Many treatment centers are solely based on the 12-step program and its philosophies. This often limits a person’s treatment options when going through recovery and may even impact their motivation. In this blog, we’ll answer the following questions about the option of non-12-step addiction treatment:
- Is There An Alternative To The 12 Steps?
- What’s The Difference Between 12-Step & Non 12-Step Recovery Programs?
- What Are Non-12-Step Groups?
- How Do Non-12-Step Recovery Programs Work?
Is There An Alternative To The 12 Steps?
Yes, when it comes to addiction recovery, the traditional 12-step program is not your only option. There are a variety of alternatives to 12-step programs that you can look into. 12-step isn’t for everyone, and we never want you to feel limited in your path to recovery. At Harmony Junction Recovery, we offer an alternative called the Non-12-Step Rehab, which we’ll look at more in depth below.
What’s The Difference Between 12-Step & Non 12-Step Recovery Programs?
12-step recovery programs are based on the 12-step philosophy, which is used to support recovery from drug or alcohol addiction. This approach has a spiritual component, emphasizes group support and accountability, and goes through a 12-step process, as the name suggests.
Unlike the 12-step program, our non-12-step approach has more of a secular view of recovery with a balance of individualized and group therapy, a greater emphasis on mental health, and flexible, personalized plans.
Non-12-Step Program
- Secular-approach
- More focus on a flexible, personalized plan
- Balance of group and individual therapy
- More emphasis on mental health
12-Step Program
- Spiritual, higher-power component
- Group support and accountability
- Step-based approach
- Less individualized attention
What Are Non-12-Step Groups?
There are a variety of non-12-step addiction treatment programs and groups available to those who need support. Not all of these are intensive outpatient programs that you go through but rather function as support groups you can attend.
SMART Recovery
SMART recovery meetings are free to the public and focus on building mutual support and self-empowerment in a group setting. These meetings are designed to alter addictive behaviors and are typically organized and facilitated by trained volunteers.
Secular Organizations for Sobriety (SOS)
SOS, also known as Save Our Selves, is a non-profit network of autonomous addiction recovery groups. These groups emphasize taking a non-religious approach to recovery that’s based on personal empowerment for those who benefit from this type of support.
Women for Sobriety
Women for Sobriety is a non-profit addiction recovery group for women who prefer a more secular approach to recovery. This group provides individuals with the tools and support they need to heal their addiction and maintain sobriety, all in a space that’s safe and women-based.
LifeRing Secular Recovery
LifeRing Secular Recovery is an anonymous organization based on abstinence. It provides its members with a safe meeting space where they can receive support and assistance in their recovery. LifeRing also helps the loved ones of addicts, including their partners, family members, and friends.
If you’re dealing with substance use disorders, group meetings may or may not be enough. We highly recommend a combination of professional treatment and meetings to balance out your recovery journey.
How Do Non-12-Step Recovery Programs Work?
At our program in Southern California, we combine three primary types of treatments into our non-12-step programs that balance healing of the mind, body, and spirit. These programs include therapy, group meetings, and holistic healing.
Therapy
Therapy is the foundational component of recovery. You will work one-on-one with a professional who specializes in mental health and addiction to gain a deeper understanding of your addiction and its effects on yourself and those around you. Most of the time, addiction has an underlying cause, such as pre-existing mental health conditions, which are significantly contributing to the issue. By working through all areas of your life rather than just the addiction itself, you can begin to reach a new level of healing.
Group Meetings
Individual work is important, but you also need a group component in your recovery. Group meetings change in philosophy depending on the type of program you go through, but their objective stays the same: to empower your sobriety and foster accountability. Recovery cannot be done alone, and you need support from your peers. Being around others who understand what you’re going through is a powerful motivator to keep going.
Holistic Healing
Along with therapy and group meetings, Harmony Junction Recovery takes a holistic approach to recovery. Our holistic practices work to heal the whole body, including your spirit, through yoga, meditation, art therapy, outdoor activities, and more. These classes and therapies work in combination to help you process your emotions surrounding addiction and reach personal goals in recovery.
Contact us today to learn more about our treatment programs and how to get started.
Clint earned a Master of Science in Clinical Psychology in 2012. With 5 years in drug and alcohol treatment and 8 years in private practice, he specializes in helping clients uncover obstacles to living their envisioned life. Leveraging his experience, Clint supports clients in finding the motivation to make meaningful life changes.
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