one definitive way to achieve recovery. It’s important that your child doesn’t shy away from seeking help just because they think the 12-step method is the only option. Often, the best outcomes come from blending various approaches.
When a treatment plan doesn’t address your child’s specific needs, it’s a missed chance for recovery. The approach should be tailored to the individual, not based on what benefits the facility.
While some find value in the Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) model, especially faced with alcohol-related issues, families can also explore alternatives like harm reduction and medication-assisted treatment through various centers.
I recently talked to a mother who felt her son was struggling in his recovery because he couldn’t connect with AA.
Many individuals do not receive treatment options that align with their unique circumstances.
Numerous support programs exist beyond the 12-step framework for those aiming for recovery. While 12-step programs can be effective, they are not the sole path.
Not everyone is comfortable with the spiritual element of 12-step programs, and some prefer not to identify themselves as addicts or alcoholics.
People have legitimate reasons for hesitance in following a 12-step pathway. The key is to discover what works best for you.
A wide range of treatment and support options are available. Alternative support groups can assist your child in finding the help they need.
What does it matter that we take different roads, so long as we reach the same goal? ~ Gandhi
Here are alternative options that provide support for those pursuing recovery and their families:
Community Reinforcement and Family Training (CRAFT)
CRAFT is a scientifically-supported approach designed for family members of individuals with substance use challenges.
The CRAFT program has three primary objectives:
- To equip you with skills for self-care;
- To provide strategies that can assist your loved one in making positive changes;
- To help reduce substance use, regardless of whether formal treatment is pursued.
CRAFT encourages parents to inspire their children toward positive change, focusing on collaboration rather than conflict.
For more details about CRAFT, visit The Center for Motivation and Change and peruse their resources:
SMART Recovery® – Embrace the Power of Choice!
SMART Recovery hosts local meetings, online sessions, message boards, and a 24/7 chat room. They also provide extensive materials for those interested in learning more about their program.
The SMART Recovery 4-Point Program offers various tools and strategies designed for each program facet:
- Fostering and Sustaining Motivation
- Handling Urges
- Managing Thoughts, Feelings, and Behaviors
- Achieving a Balanced Life
SMART Recovery organizes local gatherings, daily online sessions, message platforms, and a 24/7 chat service for additional support. They also supply educational materials for further insights into the program.
For assistance, contact SMART Recovery’s Toll-Free Number at 866-951-5357. Online Family & Friends Meetings occur on Mondays at 9:00 PM ET and Thursdays at 1:30 PM ET. Find local gatherings across various cities in the U.S. and Canada.
Recovery Dharma
According to the Recovery Dharma website, “We are a community-driven movement focused on believing in each other’s potential to recover and escape the pain of addiction. Recovery signifies empowerment, and we support one another as we navigate our recovery journeys together.”
“Our methodology employs Buddhist practices of meditation, self-exploration, compassion, wisdom, and communal support as tools for recovery and healing. We uphold that recovery involves discovering our inner wisdom and unique paths.”
“Introducing the practice of Recovery Dharma welcomes individuals seeking healing from both substance use and behavioral addictions, such as codependency, gambling, eating disorders, unhealthy relationships, technology dependence, or any compulsive habits that induce suffering. We aim to facilitate liberation from the pain of addiction and support you in finding your own recovery path.”
To join an online meeting, visit their website.
Women For Sobriety
Women For Sobriety, Inc. is a non-profit organization committed to aiding women in overcoming alcoholism and other dependencies. It’s recognized as the first national self-help initiative for female alcoholics.
Founded in 1975 by Dr. Jean Kirkpatrick, she was surprised by her own experience of alcoholism without a formal diagnosis in all those years of drinking.
Dr. Kirkpatrick identified common struggles shared among women with alcohol dependencies, including low self-esteem, depression, isolation, and overwhelming guilt. She developed methods to overcome these issues and wanted to assist other women.
Women For Sobriety, Inc. has received countless letters from women and their families, highlighting that women face distinct challenges during recovery. Effective programs must address these specific requirements.
Since July 1976, WFS has been supporting women alcoholics through self-help groups across the U.S. and internationally.
For more information, fill out the WFS Contact Form.
Assisted Recovery Centers of America
According to the Assisted Recovery Centers of America website, their program incorporates:
- The use of safe and effective medications that curb cravings and obsessive thoughts regarding alcohol and opiates, aiding in the repair of brain chemistry impaired by substance use.
- Therapeutic support including in-depth one-on-one counseling and group therapy. The focus is holistic, addressing underlying issues that contribute to addictive behaviors.
The organization emerged to fulfill the need for evidence-based…
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treatment option.
Assisted Recovery emphasizes that they aren’t against Alcoholics Anonymous, but rather support all effective methods, advocating for diverse choices for individuals seeking help.
Reach out to Assisted Recovery in the Phoenix area at (602) 264-7897 or Toll-Free: (800) 527-5344
Life Ring — Empower Your Sober Self
Life Ring offers a community of supportive groups for those aiming to live without alcohol and drugs.
“Visualize a struggle within each person facing substance use; there’s a part that wants to continue using and another that seeks freedom from these substances to lead a healthier life. We refer to these inner voices as the ‘A’ (addict self) and the ‘S’ (sober self).
After each gathering, the ‘S’ grows stronger. Eventually, this transformation occurs, where the ‘S’ surpasses the ‘A’ and takes control.
This connection from ‘S to S’ is the driving force behind the LifeRing recovery method used in both physical and virtual meetings, which they term ‘Empowering Your Sober Self.’
The LifeRing approach is built on strengths. It focuses on enhancing and affirming the positive traits you already possess. You can locate meetings, books, brochures, and additional resources by visiting their website.
Contact Life Ring in California at 510-763-0779 or Toll-Free: 1-800-811-4142
Moderation Management
Moderation Management (MM) is a behavior-changing initiative and a national support community for those worried about their alcohol consumption who aim to implement positive changes in their lifestyles. MM empowers individuals to take charge of their choices and follow their preferred approach, whether that means moderate drinking or complete abstinence. It encourages early recognition of risky drinking behaviors, highlighting moderation as a more attainable goal.
The program acknowledges that there is no universal solution for all individuals facing drinking concerns. Many potential solutions exist for each person. MM encourages individuals to find the approach that suits them best.
MM serves as a great starting point for addressing drinking issues. If MM isn’t effective, individuals are encouraged to seek more intensive solutions.
Contact MM for more information.
What’s important is that numerous paths to recovery exist. Discover the one that resonates with you.
What support programs have you or your child utilized that have aided your family in healing?
This article was revised in 2024.
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